Origin:
This idiom has been used since the mid-20th century and symbolizes continuous or trivial talk.

Meaning:
Continuous or trivial talk.

Usage:

1. The kids were engaged in yakety-yak during the whole trip.
2. I had to listen to his endless yakety-yak about his hobbies.
3. The party was filled with the sound of yakety-yak.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Chit-chat," "Banter," "Small talk."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to incessant or pointless chatter, often without meaningful content. The repetition of "yak" emphasizes the idea of talking aimlessly, and it doesn't refer to actual yaks or animals.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 19th century and symbolizes talking persistently and often annoyingly.

Meaning:
Talking persistently and often annoyingly.

Usage:

1. He yammered away about his plans for hours.
2. She was yammering away on the phone all night.
3. They yammer away during meetings, making it hard to focus.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Blather on," "Ramble," "Chatter."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means to talk incessantly or complain loudly about something. "Yammer" suggests continuous and annoying noise, and it is not meant to be interpreted literally as the sound of a yammering animal.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of teasing or provoking someone.

Meaning:
To tease or provoke someone.

Usage:

1. Stop yanking my chain, I know you're joking.
2. He loves to yank his sister's chain by telling tall tales.
3. They were just yanking his chain about the prank.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Pull someone's leg," "Tease," "Provoke"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means to tease, joke, or provoke someone in a playful or sometimes annoying manner. The idiom does not literally involve a "chain" or the act of yanking, making its meaning non-literal and reliant on figurative interpretation.

Origin:
This idiom originates from a popular American song dating back to the Revolutionary War, symbolizing American patriotism and ingenuity.

Meaning:
American patriotism and ingenuity.

Usage:

1. They sang Yankee Doodle at the Fourth of July parade.
2. The term "Yankee Doodle" represents American resilience.
3. He whistled Yankee Doodle as he worked.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"American pride," "Patriotic tune," "National anthem"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to a historical figure or song, often used in a figurative sense to evoke patriotism, nationalism, or stereotypical imagery of American pride. While it originates in a literal context, its figurative meaning is more important in modern usage.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the early 20th century and symbolizes talking incessantly and often noisily.

Meaning:
Talking incessantly and often noisily.

Usage:

1. The children were yapping away in the backseat.
2. He spent the whole meeting yapping away without a break.
3. She's always yapping away on her phone.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Chattering," "Prattling," "Gabbling."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to talking in a continuous, often annoying or trivial manner. The word "yapping" metaphorically represents meaningless or incessant speech, not a literal dog sound.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 19th century and symbolizes a person who tells long, often exaggerated stories.

Meaning:
A person who tells long, often exaggerated stories.

Usage:

1. He's known as a great yarn spinner at family gatherings.
2. The old sailor was a natural yarn spinner, keeping us entertained.
3. She's a yarn spinner who can make even mundane events sound exciting.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Storyteller," "Narrator," "Fabulist."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to someone who tells stories, especially long or exaggerated ones. "Spinner" here implies someone who weaves or creates a narrative, and it's not meant to be understood literally, as it is metaphorically describing a person.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the 19th century, symbolizing the act of telling a long and imaginative story.

Meaning:
The act of telling a long and imaginative story.

Usage:

1. Grandpa loves yarn spinning about his adventures.
2. Her yarn spinning kept the children entertained for hours.
3. They gathered around the campfire for some yarn spinning.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Storytelling," "Telling tall tales," "Narrating"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to the figurative act of telling exaggerated or fictional stories. It uses "spinning" metaphorically, suggesting the act of creating or weaving tales, not a literal process of spinning yarn.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 19th century and symbolizes a long, often imaginative story.

Meaning:
A long, often imaginative story.

Usage:

1. He told a yarn tale about his journey through the jungle.
2. The book is filled with yarn tales of mythical creatures.
3. They enjoyed his yarn tales during the camping trip.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Tall tale," "Fable," "Legend."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to a long, exaggerated, or imaginative story. The word "yarn" is metaphorical, originating from the tradition of spinning a tale as one spins thread, and the meaning cannot be deduced directly from the individual words.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the late 20th century and symbolizes something very boring.

Meaning:
Something very boring.

Usage:

1. The lecture was a total yawn fest.
2. They described the movie as a yawn fest.
3. The meeting turned into a yawn fest quickly.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Snooze fest," "Bore," "Tedious event."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to an event or activity that is extremely boring or uninteresting. "Yawn" symbolizes disinterest or boredom, and "fest" (short for festival) is used sarcastically, making this a non-literal expression.

Origin:
This idiom uses the imagery of a wide-open mouth to describe a deep and vast gap or difference. It has been in use since the late 19th century.

Meaning:
A deep and vast gap or difference.

Usage:

1. The yawning chasm between the rich and the poor is concerning.
2. They stood at the edge of a yawning chasm, awed by its size.
3. There was a yawning chasm in their communication.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Wide gap," "Deep divide," "Vast difference"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to a large, deep gap or difference, often used to describe an emotional or intellectual divide. "Yawning" suggests something vast or wide, but it's not meant literally as a physical gap, making it a non-literal expression.

Origin:
This idiom uses the imagery of a wide-open mouth to describe a large and profound gap or difference. It has been used since the early 20th century.

Meaning:
A large and profound gap or difference.

Usage:

1. The yawning gulf between their opinions was hard to bridge.
2. The geographical features included a yawning gulf that stretched for miles.
3. There was a yawning gulf between their goals.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Great divide," "Huge gap," "Significant difference"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively describes a significant and often insurmountable gap or divide, whether physical, emotional, or conceptual. The "yawning" part refers to something expansive, but it’s not meant literally, making the phrase metaphorical.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the late 20th century and symbolizes something that is very boring.

Meaning:
Something that is very boring.

Usage:

1. The show was yawn-worthy and put me to sleep.
2. His yawn-worthy explanation didn't help the situation.
3. They found the event yawn-worthy and left early.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Boring," "Uninteresting," "Tedious."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to something so boring or uninteresting that it would make someone yawn. While "yawn" is used literally to express tiredness or boredom, the phrase as a whole suggests that the thing in question is extremely dull.

Origin:
This idiom comes from the Old English word "geapan," meaning to gape or cry out. It has been used since the 19th century to describe a loud, rough, and noisy cry.

Meaning:
A loud, rough, and noisy cry.

Usage:

1. He let out a yawp of frustration.
2. The baby yawped throughout the night.
3. They heard the yawp of a stray dog in the distance.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Loud cry," "Noisy shout," "Raucous yell"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to a loud, harsh noise or outcry, especially one that is unnecessarily loud or expressive. While it originally meant a loud cry, it is often used metaphorically to describe excessive or unwarranted noise, not a literal sound.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 16th century and symbolizes having a strong desire for something.

Meaning:
Having a strong desire for something.

Usage:

1. She yearned for freedom during her long shifts.
2. He yearns for a life of adventure.
3. They yearn for peace and quiet.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Long for," "Crave," "Desire intensely."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to a deep, often emotional desire for something. "Yearn" implies an intense, longing feeling that cannot be fully understood literally, making it a non-literal expression of desire or craving.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 18th century and symbolizes a strong desire for freedom or independence.

Meaning:
A strong desire for freedom or independence.

Usage:

1. She yearned to be free from the constraints of her job.
2. He yearns to be free and travel the world.
3. The prisoners yearn to be free and reunite with their families.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Long for liberty," "Crave independence," "Desire freedom."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively expresses a deep desire for freedom or release, typically from constraints or limitations. "Yearn" emphasizes the intensity of this desire, and the phrase as a whole is metaphorical, not referring to a literal yearning but an emotional or psychological one.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 19th century and symbolizes a strong, often painful longing or desire.

Meaning:
A strong, often painful longing or desire.

Usage:

1. Her yearning heart couldn't forget her lost love.
2. He speaks with a yearning heart for his homeland.
3. The letter revealed his yearning heart for her.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Longing soul," "Craving spirit," "Desiring heart."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to a deep emotional desire or longing. The "heart" symbolizes the emotional center, and "yearning" emphasizes an intense, often unfulfilled desire. The meaning is non-literal, focusing on the emotional depth rather than a literal heart or physical yearning.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the mid-19th century and symbolizes screaming loudly in fear, pain, or protest.

Meaning:
Screaming loudly in fear, pain, or protest.

Usage:

1. The child yelled bloody murder when he fell.
2. She yelled bloody murder during the horror movie.
3. They yelled bloody murder at the unfair decision.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Scream loudly," "Shout in fear," "Cry out."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means to shout loudly or to complain in an exaggerated manner, often in response to an unjust situation. "Bloody murder" does not refer to an actual crime but emphasizes the intensity of the yelling, making it a non-literal expression.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the early 20th century, primarily in British English, and symbolizes screaming or protesting loudly.

Meaning:
Screaming or protesting loudly.

Usage:

1. He yelled blue murder when he found out about the mistake.
2. The fans yelled blue murder at the referee's call.
3. She yelled blue murder when her privacy was invaded.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Shout loudly," "Raise a racket," "Cry foul."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means to yell loudly or to make a commotion, usually in response to something perceived as unfair. Like the previous idiom, "blue murder" is not literal but is an exaggerated way to express loud protest, making it a figurative expression.

Origin:
This idiom originated in the late 19th century, reflecting Western fears of Asian immigration and influence. It symbolizes an unfounded fear of East Asian people.

Meaning:
An unfounded fear of East Asian people.

Usage:

1. The yellow peril rhetoric was used to justify discriminatory policies.
2. Historians study the impact of the yellow peril on immigration laws.
3. The novel explores themes of the yellow peril and racial prejudice.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Xenophobia," "Cultural fear," "Racial prejudice"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to a perceived threat or danger, often in a racially charged context, historically associated with fears of East Asian expansion. The idiom does not refer to a literal yellow peril but uses "yellow" metaphorically to signify a threat.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the early 20th century and symbolizes cowardice or a lack of courage.

Meaning:
Cowardice or a lack of courage.

Usage:

1. They accused him of having a yellow streak.
2. She refused to show any yellow streak in the face of danger.
3. The soldiers were determined not to let a yellow streak show.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Cowardice," "Timidity," "Lack of bravery."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to a tendency towards cowardice or lack of bravery. "Yellow" is a symbolic color used to represent fear or timidity, making this a non-literal expression about character traits.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the mid-19th century and symbolizes being cowardly or lacking courage.

Meaning:
Being cowardly or lacking courage.

Usage:

1. He was too yellow-bellied to confront his boss.
2. They called him yellow-bellied for running away.
3. She refused to be seen as yellow-bellied.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Cowardly," "Fearful," "Timid."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to someone who is cowardly or lacks courage. The idiom uses "yellow" to symbolize fear or timidity, making it a non-literal expression about character rather than a physical description.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 19th century and symbolizes hard and valuable work, often done diligently.

Meaning:
Hard and valuable work, often done diligently.

Usage:

1. He did yeoman's work to complete the project on time.
2. Her efforts in organizing the event were truly yeoman's work.
3. They praised him for his yeoman's work in the community.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Hard work," "Diligent effort," "Valuable contribution."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to hard, reliable, and often unrecognized labor, often done with dedication and efficiency. "Yeoman" refers to a specific historical figure or role but is used metaphorically here to denote hard work, making it a non-literal expression.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 19th century and symbolizes loyal and efficient service.

Meaning:
Loyal and efficient service.

Usage:

1. She provided yeoman's service to the organization for years.
2. His yeoman's service during the crisis was commendable.
3. They relied on her yeoman's service for the successful event.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Loyal service," "Efficient work," "Dedicated effort."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to someone performing excellent, often humble or diligent, work. Like "Yeoman's work," it draws on the metaphorical use of "yeoman" to represent reliable, hardworking individuals, not the literal role of a yeoman.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the early 20th century and symbolizes a person who always agrees with their superiors or others, often to gain favor.

Meaning:
A person who always agrees with their superiors or others, often to gain favor.

Usage:

1. He’s just a yes-man who agrees with everything the boss says.
2. She doesn’t want a team of yes-men; she needs honest opinions.
3. They accused him of being a yes-man, never standing up for himself.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Brown-noser," "Sycophant," "Toady."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to someone who unquestioningly agrees with authority or others, often to gain favor. While "yes" is literal, the term as a whole is figurative, representing a person’s lack of independent thought or action, making it a non-literal expression.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 18th century and symbolizes giving in to a desire or temptation, often despite better judgment.

Meaning:
Giving in to a desire or temptation, often despite better judgment.

Usage:

1. He yielded to temptation and ate the entire cake.
2. She tried to stay on her diet but yielded to temptation.
3. They yielded to temptation and bought the expensive gadget.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Give in," "Succumb," "Surrender to."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to giving in to something that one knows is wrong or unwise, such as desires or urges. "Yield" here means to surrender or succumb, and "temptation" represents the enticement to do something undesirable. The idiom is non-literal and represents internal struggle, not the literal act of yielding in a physical sense.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 19th century and symbolizes complementary but opposing forces in Chinese philosophy.

Meaning:
Complementary but opposing forces in Chinese philosophy.

Usage:

1. Their personalities are yin and yang, perfectly balancing each other.
2. The concept of yin and yang applies to many aspects of life.
3. In the design, they used the yin and yang principle to create harmony.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Opposites attract," "Balance," "Complementary forces."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to two opposing yet complementary forces or principles, originally from Chinese philosophy. "Yin" and "yang" represent dualities that interrelate and balance each other, so this idiom is a non-literal expression describing balance and harmony rather than the literal meaning of the words.

Origin:
This idiom has its roots in agricultural practices where a yoke is used to join animals together, symbolizing a heavy burden or constraint. It has been used since the 19th century.

Meaning:
A heavy burden or constraint on someone.

Usage:

1. The debt felt like a yoke around his neck.
2. The constant demands were a yoke around her neck.
3. He struggled with the yoke around his neck of past mistakes.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Heavy burden," "Chained down," "Weighed down"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to a burden, responsibility, or oppressive situation that weighs someone down. The "yoke" here is symbolic, evoking imagery of a physical restraint used on animals but extending the meaning to emotional or figurative weight.

Origin:
This idiom comes from the use of a yoke in farming to connect animals, symbolizing a heavy load or responsibility. It has been used since the 19th century.

Meaning:
A heavy load or responsibility.

Usage:

1. The yoke of burden was too much for him to bear alone.
2. She took on the yoke of burden willingly for her family's sake.
3. The yoke of burden from his job was overwhelming.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Heavy load," "Great responsibility," "Cumbersome duty"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers figuratively to something that causes hardship or oppression. A "yoke" originally refers to a device used to harness animals to a plow, but in this case, it represents a figurative weight or burden, symbolizing hardship or responsibility. The expression carries non-literal meaning relating to hardship.

Origin:
This idiom has its roots in historical references to slavery, symbolizing oppressive control or domination. It has been used since the 19th century.

Meaning:
Oppressive control or domination.

Usage:

1. The people fought to free themselves from the yoke of slavery.
2. She spoke out against the yoke of slavery imposed by the regime.
3. The novel depicts the struggle against the yoke of slavery.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Oppressive control," "Domination," "Subjugation"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to the figurative idea of being bound or oppressed by slavery. "Yoke" symbolizes a device used to control or restrict, while "slavery" refers to a state of oppression. The idiom as a whole symbolizes a figurative restraint, not the literal yoking of animals.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 19th century and symbolizes working very hard and continuously.

Meaning:
Working very hard and continuously.

Usage:

1. He’s been yoked to the grindstone to meet the deadline.
2. She keeps her yoke to the grindstone to achieve her goals.
3. They have their yoke to the grindstone, working day and night.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Work like a dog," "Burn the midnight oil," "Toil."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to hard, consistent work or labor. "Yoke" represents constraint, and "grindstone" symbolizes hard work, often linked to the metaphor of grinding away at something. The idiom is non-literal and reflects the concept of relentless labor rather than a literal yoke or grindstone.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the early 20th century and symbolizes a situation where someone is made to look foolish.

Meaning:
A situation where someone is made to look foolish.

Usage:

1. He thought he was pranking us, but the yoke's on you.
2. She laughed and said, "Yoke's on you!" when he slipped on his own trick.
3. They tried to fool her, but the yoke's on you.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Joke's on you," "You got what you deserve," "Backfired."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means that someone has been tricked or placed in a difficult or undesirable situation. The idiom plays on the idea of a "yoke" being placed on someone to burden or control them, but here it is used metaphorically to suggest a difficult situation.

Origin:
This idiom is a creative variation on the word "yoke," symbolizing the burdensome and restrictive nature of oppression. It has been used since the early 20th century.

Meaning:
The burdensome and restrictive nature of oppression.

Usage:

1. The people sought to break the yolk of oppression.
2. Her speech highlighted the yolk of oppression faced by many.
3. The revolution aimed to lift the yolk of oppression from the nation.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Shackles of oppression," "Burdens of tyranny," "Chains of subjugation"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to the oppressive weight or burden that restricts or controls someone. "Yolk" here is not the literal part of an egg, but symbolizes a burden, much like the "yoke" of slavery. The phrase carries a non-literal meaning, representing hardship or subjugation.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the 12th century, symbolizing the idea that you can provide someone with an opportunity, but you can't force them to take it.

Meaning:
You can provide someone with an opportunity, but you can't force them to take it.

Usage:

1. You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make it drink, so it's up to him to take the advice.
2. The teacher provided all the resources, but you can lead a horse to water, but you can't make it drink.
3. Despite their best efforts, you can lead a horse to water, but you can't make it drink, and he refused to change his ways.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Provide opportunity," "Cannot force," "Offer guidance"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means you can provide someone with an opportunity or resources, but you cannot force them to take action or benefit from it. The meaning is entirely non-literal and uses the metaphor of the horse and water to convey a universal truth.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing agreement or emphasis on a statement made.

Meaning:
Expressing strong agreement with what has been said.

Usage:

1. "That movie was fantastic!" "You can say that again!"
2. "It's been a tough year." "You can say that again."
3. "The weather is terrible today." "You can say that again."

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Absolutely," "I agree completely," "You're right"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means strong agreement or affirmation, often emphasizing that the speaker shares the same opinion. The idiom does not literally mean repeating the statement, making its meaning non-literal and context-dependent.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the mid-20th century, symbolizing the certainty and reliability of a statement.

Meaning:
A statement is certain and reliable.

Usage:

1. His promise is as good as gold—you can take it to the bank.
2. You can take it to the bank that she'll deliver on her commitments.
3. The information he gave is accurate—you can take it to the bank.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Guaranteed," "For sure," "Absolutely certain"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means that something is absolutely certain or guaranteed. The "bank" is symbolic of reliability and security, and the meaning cannot be directly inferred from the literal words.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the idea that it is futile to challenge a large bureaucracy or authority.

Meaning:
It is futile to challenge a large bureaucracy or authority.

Usage:

1. He realized that you can't fight the city hall after his petition was rejected.
2. They decided to drop the lawsuit because you can't fight the city hall.
3. Sometimes, you just have to accept that you can't fight the city hall.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Can't beat the system," "Against the tide," "Resistance is futile"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means you cannot successfully oppose powerful systems or authority, such as government institutions. The "city hall" is symbolic of bureaucracy or authority, and the meaning is not tied to literal fighting or the building itself.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the mid-20th century, symbolizing the idea that outward appearances can be misleading.

Meaning:
Outward appearances can be misleading.

Usage:

1. She may seem quiet, but you can't judge a book by its cover.
2. The small café doesn't look like much, but you can't judge a book by its cover.
3. He learned that you can't judge a book by its cover after meeting her.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Appearances are deceiving," "Looks can be deceiving," "Don't be fooled by looks"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means that appearances can be deceiving and one cannot evaluate something solely based on how it looks. The meaning cannot be deduced from the literal act of judging a book or its cover—it is symbolic and widely understood as a metaphor for deeper understanding.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 18th century and symbolizes the idea that some sacrifices or disruptions are necessary to achieve something worthwhile.

Meaning:
Some sacrifices or disruptions are necessary to achieve something worthwhile.

Usage:

1. You can't make an omelette without breaking a few eggs, so expect some challenges during the renovation.
2. The layoffs were unfortunate, but you can't make an omelette in a major restructuring.
3. You can't make an omelette when pursuing ambitious goals.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"No pain, no gain," "Break a few eggs," "Make sacrifices"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means that achieving a goal often requires some sacrifices or effort. The idiom does not literally pertain to cooking but uses the act of making an omelette as a metaphor for progress involving compromise or loss.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the 16th century, symbolizing the idea that you can't treat similar things differently without being unfair.

Meaning:
You can't treat similar things differently without being unfair.

Usage:

1. The rules should apply to everyone equally; you can't make fish of one and fowl of the other.
2. You can't make fish of one and fowl of the other when it comes to disciplinary actions.
3. The policy must be consistent; you can't make fish of one and fowl of the other.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Equal treatment," "Fairness," "Consistency"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means that one cannot treat two fundamentally different things as if they are the same. The reference to "fish" and "fowl" is metaphorical, symbolizing distinctions that cannot be reconciled.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 16th century, symbolizing the idea that it is difficult to change someone's habits or ways, especially those of an older person.

Meaning:
It is difficult to change someone's habits or ways, especially those of an older person.

Usage:

1. He struggled to learn new technology because you can't teach an old dog new tricks.
2. You can't teach an old dog new tricks when it comes to changing his routine.
3. She resisted the new methods, proving that you can't teach an old dog new tricks.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Old habits die hard," "Set in one's ways," "Difficult to change"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means that it is difficult to change the habits or behaviors of someone who is set in their ways. The "old dog" symbolizes a person resistant to change, and the idiom conveys a meaning that goes beyond its literal interpretation.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the 20th century, symbolizing the idea that some actions cannot be undone.

Meaning:
Some actions cannot be undone.

Usage:

1. Once the secret is out, you can't unring a bell.
2. He regretted his harsh words but knew you can't unring a bell.
3. The decision was final; you can't unring a bell.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"What's done is done," "No turning back," "Can't undo the past"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means that once something is done or said, it cannot be undone. The "bell" symbolizes an irreversible action, and the phrase relies on metaphorical imagery rather than literal meaning.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the idea that one only knows a small part of a larger, often more complex story.

Meaning:
One only knows a small part of a larger, often more complex story.

Usage:

1. If you think the traffic was bad, you don't know the half of it.
2. She complained about her workload, but you don't know the half of it.
3. His version of events was just the tip of the iceberg—you don't know the half of it.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Just the tip of the iceberg," "There's more to it," "Only part of the story"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means that there is much more to a situation than what someone currently understands or knows. The idiom uses "half of it" metaphorically to indicate a lack of complete information or awareness.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the mid-20th century, symbolizing familiarity with a routine or procedure.

Meaning:
Familiarity with a routine or procedure.

Usage:

1. We've done this meeting a hundred times, so you know the drill.
2. When it comes to safety protocols, you know the drill.
3. The coach didn't need to explain again because the players knew the drill.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Know the routine," "Familiar with the process," "Understand the procedure"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means that someone is familiar with a routine or process. The "drill" here does not refer to a literal tool or training exercise but serves as a metaphor for repeated or expected procedures.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the late 20th century, symbolizing the idea that if you delay or are not alert, you may miss opportunities.

Meaning:
If you delay or are not alert, you may miss opportunities.

Usage:

1. The tickets sold out quickly—if you snooze, you lose.
2. He missed the sale because he snoozed and lost.
3. You have to act fast in this market; you snooze, you lose.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Don't miss out," "Act quickly," "Be alert"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means that if someone hesitates or delays, they might miss an opportunity. The terms "snooze" and "lose" are used metaphorically to convey the idea of inaction leading to missed chances. The meaning cannot be directly tied to literal sleeping or losing.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the idea that someone's behavior is causing extreme irritation or annoyance.

Meaning:
Someone's behavior is causing extreme irritation or annoyance.

Usage:

1. The constant noise is driving me nuts.
2. Her indecisiveness is driving me nuts.
3. You're driving me nuts with all these questions.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Driving me crazy," "Making me mad," "Irritating me"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because the phrase figuratively means that someone is causing frustration, irritation, or stress. The idiom does not refer to a literal driving action or the literal concept of "nuts" (i.e., the food item) but instead uses "nuts" as a metaphor for mental disturbance. The meaning cannot be deduced from the individual words without understanding the figurative context.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the early 20th century, symbolizing the idea that one can maintain youthful qualities or attitudes regardless of age.

Meaning:
To maintain youthful qualities or attitudes regardless of age.

Usage:

1. Despite being 80 years old, she is young at heart.
2. He may be retired, but his adventurous spirit shows he is young at heart.
3. Their grandparents are young at heart, always up for fun activities.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Youthful spirit," "Ageless," "Forever young"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers figuratively to having a youthful spirit or attitude, even if one is physically older. "Young" here does not refer to actual age but to a state of mind or emotional outlook, which is a figurative, non-literal meaning.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the late 17th century, symbolizing new, energetic, and youthful people.

Meaning:
New, energetic, and youthful people.

Usage:

1. The company hired young blood to bring fresh ideas.
2. He sees the young blood in the team as a source of innovation.
3. The group welcomed the young blood with enthusiasm.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Fresh talent," "New generation," "Youthful energy"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to youthful energy or new people, particularly young individuals who bring vitality or fresh ideas to a situation. "Young blood" does not refer literally to blood but to the concept of youth, making it non-literal.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the mid-20th century, originally from American slang, symbolizing a young, ambitious, and energetic person.

Meaning:
A young, ambitious, and energetic person.

Usage:

1. The young gun quickly rose through the ranks at the company.
2. He's a young gun in the world of finance, making bold moves.
3. The team relied on the young gun's innovative ideas.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Rising star," "Young achiever," "Ambitious youth"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers figuratively to a young and talented person who is seen as a rising star or someone with a lot of potential. "Gun" here symbolizes talent or capability, not a literal firearm, making it non-literal.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the early 20th century, symbolizing a young person with great energy, courage, and potential.

Meaning:
A young person with great energy, courage, and potential.

Usage:

1. The young lion showed great promise in his field.
2. She is considered a young lion in the art world.
3. The young lion's determination impressed everyone.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Promising youth," "Energetic young person," "Courageous youngster"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers figuratively to a young, powerful, or ambitious person, often one who is gaining strength or prominence. "Lion" symbolizes strength and dominance, while "young" highlights the person’s youthfulness, giving the phrase a non-literal meaning.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, often used playfully to refer to a young and inexperienced person.

Meaning:
A young and inexperienced person.

Usage:

1. The seasoned players gave advice to the young pup on the team.
2. He remembered his days as a young pup in the industry.
3. The young pup was eager to learn from his mentors.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Novice," "Inexperienced youth," "Newcomer"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to a young person, typically someone new to a situation or inexperienced. The word "pup" symbolizes youth and inexperience, not an actual young dog, giving it a non-literal meaning.

Origin:
This idiom originated in the early 20th century from the political reform movement known as the Young Turks, symbolizing a young, rebellious, and progressive person.

Meaning:
A young, rebellious, and progressive person.

Usage:

1. The young Turk challenged the traditional methods at the company.
2. She is a young Turk in the political scene, advocating for change.
3. The young Turks in the organization are pushing for innovation.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Rebel," "Progressive youth," "Revolutionary"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers figuratively to a young person who is rebellious or an upstart, especially someone challenging the status quo. "Turk" here symbolizes a person with boldness or a new, radical perspective, not literally from Turkey, which gives the phrase a non-literal meaning.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 16th century, symbolizing a young person who is ambitious and often perceived as presumptuous.

Meaning:
A young person who is ambitious and often perceived as presumptuous.

Usage:

1. The young upstart quickly made a name for himself in the industry.
2. Some viewed the young upstart with skepticism, while others admired his ambition.
3. The young upstart's confidence was both a strength and a challenge.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Ambitious youth," "Confident newcomer," "Presumptuous young person"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to a young person who is rising quickly and often with a sense of entitlement or confidence, typically in a challenging or disruptive way. "Upstart" represents someone new to power or influence, not referring to the literal meaning of someone starting up, thus making it non-literal.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the mid-20th century and symbolizes a situation where both people are equally unsure or ignorant about something.

Meaning:
A situation where both people are equally unsure or ignorant about something.

Usage:

1. When it comes to predicting the weather, your guess is as good as mine.
2. "How does this machine work?" "Your guess is as good as mine."
3. They asked him about the new policy, and he replied, "Your guess is as good as mine."

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Beats me," "I have no idea," "No clue."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means that both the speaker and the listener have the same level of knowledge or ignorance about a situation. The idiom doesn't literally imply that guesses are equivalent in their physical form but uses "guess" and "mine" to represent uncertainty or equal lack of knowledge, making it non-literal.

Origin:
This idiom originated from car advertisements in the 1970s, which included disclaimers stating that actual mileage may differ from the advertised mileage. It symbolizes variability in outcomes or results.

Meaning:
Outcomes or experiences may differ from person to person.

Usage:

1. The diet worked for me, but your mileage may vary.
2. While I loved the movie, your mileage may vary.
3. The results were great for him, but your mileage may vary.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Results may vary," "Different strokes for different folks," "Individual results may differ"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means that different people may experience things differently or that the outcome may vary based on circumstances. While "mileage" refers to distance traveled or fuel efficiency in a literal sense, in this idiomatic expression, it conveys the idea that one’s experience may not be the same as another's. It is used to express uncertainty about consistency or variation in results, making the literal meaning secondary to the figurative use.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the 19th century, potentially linked to Dr. Samuel Mudd, who was implicated in the conspiracy to assassinate Abraham Lincoln. It symbolizes a damaged reputation.

Meaning:
A damaged reputation.

Usage:

1. After the scandal, his name is mud in the industry.
2. If you break your promise, your name is mud.
3. Her name is mud after the mishap at the event.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Bad reputation," "Disgraced," "In disrepute"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means that someone’s reputation is severely damaged or that they are in trouble. The idiom doesn’t literally mean that someone’s name is physically mud but uses "mud" to symbolize something dirty or undesirable, referencing how the person's reputation or status is tarnished. The non-literal meaning is crucial to understanding the phrase.

Origin:
This idiom comes from lotteries or waiting lists, symbolizing the idea that it's one's turn or fate has caught up. It has been used since the early 20th century.

Meaning:
It's your turn or fate has caught up with you.

Usage:

1. She felt a chill, as if her number is up.
2. When the boss called him in, he knew his number is up.
3. The criminal realized his number is up when the police arrived.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Time's up," "Turn has come," "Moment of reckoning"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means that someone's time has come, often referring to impending doom, failure, or death. The "number" is not a literal number but a figurative reference to the idea of someone’s allotted time running out. It cannot be understood by just interpreting the words literally, as it relies on figurative meaning.

Origin:
This idiom has roots in fairy tales and legends where genies or servants grant wishes. It symbolizes complete willingness to fulfill someone's desires. It has been used since the late 19th century.

Meaning:
Complete willingness to fulfill someone's desires.

Usage:

1. When he asked for help, she replied, "Your wish is my command!"
2. The waiter, with a smile, said, "Your wish is my command!"
3. The software's features make you feel like your wish is my command.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"At your service," "Whatever you need," "As you wish"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it is used figuratively to express eagerness to comply with someone's request or desire, often with exaggerated politeness or humor. The literal meaning (wishes being commands) is not the intended meaning; instead, it is an expression of willingness or willingness to serve. It is often used in a lighthearted or sarcastic manner.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the early 20th century and symbolizes the idea that young people often lack the appreciation and wisdom to make the most of their youth.

Meaning:
Young people often lack the appreciation and wisdom to make the most of their youth.

Usage:

1. Watching the teenagers waste their time, she thought, "Youth is wasted on the young."
2. He sighed and said, "Youth is wasted on the young," remembering his own carefree days.
3. The phrase "Youth is wasted on the young" often comes to mind when observing reckless behavior.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"If only I knew then what I know now," "Wasted potential," "Squandered youth."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it expresses the figurative idea that young people often don't appreciate the value of their youth and energy until they grow older. "Wasted" here does not refer to physical loss but to the metaphorical loss of potential, making it a non-literal expression.

Origin:
This idiom combines "yowl," a loud, mournful cry, with "banshee," a wailing female spirit from Irish folklore, symbolizing an extremely loud and eerie cry. It has been used since the mid-20th century.

Meaning:
To cry out extremely loudly and eerily.

Usage:

1. The frightened cat yowled like a banshee during the thunderstorm.
2. The child yowled like a banshee when he couldn't find his favorite toy.
3. She yowled like a banshee when she saw the surprise.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Scream like a banshee," "Wail loudly," "Cry out eerily"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means to cry or scream loudly in distress or sorrow, likening the sound to the wailing of a banshee, a mythical creature. The "banshee" symbolizes a loud, mournful cry, making the expression non-literal.

Origin:
This idiom is a playful term that originated in the late 20th century, symbolizing an attractive and stylish mother.

Meaning:
An attractive and stylish mother.

Usage:

1. She's known as the yummy mummy among her friends.
2. The magazine featured an article on how to be a yummy mummy.
3. The yummy mummy always looks fashionable even while taking care of her kids.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Stylish mom," "Attractive mother," "Chic mom"

Justifications:
 This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to an attractive or stylish mother, blending the concept of "yummy" (as in appealing or desirable) with "mummy" (a term for mother). The meaning extends beyond the literal interpretation of an edible mummy, creating a non-literal expression.

Origin:
This idiom originated in the 1980s, referring to chronic fatigue syndrome, which was often associated with the stressful lifestyles of young urban professionals.

Meaning:
Chronic fatigue syndrome, often associated with the stressful lifestyles of young urban professionals.

Usage:

1. Many yuppies were diagnosed with yuppie flu due to their hectic schedules.
2. Yuppie flu became a common ailment among overworked professionals in the 1980s.
3. She attributed her constant exhaustion to yuppie flu.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Chronic fatigue syndrome," "Professional burnout," "Work-related stress"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to a figurative, somewhat mocking term used to describe a set of symptoms or complaints thought to be related to stress or the pressures of a yuppie lifestyle. It is not meant to be taken literally, as it is used to criticize a lifestyle rather than a genuine illness.

Origin:
This idiom emerged in the 1980s as a derogatory term used to describe young urban professionals perceived as arrogant or materialistic.

Meaning:
A derogatory term used to describe young urban professionals perceived as arrogant or materialistic.

Usage:

1. The protestors shouted "yuppie scum" at the wealthy businessmen.
2. He was labeled as yuppie scum by those who resented his success.
3. The term yuppie scum was used to criticize the perceived greed of young professionals.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Arrogant professional," "Materialistic urbanite," "Greedy professional"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it uses "scum" in a figurative, derogatory way to criticize or mock people who fit into the "yuppie" category. While "scum" is literal, its usage here is a non-literal, pejorative reference to a social group.

Origin:
This idiom emerged in the 1980s, symbolizing someone who aspires to or imitates the lifestyle of young urban professionals without truly being one.

Meaning:
Someone who aspires to or imitates the lifestyle of young urban professionals without truly being one.

Usage:

1. He was seen as a yuppie wannabe, trying to fit into the corporate world.
2. Her friends teased her for being a yuppie wannabe with her designer clothes and trendy gadgets.
3. The yuppie wannabe struggled to keep up with the high-end lifestyle.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Aspiring professional," "Pretentious urbanite," "Imitator"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to someone who aspires to adopt the lifestyle and characteristics of a "yuppie" but hasn't achieved it yet. The idiom uses "wannabe" to describe someone striving for a certain identity, making it figurative in nature.