Ireland
Touch wood
The Origins of the Phrase “Touch Wood” The phrase “touch wood” is a common idiom used in various English-speaking cultures, often employed as a superstitious expression to ward off bad luck or to ensure that a positive outcome continues. The origins of this phrase are steeped in history, folklore, and cultural practices that date back…
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 MoreSpitting feathers
The Origins of the Phrase “Spitting Feathers” The phrase “spitting feathers” is a colorful idiom that has captured the imagination of many, often used to describe someone who is extremely angry or agitated. The vivid imagery conjured by this expression raises questions about its origins and how it has evolved over time. In this article,…
Read MoreRum do
The Origins of the Phrase “Rum Do” The phrase “rum do” is a colloquial expression primarily used in British English, particularly in the regions of England. It is often employed to describe a situation that is strange, unusual, or somewhat dubious. The origins of this phrase can be traced back to the early 20th century,…
Read MoreRat arsed
The Origins of the Phrase “Rat Arsed” The phrase “rat arsed” is a colloquial expression primarily used in British English to describe someone who is extremely drunk or inebriated. The origins of this phrase are somewhat murky, but it is believed to have emerged from a combination of cultural references and linguistic evolution over the…
Read MorePut the mockers on
The Origins of the Phrase “Put the Mockers On” The phrase “put the mockers on” is a colorful idiom that has its roots in British English, often used to describe the act of jinxing or bringing bad luck to someone or something. This expression is commonly employed in various contexts, particularly in sports, where a…
Read MoreOn the pig’s back
The Origins of the Phrase “On the Pig’s Back” The idiom “on the pig’s back” is a colorful expression that has its roots in rural life and agricultural practices. It is often used to describe a state of good fortune or being in a favorable situation. The phrase conjures images of a pig, an animal…
Read MoreHard man is good to find
The Origins of the Phrase “Hard Man is Good to Find” The phrase “hard man is good to find” is an idiom that has its roots in the cultural and social dynamics of various communities, particularly in the context of relationships and personal attributes. This expression suggests that a strong, reliable, and resilient individual is…
Read MoreDevil 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 MoreChalk and cheese
The Origins of the Phrase “Chalk and Cheese” The idiom “chalk and cheese” is commonly used in the English language to describe two things that are fundamentally different or incompatible. The phrase suggests a stark contrast, much like the differences between the two substances it references. But where did this colorful expression originate, and how…
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