What does ‘Do not count your chickens before they are hatched’ mean? ‘Don’t count your chickens before they’re hatched’ means; Plans should not be made on the assumption that something expected will happen in the future. Don’t rely on or don’t be over-confident about a result before it is certain or has happened. Depending on […]
Author: Ian George Bolton
Not Enough Room to Swing a Cat: The Quirky Charm of English Idioms
Discover the hilarious history of the idiom “not enough room to swing a cat,” from naval whips to modern-day tiny apartments. Explore how language turns cramped spaces into cultural comedy!
It’s no good/use crying over spilt milk
“It’s no good/use crying over spilt milk” It is pointless regretting something that has already happened or gone wrong and can not be changed.
It’s Raining Cats and Dogs: The Stormy Story Behind a Classic Idiom
Discover the stormy history of the idiom “It’s raining cats and dogs,” from Norse myths to flooded streets. Explore how this quirky phrase turned downpours into cultural comedy!
He who sleeps with dogs will rise up with fleas
He who sleeps with dogs will rise up with fleas is a cautionary statement meaning: If you hang out or associate with the wrong kind of people.
If you pay peanuts, you get monkeys
If you pay peanuts, you get monkeys means; Offering inadequate payment (peanuts) for employment will only attract incompetent staff (monkeys).
Actions speak louder than words
What does “Actions speak louder than words” mean? “Actions speak louder than words” means; What people actually do or the action they take is more important and shows intentions and feelings more clearly than if they merely talk about doing something. It is often used when someone says they will do something or promises to […]
While the cat is away, the mice will play
What does “While the cat is away, the mice will play” mean? “While the cat is away, the mice will play” means; unsupervised people will naturally take advantage of the absence or lack of attention of someone in authority, and will enjoy their freedom by relaxing and doing as they please. Be the first to […]
A watched pot never boils
What does “A watched pot never boils” mean? This proverb from the Mid-1800s, reflects the experience of anyone who has ever been in a hurry or anyone who has ever been waiting for something to arrive or for something to happen. The phrase, in itself contains a warning against giving in to impatience (don’t be impatient). […]
Big fish eat little fish
What does “Big fish eat little fish” mean? “Big fish eat little fish” is an classical proverb that indicates the predatory nature of humans and the vicious cycle of exploitation that exists in the business world; where rich and powerful people or organisations will exploit, swallow up or destroy those who are weaker, poorer and […]