Dating : Writing Explained — TUV-2

Tickled Pink Meaning

Definition: Very happy.

Origin of Tickled Pink

Tickle is a verb that means to touch someone while wiggling one’s fingers back and forth. This produces a strange sensation on the tickled person’s skin, and causes them to laugh or scream.

In the 1800s, people used the similar expression tickled to death to mean very pleased. They likely used this expression because people usually laugh extremely hard when tickled, making them seem very happy. If they laughed so hard that they died, they must have felt very happy indeed. This is similar to the expression died laughing, which means laughing very hard.

An early example of tickled to death is found in James Kirk Paudling’s The Bucktails (1815)

• Stab me, but do not tickle me to death in sport.

By the early 1900s, the form tickled pink was in use. It is used literally to describe someone who blushes when being tickled.

Examples of Tickled Pink

In the example below, a husband tells his wife some surprising news.

Kip: Do you remember how sad you were that we couldn’t go to the beach this year?

Caroline: Yes, but don’t worry. I know it’s important that you don’t miss work during your first few months.

Kip: Thanks, but I have some good news! I rented a cabin by the lake over the holiday weekend, so we’ll have three days of fun and sun by the water!

Caroline: Really? That sounds amazing! I’m tickled pink to hear that!

The next example involves two friends who are discussing the math test that they are going to.

Brian: I’m doomed. I’m going to fail this test.

Raj: Huh. The door to the classroom is locked. Oh, look, there’s a note posted on the door. It says that the test is postponed until next week.

Brian: Whoo hoo!

Raj: Oh no! All that studying for nothing. I’ll have to study all over again to make sure I don’t forget anything.

Brian: You might be sad, but I’m tickled pink. I couldn’t be happier about this!

More Examples

This quote shows that an actor is happy to be a part of an event to make crafts.

• Adds Offerman, a well-known crafts lover: “People who make things are my favorite kind of folk. Practical, clever and terrific in a pinch. That makes me tickled pink to have a front-row seat at this prodigious display of talent, and admiring and cheering on an amazing crop of American makers. Plus, Amy and I have a strong tradition of tomfoolery, so let’s see if we don’t have some good fun.” –USA Today

This quote shows that the speaker is very happy that a racecar driver chose him.

• “We are tickled pink that Dale chose to be with us for the first event of the season before he climbs back in the car,” said Eric Shanks, Fox Sports President & COO. –USA Today

Summary

The expression tickled pink means immensely pleased.

The Tipping Point Meaning

Definition: The moment or factor that causes a situation to gain momentum quickly; the time when a significant or unstoppable change occurs.

Origin of the Tipping Point

To best understand the definition of this idiom, it helps to think of the literal meaning, which is related to physics. In physics, the tipping point is when an object becomes unbalanced, and even a slight force can cause it to topple over.

For example, imagine a cup resting on a table. The cup is in no danger of falling if it is flat and centered on the table. However, if someone pushes it slightly over the edge of the table, it will fall more easily. By the time the cup is almost halfway over the edge, even a very small nudge will cause it to tip off the table and fall to the floor.

This is similar to the figurative use of this expression. An idea or movement might move slowly at first. However, as more and more people begin to support it, it reaches a point where even slightly more support will cause it to quickly expand.

Another analogy can be found in a separate phrase to tip the scales in favor or against. This expression has been around at least as long as Aristotle’s Politics from 340 B.C.

• The addition of the middle class turns the scale and prevents either of the extremes from being dominant.

The specific wording tipping point appears to have gained popularity in the mid-1900s and shot up drastically around the year 2000 when Malcolm Gladwell wrote a book by this name.

However, the specific expression existed as far back as the 1800s in this specific form: tipping point.

Examples of the Tipping Point

In the first example, two employees are talking together about all the people who have quit their jobs at the company recently.

Marcus: Did you hear that several of the top bosses quit?

Patsy: Yes! And a lot of middle management has quit as well.

Marcus: This company had better do something soon to stop all of the top talent from leaving. If they don’t act quickly, this company will reach a tipping point from which it will never recover.

In the second example, a husband and wife are having a fight.

Donny: I’m so sorry! I know I shouldn’t have done that, but honestly I think you are overreacting.

Alison: I’m not upset because of what you did this time. I’m upset because of the accumulation of things you’ve been doing over the past year. This last incident was merely the tipping point. I think we should get a divorce.

More Examples

This quote explains why many people who abuse or harass others face multiple allegations from different victims all at once.

• “Many women are not willing to suffer in silence anymore,” Allred said in an interview. “They’ve reached their tipping point. And then one comes out, and then two, and it does encourage others — they feel safer in numbers.” –Denver Post

This excerpt is from how one actor got a role that made him famous.

• By his mid-30s, Pascal, who studied acting at New York University, was finally gaining steam with recurring parts in “The Good Wife” and “Brothers & Sisters.” But the real tipping point arrived when Pascal was cast as sexually voracious swordsman Oberyn Martell in Season 4 of “Game of Thrones,” a part he found out about when a young actor he was mentoring auditioned for it. –LA Times

Summary

The expression tipping point means a critical event that causes a big and usually irrevocable change.

’Tis the Season Meaning

Definition: It is the time of year around Christmas; it is during the winter holidays; it is some other specific time of year.

People use this expression to imply that because it is near Christmastime, it is a good opportunity to do things that commonly happen around Christmas.

Origin of ’Tis the Season

’Tis is a contraction of it is. Outside of this phrase, ’tis is rarely seen in writing or heard in speech. Season, of course, refers to the Christmas season.

The phrase has its origins in the Christmas carol, “Deck the Halls,” which was translated to English in 1862.

• Deck the hall with boughs of holly, fa la la la la, la la la la. ’Tis the season to be jolly, fa la la la la la, la la la la

Traditionally, people view the part of the year around Christmas as a time to be jolly and friendly towards others, as you can see from the lyrics of the carol.

Examples of ’Tis the Season

This example dialogue involves a husband and wife who are discussing where to eat for dinner.

Bobby: Where do you want to eat tonight?

Jennie: I’m not sure. Maybe we should go to that place that has candy cane desserts, eggnog, and all sorts of traditional Christmas treats.

Bobby: Well, ’tis the season for such foods. Christmas is just a week away. That sounds great to me. Let’s go!

Jennie: I hope they have fruitcake!

Bobby: I hope they have ham.

Jennie: And wassail!

One friend is talking to another about a new idea he had.

Andrew: Aaron, I’ve been thinking a lot about giving back to the community. I feel like I’ve become a really selfish person, and since it’s around Christmas time, I want to do some volunteering.

Aaron: Sure. Go ahead. That sounds like it will be good for you!

Andrew: I think you should come with me.

Aaron: Why? I’m not selfish.

Andrew: There are a lot many people who need help. Anyway, ’tis the season of loving and caring!

Aaron: Okay, fine. If it’s so important to you, I’ll help.

Andrew: Awesome!

More Examples

This excerpt is about a movie coming out in December.

• As message vehicles go, “Rooted in Peace” may be the hot cocoa and marshmallows version of a Michael Moore film, but ’tis the season, after all. –LA Times

The second excerpt is about different shows on TV around the Christmas holiday.

• Tis the season for a new holiday-themed edition of “Cake Wars.” –LA Times

Summary

The saying ’tis the season means it’s that time of year and refers to the Christmas season.

To Toe the Line Meaning

Definition: Follow the rules; obey orders.

The phrase has the same meaning as the phrase to toe the mark.

Origin of Toe the Line

This expression dates back to the 1800s. The Oxford English Dictionary cites The Diverting History of John Bull and Brother Jonathan by “H. Bull-Us” as the first use in 1813.

• He began to think it was high time to tie the mark.

This expression comes from track, where people literally put their toes behind the starting line before a race.

In other words, they “toe the line.”

Obviously, the expression is no longer limited to track and field. It is commonly used in politics, business, education, and other industries.

Examples of Toe the Line

In the conversation below, two friends are graduating from high school.

Scott: Our graduation is just minutes away! Are you excited?

Tony: Yeah, I’m super excited. I can’t wait for freedom from all those high school rules. They were smothering me. I was suffocating in school. I’m ready for my adult life to start.

Scott: Me too! I couldn’t keep toeing the line anymore. I need to think for myself and have the ability to be creative. This mindless rule following hinders my personal growth.

Tony: I still want to do something wild while on stage accepting my diploma. I’m going to do a cartwheel!

Scott: I already told you that you have to toe the line a little bit longer. They won’t give you your diploma if you do something like that.

Two coworkers use the expression while talking at an end-of-the-year party.

Richard: This party isn’t very much fun. I thought it was supposed to be an opportunity for us to relax! There are even more rules at this party than there are during our normal time at work.

Miranda: It’s not that bad.

Richard: No, I’m serious! The boss saw me take a drink ticket from my friend who wasn’t going to use his. He yelled at me and told me I was breaking the rules. Apparently, it’s a big problem because employees are only allowed two drinks.

Miranda: Ah, that’s too bad.

Richard: He actually told me that I needed to toe the line! This is the worst party ever.

More Examples

The first example is about one woman disobeying the law by driving with her feet on the steering wheel.

This driver won’t toe the line.

• A woman a Pennsylvania highway was caught driving using her foot to steer while her hands and her eyes were locked on her phone to send text messages. –New York Daily News

The second example is about how one designer is accusing another of trademark infringement.

An up-and-coming shoe designer wants luxury brand Louis Vuitton to toe the line. –New York Daily News

Summary

The phrase toe the line means to do what the person in charge says or to behave according to the rules.

Tongue Tied Meaning

Definition: To have trouble speaking due to shyness or embarrassment.

Origin of Tongue Tied

This idiom is quite old and goes back all the way to the 1500s. It appeared around the same time as the noun tongue-tie. The noun form refers to a medical condition in which the tongue cannot move freely, due to being attached too closely to the mouth.

The literal meaning of this medical condition came first, and over time people began using it metaphorically to refer to any person who couldn’t think of what to say, and therefore struggled to speak.

Examples of Tongue Tied

In the dialogue below, two friends are talking about how one of them met her favorite celebrity.

Ezekiel: Hey. What’s up?

Maggie: You’ll never guess whom I met on Friday night.

Ezekiel: Who?

Maggie: I met my favorite actor! I couldn’t believe it was him, so I just walked up to him to get a closer look. I think I must have scared him because I got way too close and then just opened and closed my mouth like a fish gasping for breath. I wanted to tell him how much I admired his acting, but I was too tongue-tied.

In this example, two friends are discussing an awkward family gathering that one of them had to attend.

Tyrion: My father just got remarried to a woman that I used to date.

Mila: Oh my goodness! That must have been an uncomfortable wedding for you to attend.

Tyrion: Yes. He had asked me to make a speech, and I even stood up and tried to give the speech. However, I couldn’t think of what to say, and I kept stuttering. I was so completely tongue-tied that I had to fake a coughing fit and leave the dining area.

More Examples

This excerpt is about the best way to describe yourself during a job interview.

• You know you’re going to be asked about yourself in a job interview, so don’t get caught tongue-tied. It’s smart to have a small collection of adjectives that describe you well and show you off in your best light — bonus points if they aren’t the same old tired words everybody else is using. –USA Today

This excerpt is about a NASCAR racer meeting a famous actress.

• Blaney, a “Star Wars” nut, was tongue tied when he met actress Daisy Ridley in March. An hour or so after confetti fluttered on him in victory lane, he offered an open invitation to Ridley to join the post-race party. –USA Today

Summary

The term tongue-tied means unable to say anything.

Toodle Loo Meaning

Definition: Goodbye.

This sometimes appears as toodle-oo.

Origin of Toodle Loo

The word toodle comes from toddle, which means to walk in a relaxed manner. Toddle off appeared in the late 1800s and means to walk away or to leave.

Toodle loo appeared shortly afterwards, in the early 1900s. It is unclear exactly how or why the loo got added.

Other variations are toodle-oo, tootle-oo, tooraloo, etc.

Examples of Toodle Loo

In the dialogue below, two men use the idiom after they are finished spending time together.

Robert: Well, Marty, it was great seeing you. We’ll have to get together again soon.

Marty: Absolutely! And please tell your family I say hello.

Robert: I will. All right, then. I’ll see you later.

Marty: Toodle loo!

Robert: …Wait. Did you just say toodle loo?

Marty: Um, yes. I’ve been spending a lot of time with my grandmother, so I’ve accidentally started to talk like her.

Robert: Well, that’s fine. It’s just not the way you usually talk, so I was confused.

Marty: Yeah, I don’t normally say toodle loo. I know it’s more old-fashioned.

Robert: No, I like it. Toodle loo!

The second dialogue shows two students who took their dogs to the dog park and someone that they met there.

Josh: Hey! Look at that cute girl over there. I’m going to bring my dog over there to meet her dog.

Jeff: Okay, but just try to act normal. Don’t say anything weird.

Josh: What are you talking about? I would never say anything weird.

Pauline: Hi! My name’s Pauline. That’s a cute dog you have.

Josh: Thanks! Yours is cute, too! I’m Josh.

Pauline: It’s nice to meet you. I’d love to let our dogs play a little longer, but I actually have to go home. I have another appointment to get to soon.

Josh: Oh, okay. Well, toodle loo!

Pauline: …Um, bye!

Jeff: I told you to act normal!

More Examples

This excerpt is from a skit about people’s race and gender, and how that affects what language they feel like they can use.

Jost: “I just feel like I can’t say anything and you can say everything.”

Che: “There’s things I can’t say. Like ‘toodle-loo’ or ‘skinny macchiato’ or ‘Thank you for your help, officer.’” –Chicago Tribune

This excerpt is from a movie review. The main character seems sweet because she uses a cute way of saying goodbye, but she actually is a killer.

• That’s the high-concept hook behind Katie Holmes’s newest star vehicle, Miss Meadows, in which she plays a primly-dressed, practically perfect small-town schoolteacher who says sugary things like “toodle-loo” without a trace of irony. –Yahoo

Summary

The expression toodle loo is a less common thing to say when wishing someone farewell.

Too Much of a Good Thing Meaning

Definition: Even something good can become bad if it is excessive.

Origin of Too Much of a Good Thing

This proverb may have existed since the 1500s, as the celebration of moderation dates from the 16th century.

As with many famous English phrases, playwright William Shakespeare was the first to use it in its current form. In the play As You Like It, circa 1600, we find this use,

• Why then, can one desire too much of a good thing?

Examples of Too Much of a Good Thing

In the dialogue below, two friends are talking about a contest they won.

Ezekiel: You know, I was so happy when we won that lifetime supply of free hamburgers from our favorite restaurant, but I have a confession to make.

Maggie: Are you getting bored with eating hamburgers so often?

Ezekiel: Yes! How did you know?

Maggie: I feel the same way. I love their hamburgers, and I never thought I’d say this, but a lifetime supply may be too much of a good thing.

Ezekiel: Maybe we should stop eating there so often before we get so sick of it that we can’t go there at all.

Maggie: Yeah, that’s a good idea.

In this example, two friends are upset because someone keeps playing the same song over and over on the jukebox.

Tyrion: You know I’m a huge fan of this singer, right?

Mila: Yes. Why?

Tyrion: I would normally never complain about this, but I’m pretty sure this is the fifth or sixth time her song has played over the speakers. Are you playing a prank on me? Are you forcing us to listen to this again and again?

Mila: No, it’s not me. I swear!

Tyrion: I believe you. It’s a great song, but this is too much of a good thing.

More Examples

This excerpt is about sports. When a team wins a game very narrowly, it is very exciting. However, the author believes that too much drama can be exhausting.

Ottawa is the most extreme example. Eight of the Senators’ first 10 victories in the playoffs were decided by a single goal, with all but one of those going to overtime.

Sometimes, you can get too much of a good thing.

But we’ll take that over the NBA playoffs, where the average postseason margin was nearly 13 points. –USA Today

This excerpt uses the expression to refer to problems with real estate prices in the state of California.

• Equally confusing is a hunch that California’s housing “challenge” — and part of it may very well be a high price for paradise — may simply be the result of too much of a good thing. California’s housing has been expensive for a long time. The rare times it’s been cheap — amid broad economic slowdowns — few folks would (or could financially) grab their slice of the real estate pie. –OC Register

Summary

The phrase too much of a good thing means that the quality of something is relative to its quantity. Even excellent things can seem terrible if they are used too frequently or exist in an overabundance.

Tough as Nails Meaning

Definition: Strong and stubborn or determined.

This can also sometimes mean rarely ill.

Origin of Tough as Nails

This expression is somewhat ambiguous since a person could use it in either a positive or negative way.

When used as a compliment, it means that a person can handle any problem and keep enduring. When used as an insult, it can mean that a person is unfeeling, cold, or harsh.

Early publications with this expression date back to at least the 1860s. The synonymous expression hard as nails came first, in the early 1800s. For over a hundred years hard as nails was more common. However, modern usage is roughly equal for each idiom.

It is unclear whether the word nails in the expression refers to the metal nails used in building or the body part at the end of the finger. Both ways would seem to make sense.

Examples of Tough as Nails

In this example, two sisters are discussing a teacher that they used to have in high school.

Amy: Do you remember Ms. Kelly?

Kimberly: Of course I do! Who could forget her? She was tough as nails. She used to make us write full essays with perfect citations every month!

Amy: I know! And those daily vocabulary quizzes were so stressful.

Kimberly: She was so strict as well. She wouldn’t tolerate any nonsense.

Amy: At the time I resented her tough demeanor, but looking back at it now, I can honestly credit her with my high test scores on the English part of the college entrance exam.

In the second example, two friends are at the gym.

Keira: I just hired a personal trainer! He should be here at any moment to get me started on my workout.

Rory: Are you serious? Was that really necessary? Can’t you workout on your own?

Keira: Um, I could try. But in the past, I always give up too easily. I never push myself. That’s why I hired someone who is tough as nails. This guy is so intense that I know I’ll push myself to my limits!

More Examples

This example is about a victim of a mass shooting in Las Vegas.

• Stacee, 50, worked as a hairdresser. Al Etcheber called her a loving wife and great mother who was “tough as nails and just the salt of the earth.” –LA Times

This excerpt is about a famous basketball player.

• Magic entered at 6–9 and at least 230, carrying a national championship trophy and tough as nails. –LA Times

Summary

The phrase tough as nails can mean strong, dedicated, and enduring or harsh and unfeeling.

Tuckered Out Meaning

Definition: Completely exhausted; very tired.

Origin of Tuckered Out

This expression first appeared in the early 1800s and originated in New England, making it a phrase of American origin. It might come from the Old English word tuck, meaning tormented.

An early example can be found in a April 1839 issue of the Wisconsin Enquirer,

• “I reckoned to have got to the tavern by sundown, but I haven’t — as I’m prodigiously tuckered out.”

Rather than simply saying tuckered out, this phrase is often paired with other intensifiers, such as all tuckered out, plumb tuckered out, or in the case of our above example prodigiously tuckered out.

This phrase saw increased popularity in cinematic portrayals of the frontier lifestyle, where actors would use this phrase to imitate the authentic speech patters of people on the frontier during America’s westward expansion.

Examples of Tuckered Out

In this example, two friends are discussing whether or not they should go dancing.

Cassie: Hey! What are you doing in your pajamas? It’s almost time to go. Do you want to have a drink before we leave for the club?

Rebecca: I’m sorry. I don’t think I’m going to go out tonight.

Cassie: Why not? You have to! We’ve been planning this for ages.

Rebecca: I know. I’m so sorry for cancelling on you. I was working in my mom’s garden all day, and I’m totally tuckered out. I can barely move I’m so tired, let alone dance.

In the dialogue below, two men are traveling in Korea and saw many tourist attractions in one day.

Antonio: Come on; let’s go to one more museum! We still have a little bit of time left before it closes, and we can easily take the subway.

Igor: Really? We already saw so many places today. We went shopping, we went on a hike up a mountain, saw two separate temples, and we already went to another museum. I don’t think I have the energy to go to one more place.

Igor: Come on! We’ll only be in Korea once!

Antonio: I know, but I’m way too tuckered out. I need to go back to the hotel and sleep for like 12 hours. We did too much in one day, and I’m just too tired to do any more.

More Examples

The article excerpt describes a musician and his weary dog.

• The 43-year-old singer-guitarist, sinewy and gently graying at the temples, lives in a royal-blue Craftsman with a wide view of Echo Park Lake. The bookcases are stacked with thick references on esoteric spirituality. Photos on the fridge show sweet, fading scenes from an old relationship; a tuckered-out Australian cattle-dog mix plonks itself at his feet. –LA Times

This quote is about two tennis players, one of whom was exhausted.

• A few weeks shy of her 33rd birthday, making the American the oldest major champion since Navratilova was 33 at Wimbledon in 1990, Williams powered this way and that in her black-and-pink hightops. Wozniacki is the one training for the New York City Marathon, but she was tuckered out by the end. –LA Times

Summary

The idiom tuckered out is an informal way to say totally out of energy.

To Turn a Blind Eye Meaning

Definition: To ignore something deliberately, usually something severe.

Origin of Turn a Blind Eye

This expression first started appearing in print around the 1820s.

This phrase appears to have originated from Lord Horatio Nelson, second in command of the English fleet. In 1801, England was besieging Copenhagen.

The flagship sent signals for Nelson and his fleet to withdraw and disengage his troops, but he wanted desperately to attack. Nelson was convinced England could win the battle if they persisted, so he “turned a blind eye.”

The significance of this phrase was that Nelson had lost the sight of one eye at Calvi. In other words, he turned his blind eye (his glass eye) to the signals for withdrawal, telling his lieutenant that he could see no signals to withdraw.

The attack forced a French surrender and proved to be a major victor for England.

As farfetched as this story seems, it does have good historical sources and appears to be entirely accurate.

Examples of Turn a Blind Eye

In the example below, two siblings are talking to each other about another student at their school who has mysterious bruises.

Jordan: Hey, James. Did you notice that younger girl at our school always has her arms covered in bruises.

James: Yeah. Why?

Jordan: I’m just worried that someone is hurting her. Maybe someone at home. She doesn’t really have any friends.

James: I’m sure she’s fine. Our teachers would do something if they knew her parents were hitting her, or something like that.

Jordan: I disagree. Our teachers turn a blind eye to all sorts of things. I’ve seen a teacher walk past one big kid beating up a small kid in the hallway, and he didn’t say anything. I’m going to talk to that younger girl tomorrow and see if there’s anything I can do to help. Just because everyone else turns a blind eye doesn’t mean I have to.

In the second dialogue, two coworkers are discussing some rules their company is breaking.

Job: Here’s the camera so you can take some pictures for our new marketing campaign.

Melissa: Thanks, but I just learned something that I need to talk to you about.

Job: We’re pretty busy right now. Can it wait?

Melissa: I don’t think so. It’s kind of an emergency.

Job: Okay. What is it?

Melissa: I learned that this company is breaking some pretty serious laws. Here. Look at this list. I wrote them all down.

Job: Oh…yeah.

Melissa: You knew about this? Does everyone know? Why doesn’t anyone do something about it? Why is everyone turning a blind eye?

Job: I’ve told my boss he should change these things. When he didn’t, I reported the company to the proper authorities. I’m not sure why no one is doing anything to fix it, but there’s not much else that I can do.

More Examples

This quote is about officials valuing money so much that they ignore child abuse.

• “There is this massive golden money egg out there that these high-level Olympic executives get a piece of each and every year. The money is so great and the greed is so prevalent, that they’re willing to turn a blind eye to anything that makes their organization look bad,” Allard told the Daily News. “Even if it means having at least some knowledge that there are pedophiles out there abusing athletes. It’s just incomprehensible to think about.” –New York Daily News

The second example is about the importance of not ignoring a dangerous disease for bats.

• Humanity can’t turn a blind eye to the scourge of white nose syndrome, which is killing bats and spreading across the country, officials said Thursday at the Central Park Zoo. –New York Daily News

Summary

The phrase to turn a blind eye means to pretend not to see something or to refuse to acknowledge something.

Turn Back the Hands of Time Meaning

Definition: Go back into the past.

Synonymous expressions include to turn back the clock and to turn back time.

Origin of Turn Back the Hands of Time

The word hands in this idiom might seem random or confusing. However, if you know some terminology for analog clocks, this wording becomes clearer. The background of a clock, with the numbers written on it, is called the face. The pointers that move around the face are called the hands.

In movies, a popular way to show that someone is traveling backwards in time is to show a clock with the hands moving backwards. That is the idea behind this expression.

If someone is turning back (moving backwards in other words) the hands of time (the hands on a clock), they are traveling back into the past.

The exact origin of this expression is unclear. However, it seems to have existed as early as the 1880s.

Examples of Turn Back the Hands of Time

In the conversation below, two friends are discussing a mistake that they made.

Scott: Do you remember all those years ago when we went to high school together?

Tony: Of course! It was amazing. I had the best time in high school.

Scott: I’m not sure I agree. We were kind of bullies. Don’t you remember how cruel we were to the students on the chess team? We always made fun of them and knocked their books onto the ground.

Tony: I forgot about that. Yeah, we were pretty horrible. Maybe we should apologize.

Scott: I wish we could turn back the hands of time and undo what we did to them. Since that’s impossible, I guess an apology will have to suffice.

Two coworkers use the expression while talking about their children.

Richard: My kids are getting older so fast! My youngest is already 8 years old!

Miranda: I know what you mean! It seems like just yesterday I was holding my children in my arms as little babies. I can’t believe that my youngest is already 10 years old.

Richard: I love the age my kids are now, but sometimes I miss having babies. I wish I could turn back the hands of time and experience that special time all over again.

More Examples

This excerpt is about a murderer who says he wishes he had not killed those people.

• A former tugboat captain who carried out Orange County’s worst mass shooting was sentenced Friday to spend the rest of his life in prison for killing eight people at a Seal Beach salon in 2011. “I can’t imagine the pain that I’ve caused,” [he] told the courtroom, as the families of victims looked on. “Please believe me when I say I wish I could turn back the hands of time.” –LA Times

The second example is from an article about a convicted killer who won release from jail.

• But, during her Feb. 2, 2016, parole hearing, Kellogg said, “I wish that I could turn back the hands of time and make different decisions. I can tell you that we make choices and decisions we don’t realize are going to lead to a chain of events, the domino effect, if you will, that not only change lives, but ruin lives, that take lives.” –Democrat and Chronicle

Summary

The phrase turn back the hands of time means to travel backwards in time, into the past.

Turn Over a New Leaf Meaning

Definition: To stop old, bad habits and start behaving in a better way.

Synonyms include a fresh start and begin afresh.

Origin of Turn Over a New Leaf

This idiom finds its origin in the 16th century, and one might assume that the word leaf in this idiom refers to the leaf of a tree. However, this is not the case.

In this instance, the “leaf” in question refers to the page of a book, as leaf can refer to other flat, thin objects that form a set.

Imagine that you are writing in your diary. You can’t change the past, or what you have already written. However, you can change what you will do in the future, and what you will write on the upcoming pages. Just as the next page in the book is empty and fresh, so is your future. You can choose to break bad habits, reform, and be a better person going forward.

An early example of this phrase can be found in John Heywood’s Proverbs from 1546:

• Naie she will tourney the leafe.

In early examples, the “new” is sometimes omitted. An early example where “new” is included can be found in Roger Ascham’s 1570 The Scholemaster:

• Except soch men thinke them selves wiser than Cicero…they must be content to turne a new leafe.

Examples of Turn Over a New Leaf

In the dialogue below, two friends are talking about the gambling problem with which one of them is struggling.

Ezekiel: I need to ask you a big favor. I hate to do this, but could you lend me a few hundred dollars?

Maggie: Is this because you started gambling again? I thought you had turned over a new leaf!

Ezekiel: I tried! I stopped gambling for almost six months, but last night I couldn’t help myself.

Maggie: I think you should try again. Maybe you’ll be more successful at turning over a new leaf if you join a support group.

Ezekiel: It’s worth a try.

In this example, two friends are discussing the bad attitude that one of them has.

Tyrion: What’s wrong? Why are you yelling at me?

Mila: I’m sorry. I’m not sure why I have such a volatile temper. I try to control myself, but I can’t!

Tyrion: I think you can change if you really want to. If you are dedicated to the goal of making yourself a calmer person, come with me to my meditation class. It could be just the thing you need to help you turn over a new leaf.

More Examples

This excerpt is about a state representative who wants to give another man clemency.

• “Redemption, a second chance, and forgiveness are all woven into the fabric of America’s foundation,” Williams said in a prepared statement. “Rene was able to turn over a new leaf, start a family and become a productive, lawful member of society.” –Denver Post

This excerpt is from an article about a city that will start to punish people for illegally using disabled parking spaces.

• “This is a great next step that shows that Denver is turning over a new leaf,” he said Tuesday. “It’s a positive indication that Denver is giving more importance to those with disabilities who live in and visit Denver.” –Denver Post

Summary

The expression turning over a new leaf is way of saying start a fresh chapter of your life by abandoning negative actions and qualities of your past, and behaving better going forward.

In the Twinkling of an Eye Meaning

Definition: In a very short amount of time.

People use this as a poetic way to describe something that happened extremely quickly.

Origin of In the Twinkling of an Eye

The idiomatic meaning is closely related to the literal meaningof this expression. Imagine looking into someone’s eyes, and seeing a flash of light reflect off of them. This twinkle would occur quite rapidly.

The reference to this idea of the blink or twinkle of an eye comes from the Bible. Writing of the Last Judgment, he says,

• Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed — in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. (1 Corinthians 15: 51–52)

Shakespeare later used it in 1596 in The Merchant of Venice:

• I’ll take my leave of the Jew in the twinkling of an eye.

Examples of In the Twinkling of an Eye

In the conversation below, two friends are discussing a fight that one of them had with his brother.

Scott: You seem stressed. What’s up?

Tony: I had a huge argument with my brother. I’m not sure what happened, but he just started yelling at me out of nowhere.

Scott: Are you sure you didn’t do something to make him angry?

Tony: I’m pretty sure. We were just sitting quietly eating lunch, and he was totally calm. Then he got a text, and in the twinkling of an eye, his entire attitude became aggressive.

Scott: I guess he learned something bad about you in the text.

Two co-workers use the expression while talking about their children.

Richard: I’m so exhausted. I tried to put my son to bed at his normal bedtime, but he just wouldn’t fall asleep.

Miranda: That’s too bad. I don’t have that problem with my daughter. She has really high energy, but then right around her bedtime, in the twinkling of an eye, she’ll fall right asleep. I was worried she was narcoleptic for a bit, but the doctors assured me that she just falls asleep quickly.

More Examples

This quote is from how immigrants to America had their names changed without their permission.

• Immigrants Joseph Dobrjan and Aniele Slezak’s Euro-American assimilation has little to do with American exceptionalism. Baldwin (“The Price of the Ticket”) writes: “They come through Ellis Island, where Giorgio becomes Joe, Pappavasiliu becomes Palmer, Evangelos becomes Evans, Goldsmith becomes Smith or Gold, and Avakian becomes King. So with a painless change of name, and in the twinkling of an eye, one becomes a white American.–Press Citizen

The second example is about gun control.

• “At that moment, in the twinkling of an eye, everyone’s lives, some of their destinies were interrupted,” Taylor Jones said. Breon never got to have her first boyfriend or attend her prom. The gunmen who shot into the party, who were 16 and 19 at the time, were eventually sentenced to a combined 400 years in prison. –LA Times

Summary

The phrase in the twinkling of an eye means in an instant.

Two Down, One to Go Meaning

Definition: Two things are complete, and one thing is not yet complete.

This expression is often used to encourage someone who is almost done with his or her tasks.

Origin of Two Down, One to Go

This expression appeared in the early 1900s. A short propaganda film titled Two Down and One To Go popularized the phrase in 1945.

Although the exact origin is unclear, some sources speculate that the idiom is related to sports. For example, in baseball, three strikes are allowed before the batter is out.

Examples of Two Down, One to Go

In this example, two college friends are preparing for a big party they are throwing.

Karl: Can I see that list we made of stuff we have to finish before the party?

Frank: Sure. Here it is.

Karl: Okay. It says we need to buy drinks, make a music playlist, and invite everyone in our dormitory.

Frank: You already bought the drinks, and I already made the playlist.

Karl: Perfect! Two down, one to go.

Frank: Maybe we can each invite half of the people. You take the top floor, and I’ll take the bottom floor.

Karl: Sounds good.

In this example, two friends use the idiom at a music festival.

Lily: I’ve seen all the bands that I wanted to see! What about you?

Grace: There were three bands that I was really hoping to see. I saw two of them so far. I’m not sure I’ll get to see the last one. I’m just so tired. Maybe I’ll leave early.

Lily: No way! Two down, one to go. It will be worth it.

Grace: Are you sure?

Lily: I promise. Let’s go find out when the band starts.

More Examples

In the below excerpt, police captured two out of three outlaws. They were still searching for the remaining criminal.

• Two down, one to go. Three days into a manhunt that has led South Carolina authorities across nearly 30 miles of suburbs and swampland, two of the three escaped jailbirds have been captured. –New York Daily News

In this excerpt, a horse named California Chrome won the two first races for the prestigious Triple Crown race. The horse had not yet attempted the third race at the time of publication.

• Two down and one to go for California Chrome in his bid for horse racing’s first Triple Crown in 36 years, but pulling that off will be easier said than run. –USA Today

Summary

Two down, one to go is an expression that lists off two things that are already done and one that remains to be done.

Lovebirds Meaning

Definition: Two people who are very much in love.

Origin of Lovebirds

This expression developed from nine species of African parrots that are also called lovebirds. Lovebird mates are often considered to act particularly loving towards each other and like to stay close together.

It isn’t clear when this term first started being used to describe humans. Some sources put it as far back as the 1600s, but it was at least since the early 1800s.

In his novel Bleak House, Charles Dickens used the phrase,

• Guppy, going to the window tumbles into a pair of love-birds, to whom he says in his confusion, ‘I beg your pardon, I am sure.

Examples of Love Birds

In this dialogue, a sister uses the idiom to refer to her brother, who has a new girlfriend.

Maria: Hey! You missed soccer practice today and yesterday’s practice. What’s going on?

Franco: Oh, actually, I wasn’t going to tell you yet because it’s still quite new, but I’ve started seeing someone.

Maria: You’re dating someone?

Franco: Yeah. It’s not serious yet, and I’m only telling you because I didn’t want you to think I was skipping practice for no reason.

Maria: I understand. I won’t make a big deal about you two lovebirds!

Franco: I shouldn’t have told you. Forget it.

The second example shows two university students using the expression to discuss their professor.

Lorenzo: My test grade was incredibly low. I think it was unfairly graded. Our professor has no heart.

Alba: Well, he must have a heart.

Lorenzo: Why do you say that?

Alba: I saw him at a cafe the other day. He must have been on a date with someone. They looked like lovebirds!

Lorenzo: I’m shocked. He seems like a robotic in class.

Alba: Maybe that’s just how he acts in class; he tries to be professional. Let me take a look at your test. I might be able to figure out why you got the grade that you did.

More Examples

This article excerpt is about the benefits of small weddings, and it uses the idiom to describe the newlyweds.

• Couples and their guests all receive PinePerks.com discounts on overnight stay, restaurant & bar, clothing and gifts and more. Everything with pre-arranged discounts and deals for the love-birds to quickly plan their local honeymoon and out-a-towners visiting the area. –Chicago Tribune

Our next articles excerpt uses the expression with the prefix ex to describe a couple that is no longer in love. However, they are not fighting and have just sold a house.

• Not only have the ex-love birds made peace, they’re making a fortune. –New York Post

Summary

The phrase love birds is a way to describe a couple in love.

Tying Up Loose Ends Meaning

Definition: To complete some minor, unfinished business.

Origin of Tying Up Loose Ends

The term loose ends refers to the ends of a rope, string, or cable that needs to be fastened. Most sources speculate that the term loose ends, and the longer expression tying up loose ends, both come from nautical origins.

If a sailor needed to prepare his boat for departure, he has many things to do. One of the minor details is making sure to tie any untied strings on board the ship.

This is a common expression in business contexts as well as in more informal, conversational English. People at a company might talk about tying up some loose ends of a work project. In this context, they mean that there are some final details about a project that they must work on before the project is fully finished.

Loose ends has existed since the 1800s. However, tying up loose ends only started becoming popular in the early 1900s.

Examples of Tying Up Loose Ends

This example shows two college students using the idiom while they are working on a school project.

Frank: Wow! I think we are finally finished with this project. Thank goodness!

Karl: Don’t celebrate just yet. We’re almost done, but I still need to tie up a few loose ends.

Frank: Like what?

Karl: I need to proofread our work and enter the citations in the correct format.

Frank: Oh, okay. That shouldn’t take long. Almost finished!

In this example, two friends are discussing a surprise party that they are planning.

Lily: I think everything is ready for the party. We don’t have anything left to do, right?

Grace: Not much. I’m just tying up loose ends right now. I have to order the cake online and email the digital invitations, and then we’re all done!

More Examples

This excerpt is from an article about how a TV show concluded.

• The final episode of “Breaking Bad” saw Walter White (Bryan Cranston) tying up loose ends. –New York Post

This excerpt is also about TV shows and how some of them leave parts of the story unexplained and unresolved.

• Other long-running series of the time simply went away quietly without tying up loose ends. –LA Times

Summary

Tying up loose ends means finishing some trivial matters in order to conclude a matter.

Ugly Duckling Meaning

Definition: A person who was initially unattractive but became beautiful later on.

Origin of Ugly Duckling

This expression comes from a classic children’s story written by Hans Christian Anderson. Anderson was a Danish author who wrote a story titled The Ugly Duckling in the year 1844.

In this story, there is a baby bird that is uglier than all the other ducklings. He is treated like an outcast. However, he grows up and learns he is actually a swan and is more beautiful than all the ducks.

Examples of Ugly Duckling

In this conversation, two high school students talk about their looks.

Lisa: Are you going to go to the school dance?

Jackie: I’m not sure. I know a lot of high-school students have grown up really looking forward to their last school dance. I never did, though.

Lisa: Really? Why not?

Jackie: I guess it’s because I used to be such an ugly duckling. I never expected anyone to ask me to the dance.

Lisa: First of all, you’re beautiful now! But that doesn’t matter. You don’t have to wait for someone else to ask you. You could go alone!

In the below dialogue, two friends discuss their dating history.

Seth: Thank you so much for giving me another chance after I fought with you. I honestly think I was just stressed about my personal life, and I took it out on you.

Jimmy: I understand. But what’s going on with you?

Seth: I really want to ask this girl out on a date, but I’m scared she’ll say no.

Jimmy: Why are you so worried about it?

Seth: When I was younger, I was a real ugly duckling. I feel like I’m not so bad looking anymore. But I still lack confidence.

More Examples

In this news excerpt, a father claims his baby is too ugly. He takes legal action against his wife for not telling him that she had plastic surgery.

• But after DNA tests proved he was the ugly duckling’s biological dad, she fessed up to having done $100,000 worth of cosmetic surgeries before they met. –New York Post

The second news excerpt is about a woman who was not always attractive. This has shaped her perspective about her appearance.

• Zadie’s status as a former ugly duckling has given her a provisional attitude toward her looks. –New York Times

Summary

Ugly duckling is an expression for a person who was not physically good looking originally but became more attractive over time.

Under the Weather Meaning

Definition: Not feeling well.

This expression is used to describe a person who is feeling a little sick. It is typically used for something like a cold or the flu but not for a serious illness.

Origin of Feeling Under the Weather

This idiom has nautical origins and comes from the early 1800s. Sources state that when sailors or passengers of a boat felt sick, they would go below deck to recover.

Oftentimes, these people would feel ill because of turbulent water during stormy weather.

Examples of Feeling Under the Weather

In this dialogue, one employee is explaining to another that she doesn’t feel very well.

Deanna: I think I might go home early.

Emily: Why? What’s wrong?

Deanna: I felt a little under the weather this morning, but now that I’m here, I feel much worse.

Emily: Oh no! Do you have a cold?

Deanna: No, I think I ate something bad yesterday. My stomach feels pretty upset.

Emily: Well, you’d better go home before you start to feel even worse.

Deanna: Yeah, I think I will.

In the second example, two teammates are playing baseball. One of them is not playing well because he feels sick.

Billy: I’m really sorry I struck out.

Angie: That’s okay. But do you feel okay? You’re not playing as well as you usually do.

Billy: To be honest, I am feeling under the weather. I didn’t want to stay home because I know you need every player you can get.

Angie: Of course we want you here, but not if you’re sick. Go home and feel better.

Billy: Okay. Thank you!

More Examples

The first excerpt argues against going to work while sick.

• If you have anything more than that, though, consider the risk of coming in the office under the weather. –Chicago Tribune

In the second excerpt, an athlete explains that he was feeling sick during the game.

• A peaked-looking London Perrantes emerged from the visitor’s locker room with tired eyes and a wan smile Tuesday night. Virginia’s senior point guard admitted he was feeling a touch under the weather. –Washington Post

Summary

The phrase under the weather is another way to say that someone is mildly ill.

Under Your Nose Meaning

Definition: Right in front of someone; in a place that is easy to find.

It is common for this expression to appear as it was right under my nose. It describes something that a person couldn’t find even though it was very close and in an obvious place. It can describe physical objects, or it can describe an idea or realization.

Origin of Under Your Nose

It is unclear exactly how this idiom originated. However, it first appeared in the 1500s or 1600s.

It likely comes from the fact that if something is literally under a person’s nose, it is very close and right in front of them.

Examples of Under Your Nose

A woman uses this idiom literally while helping her friend find his glasses.

Rodrigo: Could you help me find my glasses?

Alisha: Sure. I already found them.

Rodrigo: Are you serious? I’ve been looking for 10 minutes already!

Alisha: Of course, I’m serious. They’re on a chain around your neck. You’re wearing them. They just aren’t on your face at the moment.

Rodrigo: I can’t believe this. I feel like an idiot. They were literally under my nose this whole time.

In the below example, two friends are discussing a new boyfriend.

Luis: So, who is the new guy you’re dating?

Stephanie: Actually, you already know him. He’s not new. He’s my best friend!

Luis: You’re dating Jason?

Stephanie: Yes!

Luis: I definitely didn’t expect that.

Stephanie: Neither did I. I always assumed he just thought of me as a friend, but it turns out we’ve been in love this whole time. It was right under my nose the whole time, and I only just realized it!

More Examples

In this quote, a woman explains that she was looking for a great school. She didn’t realize there was one she loved very close to her.

• “When she took me through the classrooms, I was almost brought to tears,” Armstrong said. “I couldn’t believe (St. James) was right under my nose the whole time.” –Chicago Tribune

The below article quote explains that a murderer passed undetected in front of many people.

• “After they were apprehended, I learned that the shooters had been using the YMCA in my neighborhood, Silver Spring, literally blocks from my house, throughout their murderous spree. They were right under my nose for almost the whole time.” –Washington Post

Summary

The phrase under one’s nose is another way to say in an obvious place or directly in front of someone.

Up the Ante Meaning

Definition: To raise the price; to increase the stakes.

Origin of Up the Ante

This idiom originated sometime in the late 1800s and comes from gambling.

An ante is commonly required when playing poker. Before any player is allowed to partake in a deal (when the cards are passed out to each player), he or she must put some amount of money into the pot (the communal area for all the money, where the money stays until someone wins it). This amount is arbitrary and the person running the game can choose how much the ante will be.

The verb form of ante is ante up, which means to pay one’s ante. In the idiom to up the ante, up acts as a verb meaning to increase.

In poker, if a player ups the ante, it means the price to partake in the game has just increased. This can show that the player only wants people betting serious money to play the game. This is because it increases the incentive to play a hand (to continue to bet) rather than fold (to give up).

Outside of poker, upping the ante can mean to increase the cost or risk of something. It has been used figuratively for some time.

Examples of Up the Ante

This example dialogue involves a husband and wife who are making a bet while watching a movie.

Jennie: Hey! Wasn’t that the actor from your favorite movie?

Bobby: No way. He looks totally different.

Jennie: No, you’re wrong. I’m sure he’s the same person.

Bobby: Oh, yeah? Want to bet?

Jennie: Sure. The loser will do all the laundry for the week.

Bobby: Make it two weeks and you’ve got a deal.

Jennie: You can’t scare me off by upping the ante. Deal!

Bobby: I’ll look it up and see which one of us is right.

Two friends are discussing a family dispute that one of them is dealing with.

Andrew: I see you finally bought a new car.

Aaron: Yeah, but it’s been so stressful. My mom is terrified of cars and doesn’t want me to drive one. She threatened not to give me any Christmas presents this year unless I returned the car. When that didn’t work, she upped the ante. Now she is saying she’ll cut me out of her will if I don’t return the car.

More Examples

This excerpt is from an article about a hotel company expanding to cruise ships.

• Boutique cruises are nothing new. Small-scale, curated “yacht cruises” have been offered for years. But the glamour of the Ritz-Carlton badge, combined with three new ships, would seem to up the ante in the industry’s battle for high-paying guests. –LA Times

The second excerpt is about tensions between the United States and North Korea.

• Though no details on why Kim was detained have been released, the detention comes at a time of unusually heightened tensions between the U.S. and North Korea. Both countries have recently been trading threats of war and having another American in jail will likely up the ante even further. –OC Register

Summary

The phrase up the ante means to increase the risks in order for a bigger reward.

Up in Arms Meaning

Definition: Infuriated; very angry.

This phrase describes anyone who is raging against something with which he or she disagrees.

Origin of Up in Arms

This idiom first appeared during the 1500s. It most likely came from the definition of arms: weapons and ammunition. Imagine that a person is angry enough to have grabbed a weapon.

Up in arms is not usually used literally, but its meaning is that the person is angry to the point of feeling violent.

Examples of Up in Arms

In this conversation, a mother and her daughter are discussing a wedding problem. Some family members are angry that they weren’t invited to the wedding.

Daughter: Hi, Mom! What’s up?

Mother: I can’t believe you haven’t heard already.

Daughter: What? What happened?

Mother: Your cousins are all up in arms because you didn’t invite any of them to your wedding!

Daughter: Oh, that. I thought that might happen.

Mother: Why on Earth wouldn’t you invite your close family members? My brothers and sisters have been calling me all day complaining about it!

Daughter: I didn’t think they’d want to come. I’ll tell them we lost their invitations, but that they are invited.

Mother: You better!

In this example, two coworkers talk about how upset all the employees are. They all hate their boss’s new idea.

Dave: Everyone seems really angry today. What is going on?

Ben: It’s Charles. Everyone is all up in arms about a new policy he’s trying to enact.

Dave: What’s he trying to do?

Ben: He’s trying to make us all keep track of all our hours on a timesheet.

Dave: What? But we’re all full-time workers. Why does it matter exactly when we come and go as long as we get all of our work done?

Ben: I know. That’s why everyone is upset.

More Examples

In this quote, a company says that an animal rights group exists by keeping its members angry.

• “Kudos to PETA for all the good work it does, but PETA is a non‐profit organization that sustains itself by getting its members up in arms about alleged abuse,” the company said in its letter. –LA Times

In this example, Twitter users were upset about a fashion show that wasn’t on schedule.

• They were told that the show would begin at 3:00 p.m. and last an hour. All in all, it started late and didn’t end until close to 5 p.m. While Twitter was up in arms about it, there were several smaller, independent designers who were the real casualties — several editors missed their shows to go to Kanye. –New York Times

Summary

The phrase up in arms is another way to describe people who are infuriated. It often describes those who are verbally or physically showing their anger, rather than those dealing with their anger in a quiet, personal way.

Up to Par Meaning

Definition: Meeting the standards.

Synonymous expressions include up to scratch and up to snuff.

Origin of Up to Par

This idiom originated in the 1800s and gained widespread popularity in the 1900s.

Some sources say that the expression comes from the sport of golf. In golf, par refers to the number of strokes (hits with a golf club) that a golfer should take to get the ball into the hole. The golfer should try to meet that number of strokes, or get the ball into the hole in fewer strokes. Therefore a person who couldn’t meet accomplish that wouldn’t be up to par.

This explanation seems to be the most likely, as similar expressions come from the sport of golf, namely, par for the course.

Other sources, however, speculate, that the expression has nothing to do with golf. Rather, it comes from the Latin word for equal, and means up to the average or standard.

Examples of Up to Par

In the dialogue below, two friends are discussing the dance class that one of them wants to take.

Tina: I heard that you are taking tango lessons. How’s that going?

Keanu: Well, so far, it’s great! There’s only one problem.

Tina: What’s that?

Keanu: I feel like I’ve mastered the beginning level. I really want to join the intermediate class, but my teacher says I’m not ready. When I asked for more details, she just said I’m not quite up to par. She says my footwork still needs more practice.

Tina: Don’t worry. I’m sure you’ll meet the requirements for the intermediate level soon.

In this example, one friend is discussing a problem he has with his pet dog.

Jonah: I’m so glad that you suggested doggie daycare for my puppy. It seems to help her a lot. She’s a lot calmer now.

Tatiana: That’s great! Did it solve all of her behavior problems?

Jonah: Not quite. It helped quite a bit, but she’s not totally up to par. She’s still not completely house trained, and she still barks too much. However, I think if I keep working hard on her training, she’ll reach an acceptable level of good behavior.

More Examples

This excerpt is about an outdated zoo.

• A golden lion tamarin washes from a fenced exhibit at the Santa Ana Zoo on Thursday June 9, 2017. The zoo recently lost its Association of Zoos & Aquariums accreditation because its monkey exhibits are not up to par. –OC Register

The second example is about improving the quality of roads in California.

• Jerry Brown, the leading proponent of the plan, says the money is essential in order to bring the state’s roads up to par and that the tax hikes bring those levies in line with what they were 30 years ago when adjusted for inflation. –OC Register

Summary

The phrase up to par means satisfactory or at an acceptable level of quality

Variety is the Spice of Life Meaning

Definition: Differences make life more interesting.

Origin of Variety is the Spice of Life Meaning

The idea behind this expression is that life would be boring if everything were the same all the time.

This idiom originally came from a poem entitled The Task, which was written in the year 1875 by a man named William Cowper. The full line is variety is the spice of life, which gives it all its flavor.

The poem compares unseasoned food, which is very bland, with an unexciting life, in which nothing new ever happens.

This seems to be an apt metaphor because too much spice makes food intolerable, just as too much variety makes life stressful and unpredictable.

Examples of Variety is the Spice of Life Meaning

Two friends are discussing the new boss that one of them has at work.

Dan: Is the new boss at your work still causing problems?

Kira: Yes. No one ever knows what trouble he’ll start next. We used to have predictable days. Now I have no idea what each new day will bring.

Dan: Well, they say that variety is the spice of life.

Kira: That’s true. But this is more than just variety. This is chaos! Variety would mean having a few parties sprinkled in amongst the meetings. It doesn’t mean having no routine whatsoever!

The following example involves two women who are making plans to eat lunch together.

Gertrude: Let’s go to Olive Garden for lunch.

Ruby: Again? I love Olive Garden, but we go there every week.

Gertrude: Why not? It’s delicious!

Ruby: Variety is the spice of life. Let’s shake things up a little by trying something new.

More Examples

This excerpt is from an advice columnist who comments on how diverse the requests for help are from his readers.

• Time for another edition of Brain Sprain, wherein I do my best to respond to questions sent to me by readers who, safe to say, have a bracingly expansive understanding of how advice columns work. As you will see, if variety is the spice of life, my askjohnshore@gmail.com inbox could launch a sneezing fit in the Great Sphinx. –Asheville Citizen Times

This excerpt is from an article about baseball.

• And since variety is the spice of life, the best way to follow the Game 5 sensory overload would be a tight, taut, pitchers’ duel. –New York Post

Summary

The phrase variety is the spice of life is another way to say diversity brings excitement to life.

To the Victor Go the Spoils Meaning

Definition: The winner gets the rewards.

Victor is a synonym for winner, and spoils are things forcibly taken from a person.

Origin of To the Victor Go the Spoils

This expression originated in America in the year 1832. William Marcy, a senator from New York, said They see nothing wrong in the rule that to the victor belongs the spoils of victory. He was making a political statement against the Democratic Party.

Examples of To the Victor Go the Spoils

In the conversation below, two friends are discussing an upcoming boxing match that they are going to be competing in.

Scott: Listen, I know that you and I are going to be competing against each other soon. I just wanted to say that whatever happens, I hope we’ll still be friends.

Tony: Yeah, me too. Anyway, I don’t really care who wins and who loses.

Scott: Really? Because I know we both really like Lindsay. I think she’ll want to date whichever one of us wins the boxing match.

Tony: Why do you think that?

Scott: You know, because to the victor go the spoils.

Tony: These are modern times. I don’t think she’ll make her decision on whom to date based on whoever wins the boxing match.

Two coworkers use the expression while talking about a contest in their workplace.

Richard: I hope our team wins.

Miranda: Yeah me too. They really gave us a lot of incentives. The winners will get three extra paid days off, free lunch for a month, and the best parking places.

Richard: I know. The benefits of winning are huge! It’s just such a tough competition. It’s hard for me to stay motivated.

Miranda: Yeah. I know what you mean. But we’re doing a great job so far, and there’s only one week left. Just do what I do whenever you feel like giving up. Remind yourself of the saying to the victor go the spoils. It’s hard right now, but it will feel so good once we have all those prizes.

Richard: I’ll try my best.

More Examples

The first example uses the expression to make a play on words. Another definition of spoil is the verb, which means to destroy the value of something.

• To the victor go the spoils; but any presumption or perceived arrogance on the part of the two top candidates could spoil the political prospects for both. –LA Times

The second example is about a golf player who won an island.

• To the victor go the spoils, and for Tiger Woods, winner of 14 major golf championships and one of the richest athletes on the planet, the spoils include, among other things, a private island in Sweden. –LA Times

Summary

The saying to the victor go the spoils is another way to say that the triumphant person in a dispute wins that which they were fighting over.