Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing an informal and non-binding agreement based on trust and honor.

Meaning:
An informal and non-binding agreement based on trust and honor.

Usage:

1. They had a gentleman's agreement to share the profits equally.
2. He trusted the gentleman's agreement without a written contract.
3. Their partnership was based on a gentleman's agreement.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Handshake deal," "Verbal agreement," "Trust-based pact."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to an informal agreement based on trust, often without legal enforcement. While the phrase may have metaphorical connotations, it directly relates to the specific action of making a mutual understanding based on gentlemanly trust, which can be inferred from the words themselves.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of gaining a secure position or a starting point in a situation.

Meaning:
To gain a secure position or a starting point in a situation.

Usage:

1. The company is trying to get a foothold in the new market.
2. She worked hard to get a foothold in the industry.
3. They managed to get a foothold in the competitive field.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Establish a position," "Gain entry," "Secure a start."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to gaining a basic position or advantage in a situation, often metaphorically used in business or competitive contexts. The words "foothold" and "get" are directly related to the action of establishing a stable position, making this a phrase rather than an idiom.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century and uses the imagery of physically gripping something to symbolize gaining control.

Meaning:
To take control of one's emotions or actions.

Usage:

1. He needed to get a grip and focus on the task at hand.
2. She told herself to get a grip and stop panicking.
3. They advised him to get a grip and calm down.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Pull oneself together," "Regain control," "Calm down."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to regain control of emotions or a situation. The meaning, while slightly metaphorical, directly ties to the literal concept of "gripping" or securing control over something.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of beginning something ahead of others to gain an advantage.

Meaning:
To begin something ahead of others, giving oneself an advantage.

Usage:

1. She got a head start on her project by starting a week early.
2. They decided to get a head start on the competition by launching first.
3. The runners got a head start to ensure the race was fair.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Gain an advantage," "Start early," "Get ahead."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to starting an activity earlier to gain an advantage. The metaphorical use of "head start" is closely tied to its literal sense in races or competitions, making it more contextual than figurative.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the mid-20th century, symbolizing the act of hurrying or starting to move or act quickly.

Meaning:
To hurry or start to move or act quickly.

Usage:

1. We need to get a move on if we want to catch the train.
2. She told him to get a move on with the project.
3. They got a move on when they heard the deadline was approaching.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Hurry up," "Get going," "Move quickly."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to hurry or get going, and its meaning is directly related to the words themselves. While it can have a motivational or figurative sense, the connection to the literal words is clear, making it a phrase.

Origin:
This phrase has been used since the mid-20th century, symbolizing the act of returning to a good physical condition.

Meaning:
To return to a good physical condition.

Usage:

1. He started working out to get back into shape.
2. She joined a gym to get back into shape after the holidays.
3. They decided to get back into shape by going on regular hikes.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Get fit," "Become healthy again," "Regain fitness."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to returning to a good physical condition, often after a period of inactivity. The meaning is directly tied to the words, particularly the action of getting back into "shape" (physical fitness), so it is not an idiom but a phrase.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century and comes from train terminology, where being on track means following the correct path.

Meaning:
To return to the right direction or path after a setback or distraction.

Usage:

1. After the delay, they got back on track with the project.
2. She got back on track with her fitness goals.
3. The company got back on track after the financial crisis.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Return to normal," "Resume progress," "Get back on course."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means resuming progress or focus after a setback. The metaphorical "track" ties closely to the literal sense of being on the correct path, making it more contextual than figurative.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 19th century and emphasizes starting to work seriously, symbolizing focus and determination.

Meaning:
To start working on something seriously and with determination.

Usage:

1. Let's get down to business and finalize the plans.
2. She got down to business as soon as the meeting started.
3. They got down to business and completed the task.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Begin working," "Get serious," "Focus on the task."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to start focusing on the main task or work at hand. While slightly metaphorical, the meaning is directly tied to the context of beginning work.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the mid-20th century, symbolizing the act of becoming physically fit.

Meaning:
To become physically fit.

Usage:

1. He joined a gym to get in shape for the summer.
2. She started running to get in shape.
3. They decided to get in shape by following a healthy diet and exercise plan.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Become fit," "Get fit," "Improve fitness."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to the literal or contextual act of improving one's physical condition, usually through exercise or diet. While it may carry metaphorical connotations about improving overall wellness, the meaning is directly tied to the individual words themselves, making it a phrase.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the mid-20th century, symbolizing the act of starting to work or function effectively.

Meaning:
To start to work or function effectively.

Usage:

1. The team needs to get into gear to finish the project on time.
2. She got into gear after her morning coffee.
3. They finally got into gear and started making progress.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Get moving," "Start working," "Get going."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to start functioning effectively or to begin a task with full effort. The meaning is closely tied to the literal act of shifting gears in a vehicle or machine, and while it may be used metaphorically, the connection to the literal words is clear, making it a phrase.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of going to a place that is not commonly visited or doing something unusual.

Meaning:
To go to a place that is not commonly visited or do something unusual.

Usage:

1. They decided to get off the beaten track and try a new type of vacation.
2. I enjoy getting off the beaten track and exploring new hobbies.
3. The restaurant gets off the beaten track by serving unique dishes.

Similar Idioms:

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Explore the unknown," "Go off the grid," "Take an unconventional route."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to going somewhere unconventional or unusual. The metaphorical "beaten track" ties directly to the literal image of well-worn paths, making it more contextual and less figurative.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of growing older.

Meaning:
To grow older.

Usage:

1. He's getting on in years but still enjoys hiking.
2. She realized she was getting on in years when her grandchildren visited.
3. They noticed their pet dog was getting on in years.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Age," "Grow old," "Advance in age."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to getting older, and its meaning is directly related to the literal interpretation of aging over time. While it may be used metaphorically, the connection to the literal words is clear, making it a phrase rather than an idiom.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of irritating or annoying someone.

Meaning:
To irritate or annoy someone.

Usage:

1. His constant talking gets on my nerves.
2. The noise from the construction site is getting on my nerves.
3. The way she chews loudly really gets on my nerves.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Annoy," "Irritate," "Bother."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to annoy or irritate someone. While "nerves" is used metaphorically, the meaning is closely tied to the literal sensation of feeling irritated or tense, making it more straightforward.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the mid-20th century, symbolizing the act of becoming organized and efficient.

Meaning:
To become organized and efficient.

Usage:

1. He needs to get his act together before the final exams.
2. She got her act together and finished her projects on time.
3. They told him to get his act together if he wanted to keep his job.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Get organized," "Become efficient," "Pull oneself together."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to organize oneself or improve one's performance or behavior. The meaning is closely tied to the individual words, as "getting one's act together" can be directly understood as organizing one's actions, making it a phrase rather than an idiom.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of perfecting something through practice.

Meaning:
To perfect something through practice.

Usage:

1. She got the recipe down to a fine art.
2. He got his negotiation skills down to a fine art.
3. They got customer service down to a fine art.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Master," "Perfect," "Refine."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to master something or perform it skillfully. The connection to the literal meaning of mastering something is clear and directly tied to the individual words "fine art," referring to high levels of skill or mastery in a particular area. While it may be used metaphorically, its meaning is more directly linked to the words, making it a phrase.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the mid-20th century, symbolizing the act of starting or launching a project or activity.

Meaning:
To start or launch a project or activity.

Usage:

1. They worked hard to get the business off the ground.
2. She got the new initiative off the ground with the help of her team.
3. He was eager to get the project off the ground.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Launch," "Start," "Initiate."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to starting or initiating something, particularly a project or activity. The meaning is closely tied to the literal concept of getting something airborne or functioning, so it has a clear connection to the individual words used, making it a phrase.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the late 19th century, symbolizing the act of understanding the main point or essence of something.

Meaning:
To understand the main point or essence of something.

Usage:

1. After reading the summary, he got the gist of the article.
2. She didn't understand every detail, but she got the gist of the conversation.
3. They watched the trailer to get the gist of the movie.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Understand the main idea," "Grasp the essence," "Catch the drift."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means understanding the main idea or essence of something. While "gist" is slightly metaphorical, the meaning is directly tied to the act of comprehending, making it more literal and contextual.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the mid-20th century, symbolizing the act of understanding or comprehending what is being communicated.

Meaning:
To understand or comprehend what is being communicated.

Usage:

1. I didn't need to explain further; he got the message.
2. She finally got the message and stopped arguing.
3. They got the message and started working harder.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Understand," "Comprehend," "Catch on."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to understand or comprehend what someone is trying to communicate. The meaning is directly tied to the individual words in the context of receiving or interpreting information, making it more literal and not a non-literal or figurative phrase.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the mid-20th century, symbolizing the act of understanding the overall situation or concept.

Meaning:
To understand the overall situation or concept.

Usage:

1. After the explanation, she got the picture.
2. He got the picture and knew what needed to be done.
3. They got the picture and planned their next steps.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Grasp the concept," "Understand the situation," "Comprehend the whole."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to understand the situation or concept clearly. The connection to the literal meaning is clear, as it involves understanding a visual representation (a "picture") which then metaphorically implies understanding a concept, making it a phrase.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century and emphasizes the idea of digging deep to uncover the truth, symbolizing thorough investigation.

Meaning:
To find out the true cause or explanation of something.

Usage:

1. She was determined to get to the bottom of the mystery.
2. He tried to get to the bottom of the problem.
3. They needed to get to the bottom of the issue.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Investigate," "Discover," "Find out."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means thoroughly investigating or understanding the root cause of a problem. While metaphorical in its reference to "the bottom," the meaning is directly tied to the act of solving or understanding something.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the 19th century and uses the imagery of the heart as the central part, symbolizing the core issue.

Meaning:
To address the most important or central issue in a situation.

Usage:

1. She wanted to get to the heart of the matter during the meeting.
2. He got to the heart of the matter in his speech.
3. They got to the heart of the matter in their discussion.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Address the main issue," "Focus on the central point," "Get to the point."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means identifying the most important or central issue. The metaphorical use of "heart" ties closely to the literal idea of finding the core or essence of a subject, making it more contextual.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the mid-20th century, symbolizing the act of adapting to new methods, rules, or expectations.

Meaning:
To adapt to new methods, rules, or expectations.

Usage:

1. He was told to get with the program or find another job.
2. She quickly got with the program and learned the new system.
3. They encouraged everyone to get with the program for the project's success.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Adapt," "Conform," "Get on board."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to understand or agree with a plan or idea. While it can be metaphorical, the connection to the literal interpretation (to become aligned or informed with a program or plan) makes it more closely related to the individual words and their contextual meaning.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of mutual compromise or cooperation.

Meaning:
Mutual compromise or cooperation.

Usage:

1. A successful relationship requires give and take.
2. They practiced give and take to resolve their differences.
3. He understood the importance of give and take in teamwork.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Compromise," "Cooperate," "Mutual concession."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to a reciprocal exchange, where both parties involved contribute something. While it can have a metaphorical aspect, it is closely tied to the literal meaning of giving and taking, making it more of a phrase with a direct interpretation.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of responding to aggression or criticism with equal force.

Meaning:
To respond to aggression or criticism with equal force.

Usage:

1. She’s not afraid to give as good as she gets in an argument.
2. He gave as good as he got during the debate.
3. They were prepared to give as good as they got in negotiations.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Retaliate," "Respond in kind," "Fight back."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to the act of responding to something (such as criticism or provocation) with an equal or equivalent reaction. The meaning is more directly related to the individual words, even though it can carry a metaphorical sense, making it more of a phrase.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the mid-20th century, symbolizing the act of stopping an activity or ceasing to talk about a particular topic.

Meaning:
To stop an activity or cease talking about a particular topic.

Usage:

1. He told her to give it a rest and stop arguing.
2. She decided to give it a rest and take a break from work.
3. They asked him to give it a rest and move on to another subject.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Stop," "Cease," "Take a break."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to stop doing something, especially when it has been done excessively or is annoying. The literal meaning of "give it a rest" (to pause or stop) is directly tied to the context, making it more of a phrase with a clear meaning.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the mid-20th century and emphasizes putting maximum effort into an endeavor, symbolizing total commitment.

Meaning:
To put all your effort and energy into something.

Usage:

1. He gave it his all during the competition.
2. She gave it her all to complete the project on time.
3. They gave it their all in the final game.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Put your heart into it," "Go all out," "Make every effort."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means making a full effort or dedicating all energy to something. While metaphorical in its intensity, the meaning is tied to the literal action of putting in effort.

Origin:
This phrase comes from shooting sports, where a "shot" refers to an attempt to hit a target, encouraging people to give their utmost effort.

Meaning:
To put in your maximum effort to accomplish something.

Usage:

1. Go ahead and give it your best shot, I believe in you.
2. He gave it his best shot, but he still didn’t win the competition.
3. She wasn’t sure about the exam, but she gave it her best shot.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Give it your all", "Leave no stone unturned", "Do your best"

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means trying as hard as possible or doing one’s best. The metaphorical "shot" is tied closely to the idea of effort or attempt, making it more contextual than figurative.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of insincerely expressing support or agreement.

Meaning:
To insincerely express support or agreement.

Usage:

1. He gave lip service to the new policy but didn't follow it.
2. She criticized the company for only giving lip service to diversity.
3. They realized he was just giving lip service and had no real intention to help.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Insincere agreement," "Paying lip service," "Empty words."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to express support or agreement in words, without taking meaningful or practical action. The individual words "lip" (meaning speech) and "service" (meaning assistance) give a clear understanding of the figurative meaning of insincere support, making it more of a phrase.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing an approximation with a margin of error.

Meaning:
An approximation with a margin of error.

Usage:

1. The trip will take two hours, give or take.
2. He earns about $50,000 a year, give or take.
3. The project will be completed in six months, give or take.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Approximately," "Around," "More or less."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to an approximate value or estimation, often used when there's a small margin of error. While it can be used in a figurative sense, its meaning is closely tied to the literal interpretation of adding or subtracting a small amount. The connection to the individual words is clear and direct.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the mid-20th century, symbolizing the act of contacting someone, usually by shouting or calling.

Meaning:
To contact someone, usually by shouting or calling.

Usage:

1. Give me a holler when you need help.
2. He said to give him a holler if I needed anything.
3. They told her to give them a holler when she arrived.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Call," "Shout to," "Reach out."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to call out to someone or contact them, typically to get their attention. The phrase directly refers to the literal act of shouting or calling, making the meaning clearly tied to the individual words.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century and uses the imagery of a physical gesture of praise, symbolizing recognition.

Meaning:
To praise or congratulate someone.

Usage:

1. She gave him a pat on the back for his hard work.
2. He deserves a pat on the back for his dedication.
3. They gave each other a pat on the back after the successful event.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Praise," "Congratulate," "Commend."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to praising or congratulating someone. While metaphorical, the meaning is closely tied to the physical act of giving a pat as a gesture of approval.

Origin:
This phrase is thought to come from the military, where "rundown" refers to a summary or report of the details of an operation.

Meaning:
To provide someone with a quick summary of information or events.

Usage:

1. She gave me the rundown on the meeting so I could catch up.
2. Before we start, can you give me the rundown of what happened?
3. He gave her the rundown on the new project.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Fill someone in", "Give a brief overview", "Summarize"

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to summarizing or explaining the details of something to someone. While slightly metaphorical, the meaning is closely tied to the act of providing information in a straightforward manner.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the mid-20th century, symbolizing a gadget or device whose name is unknown or unspecified.

Meaning:
A gadget or device whose name is unknown or unspecified.

Usage:

1. He showed me the new gizmo he bought for his computer.
2. She has a kitchen drawer full of gizmos.
3. They used some high-tech gizmo to solve the problem.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Gadget," "Device," "Thingamajig."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to a small, often mechanical, device or gadget. While it may sound metaphorical in some contexts, its meaning is closely tied to the actual thing being referred to — a small, functional item — making it a straightforward, literal term, thus a phrase.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the mid-20th century, symbolizing the act of praising someone or something highly.

Meaning:
To praise someone or something highly.

Usage:

1. She spoke of her mentor in glowing terms.
2. The review described the book in glowing terms.
3. They praised the new employee in glowing terms.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"High praise," "Complimentary," "Admiring words."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to describing something in a highly positive or complimentary manner. The meaning directly aligns with the literal interpretation of the words, as "glowing" literally means radiant or positive, and "terms" refers to the words used to describe something, making it more literal in its usage.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the mid-20th century, symbolizing the act of participating in an activity without playing an active role.

Meaning:
To participate in an activity without playing an active role.

Usage:

1. He decided to go along for the ride on the business trip.
2. She went along for the ride without getting involved.
3. They invited him to go along for the ride during the meeting.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Tag along," "Join passively," "Accompany."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to participating in something passively, without taking an active role. While it may imply some figurative meaning of being a passive participant, the connection to the literal idea of going along for a ride (physically accompanying someone on a journey) is still clear, making it a phrase.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of being received favorably or with approval.

Meaning:
To be received favorably or with approval.

Usage:

1. His speech went down well with the audience.
2. The new product went down well with consumers.
3. Their proposal went down well at the meeting.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Be well-received," "Be accepted," "Go over well."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to something being received favorably, especially an idea or a performance. The connection to the literal words is clear, as "going down well" implies the idea of something being well-received or successful, making it a phrase rather than an idiom.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of each person paying for themselves in a shared expense.

Meaning:
Each person paying for themselves in a shared expense.

Usage:

1. They decided to go Dutch on their first date.
2. She suggested they go Dutch for the meal.
3. He always prefers to go Dutch with friends.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Split the bill," "Share the cost," "Pay one's share."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to the literal act of sharing the cost of something, typically a meal, evenly between all parties involved. While it may be used in various contexts, the connection to the literal meaning of dividing costs is clear, making it more of a phrase than a non-literal idiom.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the 16th century and uses the imagery of holding hands to symbolize close connection.

Meaning:
To be closely connected or associated with each other.

Usage:

1. Success and hard work go hand in hand.
2. The two companies' interests go hand in hand.
3. Creativity and innovation go hand in hand.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Closely connected," "Related," "Associated."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means two things are closely connected or complementary. While metaphorical, the meaning is tied to the imagery of hands working together, making it more literal than an idiom.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of closing down a business permanently.

Meaning:
To close down a business permanently.

Usage:

1. The shop went out of business after 20 years.
2. She feared her company might go out of business.
3. They went out of business due to financial difficulties.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Close down," "Shut down," "Cease operations."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to the literal act of a company ceasing operations due to financial failure or other reasons. While it may have an impactful or emotional connotation, the meaning is directly tied to the literal words and does not rely on a figurative interpretation.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the 19th century and uses the imagery of deviating from one's path to symbolize making extra effort.

Meaning:
To make a special effort to do something, often for someone else.

Usage:

1. He went out of his way to help me with my project.
2. She always goes out of her way to make sure everyone feels welcome.
3. The company went out of its way to accommodate my special request.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Go the extra mile", "Make an effort", "Bend over backwards"

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to making an extra effort to do something. While somewhat metaphorical, it is more closely tied to the literal idea of diverting from one's usual course to assist or accommodate someone.

Origin:
This phrase likely originates from the idea of traveling long distances or taking extensive efforts to accomplish something.

Meaning:
To make a great effort to achieve something.

Usage:

1. He went to great lengths to make sure the surprise party was perfect.
2. They went to great lengths to make the wedding special.
3. She went to great lengths to learn the new language before traveling.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Go above and beyond," "Make a big effort," "Leave no stone unturned."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to making significant effort to achieve something. While metaphorical, it is closely tied to the literal idea of expending effort or going far to accomplish a goal.

Origin:
The phrase comes from the natural flow of water, suggesting an easy, effortless movement along with circumstances.

Meaning:
To go along with things as they happen, without resistance.

Usage:

1. Sometimes it’s better to just go with the flow rather than stress over everything.
2. She decided to go with the flow and see where the day took her.
3. He’s easygoing and always goes with the flow.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Adapt," "Accept," "Go along with."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to accept things as they come and not try to change or control them. While metaphorical, the meaning is closely tied to the idea of "flow," suggesting an approach to adapting easily without resistance.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 17th century and comes from the imagery of working with the natural direction of wood grain, symbolizing conformity.

Meaning:
To act or behave in a way that is natural or expected.

Usage:

1. He always goes with the grain at work.
2. She went with the grain by following the rules.
3. They prefer to go with the grain in their approach.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Follow naturally," "Conform," "Go along with."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to do something in accordance with the natural or expected way of things. It is more literal, as it refers to the direction in which the fibers of a material (like wood) run, but it can also be used metaphorically to suggest going along with the norms or expectations.

Origin:
This phrase originated in the early 20th century and emphasizes the idea of someone who actively "gets" or pursues their goals, symbolizing ambition.

Meaning:
A person who is ambitious, proactive, and determined to succeed.

Usage:

1. She's a real go-getter, always striving to achieve her goals.
2. The company is looking for a go-getter to lead the sales team.
3. He proved himself to be a go-getter by exceeding his targets.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Ambitious person," "High achiever," "Determined worker."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to a person who is energetic, proactive, and eager to take initiative. It is not an idiom since the meaning is closely tied to the literal sense of someone who "goes" and "gets" things done.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing a business that is operating well and is expected to continue doing so.

Meaning:
A business that is operating well and is expected to continue doing so.

Usage:

1. Despite the challenges, their company remains a going concern.
2. He invested in a going concern with a solid track record.
3. They worked hard to keep the business a going concern.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Thriving business," "Successful operation," "Sustainable enterprise."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to an entity, usually a business, that is in operation and is expected to continue operating for the foreseeable future. While the term might have a figurative sense of stability or ongoing success, it is more directly tied to the concept of a functional, ongoing business operation, so it is a phrase rather than an idiom.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the mid-20th century, symbolizing someone who is likely to achieve success or advancement.

Meaning:
Likely to achieve success or advancement.

Usage:

1. She's a talented artist who's definitely going places.
2. They knew he was going places after seeing his work ethic.
3. The startup is going places with its innovative technology.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Destined for success," "On the rise," "Up-and-coming."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to someone or something progressing or achieving success. It can imply future success or achievement, but the literal meaning of "going places" clearly ties to the concept of movement toward success, making it a phrase.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the mid-20th century, symbolizing a young man who is greatly admired or successful.

Meaning:
A young man who is greatly admired or successful.

Usage:

1. He was the golden boy of the football team.
2. The media often referred to him as the golden boy of politics.
3. They saw him as the golden boy of the company.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Star," "Prodigy," "Wonder boy."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to a person who is favored or admired for their success, charm, or abilities, often in a specific context. While "golden" could imply something valuable, the meaning here is closely tied to the individual words, making it a phrase rather than an idiom.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the mid-20th century, symbolizing financial incentives given to employees to keep them from leaving a company.

Meaning:
Financial incentives given to employees to keep them from leaving a company.

Usage:

1. He stayed at the job because of the golden handcuffs.
2. They offered her golden handcuffs to prevent her from resigning.
3. She felt trapped by the golden handcuffs despite wanting to leave.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Retention bonuses," "Financial incentives," "Binding rewards."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to financial incentives or benefits that tie an employee to their employer, often making it difficult to leave the company. The meaning here is closely related to the literal concept of financial rewards that restrict freedom, making it a phrase rather than a non-literal idiom.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing a chance that is highly favorable or advantageous.

Meaning:
A highly favorable or advantageous chance.

Usage:

1. She saw the job offer as a golden opportunity.
2. They seized the golden opportunity to expand their business.
3. He didn't want to miss the golden opportunity to travel abroad.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Perfect chance," "Ideal opportunity," "Once-in-a-lifetime chance."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to a very favorable or ideal chance or situation. While "golden" can be metaphorical, the meaning of a "golden opportunity" is directly tied to the combination of "golden" (suggesting something valuable or rare) and "opportunity" (a chance), and the interpretation depends on these words in a contextual sense.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to ancient times and has been in use in various cultures, symbolizing the principle of treating others as one would like to be treated.

Meaning:
Treat others as one would like to be treated.

Usage:

1. She always follows the golden rule in her interactions.
2. The golden rule is a fundamental principle in many religions.
3. He taught his children to live by the golden rule.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Treat others with respect," "Do unto others," "Universal principle."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to a principle or guideline for ethical behavior, typically stated as "do unto others as you would have them do unto you." The meaning of the "golden rule" is directly connected to the words and the context in which it is used to describe moral guidance, making it a phrase.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the mid-19th century, symbolizing the virtue of patience leading to positive outcomes.

Meaning:
Patience leads to positive outcomes.

Usage:

1. She waited for years to get promoted, believing good things come to those who wait.
2. He often told his children that good things come to those who wait.
3. They saved diligently, knowing good things come to those who wait.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Patience pays off," "Wait for the best," "Good things take time."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it suggests that patience is often rewarded. The connection to the literal words is clear, as the phrase refers to the act of waiting for something good, and its figurative meaning of patience being rewarded is tied to this literal context.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century, popularized by Robert Frost's poem "Mending Wall," symbolizing the importance of respecting personal boundaries.

Meaning:
Respecting personal boundaries is important for harmonious relationships.

Usage:

1. He believed in keeping a fence, saying, "Good walls make good neighbours."
2. She valued privacy and agreed that good walls make good neighbours.
3. They built a fence, understanding that good walls make good neighbours.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Respect boundaries," "Keep a good distance," "Maintain privacy."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to the idea that boundaries or respect for privacy can contribute to positive relationships. While it carries some metaphorical meaning, it is tied to the literal words that emphasize the importance of boundaries for harmony between neighbors, making it a phrase.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of quickly having a meal.

Meaning:
To quickly have a meal.

Usage:

1. Let's grab a bite to eat before the movie.
2. He decided to grab a bite to eat at the café.
3. They often grab a bite to eat during their lunch break.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Grab a snack," "Have a quick meal," "Eat something."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to the literal act of eating something, typically a small meal or snack. While it can be metaphorical in the sense of taking a quick break to eat, its meaning is closely tied to the literal action of eating, making it a phrase.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the mid-20th century, symbolizing the ordinary people in a community or organization.

Meaning:
The ordinary people in a community or organization.

Usage:

1. The movement gained support from the grassroots.
2. She worked with grassroots activists to effect change.
3. They focused on grassroots efforts to build support.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Base-level," "Community level," "Ordinary people."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to the basic or fundamental level of something, particularly in the context of a movement or organization. The meaning is directly tied to the literal idea of "grass" symbolizing something fundamental or foundational, making it a phrase.

Origin:
The term "grave" refers to something serious or important, as in the severity of a mistake.

Meaning:
A very serious or important error.

Usage:

1. Making that financial decision was a grave mistake.
2. His grave mistake led to the downfall of the company.
3. They made a grave mistake by ignoring the warnings.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Serious error", "Critical mistake", "Major blunder"

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to a serious or significant mistake. Although metaphorical in nature, the phrase is directly tied to the word "grave" (serious or important), making it more literal in meaning than an idiom.

Origin:
This phrase refers to the night shift at work, and "graveyard" was used because nighttime hours were traditionally associated with death and quietness.

Meaning:
A work shift that takes place during the night, usually from midnight to the early morning.

Usage:

1. He works the graveyard shift at the factory.
2. She had to work the graveyard shift to earn extra money.
3. The restaurant manager is on the graveyard shift, overseeing the late-night crowd.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Night shift", "Third shift", "Overnight shift"

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to working late at night, typically from midnight to early morning. While metaphorical, it directly refers to the specific hours of a work shift and is closely tied to the literal time reference.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the mid-20th century, symbolizing a dull, monotonous life lacking excitement or variety.

Meaning:
A dull, monotonous life lacking excitement or variety.

Usage:

1. He felt trapped in a grey existence at his desk job.
2. She wanted to escape her grey existence and travel the world.
3. They decided to add some color to their grey existence by trying new hobbies.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Monotonous life," "Dull existence," "Lackluster routine."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it literally refers to a dull or monotonous life, usually describing an unremarkable or colorless existence. The figurative meaning is closely tied to the literal idea of "grey" representing dullness or lack of vibrancy, making it more of a phrase than an idiom.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the mid-20th century, symbolizing the act of feeling frustrated or dismayed without outwardly expressing it.

Meaning:
To feel frustrated or dismayed without outwardly expressing it.

Usage:

1. He groaned inwardly when he saw the long to-do list.
2. She groaned inwardly at the thought of attending another meeting.
3. They groaned inwardly when they realized the project was delayed.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Internal frustration," "Silent dismay," "Hold back a groan."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to the literal act of expressing discomfort, dismay, or frustration inwardly, without verbalizing it. While it might imply a metaphorical sense of mental struggle, the connection to the literal words is clear, making it a phrase.

Origin:
The phrase likely comes from the idea that something or someone can "grow" in your perception or appreciation, much like how a plant grows slowly over time.

Meaning:
To gradually become more liked or appreciated over time.

Usage:

1. At first, I didn’t like the book, but it really grew on me.
2. The new colleague grew on me after I got to know her better.
   1. The song grew on me after I listened to it several times.

Similar Idioms / Phrases
"Become more appealing," "Win over," "Increase in favor."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means that someone or something becomes more liked or appreciated over time. Although it uses the metaphor of growing, it is closely tied to the literal idea of something (like a plant) becoming more favorable with time.