Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the mid-20th century, symbolizing a very sad or miserable expression.

Meaning:
A very sad or miserable expression.

Usage:

1. He had a face like a wet weekend after the team lost.
2. She walked in with a face like a wet weekend, clearly upset.
3. They looked at him with a face like a wet weekend, wondering what happened.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Long face," "Down in the dumps," "Gloomy expression."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it describes a face that looks particularly unappealing or gloomy, but the meaning cannot be understood directly from the words "wet weekend" and "face." The metaphor of a "wet weekend" refers to a situation that is dreary or disappointing, and the connection to the face is figurative. The phrase does not refer to an actual weekend or a literal wetness, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the mid-20th century, symbolizing a very angry facial expression.

Meaning:
To have a very angry or upset expression, often indicating displeasure or frustration.

Usage:

1. She had a face like thunder after hearing the news.
2. He came home with a face like thunder.
3. Her boss's face was like thunder during the meeting.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Furious expression," "Angry look," "Raging face."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means looking very angry or upset. The comparison to "thunder" is entirely figurative, invoking the intensity of a thunderstorm to emphasize the severity of the facial expression.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing someone who is very unattractive.

Meaning:
Someone who is very unattractive.

Usage:

1. He joked that he has a face only a mother could love.
2. The old dog had a face only a mother could love.
3. They said the character in the story had a face only a mother could love.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Homely," "Unattractive," "Plain-looking."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means that someone has an unattractive or unappealing appearance, suggesting that only a mother could see beauty in the face. The idiom does not refer to literal love or face perception, but rather it implies a figurative idea about beauty and affection. It cannot be understood from the literal words alone.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing extreme unattractiveness.

Meaning:
Extremely unattractive.

Usage:

1. They teased him, saying he had a face that would stop a clock.
2. The villain in the story was described as having a face that would stop a clock.
3. She laughed when her friend joked about having a face that would stop a clock.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Hideous," "Ghastly," "Repulsive."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to an extremely unattractive face, typically meaning that it is so bad it could "stop a clock" in a figurative sense. The idiom exaggerates to make a point about the appearance, and the meaning cannot be deduced from the literal words. The metaphorical connection is clear, and the phrase is not about an actual clock.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 19th century, likely originating from military ceremonies where a soldier had to face the band playing music as a form of punishment or acknowledgment of wrongdoing.

Meaning:
To confront or accept the consequences of one’s actions.

Usage:

1. After the scandal, the politician had to face the music.
2. It’s time to face the music for missing all those deadlines.
3. He knew he had to face the music after lying to his boss.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Face the consequences," "Take responsibility," "Own up."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to accept the consequences of one’s actions. The idiom has a figurative meaning, as it does not literally involve music but refers to the emotional discomfort of accountability.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing those who are easily frightened or lack courage.

Meaning:
Lacking courage or strength to face something difficult.

Usage:

1. The mission is dangerous and not for the faint of heart.
2. He wasn’t faint of heart when faced with the challenge.
3. The movie is thrilling, but definitely not for the faint of heart.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Weak-willed", "Timid", "Fearful"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it describes someone who lacks courage or is easily frightened. The idiom uses "faint" and "heart" metaphorically to emphasize timidity, not the literal concept of faintness or a physical heart.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 18th century, symbolizing someone who is only a friend during good times and abandons others in times of trouble.

Meaning:
Someone who is only a friend during good times and abandons others in times of trouble.

Usage:

1. She realized he was just a fair-weather friend when he disappeared during her struggles.
2. Fair-weather friends are not the ones you can rely on.
3. During tough times, true friends emerge, while fair-weather ones vanish.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Inconsistent friend," "Unreliable friend," "Situational friend."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to someone who is only supportive or friendly when times are good. The figurative use of "fair weather" conveys reliability limited to favorable conditions, which is not literal.

Origin:
This idiom originates from French, meaning "accomplished fact." It has been used in English since the 19th century to describe something that has already been done and cannot be changed.

Meaning:
Something that has already been done and cannot be changed.

Usage:

1. The merger was presented as a fait accompli to the employees.
2. He acted as if the decision was a fait accompli, leaving no room for discussion.
3. They found out about the changes as a fait accompli.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Done deal," "Accomplished fact," "Irreversible action."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to a situation that has already been decided or completed, making it impossible to change or undo. The idiom is derived from French and literally translates to "accomplished fact," but its figurative meaning is more about acceptance of an unalterable situation. The connection to the literal words is indirect, as the meaning is not obvious unless the phrase is understood in its figurative context.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing something that is breaking down or failing, like a piece of clothing coming apart at the seams.

Meaning:
To break down or fail.

Usage:

1. The team started to fall apart at the seams after losing three matches in a row.
2. She fell apart at the seams when she heard the bad news.
3. The company is falling apart at the seams due to mismanagement.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Collapse," "Disintegrate," "Fail."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to be in a state of extreme disorder or failure. The figurative image of something literally tearing at the seams conveys chaos or disintegration, unrelated to actual seams.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 20th century, originating from horse racing where a horse fails to jump the first hurdle and falls.

Meaning:
To encounter failure at an early stage of an endeavor.

Usage:

1. He fell at the first hurdle in his new job.
2. She didn't want to fall at the first hurdle in her project.
3. They faced challenges and fell at the first hurdle.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Early failure," "Initial setback," "Immediate stumble."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to fail at the very first obstacle in an endeavor or process, but it cannot be understood literally from the words "fall" and "hurdle." The metaphor compares the failure to a race or an obstacle course where falling at the first hurdle is a sign of failure. The idiom's figurative meaning is not directly connected to the literal words of the phrase.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 17th century, symbolizing a situation where someone fails because they try to do two things at once and succeed at neither.

Meaning:
To fail because one tries to do two things at once and succeeds at neither.

Usage:

1. He fell between two stools trying to balance work and study.
2. She fell between two stools by attempting to please everyone.
3. They realized they were falling between two stools with their dual strategy.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Miss the mark," "Fail both ways," "Between two options."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to fail or get stuck in a situation where one cannot succeed in either of two choices or options. The idiom uses "stools" as a metaphor for choices or opportunities, and the meaning cannot be understood from the literal interpretation of "falling" or "stools" alone. It carries a figurative meaning.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 17th century, symbolizing the act of being left behind or failing to continue.

Meaning:
To be left behind or fail to continue.

Usage:

1. Many great ideas fall by the wayside due to lack of funding.
2. His dreams of becoming a singer fell by the wayside as life got busier.
3. Some traditions fall by the wayside over time.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Abandoned," "Neglected," "Overlooked."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to fail or be abandoned, often referring to plans or efforts. The figurative use of "wayside" as a metaphor for neglect or failure makes it idiomatic.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of failing completely, often used for ideas or jokes that do not have the intended effect.

Meaning:
To fail completely.

Usage:

1. His joke fell flat, and no one laughed.
2. The new product launch fell flat due to poor marketing.
3. Her attempt to impress her boss fell flat.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Fail miserably," "Unsuccessful," "Bomb."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to failing to have the intended effect, often in the context of humor or effort. The expression is figurative, as "falling flat" does not describe a literal action but rather the failure of impact.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of being deceived or tricked.

Meaning:
To be deceived or tricked.

Usage:

1. She fell for his lies.
2. He fell for the scam.
3. They fell for the prank.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Be deceived," "Get tricked," "Fall victim."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to be deceived or tricked into believing something, or it can mean to develop a romantic interest. The idiom's meaning is not tied directly to the literal idea of "falling" or "something." The figurative interpretation, whether related to being tricked or falling in love, cannot be deduced from the literal words.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 17th century, symbolizing a loss of status, respect, or prestige. It comes from the idea of falling from a state of grace or favor.

Meaning:
To lose status, respect, or prestige.

Usage:

1. The politician fell from grace after the scandal.
2. The company fell from grace due to poor management.
3. He fell from grace when his dishonesty was revealed.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Disgraced," "Lost favor," "Shamed."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it describes losing favor or status, often in a moral or social sense. The idiom uses "grace" figuratively to refer to approval or esteem, not a literal fall.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the idea of things happening in a way that produces the desired outcome. It comes from the notion of pieces of a puzzle fitting together perfectly.

Meaning:
To happen in a way that produces the desired outcome.

Usage:

1. Once we got the funding, everything else fell into place.
2. After months of planning, the event finally fell into place.
3. Her career started to fall into place after she got her degree.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Come together," "Work out," "Fit perfectly."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means for things to work out naturally or align as intended. The idiom uses "place" figuratively to signify the resolution or harmony of a situation, not a literal physical arrangement.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of receiving something unexpectedly without effort. It comes from the image of something falling right into one's lap.

Meaning:
To receive something unexpectedly without effort.

Usage:

1. The job offer fell into his lap.
2. She couldn't believe the opportunity fell into her lap.
3. They were lucky when the contract fell into their laps.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Happen by chance," "Fortunate," "Unexpectedly received."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to receive something unexpectedly or without effort, which cannot be deduced from the literal words. The metaphorical use of "fall into someone's lap" suggests ease and lack of struggle, rather than something literally falling into one's lap. The figurative meaning is not clear from the words alone.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 20th century and was initially associated with recovering alcoholics relapsing, symbolizing the act of returning to a bad habit or addiction.

Meaning:
To return to a bad habit or addiction.

Usage:

1. He fell off the wagon after being sober for six months.
2. She fell off the wagon and started smoking again.
3. They were worried he might fall off the wagon during stressful times.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Relapse," "Backslide," "Return to bad habits."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to the act of relapsing into a bad habit, especially substance abuse, and cannot be understood literally. The metaphor suggests falling off a wagon as a symbol of losing control or going back to a previous state, but the meaning is figurative and not related to the literal falling off of a vehicle.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 19th century, symbolizing the idea of someone ignoring or not paying attention to a request or complaint. It comes from the notion of speaking to someone who is not listening.

Meaning:
To be ignored or not paid attention to.

Usage:

1. Her suggestions always fall on deaf ears in meetings.
2. His warnings about the storm fell on deaf ears.
3. The students' complaints fell on deaf ears.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Ignored," "Unheeded," "Overlooked."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to be ignored or not acknowledged. The idiom uses "deaf ears" figuratively to suggest neglect or lack of attention, not literally referring to hearing impairment.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of accepting responsibility for a failure or mistake, often to protect others. It comes from the historical practice of a disgraced warrior committing suicide by falling on their sword.

Meaning:
To accept responsibility for a failure or mistake.

Usage:

1. He decided to fall on his sword to save the team.
2. She fell on her sword to protect her colleagues.
3. They praised him for falling on his sword.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Take the blame," "Accept responsibility," "Own up."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to take the blame or sacrifice oneself for the benefit of others. The idiom uses the metaphor of a sword to represent self-sacrifice, which is not a literal act of falling on a weapon. The figurative meaning of sacrifice or responsibility is what the phrase conveys.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of making an extraordinary effort to help or please someone. It comes from the image of literally falling over backwards in an attempt to do something.

Meaning:
To make an extraordinary effort to help or please someone.

Usage:

1. She fell over backwards to accommodate his requests.
2. He fell over backwards to meet their needs.
3. They fell over backwards to make the event a success.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Go the extra mile," "Bend over backwards," "Do whatever it takes."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to make a great effort, usually to please someone, or to show extreme surprise or enthusiasm. The literal idea of falling backwards is not directly related to the figurative meaning of trying very hard or being overly accommodating. The metaphorical connection is clear, but it cannot be deduced from the individual words alone.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of becoming a victim of something harmful or deceitful.

Meaning:
To become a victim of something harmful or deceitful.

Usage:

1. He fell prey to a phishing scam and lost his savings.
2. She fell prey to her own insecurities.
3. They warned him not to fall prey to the con artist's tricks.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Be victimized," "Succumb to," "Be taken in by."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to become a victim of something, especially a negative situation or influence. The idiom suggests being caught in a trap, but this meaning cannot be understood by taking the words "fall" and "prey" literally. The figurative sense of becoming a victim or being deceived is central to the idiom.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of not reaching a desired or expected standard or goal. It comes from the idea of falling short of a target or mark.

Meaning:
To not reach a desired or expected standard or goal.

Usage:

1. The results fell short of their expectations.
2. She felt her performance fell short of her potential.
3. They were disappointed to fall short of their goals.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Miss the mark," "Fail to meet," "Underperform."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to fail to meet a desired standard or expectation. The literal action of falling does not explain the figurative meaning of not reaching a certain goal. The idiomatic use of "fall short" refers to a metaphorical failure or lack of accomplishment, which cannot be understood just by interpreting the individual words.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of developing romantic feelings for someone.

Meaning:
To develop romantic feelings for someone.

Usage:

1. She has fallen in love with her best friend.
2. They realized they had fallen in love over the summer.
3. He has fallen in love with his coworker.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Head over heels," "Smitten," "In love."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to develop romantic feelings for someone, and it is not about literally falling or physical movement. The "fall" metaphorically suggests an emotional state that is sudden and overwhelming, but this meaning is figurative and cannot be deduced from the literal words.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of making a false representation to deceive someone. It comes from the legal term for fraudulently misrepresenting oneself.

Meaning:
To deceive someone by making a false representation.

Usage:

1. He was accused of gaining entry under false pretences.
2. She felt betrayed by his false pretences.
3. They uncovered the scheme based on false pretences.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Deception," "Fraud," "Misrepresentation."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to lying or misrepresenting the truth to deceive someone. The literal meaning of "false" and "pretences" does not explain the figurative meaning of deceit or misleading behavior. The idiomatic meaning suggests dishonesty, which cannot be directly understood from the individual words.

Origin:
This saying dates back to at least the 16th century and was used by Geoffrey Chaucer in his work The Canterbury Tales. It suggests that being too familiar with something or someone leads to taking them for granted or losing respect.

Meaning:
The more you know someone or something, the more you begin to lose respect for them.

Usage:

1. Over time, familiarity breeds contempt, and they started arguing over everything.
2. At first, they were best friends, but familiarity bred contempt after a while.
3. Don’t get too comfortable; familiarity breeds contempt in the workplace.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Absence makes the heart grow fonder", "Don’t know what you have until it’s gone", "Too much of a good thing"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it conveys the idea that close or frequent association with someone, or something can lead to a lack of respect. The idiom is figurative, as it uses "breeds" to metaphorically signify the development of contempt.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of intensifying or exacerbating a situation, often by adding fuel to it. It comes from the image of fanning flames to make a fire burn hotter.

Meaning:
To intensify a situation, especially a conflict.

Usage:

1. His comments only fanned the flames of the ongoing argument.
2. Instead of solving the problem, she fanned the flames with her criticism.
3. Social media often fans the flames of controversies.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Add fuel to the fire," "Stir the pot," "Aggravate."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to intensify a situation, often a conflict or emotion. The idiom uses "fan" and "flames" metaphorically to emphasize provoking or escalating something, not literally related to fire.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the mid-20th century, symbolizing someone who speaks quickly and persuasively, often to deceive or convince.

Meaning:
Someone who speaks quickly and persuasively, often to deceive or convince.

Usage:

1. Be careful, he's a fast talker and might try to trick you.
2. The salesman was a fast talker, convincing everyone to buy the product.
3. She doesn't trust fast talkers because they often have hidden agendas.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Smooth talker," "Persuasive," "Slick."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to someone who speaks quickly, often to deceive or manipulate others. While the individual words "fast" and "talker" have literal meanings, the overall expression conveys a figurative idea of someone using smooth or slick speech to achieve something. This cannot be understood from the literal words alone.

Origin:
This idiom originated in the early 20th century, symbolizing a wealthy and powerful person, often in business or politics.

Meaning:
A wealthy and powerful person, often in business or politics.

Usage:

1. The fat cats of Wall Street were criticized during the financial crisis.
2. He became a fat cat after the company went public.
3. They accused the fat cats of exploiting the workers.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Wealthy," "Affluent," "Bigwig."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to a wealthy or influential person, especially one who has acquired wealth through dubious means. The idiom uses "fat" metaphorically to represent abundance or excess, and "cat" in a figurative sense, not related to an actual animal. The literal meaning does not convey the figurative concept of wealth or power, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing a sarcastic or ironic way of saying there is very little chance of something happening. It comes from the idea of "fat" meaning "plentiful" but used in a mocking sense.

Meaning:
Very little chance of something happening.

Usage:

1. Fat chance of him finishing the project on time.
2. She has a fat chance of winning the lottery.
3. He said he'd help, but fat chance of that happening.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Slim chance," "Unlikely," "Highly improbable."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it sarcastically means "no chance" or "unlikely to happen." The idiom uses "fat" ironically to convey the opposite of what it literally suggests, making it a figurative expression.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 19th century, symbolizing situations characterized by extremes, with either an abundance or a complete lack. It comes from the idea of having either a feast or nothing at all.

Meaning:
Situations characterized by extremes, with either an abundance or a complete lack.

Usage:

1. It’s been feast or famine with our sales lately.
2. The harvest was either feast or famine this year.
3. They faced feast or famine in terms of job offers.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Boom or bust," "All or nothing," "Hit or miss."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it describes a situation of extremes, either abundance or scarcity. The idiom uses "feast" and "famine" metaphorically to emphasize the contrast, not literally referring to food shortages or banquets.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 18th century, symbolizing the act of taking great pleasure in viewing something beautiful or impressive. It comes from the idea of feasting visually on a pleasing sight.

Meaning:
To take great pleasure in viewing something beautiful or impressive.

Usage:

1. Feast your eyes on this stunning sunset.
2. She feasted her eyes on the art exhibit.
3. He told them to feast their eyes on the new car.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Admire," "Take in," "Gaze at."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to look at something with great admiration or pleasure. The idiom uses "feast" metaphorically, which does not have a literal meaning tied to eating. While "feast" and "eyes" have individual meanings, the overall expression conveys a figurative sense of intense appreciation, which cannot be deduced from the words alone.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 18th century, symbolizing an accomplishment or honor that adds to one's reputation. It comes from the practice of adding a feather to one's cap as a symbol of achievement.

Meaning:
An accomplishment or honor that adds to one's reputation.

Usage:

1. Winning the competition was a real feather in his cap.
2. Being selected for the team was a feather in her cap.
3. The award is a feather in his cap after years of hard work.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"A mark of distinction", "Badge of honor", "A source of pride"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means a personal achievement or accomplishment to be proud of. The idiom uses "feather" and "cap" metaphorically, originating from historical practices but now figurative.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 16th century, symbolizing the act of enriching oneself, often at the expense of others. It comes from the idea of birds lining their nests with feathers for comfort.

Meaning:
To enrich oneself, often at the expense of others.

Usage:

1. The corrupt official feathered his nest with public funds.
2. She was accused of feathering her nest through insider trading.
3. The CEO feathered his nest while the company struggled.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Enrich oneself," "Profit," "Gain advantage."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to use one’s position or resources for personal gain, often in a selfish way. The idiom uses "feather" and "nest" figuratively, symbolizing comfort or wealth, not a literal nest.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of deceiving or misleading someone with false information. It comes from the idea of feeding someone a rehearsed or false statement.

Meaning:
To deceive or mislead someone with false information.

Usage:

1. He fed her a line about why he was late.
2. The salesman fed us a line to make the sale.
3. She realized he was just feeding her a line.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Lie," "Deceive," "Mislead."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to deceive or mislead someone, often with insincere talk. The idiom uses "line" metaphorically, suggesting falsehoods or flattery, rather than a literal string or rope.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of contributing money to a communal fund.

Meaning:
To contribute money to a communal fund.

Usage:

1. Everyone was asked to feed the kitty for the office party.
2. They feed the kitty each week to save for their vacation.
3. He forgot to feed the kitty for the group's lunch fund.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Contribute," "Chip in," "Add to the pot."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to contributing money to a shared fund or collective savings. The words "feed" and "kitty" individually do not convey the meaning of pooling resources, and the phrase uses "kitty" as a metaphor for a money collection or fund, making it an idiomatic expression.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing a strong, intuitive feeling about something. It comes from the idea of sensing something deeply within oneself.

Meaning:
To have a strong, instinctive feeling about something, often without evidence.

Usage:

1. I feel it in my bones that something is wrong.
2. She felt it in her bones that he was lying.
3. They felt it in their bones that the weather would change.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Gut feeling," "Intuition," "Hunch."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to having a strong intuitive sense about something. The idiom uses "bones" figuratively to imply a deep, instinctual feeling, unrelated to the literal skeletal system.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of feeling extremely good or healthy. It comes from the association of a million dollars with great value and worth.

Meaning:
To feel extremely good or healthy.

Usage:

1. He felt like a million dollars after the workout.
2. She woke up feeling like a million dollars.
3. They felt like a million dollars on their wedding day.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Great," "Fantastic," "Wonderful."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to feel great, healthy, or prosperous. The idiom uses "million dollars" metaphorically to represent a state of feeling excellent, and the literal words "feel" and "million dollars" do not convey the figurative meaning of feeling well or successful. It relies on a non-literal interpretation.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of feeling extremely happy or elated. It comes from the idea of being at the highest point, experiencing great joy.

Meaning:
To feel extremely happy or elated.

Usage:

1. She felt on top of the world after the promotion.
2. He was on top of the world when he heard the news.
3. They felt on top of the world during their vacation.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Ecstatic," "Elated," "Over the moon."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to feel extremely happy or in a good state of mind. The idiom uses "top of the world" metaphorically to suggest a feeling of elation or success, not a literal position on top of the Earth. The figurative meaning cannot be deduced from the literal words, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the late 20th century, particularly in the context of physical exercise, symbolizing the sensation of muscle fatigue or pain during a workout. It comes from the idea of muscles burning due to lactic acid buildup.

Meaning:
To experience discomfort or physical strain, usually from exercise.

Usage:

1. You’ll feel the burn in your muscles after this workout.
2. After running, I could really feel the burn in my legs.
3. The training was tough, but you have to feel the burn to get results.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Push your limits", "Get sore", "Pain is gain"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means experiencing the intense sensation of physical effort (e.g., during exercise) or metaphorically feeling the effects of a challenging or painful situation. The idiom does not refer literally to a "burn" but uses it figuratively to describe exertion or hardship.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing the experience of financial difficulty or hardship. It comes from the idea of feeling a pinch or squeeze on one's resources.

Meaning:
To experience financial difficulties or hardship.

Usage:

1. Many families are feeling the pinch due to rising prices.
2. After losing his job, he really started to feel the pinch.
3. Small businesses are feeling the pinch from the economic downturn.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Tighten one's belt," "Scrape by," "Make ends meet"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to experience financial difficulty or pressure. The word "pinch" is used figuratively to describe discomfort, not a literal pinching sensation.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 19th century, symbolizing the experience of feeling ill or unwell. It comes from the idea of being affected by bad weather.

Meaning:
To feel ill or unwell.

Usage:

1. She's feeling under the weather today.
2. I stayed home because I was feeling under the weather.
3. He's been under the weather all week.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Sick," "Unwell," "Ill."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means feeling ill or unwell. The idiom's origin is nautical, but its meaning is not literal and cannot be deduced from the words "under" or "weather."

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of feeling sad or depressed. It comes from the association of the color blue with melancholy.

Meaning:
To feel sad or depressed.

Usage:

1. He's been feeling blue ever since she left.
2. She felt blue after hearing the bad news.
3. I always feel blue on rainy days.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Down in the dumps," "Feeling low," "Depressed."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to feel sad or downcast. The word "blue" is used figuratively to symbolize sadness, not its literal color.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the Bible, specifically the Book of Daniel, symbolizing a hidden weakness or flaw in a person who is otherwise strong or admired.

Meaning:
A hidden weakness or flaw in a person who is otherwise strong or admired.

Usage:

1. The hero was admired by all, but he had feet of clay.
2. She discovered her mentor had feet of clay after a scandal.
3. The celebrity's feet of clay were revealed in the biography.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Hidden flaw," "Weakness," "Imperfection."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to someone with a hidden weakness or flaw, especially in an otherwise admirable person. The idiom uses "feet of clay" metaphorically to symbolize vulnerability or imperfection. The literal meaning of "feet" and "clay" does not provide the figurative idea of human frailty, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the mid-20th century, symbolizing something that is obtained illegally or through dubious means.

Meaning:
Something that is obtained illegally or through dubious means.

Usage:

1. He bought the expensive watch that had "fallen off a truck."
2. They knew the goods had fallen off a truck when they saw the low prices.
3. She joked that the designer handbag must have fallen off a truck.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Illegally obtained," "Hot goods," "Stolen."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to a situation where something is obtained in a suspicious or dishonest way, often implying it was stolen. The idiom "fell off a truck" uses the idea of a truck as a metaphor for illegal or dishonest actions, which cannot be understood from the literal meaning of the words. Thus, it is an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the mid-20th century, primarily in British English, symbolizing something that is obtained illegally or through dubious means.

Meaning:
Something that is obtained illegally or through dubious means.

Usage:

1. He bought the electronics that had "fallen off the back of a lorry."
2. She knew the items had fallen off the back of a lorry when she saw the suspicious seller.
3. They joked that the cheap gadgets must have fallen off the back of a lorry.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Illegally obtained," "Hot goods," "Stolen."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means something was obtained illegally, typically stolen. The idiom "fell off the back of a lorry" uses the image of a truck or lorry to symbolize something illicitly acquired, which cannot be understood literally. The meaning is figurative and requires context, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the mid-19th century, symbolizing a state of intense excitement or activity.

Meaning:
A state of intense excitement or activity.

Usage:

1. The crowd reached a fever pitch as the concert began.
2. His excitement was at fever pitch before the big game.
3. The campaign was at fever pitch in the final days before the election.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Peak excitement," "Intense activity," "High energy."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means a state of intense excitement, emotion, or activity. While "fever" and "pitch" individually have clear meanings, the combination refers to an extreme state of heightened emotion that cannot be deduced from the literal words. This makes it an idiomatic expression.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of ignoring a serious situation while engaged in trivial activities. It comes from the legend of Emperor Nero playing the fiddle while Rome was burning.

Meaning:
To ignore a serious situation while engaged in trivial activities.

Usage:

1. The CEO fiddled while Rome burned, ignoring the company’s financial crisis.
2. She’s rearranging her desk while the project deadline looms—fiddling while Rome burns!
3. The government was accused of fiddling while Rome burned during the economic collapse.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
 "Ignore the problem," "Bury your head in the sand," "Neglect responsibilities."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to ignoring a serious situation or being frivolous during a crisis. The idiom derives from a historical anecdote but is now figurative and not tied to literal fiddling or Rome burning.

Origin:
This idiom originated in the mid-20th century, popularized by artist Andy Warhol, symbolizing a brief period of public attention or celebrity.

Meaning:
A brief period of public attention or celebrity.

Usage:

1. He had his fifteen minutes of fame after appearing on the reality show.
2. Her viral video gave her fifteen minutes of fame.
3. They enjoyed their fifteen minutes of fame after winning the local contest.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Brief fame," "Short-lived celebrity," "Moment in the spotlight."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to a short period of public attention or notoriety, typically fleeting. The literal words "fifteen minutes" and "fame" do not convey the figurative idea of brief, temporary attention in society. This is a figurative expression, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 19th century, symbolizing someone or something that is unnecessary or superfluous. It comes from the idea of a fifth wheel on a four-wheeled vehicle being redundant.

Meaning:
An extra, unnecessary person or thing, often one that is awkwardly out of place.

Usage:

1. I felt like a fifth wheel at their romantic dinner.
2. He was the fifth wheel on their group trip.
3. She didn't want to be a fifth wheel, so she left early.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Third wheel," "Extra," "Redundant."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to someone or something superfluous or unnecessary. The term "fifth wheel" is figurative, symbolizing redundancy, as a vehicle typically needs only four wheels.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of struggling against insurmountable odds or inevitable defeat. It comes from the idea of engaging in a battle that cannot be won.

Meaning:
To struggle against insurmountable odds or inevitable defeat.

Usage:

1. They are fighting a losing battle against corruption.
2. Trying to change his mind is like fighting a losing battle.
3. The team fought a losing battle against the stronger opponents.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Up against it," "Swimming against the tide," "Banging one's head against a brick wall"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it describes struggling against overwhelming odds or inevitable failure. The idiom uses "battle" figuratively to represent any type of challenge, not just literal combat.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of struggling against difficult circumstances or challenges. It comes from the idea of fighting while moving uphill, which is more challenging.

Meaning:
To struggle against difficult circumstances or challenges.

Usage:

1. She knew she was fighting an uphill battle to get the project approved.
2. He fought an uphill battle against the disease.
3. They were fighting an uphill battle to change the outdated policy.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Face challenges," "Struggle against difficulties," "Tough fight."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to struggle with a difficult, challenging task or situation. The idiom uses "uphill" metaphorically to suggest difficulty, and the literal meaning of "fight" and "uphill" does not convey the idea of a challenging effort, so it is an idiomatic expression.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of using the same tactics as an opponent to counteract them. It comes from the practice of fighting wildfires by starting controlled burns.

Meaning:
To use the same tactics as an opponent to counteract them.

Usage:

1. In the negotiation, they decided to fight fire with fire.
2. She chose to fight fire with fire when dealing with the rude customer.
3. The company fought fire with fire by introducing a similar product.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Tit for tat", "An eye for an eye", "Match fire with fire"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to combat a problem or threat using the same methods as the opponent. The idiom is figurative, as it does not literally involve fire but metaphorically suggests retaliation.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of constantly arguing or fighting with someone. It comes from the image of cats and dogs being natural enemies and often fighting.

Meaning:
To constantly argue or fight with someone.

Usage:

1. The siblings fight like cats and dogs.
2. They fought like cats and dogs over the issue.
3. The neighbors fight like cats and dogs.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Quarrel," "Bicker," "Clash."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it describes frequent and intense arguments or conflicts. The comparison to cats and dogs is figurative, emphasizing hostility or rivalry, not actual animals fighting.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of avoiding or being reluctant to engage in something. It comes from the idea of shying away, like a horse avoiding a jump.

Meaning:
To avoid or be reluctant to engage in something.

Usage:

1. He fought shy of taking on the additional responsibilities.
2. She fought shy of confrontation and preferred to keep the peace.
3. They fought shy of making any commitments without more information.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Avoid," "Be reluctant," "Hesitate."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to avoid or be hesitant about something, usually due to fear or reluctance. The idiom uses "shy" metaphorically, and the literal words "fight" and "shy" do not clearly express the concept of avoiding something. Thus, it is an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of fighting fiercely and determinedly. It comes from the idea of using all available resources, including teeth and nails, in a fight.

Meaning:
To fight fiercely and determinedly.

Usage:

1. She fought tooth and nail to get the promotion.
2. The team is fighting tooth and nail to win the championship.
3. He fought tooth and nail to defend his innocence.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Give it your all," "Go all out," "Battle fiercely."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to fight or struggle with great determination and effort. The idiom is figurative, as "tooth and nail" symbolically represent fierce determination.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of searching for something that is extremely difficult to find. It comes from the idea of looking for a tiny needle hidden in a large haystack.

Meaning:
To search for something that is extremely difficult to find.

Usage:

1. Trying to find my keys in this mess is like finding a needle in a haystack.
2. It was like finding a needle in a haystack when I tried to locate the rare book.
3. Searching for the perfect gift felt like finding a needle in a haystack.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Like searching for a grain of sand", "A needle in the ocean", "Like looking for a diamond in the rough"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to the difficulty of finding something extremely small or rare within a vast, cluttered space. The figurative meaning is clear, as it’s not about literal haystacks or needles.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of becoming comfortable or confident in a new situation. It comes from the idea of finding one's balance and stability.

Meaning:
To become comfortable or confident in a new situation.

Usage:

1. It took me a while to find my feet in the new job.
2. She’s still finding her feet at the university.
3. Once they found their feet, they started performing better in the competition.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Settle in," "Get accustomed," "Adjust."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means becoming confident or comfortable in a new situation. The figurative use of "feet" implies establishing balance or stability, not a literal physical act.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of gaining confidence to express oneself. It comes from the idea of discovering one's unique way of communicating.

Meaning:
To gain confidence in expressing oneself, especially in speaking or writing.

Usage:

1. She found her voice as a writer after years of practice.
2. He found his voice and started speaking up in meetings.
3. The new artist found her voice through her paintings.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Gain confidence," "Speak out," "Express oneself."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to gaining confidence in expressing oneself or discovering one’s unique style or perspective. The idiom is figurative, as it does not literally involve finding a physical voice.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of encouraging someone to begin speaking or asking questions. It comes from the idea of firing a gun, signaling the start of an action.

Meaning:
To ask questions or make comments freely, often used to encourage someone to speak without hesitation.

Usage:

1. If you have any questions, fire away.
2. She said, "Fire away," when he hesitated to ask.
3. The manager told the team to fire away with their suggestions.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Shoot," "Go ahead," "Ask away."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to begin speaking, often used to encourage someone to ask questions. The idiom uses "fire" figuratively to imply rapid action or energy, not literal shooting.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the mid-20th century, symbolizing strong ambition, drive, or determination.

Meaning:
Strong ambition, drive, or determination.

Usage:

1. He has a fire in the belly to succeed in his career.
2. She showed a fire in the belly during the competition.
3. They admired his fire in the belly for achieving his goals.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Determination," "Ambition," "Drive."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means having a strong passion, motivation, or drive to succeed. The literal words "fire" and "belly" do not directly relate to the figurative idea of inner drive or ambition. Therefore, the meaning is non-literal and figurative, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of operating at full capacity or efficiency. It comes from the idea of all cylinders in an engine firing perfectly to achieve maximum performance.

Meaning:
To operate at full capacity or efficiency.

Usage:

1. The team was firing on all cylinders during the project.
2. After a good night's sleep, he was firing on all cylinders.
3. The company is firing on all cylinders this quarter.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"At full throttle," "At full steam," "Working at full capacity."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means functioning at full capacity or performing at one’s best. The idiom is figurative, drawing from the mechanics of engines, but it doesn’t refer to actual cylinders.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing a position where someone is likely to face criticism or be held responsible.

Meaning:
A position where someone is likely to face criticism or be held responsible.

Usage:

1. The CEO found himself in the firing line after the scandal.
2. She knew she would be in the firing line for the project's failure.
3. They put him in the firing line to answer the tough questions.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Hot seat," "Under fire," "Criticized."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to a position or situation where someone is exposed to criticism, danger, or pressure, not the literal line of fire in a shooting situation. The idiom uses "firing" metaphorically, and the connection to the literal words doesn't fully explain the figurative meaning of being in a difficult or risky position. Thus, it is an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, primarily in Australian and New Zealand English, symbolizing the idea that those who arrive first get the best opportunities.

Meaning:
Those who arrive first get the best opportunities.

Usage:

1. They arrived early to the sale, believing in first in, best dressed.
2. He always says first in, best dressed to encourage promptness.
3. The best seats were taken quickly, first in, best dressed.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Early bird gets the worm," "First come, first served," "Get in early."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means that the first person to arrive or act often gets the best opportunity or outcome. The idiom uses "first" and "dressed" in a metaphorical way, where "dressed" refers to being ready or prepared. The literal interpretation of the words doesn't convey the full figurative meaning, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the mid-20th century, symbolizing being the first to start or take action.

Meaning:
Being the first to start or take action.

Usage:

1. She was the first out of the gate with her new product launch.
2. The company was first out of the gate in adopting the new technology.
3. They want to be first out of the gate in the new market.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"First mover," "Lead the way," "Take the initiative."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to being the first to start or take action, often in a competitive context. The literal meaning of "out of the gate" refers to a race or competition, but the figurative meaning is about being quick to act. The idiom's meaning is not directly deducible from the literal words, so it is an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the 18th century, originally used in the context of gemstones to symbolize the highest quality. Now, it symbolizes something of the highest quality or excellence.

Meaning:
Something of the highest quality or excellence.

Usage:

1. Her performance was of the first water.
2. The diamond was of the first water, flawless and brilliant.
3. He is a scholar of the first water in his field.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Top-notch," "High-quality," "Premier."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to something of the highest quality or most superior. The idiom uses "water" metaphorically, as the literal meaning of "first" and "water" does not directly indicate excellence or top-tier status. Therefore, this is an idiomatic expression.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of seeking praise or validation in an indirect way. It comes from the idea of fishing, or trying to catch, compliments.

Meaning:
To seek praise or validation in an indirect way.

Usage:

1. She was clearly fishing for compliments about her new dress.
2. He tends to fish for compliments after a presentation.
3. They noticed he was fishing for compliments on his performance.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Seek praise," "Hunt for flattery," "Look for validation."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means to try to get people to praise or flatter you, often in a subtle or indirect way. The literal meaning of "fish" and "compliments" does not convey the idea of seeking praise, so this is a non-literal, figurative expression, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the mid-16th century, symbolizing the act of taking advantage of a chaotic or difficult situation for personal gain.

Meaning:
To take advantage of a chaotic or difficult situation for personal gain.

Usage:

1. He often fishes in troubled waters, finding opportunities in crises.
2. During the company's restructuring, some employees tried to fish in troubled waters.
3. She warned him not to fish in troubled waters by exploiting the chaos.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Take advantage," "Exploit chaos," "Capitalize on confusion."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to attempting to take advantage of a difficult or chaotic situation. The literal meaning of "fish" and "troubled waters" doesn't directly convey the idea of exploiting a situation, so the expression is figurative and idiomatic.

Origin:
This idiom originated in the mid-19th century, symbolizing the need to make a decision and take action or step aside and let others proceed.

Meaning:
To make a decision and take action or step aside and let others proceed.

Usage:

1. It's time to fish or cut bait; we need to decide on the project's direction.
2. He told them to fish or cut bait rather than wasting more time deliberating.
3. The team was urged to fish or cut bait to meet the deadline.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Make a decision," "Act or step aside," "Commit or move on."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to make a decision or take action, typically in a situation where inaction is no longer acceptable. The idiom uses "fish" and "cut bait" metaphorically, referring to a choice between continuing an effort or stopping it. The literal meanings of the words do not directly explain the figurative sense of making a choice, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 17th century, symbolizing the act of feeling out of place or uncomfortable in a new environment. It comes from the image of a fish being out of its natural habitat.

Meaning:
A person who is uncomfortable or out of place in a particular situation.

Usage:

1. He felt like a fish out of water at the fancy dinner party.
2. She was a fish out of water during the team-building activity.
3. At the new school, I felt like a fish out of water.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Out of one’s depth", "Like a duck out of water", "A stranger in a strange land"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it describes someone who feels uncomfortable or out of place in a situation. The idiom uses the imagery of a fish being out of its natural habitat figuratively, not literally.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the mid-20th century, symbolizing an attempt to discover information without a specific goal, often by asking many questions.

Meaning:
An attempt to discover information without a specific goal, often by asking many questions.

Usage:

1. The lawyer went on a fishing expedition, hoping to find useful evidence.
2. She felt like her boss's inquiries were just a fishing expedition.
3. They embarked on a fishing expedition to uncover any company secrets.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Information gathering," "Fact-finding mission," "Probing."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to an attempt to gather information or seek something, often in an indirect or broad manner, without knowing exactly what will be found. The literal meaning of "fishing" and "expedition" does not directly convey the figurative sense of searching for information or answers. The connection to the words is not direct, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of seeking praise or compliments in a subtle or indirect way.

Meaning:
To seek praise or compliments in a subtle or indirect way.

Usage:

1. She was fishing for compliments by talking about her cooking skills.
2. He often fishes for compliments when he shows off his artwork.
3. They noticed she was fishing for compliments about her new dress.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Seek praise," "Solicit compliments," "Look for flattery."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means trying to get praise or flattery from others, often in a subtle or indirect way. While "fishing" could be related to trying to catch something, and "compliments" are praise, the figurative meaning is not directly deducible from the words themselves, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 17th century, symbolizing the act of being in very good health. It comes from the idea of a fiddle being perfectly tuned and in excellent condition.

Meaning:
To be in excellent health or physical condition.

Usage:

1. After his recovery, he was fit as a fiddle.
2. She’s 80 but still fit as a fiddle.
3. After the workout, I felt as fit as a fiddle.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"In peak condition", "In top form", "Healthy as a horse"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means being in excellent health or condition. The idiom uses "fiddle" figuratively to represent precision or quality, not literally referring to a musical instrument.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of being in very good health and high energy. It comes from the idea of a flea being agile and active.

Meaning:
To be in very good health and high energy.

Usage:

1. Despite his age, he's as fit as a flea.
2. The children are fit as a flea and full of energy.
3. She's always fit as a flea, never getting tired.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Healthy as a horse," "Full of beans," "Energetic."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means being very healthy or energetic. The idiom uses "flea" figuratively, emphasizing agility or liveliness, not its literal meaning.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of fitting perfectly. It comes from the idea of a glove fitting snugly on a hand.

Meaning:
When something fits perfectly or is ideally suited for someone or something. This can refer to clothing, tools, or even situations where everything aligns perfectly.

Usage:

1. The new shoes fit like a glove.
2. Her skills fit like a glove for the job.
3. The plan fit like a glove with their needs.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Perfect match," "Just right," "Tailor-made."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means fitting perfectly or being ideally suited. The comparison to a glove is figurative, emphasizing precision or compatibility rather than literal gloves.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of meeting the necessary requirements or criteria. It comes from the idea of fitting a specific description or need.

Meaning:
To meet the necessary requirements or criteria.

Usage:

1. This candidate fits the bill perfectly for the job.
2. We need a venue that fits the bill for our event.
3. Her skills and experience fit the bill for the project.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Suit the purpose," "Meet the criteria," "Be just right"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means meeting the requirements or being suitable for a particular purpose. The idiom uses "bill" figuratively to mean expectations, not a literal invoice.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of conforming to a particular standard or expectation. It comes from the idea of fitting into a mold, creating a specific shape.

Meaning:
To conform to a particular standard or type.

Usage:

1. He doesn't fit the mold of a typical politician.
2. The new employee fits the mold perfectly for the role.
3. She tried to fit the mold, but her creativity always stood out.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Fit the bill," "Conform to type," "Be a perfect match"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means conforming to a particular standard or stereotype. The idiom uses "mold" figuratively to suggest a predefined shape or expectation, not literal casting.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of being extremely angry or agitated. It comes from the idea of someone needing to be restrained because of their intense emotions.

Meaning:
To be extremely angry or agitated.

Usage:

1. He was fit to be tied when he heard the news.
2. She was fit to be tied after the argument.
3. They were fit to be tied about the unfair decision.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Furious," "Livid," "Enraged."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to talk excessively or pointlessly. The idiom uses "flap" and "gums" figuratively to describe idle chatter, not literal physical movement.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the mid-20th century, symbolizing the act of stealing something.

Meaning:
The act of stealing something.

Usage:

1. He was caught taking a five-finger discount at the store.
2. They joked about getting a five-finger discount on the expensive item.
3. She warned him that the five-finger discount could get him into trouble.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Shoplifting," "Stealing," "Theft."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to stealing, typically in an informal or lighthearted way. The literal meaning of "five-finger" and "discount" does not directly suggest theft; the connection is figurative, where "five fingers" symbolize taking something with one's hands. Therefore, it is an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom originated in the mid-20th century, symbolizing the practice of registering a ship in a foreign country to avoid regulations and taxes.

Meaning:
The practice of registering a ship in a foreign country to avoid regulations and taxes.

Usage:

1. The company registered its fleet under a flag of convenience.
2. She criticized the use of flags of convenience to bypass labor laws.
3. They chose a flag of convenience to reduce operational costs.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Foreign registration," "Regulatory evasion," "Tax avoidance."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to the practice of registering a ship or business in a country with looser regulations or tax laws, not directly related to a flag or convenience in the literal sense. The idiom metaphorically uses the "flag" as a symbol for legal or financial maneuvering, so the meaning cannot be directly deduced from the literal words, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the mid-20th century, symbolizing the act of talking excessively without saying anything of substance. It comes from the image of moving one's gums without purpose.

Meaning:
To talk excessively without saying anything of substance.

Usage:

1. Stop flapping your gums and get to the point.
2. She was flapping her gums about the latest gossip all afternoon.
3. He’s always flapping his gums without knowing the facts.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Chatter away", "Blabber", "Talk someone's ear off"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to something that initially shows promise but ultimately fails to deliver lasting results. The idiom originates from musketry but is now figurative.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing having no money at all.

Meaning:
Having no money at all.

Usage:

1. After paying the bills, he was flat broke.
2. She couldn't go out because she was flat broke.
3. They found themselves flat broke after the business failed.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Penniless," "Bankrupt," "Busted."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means having no money at all. While "flat" can describe something physically level and "broke" typically means lacking money, the combination of these words does not directly convey the extreme lack of money implied in the idiom. It’s figurative, not literal, so it’s classified as an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom originated in Australian English in the mid-20th century, symbolizing working very hard or being extremely busy.

Meaning:
Working very hard or being extremely busy.

Usage:

1. He's been flat out like a lizard trying to meet the deadline.
2. She was flat out like a lizard all week preparing for the event.
3. They were flat out like a lizard handling the holiday rush.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Working hard," "Extremely busy," "Flat out."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means being extremely busy or working at full speed. The idiom uses "flat out" and "like a lizard" metaphorically to convey the idea of intense activity or motion. The literal meaning of the words doesn’t explain the figurative idea of working hard or being fully engaged, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 17th century, symbolizing a sharp reprimand or warning. It comes from the image of an irritating flea buzzing near someone's ear.

Meaning:
A sharp reprimand or warning.

Usage:

1. He got a flea in his ear from his boss for being late.
2. She gave him a flea in his ear for not following instructions.
3. They knew they would get a flea in their ear for the mistake.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Scolding," "Rebuke," "Reprimand."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to giving someone a piece of advice or a warning, or putting an idea into their mind, often unexpectedly. The literal meaning of a "flea" and "ear" does not directly suggest this figurative meaning of prompting or influencing someone. The connection to the words is metaphorical, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of taking advantage of someone's wealth or resources. It comes from the idea of stealing from a bird's nest.

Meaning:
To take advantage of someone's wealth or resources.

Usage:

1. The politician was accused of fleecing his nest by diverting funds for personal use.
2. She fleeced her nest by using company resources for her own business.
3. The CEO was found guilty of fleecing his nest, taking bonuses that were not rightfully his.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Exploit," "Swindle," "Take advantage."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to stealing or enriching oneself dishonestly. The idiom is figurative and does not involve literal fleecing or nests.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 16th century, symbolizing human beings or close family relationships. It comes from the idea of flesh and blood representing the physical human body and familial bonds.

Meaning:
Referring to a human being with emotions and vulnerabilities, not a robot or machine.

Usage:

1. He's just flesh and blood, like all of us.
2. The actors are flesh and blood, not superhumans.
3. She reminded them that she was flesh and blood.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Kin," "Family," "Relatives."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers figuratively to someone’s family, human nature, or physical existence. The meaning is non-literal, as it does not only describe actual flesh or blood but symbolizes closeness or humanity.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of escaping or leaving suddenly.

Meaning:
To escape or leave suddenly.

Usage:

1. He flew the coop as soon as he turned 18.
2. She flew the coop to start a new life in the city.
3. They realized he had flown the coop when they checked his room.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Escape," "Bolt," "Make a quick exit."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means to escape or leave, especially in a sudden or unexpected way. The literal meaning of "flew" and "coop" does not directly convey the idea of someone leaving or escaping, so the phrase is used in a figurative sense, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 19th century, symbolizing an imaginative but unrealistic idea.

Meaning:
An imaginative but unrealistic idea.

Usage:

1. His proposal seemed like a flight of fancy.
2. She dismissed the suggestion as a mere flight of fancy.
3. They indulged in a flight of fancy, dreaming of a perfect world.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Daydream," "Pipe dream," "Whimsy."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to a whimsical or unrealistic idea, or a fanciful thought that is not grounded in reality. The literal meaning of "flight" and "fancy" doesn’t suggest something fanciful or imaginary in the figurative sense. The connection to the literal words is not direct, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of putting a lot of energy and enthusiasm into an activity. It comes from the image of physically throwing oneself into a task with vigor.

Meaning:
To put a lot of energy and enthusiasm into an activity.

Usage:

1. She flung herself into her studies with determination.
2. He flung himself into his new job.
3. They flung themselves into organizing the event.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Dive into," "Throw oneself into," "Embrace enthusiastically."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to commit oneself wholeheartedly to a task or activity, often without hesitation or careful thought. The literal "flinging" and "oneself" do not suggest the figurative idea of eagerly engaging in something. The meaning cannot be directly inferred from the words themselves, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of becoming very angry or losing one's temper. It comes from the image of a lid flying off due to pressure or force.

Meaning:
To become very angry or lose one's temper.

Usage:

1. He flipped his lid when he saw the damage.
2. She'll flip her lid if she finds out.
3. The boss flipped his lid over the mistake.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Lose temper," "Blow up," "Explode with anger."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to become very angry or lose one’s temper. The idiom does not relate literally to flipping a lid but uses it figuratively to describe a sudden emotional outburst.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing something that makes someone happy or interests them. It comes from the image of a boat floating smoothly on water, indicating pleasure.

Meaning:
To make someone happy or interest them.

Usage:

1. Reading books really floats my boat.
2. If traveling floats your boat, go for it.
3. Cooking seems to float her boat.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Tickle one's fancy," "Make someone happy," "Please."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to appeal to someone or make them happy. The idiom does not literally involve floating a boat but uses it figuratively to represent satisfaction or pleasure.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the mid-19th century, symbolizing the act of wasting time and effort on a hopeless or unchangeable situation. It comes from the image of beating a dead horse to make it move, which is futile.

Meaning:
To waste time and effort on a hopeless or unchangeable situation.

Usage:

1. You’re just flogging a dead horse trying to fix that old computer.
2. We’ve been talking about this issue for hours – it’s like flogging a dead horse.
3. There’s no point in flogging a dead horse over something that’s already been decided.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Beating a dead horse", "Banging your head against a wall", "Chasing a lost cause"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to waste effort on something that is no longer productive or relevant. The idiom is entirely figurative, as no actual flogging or dead horse is involved.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 19th century, symbolizing businesses or individuals that are untrustworthy or fraudulent, operating briefly and then disappearing. It comes from the idea of something that operates under cover of darkness and then vanishes.

Meaning:
Unreliable or untrustworthy, often used to describe businesses or individuals.

Usage:

1. Beware of fly-by-night contractors offering cheap deals.
2. The company turned out to be a fly-by-night operation.
3. He's a fly-by-night salesman who won't be around for long.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Shady," "Untrustworthy," "Unscrupulous."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to someone or something unreliable, often used to describe dishonest businesses. The idiom is figurative and cannot be deduced from the literal meaning of "flying by night."

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, originating from aviation, where pilots would navigate and make decisions based on instinct and experience rather than instruments.

Meaning:
To navigate or make decisions based on instinct and experience rather than planning.

Usage:

1. We didn’t have a plan, so we just flew by the seat of our pants.
2. I didn’t know how to fix the car, but I flew by the seat of my pants.
3. The whole project was done on the fly, flying by the seat of our pants.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Improvise," "Go with the flow," "Act on instinct."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to act on instinct or improvisation without a clear plan. The idiom is figurative, as it does not involve literal flying or pants.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of opposing or defying something. It comes from the image of something flying directly at one's face, representing direct confrontation.

Meaning:
To oppose or defy something.

Usage:

1. His actions fly in the face of common sense.
2. The decision flies in the face of public opinion.
3. She flew in the face of tradition by pursuing a non-traditional career.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Defy," "Oppose," "Contradict."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to openly oppose or defy something. The idiom is figurative, as it does not involve literal flying or faces but conveys contradiction.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 19th century, symbolizing a minor flaw or setback that spoils the overall success or enjoyment of something. It comes from the image of a fly contaminating a pot of ointment.

Meaning:
A small but irritating problem that ruins the whole situation.

Usage:

1. The only fly in the ointment was that the weather turned bad.
2. The meeting was great, but the fly in the ointment was the lack of support.
3. The new project is exciting, but there’s a fly in the ointment—the budget.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Spanner in the works", "A fly in the soup", "A setback"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to a small defect or problem that spoils something otherwise positive. The idiom is figurative, as there is no literal fly or ointment involved.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 19th century, symbolizing someone who suddenly loses their temper. It comes from the image of an axe head flying off its handle, representing an uncontrolled outburst.

Meaning:
To suddenly lose one's temper.

Usage:

1. He flew off the handle when he saw the mess in the kitchen.
2. Don’t fly off the handle just because of a minor mistake.
3. She tends to fly off the handle over trivial issues.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
 "Lose your cool," "Blow your top," "Snap."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to suddenly lose one’s temper. The idiom is figurative and originates from the image of a loose axe head flying off its handle, but it is not literal.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing the desire to observe a situation without being noticed. It comes from the image of a fly on the wall, able to see and hear everything without attracting attention.

Meaning:
To observe something secretly or without being noticed, often to gain insight or information.

Usage:

1. I'd love to be a fly on the wall during that meeting.
2. The reporter wanted to be a fly on the wall at the event.
3. Being a fly on the wall in their home would be interesting.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Unseen observer," "Silent witness," "Hidden spectator."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to observe a situation discreetly or without being noticed. The idiom is figurative, as no literal flying or walls are involved.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the mid-20th century, symbolizing the act of avoiding detection or attention. It comes from the idea of flying below the radar to remain undetected.

Meaning:
To avoid detection or attention.

Usage:

1. He managed to fly under the radar and avoid detection.
2. The small company flew under the radar of the big competitors.
3. She prefers to fly under the radar and not attract too much attention.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Keep a low profile," "Stay out of the spotlight," "Go unnoticed"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to avoid attention or detection. The idiom is figurative, drawing from aviation terminology but used metaphorically.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 19th century, symbolizing someone who is extremely angry or agitated. It comes from the image of a rabid animal foaming at the mouth due to intense rage.

Meaning:
To be extremely angry or agitated.

Usage:

1. He was foaming at the mouth after the argument.
2. She looked like she was about to foam at the mouth with frustration.
3. They were practically foaming at the mouth over the decision.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Furious," "Enraged," "Livid."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to being extremely angry or agitated, usually in a figurative sense. While the literal meaning could be about a physical condition, in this idiomatic expression, it signifies an emotional state, and the meaning cannot be deduced directly from the words. The connection is figurative, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 18th century, symbolizing the act of going in the direction one is instinctively drawn to. It comes from the idea of following one's nose as a natural guide.

Meaning:
To go in the direction one is instinctively drawn to.

Usage:

1. Just follow your nose, and you'll find the place.
2. He followed his nose and ended up in a great job.
3. When in doubt, follow your nose.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Trust your gut," "Go straight," "Follow your instincts"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to trust one’s instincts or proceed straightforwardly. The idiom is figurative, as it does not involve literally following a nose.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 19th century, originating from card games where players follow the suit of the card played. It symbolizes the act of doing the same thing as someone else.

Meaning:
To do the same thing as someone else or follow their lead.

Usage:

1. When one company started offering discounts, others followed suit.
2. He followed suit and decided to invest in the same stocks.
3. After the teacher announced the changes, the students followed suit.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Copycat", "Follow the leader", "Mirror image"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to imitate someone’s actions. The idiom is figurative and originates from card games but is not used literally.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 19th century, symbolizing something that warrants careful consideration or reflection. It comes from the idea of thoughts nourishing the mind as food nourishes the body.

Meaning:
Something worth thinking seriously about or considering deeply, often leading to new insights or perspectives.

Usage:

1. The lecture gave us a lot of food for thought.
2. Her suggestion is food for thought.
3. The book provided food for thought.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Think over", "Ponder", "Consider".

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means an idea or concept that provides mental stimulation or contemplation. The idiom is figurative and does not involve literal food.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 18th century, symbolizing a task or mission that is pointless or destined to fail. It comes from the idea of sending someone on a mission that only a fool would undertake.

Meaning:
A task or mission that is pointless or destined to fail.

Usage:

1. Trying to convince him to change his mind was a fool's errand.
2. She was sent on a fool's errand to find an item that wasn’t even in stock.
3. It felt like a fool’s errand trying to get approval for the project.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Wild goose chase", "Chasing shadows", "Futile effort"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to a task that is pointless or unlikely to succeed. The idiom uses "fool" and "errand" figuratively to emphasize futility.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 19th century, symbolizing something that appears valuable but is actually worthless. It comes from the mineral pyrite, which resembles gold but has no real value.

Meaning:
Something that appears valuable but is actually worthless.

Usage:

1. The flashy investment turned out to be fool's gold.
2. They thought the new product would be a hit, but it was just fool’s gold.
3. That expensive car turned out to be fool’s gold, as it had too many hidden problems.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Worthless," "Deceptive," "Illusionary."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it describes something that appears valuable but is actually worthless. The idiom is figurative, based on the literal pyrite (fool’s gold) but now used metaphorically.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 15th century, symbolizing a state of happiness based on false beliefs or illusions. It comes from the idea of living in a paradise that only a fool would believe in.

Meaning:
A state of happiness based on false beliefs or illusions.

Usage:

1. Believing he could win the lottery was living in a fool's paradise.
2. She was in a fool's paradise, thinking he would change.
3. The company's success was a fool's paradise, built on unsustainable practices.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Pipe dream," "Castle in the air," "Illusion"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to a state of happiness based on false or unrealistic beliefs. The idiom is figurative, as it does not involve literal fools or paradises.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of gaining initial entry or opportunity. It comes from the idea of keeping a door from closing completely by placing one's foot in it.

Meaning:
To gain an initial opportunity or entry into a situation, often for future advancement.

Usage:

1. Getting an internship is a great way to get your foot in the door at a company.
2. He’s just trying to get his foot in the door with that networking event.
3. She got her foot in the door with a small project and eventually became the team leader.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Make an entrance", "Get started", "Break into"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means gaining an initial opportunity that could lead to greater things. The idiom is figurative, drawing from the image of physically preventing a door from closing.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of paying for something. It comes from the idea of being responsible for settling a bill or expense.

Meaning:
To pay for something, especially something expensive.

Usage:

1. The company will foot the bill for the conference.
2. He had to foot the bill for the damages.
3. Who's going to foot the bill for the party?

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Pick up the tab," "Cover the cost," "Pay the piper"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to pay for something, especially expenses incurred by others. The idiom is figurative, as "foot" does not literally relate to payment.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the state of being free from responsibilities or commitments.

Meaning:
To be free from responsibilities or commitments.

Usage:

1. He was footloose and fancy-free after quitting his job.
2. She lived a footloose and fancy-free lifestyle, traveling the world.
3. They felt footloose and fancy-free during their gap year.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Unburdened," "Freewheeling," "Carefree."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means being carefree, independent, or without any obligations or responsibilities. While "footloose" suggests freedom and "fancy-free" implies being unburdened, the combination of these words conveys a figurative meaning of complete liberty that cannot be directly inferred from the words themselves, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of acquiring something very cheaply. It comes from the idea of paying a small amount, comparable to the worth of a song.

Meaning:
To acquire something very cheaply.

Usage:

1. I bought this painting for a song at the yard sale.
2. He got the car for a song because it was nearly new.
3. The antique vase was sold for a song at the auction.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"At a bargain", "For pennies", "Dirt cheap"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to buy or sell something at a very low price. The idiom is figurative and not literally connected to music or singing.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing an expression of frustration or disbelief. It comes from the idea of crying out as an exclamation of emotion.

Meaning:
An expression of frustration or disbelief.

Usage:

1. For crying out loud, stop making so much noise!
2. For crying out loud, can we just get this over with?
3. For crying out loud, how many times do I have to explain it?

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"For heaven's sake", "For goodness' sake", "Good grief"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it is an exclamation used to express frustration or surprise. The idiom does not involve actual crying, making it figurative in nature.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the mid-20th century, symbolizing something that is worthless or unimportant.

Meaning:
Worthless or unimportant.

Usage:

1. His excuse was for the birds.
2. She thought the meeting was for the birds.
3. They decided that the suggestion was for the birds.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Nonsense," "Worthless," "Unimportant."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to something considered worthless or not important. The literal meaning of "for the birds" doesn’t explain why something is seen as trivial or unworthy, so the idiom is figurative. The words themselves do not offer a clear explanation of the meaning, marking it as an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of compelling someone to act or make a decision. It comes from the idea of forcing someone to reveal their cards in a game.

Meaning:
To compel someone to act or make a decision.

Usage:

1. He tried to force her hand in the negotiation.
2. She knew they were attempting to force her hand.
3. They were reluctant to force his hand on the matter.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Compel," "Pressure," "Coerce."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to make someone take action, usually when they would prefer not to, or to make someone reveal their intentions. The idiom "force someone's hand" is figurative; it refers to compelling a person to act without being able to deduce this meaning from the literal words "force" and "hand." Therefore, it’s an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the 16th century, symbolizing the idea that being prepared for something gives an advantage.

Meaning:
Being prepared for something gives an advantage.

Usage:

1. Knowing the weather forecast, she believed forewarned is forearmed.
2. He studied the competition, understanding that forewarned is forearmed.
3. They gathered all the data, as forewarned is forearmed.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Preparedness," "Advance warning," "Ready and alert."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means that being aware of a potential danger or problem in advance gives you the ability to prepare for it. The idiom does not literally relate to "forewarned" and "forearmed" in the context of weapons or physical preparedness, but rather implies the figurative benefit of preparation. The connection to the words is not literal, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to ancient Roman times, symbolizing the idea that taking risks often leads to success. It comes from the Latin proverb "Fortes fortuna adiuvat," meaning fortune helps the brave.

Meaning:
Taking risks often leads to success or rewards.

Usage:

1. He invested in the stock market, and fortune favored the bold.
2. Fortune favors the bold, so she decided to start her own business.
3. If you want to achieve big things, remember that fortune favors the bold.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"No guts, no glory", "Take a leap of faith", "Nothing ventured, nothing gained"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means those who take risks are more likely to succeed. The idiom is figurative, as "fortune" does not literally favor anyone.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to ancient times, symbolizing the idea that those who take risks and are courageous are more likely to achieve success. It comes from the Latin proverb "Fortes fortuna adiuvat," which translates to "Fortune favors the brave."

Meaning:
Those who take risks and are courageous are more likely to achieve success.

Usage:

1. He decided to quit his job and start his own business—fortune favors the brave.
2. Fortune favors the brave, so don’t be afraid to take risks.
3. She made a daring move, believing that fortune favors the brave.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Nothing ventured, nothing gained", "No guts, no glory", "Take a leap of faith"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it conveys the same figurative meaning as "fortune favors the bold," emphasizing the value of bravery in achieving success.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 19th century, symbolizing the idea that someone is favored by good luck or favorable circumstances. It comes from the image of fortune, personified as a smiling figure, bestowing luck.

Meaning:
To be favored by good luck or fortune.

Usage:

1. Fortune smiled upon him when he found the missing ring.
2. The team felt fortune smiled upon them with the unexpected victory.
3. Fortune smiled upon her business venture.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Good luck," "Favor," "Bless."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to being lucky or receiving good fortune. The idea of "fortune" smiling is entirely figurative.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 19th century, symbolizing a short nap.

Meaning:
A short nap.

Usage:

1. He took forty winks after lunch.
2. She felt refreshed after catching forty winks.
3. They suggested he grab forty winks before the meeting.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Nap," "Short sleep," "Catnap."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to a short nap or brief sleep, and the number "forty" does not refer to the actual duration of time or any specific number of winks. While the idiom could be interpreted as metaphorical, the connection to the literal meaning of "winks" and "forty" is figurative, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 17th century, symbolizing dishonest or criminal behavior. It comes from the term "foul" meaning morally wrong and "play" referring to action or conduct.

Meaning:
Dishonest or criminal behavior.

Usage:

1. The police suspected foul play in the disappearance.
2. There was no evidence of foul play in the accident.
3. The referee called foul play during the match.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Underhanded tactics," "Dirty tricks," "Shady dealings"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to dishonest or criminal behavior. The idiom is figurative, as it does not involve literal play.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of harming one's own interests or reputation. It comes from the image of a bird dirtying its own nest, making it uninhabitable.

Meaning:
To harm one's own interests or reputation.

Usage:

1. He fouled his own nest by spreading rumors about his colleagues.
2. She realized she had fouled her own nest with her reckless behavior.
3. They warned him not to foul his own nest by making enemies.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Sabotage oneself," "Harm own interests," "Damage reputation."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to harming or undermining one's own interests or well-being, especially by taking actions that are self-destructive. The literal meaning of "foul" and "nest" doesn’t explain the figurative idea of self-sabotage or betrayal, which makes it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the mid-20th century, symbolizing a person who causes trouble in a vulnerable situation.

Meaning:
A person who causes trouble in a vulnerable situation.

Usage:

1. Hiring him felt like putting a fox in the henhouse.
2. She warned that the new manager might be a fox in the henhouse.
3. They realized too late that he was a fox in the henhouse.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Troublemaker," "Dangerous insider," "Intruder."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to a person or thing that is in a situation where they can do a lot of harm, especially when that harm is hidden. The literal interpretation of "fox" and "henhouse" doesn’t convey the meaning of someone posing a threat from within, making it figurative and an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the mid-20th century, symbolizing the act of becoming extremely emotional or panicked. It comes from the slang term "freak" referring to an intense reaction.

Meaning:
To become extremely emotional or panicked.

Usage:

1. He freaked out when he saw the spider.
2. She freaked out over the unexpected news.
3. They tried not to freak out during the emergency.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Panic," "Lose control," "Become hysterical."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to a strong emotional reaction such as panic, distress, or intense excitement. The literal meaning of "freak" and "out" doesn’t give the full context of someone losing control emotionally, making it figurative and therefore an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 19th century, symbolizing complete freedom and lack of constraints.

Meaning:
Complete freedom and lack of constraints.

Usage:

1. After quitting her job, she felt free as a bird.
2. He was free as a bird on his solo backpacking trip.
3. They lived free as a bird after moving to the countryside.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Unrestricted," "Independent," "Liberated."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to being completely free, with no obligations or restrictions, much like a bird flying freely. While "free" and "bird" are literal words, the combination creates a figurative expression that cannot be understood directly from the individual words themselves. It is, therefore, an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 17th century, symbolizing the act of giving someone complete freedom to act or make decisions. It comes from the practice of loosening the reins on a horse to allow it to move freely.

Meaning:
To be given the freedom to do something as one wishes.

Usage:

1. The manager gave him free rein to develop his project the way he wanted.
2. She was given free rein to redesign the office layout.
3. The team had free rein to develop their own marketing strategy.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Full control", "Freedom to act", "Carte blanche"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to giving someone the freedom to act as they wish. The idiom originates from horse riding but is now figurative.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing a chaotic situation where there are no rules and everyone acts for themselves. It comes from the idea of an event where everyone participates without restrictions.

Meaning:
A chaotic situation where there are no rules and everyone acts for themselves.

Usage:

1. The debate turned into a free-for-all.
2. The clearance sale was a free-for-all, with customers grabbing items off the shelves.
3. The meeting became a free-for-all with everyone talking over each other.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Melee," "Scramble," "Chaos."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it describes a chaotic or unregulated situation. The idiom is figurative, as it does not imply literal freedom or a "for all" scenario.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of excluding someone from a group or activity. It comes from the idea of leaving someone out in the cold.

Meaning:
To exclude someone from a group or activity.

Usage:

1. He felt they were trying to freeze him out of the decision-making process.
2. She was upset that her colleagues were freezing her out.
3. They noticed that he was being frozen out of the social circle.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Exclude," "Shut out," "Ostracize."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to intentionally excluding someone from a group or activity, or making them feel unwelcome, often in a figurative way. The literal meaning of "freeze" and "out" doesn’t imply the social exclusion represented by the idiom, so it is considered an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the mid-20th century, primarily in British English, symbolizing extremely cold weather. It comes from the nautical term "brass monkey," a brass structure used to hold cannonballs, which would contract in cold weather.

Meaning:
To describe extremely cold weather.

Usage:

1. It’s freezing out here; it’s like the balls are off a brass monkey!
2. The wind made it feel like it was freezing the balls off a brass monkey.
3. We can’t work outside in this cold—it’s freezing the balls off a brass monkey!

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Bitter cold", "Freezing cold", "Bone-chilling cold"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it humorously describes extremely cold weather. The idiom is entirely figurative and has historical roots.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 18th century, symbolizing the act of leaving a place or event without saying goodbye. It comes from the French custom of leaving a party without taking leave of the host.

Meaning:
To leave a place or event without informing others or saying goodbye, often to avoid confrontation or attention.

Usage:

1. He took French leave from the party.
2. She took French leave from work early.
3. The guest made a French leave without saying goodbye.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Slip away", "Sneak off", "Disappear without notice"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to leaving an event without informing the host. The idiom is entirely figurative and does not relate literally to France.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 19th century, symbolizing someone who is very fresh and full of energy. It comes from the image of a daisy, which opens its petals fresh each morning.

Meaning:
To be very fresh, energetic, and in good health, often looking or feeling rejuvenated and lively.

Usage:

1. She woke up feeling fresh as a daisy.
2. After the vacation, he was as fresh as a daisy.
3. The flowers in the garden are fresh as a daisy.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Bright-eyed and bushy-tailed", "Full of beans", "Lively"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means feeling or looking energetic and refreshed. The idiom is figurative, as it compares someone to a flower to emphasize vitality.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing someone who is new to a place or situation, often implying naivety or lack of experience. It comes from the image of immigrants arriving by boat and being unfamiliar with the new land.

Meaning:
To be new to a place or situation, often implying naivety or lack of experience.

Usage:

1. He was fresh off the boat and still learning the language.
2. The new employee was fresh off the boat but eager to learn.
3. They were fresh off the boat and adjusting to their new life.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Newcomer", "Green", "Inexperienced."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to someone who is new to a place or unfamiliar with its customs. The idiom is figurative, as it does not literally involve a boat.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 20th century, named after Sigmund Freud, symbolizing an unintentional error regarded as revealing subconscious feelings.

Meaning:
An unintentional error regarded as revealing subconscious feelings.

Usage:

1. His Freudian slip revealed more than he intended.
2. She laughed at her own Freudian slip during the conversation.
3. They analyzed the Freudian slip for its deeper meaning.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Slip of the tongue," "Unconscious revelation," "Verbal mistake."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to a mistake made in speech or writing that is believed to reveal an unconscious thought or feeling. The literal words "Freudian" and "slip" do not directly convey the psychological concept of an accidental revelation, making it a figurative and thus an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the mid-20th century, symbolizing connections with powerful or influential people.

Meaning:
Connections with powerful or influential people.

Usage:

1. He got the job quickly because he has friends in high places.
2. She managed to solve the issue thanks to her friends in high places.
3. They navigated the bureaucracy easily with the help of friends in high places.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Influential contacts," "Powerful allies," "Well-connected."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to having influential or powerful people in one's network, and the literal meaning of "friends" and "high places" does not convey the figurative idea of power or influence. The connection between the words and their figurative meaning is not direct, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 19th century, symbolizing the feeling of having a sore throat or hoarseness. It comes from the image of a frog being stuck in one's throat, making it difficult to speak clearly.

Meaning:
To have a sore throat or hoarseness.

Usage:

1. She had a frog in her throat and couldn't speak clearly.
2. He cleared his throat, having a frog in his throat.
3. I woke up with a frog in my throat.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Hoarse", "Raspy", "Croaky"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to a temporary hoarseness or difficulty speaking, often due to a dry or irritated throat. The idiom does not relate to an actual frog being in the throat, but rather conveys the discomfort that can affect speech, using "frog" symbolically to represent a throat issue.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 16th century, symbolizing the act of being moved from one place or situation to another in a disorganized or chaotic manner. It comes from the image of being knocked from one pillar to another.

Meaning:
To be moved from one place or situation to another in a disorganized or chaotic manner.

Usage:

1. I’ve been sent from pillar to post, trying to get this issue resolved.
2. She went from pillar to post looking for a job.
3. We were shuffled from pillar to post all day, without any answers.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Back and forth", "Round and round", "Up in the air"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means to be moved or forced around from one place to another, typically in a chaotic or inefficient manner. The idiom does not relate to literal posts or pillars but instead expresses the figurative idea of being in an unsettled or disorganized situation.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 19th century, symbolizing a dramatic transformation from poverty to wealth.

Meaning:
A dramatic transformation from poverty to wealth.

Usage:

1. His story of going from rags to riches is truly inspirational.
2. She went from rags to riches with her successful business.
3. They lived the American Dream, rising from rags to riches.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Cinderella story," "Rags to royalty," "Zero to hero."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to a person rising from poverty to wealth or success. While "rags" and "riches" are literal terms, the idiomatic meaning of a dramatic rise in social or financial status cannot be directly inferred from the individual words, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 18th century, symbolizing a deep and sincere emotion or feeling. It comes from the idea of emotions coming from the innermost part of one's heart.

Meaning:
A deep and sincere emotion or feeling.

Usage:

1. She thanked him from the bottom of her heart.
2. He apologized from the bottom of his heart.
3. They expressed their gratitude from the bottom of their hearts.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Sincerely," "Wholeheartedly," "Genuinely."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to express something with deep sincerity and genuine emotion. While "bottom" and "heart" are literal words, their connection to the figurative idea of sincere feeling is not directly deducible from the words themselves. Thus, it is an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 16th century, symbolizing the act of escaping one bad situation only to end up in a worse one. It comes from the image of jumping out of a frying pan into a fire.

Meaning:
To escape one bad situation only to end up in a worse one.

Usage:

1. After quitting that stressful job, I jumped from the frying pan into the fire with the new one.
2. The breakup was tough, but going back to an old relationship was like going from the frying pan into the fire.
3. Leaving one bad situation only to face an even worse one feels like going from the frying pan into the fire.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Out of the frying pan into the fire", "Jumping from one problem to another", "Getting into deeper trouble"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it describes moving from a bad situation to an even worse one. The idiom is figurative and not related to actual frying pans or fires.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing information coming directly from the most reliable source. It comes from the image of checking a horse's mouth to determine its age and health.

Meaning:
To hear information directly from the source or the most reliable person.

Usage:

1. I heard it from the horse’s mouth that the event is canceled.
2. He got the news from the horse’s mouth—his friend is moving abroad.
3. The rumors were true; I heard it straight from the horse’s mouth.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Straight from the source", "First-hand knowledge", "From the original source"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means receiving information directly from a reliable source. The idiom is figurative and does not involve a literal horse.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing the very beginning of an event or process.

Meaning:
The very beginning of an event or process.

Usage:

1. They were committed to the project from the word go.
2. She has been dedicated to her career from the word go.
3. He knew it was a success from the word go.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"From the start," "At the outset," "From the beginning."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means from the very beginning, and the idiom cannot be understood directly from the words "word" and "go" alone. The figurative meaning of something happening from the outset is not tied to the literal interpretation of the words, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing being very full, especially after eating.

Meaning:
Being very full, especially after eating.

Usage:

1. After the feast, he felt full as a tick.
2. She was full as a tick after the holiday dinner.
3. They left the restaurant feeling full as a tick.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Stuffed," "Satiated," "Very full."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively describes someone who is very full or satisfied, usually after eating. The literal meaning of "full" and "tick" (a parasitic insect) does not directly explain the idea of being extremely full, making it figurative and an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing a situation that has returned to its original state. It comes from the idea of a circular journey that ends where it began.

Meaning:
To return to a previous position or situation, often after a long journey or series of events.

Usage:

1. His career has come full circle, back to where he started.
2. The story came full circle in the final chapter.
3. Life often brings you full circle.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Back to square one", "Come around", "Return to the start"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to returning to the original position or situation. The idiom is figurative, as it does not involve a literal circle.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to William Shakespeare's play "The Tempest," written in the early 17th century, symbolizing something that is deeply buried or submerged.

Meaning:
Deeply buried or submerged.

Usage:

1. The treasure was hidden full fathom five under the sea.
2. His secrets were buried full fathom five, never to be discovered.
3. She felt her memories were full fathom five, locked away deep within her mind.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Deeply hidden," "Buried," "Submerged."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to something deeply hidden or submerged, and the literal meaning of "full fathom five" (a measurement of depth in the sea) does not directly relate to its figurative meaning. The connection between the words and their figurative meaning is not immediately obvious, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to William Shakespeare's play "The Tempest," written in the early 17th century, symbolizing something that is deeply buried or submerged.

Meaning:
Deeply buried or submerged.

Usage:

1. The treasure was hidden full fathom five under the sea.
2. His secrets were buried full fathom five, never to be discovered.
3. She felt her memories were full fathom five, locked away deep within her mind.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Deeply hidden," "Buried," "Submerged."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to something deeply hidden or submerged, and the literal meaning of "full fathom five" (a measurement of depth in the sea) does not directly relate to its figurative meaning. The connection between the words and their figurative meaning is not immediately obvious, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 19th century, symbolizing someone who is energetic and lively. It comes from the image of beans being a source of energy.

Meaning:
To be very energetic, enthusiastic, and lively, often in a playful or mischievous way. This idiom can also imply being overly energetic.

Usage:

1. The children were full of beans after the party.
2. He's full of beans in the morning.
3. She's always full of beans, never sitting still.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Energetic", "Lively", "Bursting with energy"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means being energetic or lively. The idiom is figurative, as it does not literally refer to beans.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing someone who talks a lot without saying anything of value. It comes from the idea of speech that is full of meaningless words, like hot air.

Meaning:
To talk a lot without saying anything of value.

Usage:

1. The politician’s speech was full of hot air.
2. He’s always full of hot air but never delivers results.
3. Stop being full of hot air and do something practical!

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Talk nonsense", "Blow smoke", "All talk"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it describes someone who talks a lot without substance. The idiom is figurative, as it does not involve literal hot air.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing someone who is overly self-confident or arrogant. It comes from the idea of being filled with self-importance.

Meaning:
To be overly self-confident or arrogant.

Usage:

1. He's so full of himself, always bragging.
2. She was full of herself after the promotion.
3. Don't be full of yourself, stay humble.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Arrogant," "Conceited," "Self-important."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means being excessively self-centered or arrogant. The idiom is figurative, as it does not describe a literal state.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing someone who is full of energy and enthusiasm, often to the point of being aggressive.

Meaning:
Full of energy and enthusiasm, often to the point of being aggressive.

Usage:

1. He approached the new project full of piss and vinegar.
2. The young athlete was full of piss and vinegar before the game.
3. They were full of piss and vinegar during the debate.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Energetic," "Enthusiastic," "Aggressive."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means someone is full of energy or has a feisty attitude. The literal meaning of "piss" and "vinegar" does not convey this figurative idea of high spirits or boldness. It cannot be deduced from the literal words, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing someone who is very happy and full of life.

Meaning:
Very happy and full of life.

Usage:

1. She was full of the joys of spring after getting the promotion.
2. He greeted everyone full of the joys of spring.
3. They returned from vacation full of the joys of spring.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Joyful," "Elated," "Full of life."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively describes someone who is cheerful or very happy. While "full of" and "joys of spring" might suggest happiness, the literal interpretation of springtime joy doesn’t directly convey the idea of personal emotion or mood, making it a figurative expression, or idiom.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the mid-19th century, originally referring to steam-powered ships, symbolizing the act of moving forward with maximum effort and determination.

Meaning:
To move forward with maximum effort and determination.

Usage:

1. With the funding secured, it's full steam ahead on the project.
2. They went full steam ahead with their plans despite the risks.
3. It's full steam ahead for the new product launch.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Full speed ahead", "Go all out", "Pedal to the metal"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means proceeding with maximum effort or determination. The idiom is figurative, originating from steam engines.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, primarily in British English, symbolizing someone who is all show and no substance.

Meaning:
All show and no substance.

Usage:

1. She criticized the flashy but impractical design, calling it fur coat and no knickers.
2. He seemed impressive, but his skills were fur coat and no knickers.
3. They dismissed the proposal as fur coat and no knickers.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"All flash, no substance," "Superficial," "Showy but empty."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to someone who appears wealthy or well-dressed but lacks substance or is not actually well-off. The literal image of "fur coat" and "no knickers" does not directly communicate the idea of superficiality or being ill-prepared for a situation, making this a figurative expression or idiom.