England
The great unwashed
The Origins of the Phrase “The Great Unwashed” The phrase “the great unwashed” is often used to refer to the general populace, particularly those who are perceived as lacking sophistication or refinement. This idiom carries a somewhat derogatory connotation, suggesting a divide between the educated or elite classes and the masses. To understand the origins…
Read MoreThe hair of the dog that bit you
The Origins of the Phrase “The Hair of the Dog That Bit You” The phrase “the hair of the dog that bit you” is a colloquial expression that has been used for centuries, primarily in the context of hangovers and the consumption of alcohol. It suggests that the best remedy for a hangover is to…
Read MoreThe darkest hour is just before the dawn
The Origins of the Phrase “The Darkest Hour is Just Before the Dawn” The phrase “The darkest hour is just before the dawn” is a powerful idiom that conveys hope and resilience in the face of adversity. It suggests that even in the most challenging times, there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon.…
Read MoreThe Devil has all the best tunes
The Origins of the Phrase: “The Devil Has All the Best Tunes” The phrase “The Devil has all the best tunes” is a popular idiom that suggests that music associated with rebellion, mischief, or the darker aspects of life often holds a certain allure or appeal. This saying has its roots in various cultural and…
Read MoreThe Devil makes work for idle hands to do
The Origins of the Phrase: “The Devil Makes Work for Idle Hands to Do” The phrase “The Devil makes work for idle hands to do” is a well-known proverb that has been passed down through generations. It serves as a cautionary reminder about the dangers of idleness and the potential for negative influences when one…
Read MoreThe Devil take the hindmost
The Origins of the Phrase “The Devil Take the Hindmost” The phrase “the devil take the hindmost” is an idiom that has intrigued linguists and historians alike due to its vivid imagery and somewhat ominous connotation. This expression essentially means that in a competitive situation, those who lag behind or fail to keep up will…
Read MoreThe Devil to pay
The Origins of the Phrase “The Devil to Pay” The phrase “the devil to pay” is a colorful idiom that has intrigued linguists and historians alike. It is often used to imply that there will be serious consequences for one’s actions, particularly when someone has neglected their responsibilities or made a mistake. The origins of…
Read MoreThe child is father to the man
The Origins of the Phrase “The Child is Father to the Man” The phrase “The child is father to the man” is a thought-provoking idiom that encapsulates the idea that the experiences and characteristics of childhood significantly shape an individual’s adult identity. This expression has its roots in literature and philosophy, and its implications resonate…
Read MoreThe collywobbles
The Origins of the Phrase “The Collywobbles” The phrase “the collywobbles” is a whimsical term that has intrigued linguists and etymologists for centuries. It is often used to describe a feeling of nervousness or anxiety, particularly in the stomach area, akin to butterflies in the stomach. The origins of this peculiar phrase are as colorful…
Read MoreThe course of true love never did run smooth
The Origins of the Phrase: “The Course of True Love Never Did Run Smooth” The phrase “The course of true love never did run smooth” is one of the most famous lines from William Shakespeare’s play, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” This idiom has transcended its original context to become a widely recognized expression that captures…
Read More