Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century and uses the imagery of a small chance, symbolizing a minimal opportunity.

Meaning:
The smallest opportunity or possibility.

Usage:

1. If given half a chance, she could succeed.
2. He took half a chance and made the shot.
3. They seized half a chance to improve their situation.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Small opportunity," "slight chance," "minimal possibility."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means a very small or minimal opportunity. While it can be metaphorical, the phrase is directly tied to the literal meaning of having a "chance," suggesting a limited opportunity. The meaning remains closely tied to the idea of opportunity, making it more of a phrase.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the 16th century and emphasizes practicality, suggesting that partial fulfillment is preferable to complete absence. It was popularized through proverbs emphasizing moderation and acceptance.

Meaning:
Getting something, even if it's less than what you wanted, is better than getting nothing at all.

Usage:

1. He wasn’t happy with the pay raise, but he agreed that half a loaf is better than none.
2. The team couldn’t secure full funding, but they accepted the smaller grant because half a loaf is better than none.
3. She didn’t get the perfect deal, but she took it, saying half a loaf is better than none.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Something is better than nothing", "Better than nothing", "Take what you can get"

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it conveys the idea that having something is better than having nothing at all. It’s a practical expression based on the literal meaning of "loaf" and the comparison between having part of something versus none. It’s metaphorical but remains grounded in literal interpretation.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of paying partial attention to something.

Meaning:
Paying partial attention to something.

Usage:

1. He kept half an eye on the game while working.
2. She had half an eye on her phone during the meeting.
3. They watched the kids with half an eye while chatting.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Glance," "Partial attention," "Half watching."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to the literal or contextual act of keeping partial attention on something. While there is a slight metaphorical implication, the connection to the individual words is clear.

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

Meaning:
Closely connected or associated.

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 literally means two things working together or in close association. Although metaphorical in certain contexts, it is often used in a way that ties to the direct meaning of physical hands being held together, symbolizing unity or connection.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the mid-20th century and uses the imagery of hanging on, symbolizing perseverance.

Meaning:
To persevere or remain steadfast.

Usage:

1. She told him to hang in there during tough times.
2. They were encouraged to hang in there until help arrived.
3. He decided to hang in there and not give up.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Persevere," "Keep going," "Stay strong."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to persevere or remain resilient through difficult circumstances. It is metaphorical but directly tied to the context of enduring or continuing despite challenges, making it a phrase that conveys a more literal sense of enduring.

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

Meaning:
To have difficulty hearing.

Usage:

1. She is hard of hearing and uses a hearing aid.
2. He has been hard of hearing since the accident.
3. They provided assistance for people who are hard of hearing.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Hearing-impaired," "Deaf," "Partial hearing loss."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it directly refers to someone who has difficulty hearing. The words are used in their literal sense, and the meaning is straightforward and tied to the individual terms.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of experiencing difficulty or trouble.

Meaning:
To experience difficulty or trouble.

Usage:

1. He had a hard time adjusting to the new job.
2. She went through a hard time after the breakup.
3. They had a hard time finding a solution to the problem.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Tough time," "Difficult period," "Challenging experience."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to a difficult period or situation. While it can imply emotional or metaphorical struggle, the connection to the literal words "hard" and "time" is clear and direct.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of being rare or difficult to obtain.

Meaning:
To be rare or difficult to obtain.

Usage:

1. Good jobs are hard to come by in this economy.
2. She found that genuine friendships are hard to come by.
3. They realized that the antique was hard to come by.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Rare," "Scarce," "Difficult to find."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it describes the literal or contextual difficulty of finding or obtaining something. The meaning is closely tied to the individual words and does not require extensive figurative interpretation.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 19th century and uses the imagery of being hard pressed, symbolizing financial struggle.

Meaning:
In financial difficulty.

Usage:

1. They were hard up after losing their jobs.
2. She is hard up and needs assistance.
3. He found himself hard up and had to borrow money.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"In financial difficulty," "Broke," "Struggling."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means being in a difficult financial situation or needing something badly, usually money. It is directly tied to the literal meaning of being "hard up" or in need, but it does carry a figurative interpretation of struggling or lacking.

Origin:
This phrase is often attributed to Ben Franklin, who advocated for patience and caution in his writings, especially in his book Poor Richard's Almanack.

Meaning:
Doing something too quickly or without enough thought can lead to mistakes or poor results.

Usage:

1. He rushed through the project, and as they say, haste makes waste.
2. Don’t hurry through your homework—haste makes waste.
3. If you make decisions in haste, you’ll end up with regret, as haste makes waste.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"More haste, less speed", "Slow and steady wins the race", "Don’t rush things"

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it conveys the idea that rushing or acting too quickly can lead to mistakes or inefficiency. The phrase is a metaphor but directly tied to the concept of acting hastily, which leads to errors or waste.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the 19th century and uses the imagery of removing one's hat as a sign of respect, symbolizing humility.

Meaning:
To approach someone humbly and respectfully, often asking for a favor.

Usage:

1. He went hat in hand to ask for a loan.
2. She approached her boss hat in hand.
3. They came hat in hand seeking help.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Humbly," "Respectfully," "Seeking favor."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to being humble or asking for a favor, often in a situation of humility or submission. It originates from the literal act of holding a hat in hand as a sign of respect, but it is used metaphorically to describe requesting something in a humble manner.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of having a brief encounter or experience with something, often something unpleasant.

Meaning:
To have a brief encounter or experience with something, often something unpleasant.

Usage:

1. He had a brush with the law when he was younger.
2. She had a brush with danger while hiking.
3. They had a brush with fame after their video went viral.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Brief encounter," "Close call," "Fleeting experience."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to the literal or contextual act of having a brief encounter or close contact with something, often danger or misfortune. While it can carry metaphorical undertones, the connection to the literal words (a brief "brush") is clear and direct.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the unpleasant physical effects of consuming too much alcohol.

Meaning:
To experience the unpleasant physical effects of consuming too much alcohol.

Usage:

1. He had a hangover after the party last night.
2. She was trying to cure her hangover with plenty of water.
3. They all had hangovers from celebrating too much.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Feel the aftereffects," "Suffer from excess," "Pay the price."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to the literal or contextual experience of feeling the aftereffects of excessive drinking. Although it can occasionally be used metaphorically (e.g., emotional hangover), its primary meaning is rooted in a direct and literal experience.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the 20th century and uses the imagery of a plate filled with food, symbolizing having many tasks.

Meaning:
To have many responsibilities or tasks to deal with.

Usage:

1. She has a lot on her plate with work and family.
2. He can't help right now; he has a lot on his plate.
3. They have a lot on their plate with the new project.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Busy," "Overwhelmed," "Many responsibilities."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to being very busy or having many responsibilities. While it is metaphorical, it is closely tied to the idea of having a "plate" full of tasks, making it more literal in terms of the context of workload or tasks.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of becoming angry very easily or quickly.

Meaning:
To become angry very easily or quickly.

Usage:

1. He has a quick temper and often gets into arguments.
2. She tries to manage her quick temper in stressful situations.
3. They knew he had a quick temper and tried to avoid provoking him.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Short fuse," "Hot-headed," "Easily angered."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to the literal or contextual act of being easily angered. While it describes a personality trait, the meaning is tied directly to the individual words and is not purely figurative.

Origin:
The phrase originates from farming and agriculture, where encountering a rough patch of ground symbolized difficulty in cultivation or progress. It became metaphorical in the 20th century.

Meaning:
To experience a difficult or challenging time.

Usage:

1. They’ve been going through a rough patch in their marriage.
2. The company hit a rough patch during the recession.
3. After a rough patch, things started to improve for her.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Face challenges", "Hard times", "Bumpy road"

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to a difficult or challenging period in someone's life or situation. Although metaphorical, the phrase is closely tied to the literal interpretation of going through a "rough" time, making it more of a phrase than an idiom.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of experiencing a physical reaction of small bumps on the skin due to cold, fear, or excitement.

Meaning:
To experience small bumps on the skin due to cold, fear, or excitement.

Usage:

1. She had goose pimples from the chilly wind.
2. He got goose pimples watching the scary movie.
3. They all had goose pimples from the exciting news.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Get goosebumps," "Feel chills," "Experience shivers."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to the literal act of experiencing a physical reaction on the skin due to cold or strong emotion. While the term "goose pimples" is descriptive, it is closely tied to the literal phenomenon, making it less figurative.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of experiencing a tingling sensation, usually in the limbs, due to numbness or pressure.

Meaning:
To experience a tingling sensation, usually in the limbs, due to numbness or pressure.

Usage:

1. She had pins and needles in her leg after sitting too long.
2. He felt pins and needles in his arm after leaning on it.
3. They all complained about having pins and needles after the long flight.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Tingle," "Prickling sensation," "Numbness."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it directly refers to the tingling sensation felt when a limb falls asleep due to poor circulation. The words "pins and needles" are used descriptively rather than metaphorically.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of having good intentions or being kind-hearted.

Meaning:
To have good intentions or be kind-hearted.

Usage:

1. He may be strict, but his heart is in the right place.
2. She always has her heart in the right place when helping others.
3. They know that her heart is in the right place despite her mistakes.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Well-intentioned," "Kind-hearted," "Good-natured."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to the literal or contextual idea that someone's intentions are good, even if their actions or behavior may not be perfect. The connection to the literal words is clear: the "heart" symbolizes one's moral compass or intentions, so the meaning is more directly tied to the individual words.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the potential to become something or succeed in something.

Meaning:
To have the potential to become something or succeed in something.

Usage:

1. She has the makings of a great leader.
2. He has the makings of a successful entrepreneur.
3. They believed the project had the makings of a breakthrough.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Potential," "Capability," "Promise."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to having the necessary qualities or potential for something. It uses "makings" in a literal sense to refer to the components or traits that are required to achieve a certain outcome, and its meaning is more directly tied to the individual words.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of having the courage or audacity to do something.

Meaning:
To have the courage or audacity to do something.

Usage:

1. She had the nerve to speak up during the meeting.
2. He had the nerve to ask for a raise.
3. They couldn't believe he had the nerve to challenge the decision.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Be brave," "Dare," "Show courage."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to having the courage or boldness to do something, which is closely related to the literal meaning of "nerve" (in terms of bravery or courage). While it may be metaphorical, the connection to the literal meaning is clear.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the mid-20th century, symbolizing the act of having an extremely enjoyable or memorable experience.

Meaning:
To have an extremely enjoyable or memorable experience.

Usage:

1. She had the time of her life at the concert.
2. He had the time of his life traveling through Europe.
3. They all had the time of their lives at the reunion.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Enjoy immensely," "Have a blast," "Experience great joy."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to having an incredibly enjoyable or memorable experience. The expression uses "time" literally to mean a period or event, but its meaning is closely tied to the context of having an exceptional experience, making it more of a phrase than a non-literal idiom.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of questioning someone's sanity or reasoning due to their actions or statements.

Meaning:
To question someone's sanity or reasoning due to their actions or statements.

Usage:

1. She asked him, "Have you gone out of your mind?" after hearing his plan.
2. He wondered if she had gone out of her mind when she made the risky decision.
3. They exclaimed, "Have you gone out of your mind?" when he suggested the idea.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Are you crazy?" "Have you lost it?" "Are you out of your senses?"

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to a state of extreme confusion or irrationality, where "out of your mind" literally means a loss of sanity or reason. The phrase is more directly tied to the context and is understandable from the literal meaning, though it may have a figurative connotation.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of being very busy or having many responsibilities.

Meaning:
To be very busy or have many responsibilities.

Usage:

1. She has her hands full with work and family commitments.
2. He had his hands full managing the new project.
3. They all have their hands full preparing for the event.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Busy," "Occupied," "Overwhelmed."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to being occupied or overwhelmed with tasks or responsibilities, which is closely tied to the literal meaning of having one's hands physically full. While it may be metaphorical in some contexts, its connection to the literal meaning of physical limitation is clear.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of expressing one's opinion or point of view.

Meaning:
To express one's opinion or point of view.

Usage:

1. She was eager to have her say in the meeting.
2. He finally had his say after waiting patiently.
3. They encouraged everyone to have their say on the matter.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Express opinion," "Speak out," "Share viewpoint."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to the literal or contextual act of speaking one's opinion or having a chance to express oneself. While it can carry some metaphorical weight, the meaning is directly tied to the individual words and is clear in the context of giving someone the opportunity to voice their opinion.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century and uses the imagery of starting ahead in a race, symbolizing an initial advantage.

Meaning:
An advantage at the beginning of a race or competition.

Usage:

1. She got a head start on the project.
2. They gave him a head start in the race.
3. He used the head start to finish early.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Early advantage," "Initial lead," "Ahead of the game."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means gaining an early advantage or starting ahead of others in a race or competition. While metaphorical, it is directly tied to the literal idea of starting ahead, usually in terms of timing or preparation, making it more literal in interpretation.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of being extremely quiet, often due to tension or anticipation.

Meaning:
To be extremely quiet, often due to tension or anticipation.

Usage:

1. The room was so silent you could hear a pin drop.
2. When the announcement was made, you could hear a pin drop.
3. During the suspenseful moment, you could hear a pin drop.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Dead silence," "Complete hush," "Total quiet."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to the literal or contextual situation of a place being so quiet that even a very small sound, such as a pin dropping, can be heard. While it is metaphorical in nature, the connection to the words is clear and direct, referring to an extreme level of silence.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of addressing the most important or central issue.

Meaning:
To address the most important or central issue.

Usage:

1. They finally got to the heart of the matter during the discussion.
2. She wanted to address the heart of the matter directly.
3. He focused on the heart of the matter in his speech.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Core issue," "Main point," "Central topic."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to the literal or contextual essence or most important part of an issue, problem, or discussion. While it can carry metaphorical meaning, the connection to the words is direct and can be interpreted clearly in the context of getting to the core or main point of something. The phrase remains closely tied to its literal meaning in this context.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing a person who is influential, important, or powerful in their field.

Meaning:
A person who is influential, important, or powerful in their field.

Usage:

1. He is a heavy hitter in the world of finance.
2. She is considered a heavy hitter in the tech industry.
3. They invited several heavy hitters to the conference.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Influential person," "Power player," "Big shot."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to someone who is powerful, influential, or important in a specific context, such as a leader in business or politics. "Heavy hitter" uses the metaphor of physical strength to describe someone’s impact or authority, but the connection between the words is more closely tied to the context of influence, rather than a completely figurative meaning.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 21st century, symbolizing the act of overly attentive and controlling parenting.

Meaning:
Overly attentive and controlling parenting.

Usage:

1. They accused her of helicopter parenting and not giving her kids space.
2. He tries to avoid helicopter parenting and encourages independence.
3. They discussed the effects of helicopter parenting on children.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Overprotective parenting," "Micromanaging," "Hovering parents."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to a parenting style characterized by being overly involved or controlling in a child’s life. While it has a metaphorical connection to "helicopter" (as in hovering), the meaning is closely tied to the literal concept of hovering or being overbearing, making it more of a contextual phrase rather than a figurative idiom.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 17th century, symbolizing the act of helping someone in difficulty or need.

Meaning:
To help someone in difficulty or need.

Usage:

1. She always tries to help a lame dog over stile whenever she can.
2. He believes in helping a lame dog over stile and volunteers often.
3. They saw it as their duty to help a lame dog over stile.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Lend a hand," "Assist," "Support."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to offering assistance to someone who is in a difficult or helpless situation. The metaphor of a "lame dog" suggests a person in need, and "over stile" refers to helping someone pass an obstacle, but it is not as figuratively complex as an idiom. The connection to the literal words and context remains relatively clear.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of following the behaviors or actions of a group without individual thinking.

Meaning:
To follow the behaviors or actions of a group without individual thinking.

Usage:

1. The stock market often exhibits herd mentality.
2. He warned against herd mentality and urged independent thinking.
3. They observed herd mentality during the sales event.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Follow the crowd," "Groupthink," "Bandwagon effect."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to the literal or contextual act of people following the crowd or acting in a similar manner without individual thought. While it is metaphorical, the connection to the literal "herd" and the concept of following others is direct, without significant departure from the individual words' meaning.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of something being temporary or short-lived.

Meaning:
To be temporary or short-lived.

Usage:

1. His success seemed to be here today, gone tomorrow.
2. The trendy items were here today, gone tomorrow.
3. They warned her that fame can be here today, gone tomorrow.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Fleeting," "Temporary," "Short-lived."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to something that is temporary, fleeting, or short-lived. While metaphorical, the connection to the literal meaning of something being present one day and gone the next is clear and not overly figurative, focusing on the transitory nature of things.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the mid-20th century, symbolizing the act of having a secret motive or plan.

Meaning:
To have a secret motive or plan.

Usage:

1. They suspected he had a hidden agenda in his proposal.
2. She believed there was a hidden agenda behind the offer.
3. He tried to uncover the hidden agenda of the meeting.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Secret motive," "Underlying plan," "Unspoken intention."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to the literal or contextual idea of a concealed motive or intention, often used in politics or discussions. The meaning is not figurative in the sense of a complete departure from the literal meaning; it relies on the direct interpretation of having an agenda that is hidden.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century and uses the imagery of elevated hopes, symbolizing optimism.

Meaning:
Strong expectations or optimism about something.

Usage:

1. They have high hopes for the new project.
2. She had high hopes for her career.
3. He entered the competition with high hopes.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Strong expectations," "Optimism," "Positive outlook."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to having strong expectations or optimism about something. Although metaphorical, the phrase is tied closely to the literal concept of "hopes" being "high," which connects directly to the context of expectation.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of exploring main roads and lesser-known paths.

Meaning:
To explore main roads and lesser-known paths.

Usage:

1. They traveled the highways and byways of the country.
2. She enjoys exploring the highways and byways of her city.
3. He took the highways and byways to find hidden gems.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Main roads," "Side streets," "Exploration."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to all paths or methods available, both major and minor, and it has a more direct connection to its literal meaning. "Highways" and "byways" both refer to actual types of roads or paths, and while there may be a metaphorical use, the connection to the literal meanings is clear and easily understood in context.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the 19th century and uses the imagery of hitting or missing a target to symbolize unpredictability.

Meaning:
Unpredictable; sometimes successful and sometimes not.

Usage:

1. The results were hit or miss.
2. Her cooking can be hit or miss.
3. They found the service to be hit or miss.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Uncertain," "Unpredictable," "Variable."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to something that can be unpredictable or inconsistent in quality or success. The phrase is tied to the straightforward metaphor of something either being successful ("hit") or failing ("miss"), making it closely tied to the individual words' meanings.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the mid-20th century, symbolizing the act of broadcasting or being broadcasted on radio or television.

Meaning:
To broadcast or be broadcasted on radio or television.

Usage:

1. The new song hit the airwaves and became an instant hit.
2. She was excited to hit the airwaves with her first radio show.
3. They hit the airwaves with the breaking news.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Go on air," "Broadcast," "Be aired."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to broadcasting something, especially over radio or television. The "airwaves" are literally the electromagnetic waves used for transmission, and while the phrase can have a metaphorical sense, the literal meaning of broadcasting through airwaves remains the most direct connection in this context.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century and comes from archery, where hitting the bullseye is the main target, symbolizing precise achievement.

Meaning:
To achieve a precise target or goal.

Usage:

1. She hit the bullseye with her marketing strategy.
2. He hit the bullseye with his financial predictions.
3. They were thrilled to hit the bullseye in their efforts.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Achieve target," "Hit the mark," "Succeed precisely."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to achieving precision or being exactly correct. Although it has a metaphorical sense when used outside of archery or shooting, the meaning remains closely tied to the literal act of hitting a target.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of leaving or starting a journey.

Meaning:
To leave or start a journey.

Usage:

1. They decided to hit the road early to avoid traffic.
2. She hit the road to start her adventure across the country.
3. He told them to hit the road after the argument.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Set off," "Depart," "Leave."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to the literal act of starting a journey or leaving. While it can have a figurative sense of beginning a venture or trip, the connection to the literal meaning of traveling or leaving is more direct, making it a phrase rather than a non-literal idiom.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century and comes from musical terminology, where hitting high notes signifies exceptional performance, symbolizing success.

Meaning:
Achieving success or excelling, especially in performance.

Usage:

1. She was hitting the high notes in her career.
2. He hit the high notes during his presentation.
3. They were known for hitting the high notes in their projects.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Succeeding," "Excelling," "Performing well."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because while it can be metaphorical when referring to excelling or performing at a high level, it is still closely tied to its literal musical meaning of singing or playing high-pitched notes. The figurative extension of this meaning remains grounded in its origin.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the mid-20th century and uses the imagery of walking on the pavement, symbolizing active searching.

Meaning:
To search for work or go out looking for something actively.

Usage:

1. He spent the day hitting the pavement for job interviews.
2. She hit the pavement looking for clients.
3. They were hitting the pavement to promote their new product.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Job hunting," "Actively searching," "Looking for work."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to actively working or searching, often by walking around (e.g., job hunting or campaigning). The meaning is rooted in the literal act of walking on pavements, even if it’s metaphorically extended to describe effort.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 19th century, symbolizing a place that is very busy or active.

Meaning:
A place that is very busy or active.

Usage:

1. The office was a hive of activity as the deadline approached.
2. The marketplace was a hive of activity on the weekend.
3. Their home became a hive of activity during the holidays.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Beehive," "Buzzing place," "Busy hub."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to a situation or place that is buzzing with energy, busyness, or activity, similar to the constant movement in a beehive. The phrase uses the word "hive" metaphorically, but the meaning is closely tied to the literal idea of a hive being a place of high activity, and it can be understood directly from the context of a busy environment.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of being able to drink alcohol without becoming overly intoxicated.

Meaning:
To be able to drink alcohol without becoming overly intoxicated.

Usage:

1. He prided himself on being able to hold his liquor.
2. She can't hold her liquor and gets tipsy quickly.
3. They challenged him to hold his liquor during the party.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Handle alcohol," "Not get drunk," "Stay sober."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to an individual’s ability to drink alcohol without showing signs of drunkenness. The phrase uses "liquor" literally to describe the drink, and while it may have some figurative weight regarding self-control, its meaning is closely tied to the context of consuming alcohol, making it a phrase rather than an idiom.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of managing or performing well, especially in difficult situations.

Meaning:
To manage or perform well, especially in difficult situations.

Usage:

1. She held her own during the intense debate.
2. He can hold his own against the competition.
3. They held their own despite the challenges.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Stand one's ground," "Perform well," "Manage successfully."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to someone maintaining their position or performing competently in a competitive or challenging situation. The phrase "hold one's own" refers to maintaining strength or balance, and its meaning can be understood in context, making it closely tied to the literal words.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of maintaining one's position or dominance in a particular area.

Meaning:
To maintain one's position or dominance in a particular area.

Usage:

1. The team held the field in the championship game.
2. She held the field as the top performer in her department.
3. They aimed to hold the field in the market with their innovative product.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Maintain dominance," "Stay on top," "Lead the way."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to maintaining control or dominance in a particular area or situation. The phrase uses "field" literally to imply an area of activity or competition, and the meaning is clearly linked to holding or dominating that space. While it is metaphorical, it is still rooted in a literal understanding.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of being in control or in charge of something.

Meaning:
To be in control or in charge of something.

Usage:

1. She holds the reins of the project and makes all the decisions.
2. He likes to hold the reins and lead the team.
3. They trusted her to hold the reins during the transition.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Be in control," "Lead," "Take charge."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to having control or authority over something or someone, much like holding the reins of a horse. The connection to the literal image of holding reins is clear, and the meaning is tied to a contextual understanding of control, 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 standing firm on one's ground, symbolizing resilience and steadfastness.

Meaning:
To maintain one's position and not give in.

Usage:

1. She held her ground during the argument.
2. He decided to hold his ground and not compromise.
3. They held their ground against the opposition.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Stand firm," "Remain steadfast," "Not give in."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it can have a literal meaning of staying physically in place during a confrontation, but it also has a metaphorical extension to standing firm in one’s beliefs. The phrase's meaning remains tied to its literal imagery.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the 19th century and uses the imagery of holding one's head high, symbolizing pride and dignity.

Meaning:
To be proud of oneself despite a difficult situation.

Usage:

1. He held his head high after the defeat.
2. She held her head high despite the criticism.
3. They encouraged each other to hold their heads high.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Be proud," "Maintain dignity," "Stand tall."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to maintaining pride or dignity, even in challenging circumstances. While metaphorical, the phrase is rooted in the literal act of holding one’s head up as a sign of confidence or self-respect.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the 17th century and uses the imagery of holding one's position, symbolizing competence and resilience.

Meaning:
To perform well in a difficult situation or against strong competition.

Usage:

1. She held her own in the debate.
2. He held his own against the experienced players.
3. They managed to hold their own during the negotiations.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Compete well," "Perform well," "Stand one's ground."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to maintaining one’s position or ability in a competitive or challenging situation. While it has metaphorical undertones, its meaning is closely tied to its literal interpretation of standing firm or capable.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of being in a place that is as comfortable as one's own home.

Meaning:
To be in a place that is as comfortable as one's own home.

Usage:

1. The cabin in the mountains is their home away from home.
2. She made the hotel room her home away from home during her stay.
3. They consider the vacation house their home away from home.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Second home," "Comfortable place," "Alternate residence."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to a place or environment that feels as comfortable, welcoming, or familiar as one's own home. While the term uses metaphorical language, the meaning is closely related to the literal words, as it refers to the feeling or atmosphere of the place, which directly ties into the idea of a home. Therefore, it’s more of a contextual phrase rather than an idiom.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of telling an uncomfortable or unpleasant truth.

Meaning:
To tell an uncomfortable or unpleasant truth.

Usage:

1. He had to face some home truths about his behavior.
2. She told him some home truths that he needed to hear.
3. They weren't ready for the home truths she shared.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Unpleasant facts," "Harsh realities," "Bitter truths."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to harsh or uncomfortable facts or realities that one may not want to hear but need to understand. The expression is metaphorical, but it draws on the idea of "home" as a place of honesty or directness. The connection to the literal words is relatively clear and tied to the contextual meaning of confronting uncomfortable truths, making it more of a phrase than an idiom.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of being very honest and trustworthy.

Meaning:
To be very honest and trustworthy.

Usage:

1. Everyone trusts him because he's as honest as the day is long.
2. She is honest as the day is long, always telling the truth.
3. They believe their friend is honest as the day is long.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Trustworthy," "Sincere," "Straightforward."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to someone being completely honest or truthful, using the comparison to the day (which is long and unchanging). While it uses metaphorical language, it is a direct description of someone's honesty, and the meaning is closely tied to the literal idea of a full day being long and unbroken. The connection to the literal words is clear, making it a phrase.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of trusting people to follow rules and act honorably without supervision.

Meaning:
To trust people to follow rules and act honorably without supervision.

Usage:

1. The library operates on an honor system for borrowing books.
2. She set up an honor system for her students to submit assignments.
3. They decided to use an honor system for the community garden.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Trust-based system," "Faith in integrity," "Self-regulation."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to a system or method of trust where people are expected to act according to a set of ethical principles or honor, rather than being strictly regulated or monitored. While it uses "honor" metaphorically, the phrase is more contextually tied to the system of trust and integrity. The meaning is clear and derived directly from the individual words, categorizing it as a phrase.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of having a code of conduct or loyalty even among those who engage in wrongdoing.

Meaning:
To have a code of conduct or loyalty even among those who engage in wrongdoing.

Usage:

1. Despite their criminal activities, they adhered to honour among thieves.
2. She believed in honour among thieves and never betrayed her partners.
3. They operated with honour among thieves, never turning on each other.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Criminal loyalty," "Thieves' code," "Misguided integrity."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to the idea that even dishonest or immoral people have a code of conduct or mutual respect for each other. The concept of "honor" in this context is not literal; it is used to describe the respect that exists even in situations of wrongdoing. The connection to the literal words is figurative but based on a contextual interpretation of “honor” among people who are otherwise disreputable, making it more of a phrase than an idiom.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of having practical and sound judgment.

Meaning:
To have practical and sound judgment.

Usage:

1. She is known for her horse sense in business matters.
2. He relied on his horse sense to make the right decision.
3. They valued his horse sense when navigating challenges.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Common sense," "Practical wisdom," "Sound judgment."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to practical, common-sense wisdom, often grounded in experience rather than formal education. While "horse" might evoke images of animals, the term is tied to the metaphorical idea of practical knowledge, and its meaning is more directly linked to the words in the phrase.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of experiencing a critical or difficult time.

Meaning:
To experience a critical or difficult time.

Usage:

1. She stood by him in his hour of need.
2. They offered support during her hour of need.
3. He appreciated their help in his hour of need.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Time of crisis," "Difficult period," "Critical moment."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to a literal or contextual moment when someone requires help or support. While it may carry metaphorical significance in some contexts, the meaning is primarily grounded in the idea of a time of difficulty or necessity, which is clearly tied to the literal words of the phrase.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of being widely known or famous.

Meaning:
To be widely known or famous.

Usage:

1. She became a household name after her breakthrough performance.
2. The brand is a household name across the country.
3. He aspired to be a household name in the music industry.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Famous," "Well-known," "Recognized."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to a person, brand, or product that is widely recognized and known by many people. The literal meaning of a "household name" can easily be understood, and it directly relates to the idea of something being known or familiar to most people, without any need for metaphorical interpretation.

Origin:
This saying traces back to ancient Rome and was later popularized by 18th-century literature, emphasizing how hunger enhances the appreciation of food. It symbolizes the idea that need or desire magnifies satisfaction.

Meaning:
When one is hungry, even simple food tastes delicious.

Usage:

1. After a long hike, they devoured the plain sandwiches, proving that hunger is the best sauce.
2. He hadn’t eaten all day, and even the leftovers tasted amazing—hunger is the best sauce.
3. The simple meal seemed like a feast because hunger is the best sauce.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"A good appetite makes any meal great", "Necessity sharpens appreciation", "Simple things bring joy in need"

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it conveys the idea that hunger enhances the enjoyment of food. While metaphorical to an extent, the meaning is closely tied to the literal experience of hunger making any food seem more appealing.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century and uses the imagery of keeping quiet, symbolizing secrecy.

Meaning:
Secret or confidential.

Usage:

1. The plans were kept hush-hush until the announcement.
2. She shared the hush-hush information with her friend.
3. They held a hush-hush meeting to discuss the issue.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Secret," "Confidential," "Private."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to something secretive or confidential. The meaning is tied to the literal sense of keeping quiet or maintaining secrecy, making it more of an expression than a fully figurative idiom.