Origin:
Derived from the mechanical "jack" tool, the phrase began to be used metaphorically in the 20th century to describe steep increases.

Meaning:
To raise prices suddenly and significantly.

Usage:

1. They always jack up prices before the holidays.
2. The hotel jacked up its rates during the festival.
3. People complained when the store jacked up prices on essentials.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Price gouging", "Mark up", "Raise the stakes"

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers specifically to raising prices sharply. The metaphorical use of "jack up" directly ties to the literal action of increasing something.

Origin:
This phrase originates from the early 20th-century use of "jam" to mean forceful pressure, particularly in driving.

Meaning:
To stop abruptly or suddenly.

Usage:

1. He jammed on the brakes to avoid hitting the deer.
2. The driver jammed on the brakes when the traffic light turned red.
3. I had to jam on the brakes when the car in front of me stopped suddenly.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Screech to a halt", "Hit the brakes", "Stop on a dime"

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to pressing the brakes suddenly and forcefully. The meaning is closely tied to the literal action of braking in a vehicle, even if "jam" is used metaphorically to indicate suddenness.

Origin:
This phrase originated in the early 20th century in the jazz community, symbolizing an informal gathering of musicians to improvise and play together.

Meaning:
An informal gathering of musicians to improvise and play music together.

Usage:

1. They held a jam session in the basement after the concert.
2. She enjoyed joining jam sessions with other local musicians.
3. He invited his friends over for a weekend jam session.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Impromptu performance," "Musical gathering," "Free-form session."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to an informal gathering of musicians who come together to play music, typically improvisationally, without pre-arranged songs or structures. While "jam session" may suggest a metaphorical meaning (a spontaneous or relaxed collaborative effort), the connection to the literal act of musicians jamming together is clear and direct. The phrase does not have a figurative meaning that can't be understood from the words themselves; it's closely tied to the actual activity of musicians playing together in an impromptu manner. Hence, it's categorized as a phrase rather than an idiom.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the 19th century, with "jam" referring to something pressed tightly together, such as fruit in a jar. It symbolizes extreme fullness or crowding.

Meaning:
Completely full or crowded.

Usage:

1. The stadium was jam-packed for the concert.
2. Her schedule is jam-packed with meetings today.
3. The bus was jam-packed with commuters.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Packed like sardines", "Bursting at the seams", "Full to the brim"

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it literally means being completely full or crowded. While slightly metaphorical, the meaning is directly tied to the idea of being tightly packed.

Origin:
Evolved from the phrase "jam-packed," symbolizing a state of being tightly filled, applied metaphorically to thoughts.

Meaning:
Full of creative thoughts or concepts.

Usage:

1. The brainstorming session was jam-packed with ideas.
2. Her notebook is always jam-packed with ideas for her novels.
3. The team came to the meeting jam-packed with ideas.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Full of inspiration", "Brimming with creativity", "Overflowing with thoughts".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means being full of creative or innovative thoughts. The phrase extends the literal meaning of "jam-packed" to ideas, making it metaphorical but still closely tied to the context.

Origin:
The imagery of someone’s jaw dropping in astonishment has been used metaphorically since the mid-20th century.

Meaning:
Extremely surprising or impressive.

Usage:

1. The movie had jaw-dropping visual effects.
2. His performance was jaw-dropping and left the audience speechless.
3. The athlete achieved a jaw-dropping record in the competition.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Mind-blowing", "Awe-inspiring", "Take your breath away".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to something that is extremely surprising or impressive. While it uses the imagery of a jaw dropping, the meaning is still closely tied to the expression of shock or amazement.

Origin:
Derived from the skittish nature of cats, commonly used since the 19th century to describe anxiety.

Meaning:
Extremely nervous or jumpy.

Usage:

1. He was jittery as a cat before his big presentation.
2. The dog became jittery as a cat during the thunderstorm.
3. She felt jittery as a cat while waiting for the exam results.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"On edge", "Nervous as a long-tailed cat in a room full of rocking chairs", "Jumpy".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it compares someone’s nervousness to that of a cat, which is known for being skittish. The metaphor is directly tied to the literal behavior of a cat.

Origin:
The phrase has military roots from the 16th century, symbolizing unity in battle. It later broadened to mean collaboration in any context.

Meaning:
To work together with others to achieve a goal.

Usage:

1. The companies joined forces to launch a new product.
2. The volunteers joined forces to clean up the park.
3. The two nations joined forces to combat climate change.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Make ends meet", "Rob Peter to pay Paul", "Stretch a dollar"

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to collaborate or work together toward a shared goal. The meaning is metaphorical but directly tied to the literal idea of uniting or combining strength.

Origin:
Associated with literal acts of holding hands in unity, dating back to the 14th century, symbolizing cooperation.

Meaning:
To work together in unity or cooperation.

Usage:

1. Communities joined hands to help rebuild after the flood.
2. The charity and local businesses joined hands for the fundraiser.
3. The teachers joined hands to organize the school event.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Come together", "Work hand in hand", "Band together".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it literally refers to the act of holding hands, often symbolizing unity or solidarity. While it may have a symbolic meaning, it closely ties to the literal action.

Origin:
This phrase has historical roots in 18th-century political revolutions, later used figuratively to signify any significant change or trend.

Meaning:
To become part of a movement or major change.

Usage:

1. Many young people decided to join the revolution for renewable energy.
2. He urged his peers to join the revolution of digital transformation.
3. The company asked customers to join the revolution in sustainable living.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Get on board", "Be part of the movement", "Jump on the bandwagon".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to participating in a movement or major change. While "revolution" can have metaphorical implications, the phrase ties closely to the literal concept of joining a cause.

Origin:
The term "jot" comes from the 16th century, referring to the smallest letter in the Greek alphabet (iota), symbolizing brevity.

Meaning:
To write something quickly or briefly.

Usage:

1. Let me jot it down before I forget.
2. She jotted down the key points from the lecture.
3. I’ll jot it down in my notebook for later.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Take a note", "Jot a quick reminder", "Write it down"

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it literally means to write something quickly. While "jot" might be slightly metaphorical in tone, the meaning is closely tied to the literal action.

Origin:
This phrase emerged in the 20th century, reflecting the balancing act required to manage financial resources, inspired by literal juggling.

Meaning:
To manage money carefully, often by moving funds around to cover expenses.

Usage:

1. They had to juggle finances to pay the bills this month.
2. Juggling finances is common for small business owners.
3. She’s skilled at juggling finances during tough times.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Make ends meet", "Rob Peter to pay Paul", "Stretch a dollar"

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to managing finances by balancing priorities, often in a challenging way. The metaphorical use of "juggle" is closely tied to its literal meaning of handling multiple things simultaneously.

Origin:
This phrase is less commonly used and is believed to have originated in the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of managing multiple difficult tasks simultaneously.

Meaning:
To manage multiple difficult tasks simultaneously.

Usage:

1. She felt like she was juggling frogs with all her responsibilities.
2. He joked about juggling frogs at work with all the deadlines.
3. They managed to juggle frogs and complete the project on time.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Multitask," "Balance tasks," "Handle many challenges."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to a situation where someone is managing or dealing with multiple challenging tasks or problems at once. While it can be metaphorical, the connection to the literal words is clear: "juggling" refers to handling multiple things simultaneously, and "frogs" are typically associated with being difficult to manage or unpredictable. Therefore, the meaning is closely tied to the individual words and their contextual interpretation, making it a phrase.

Origin:
Likely from the 19th century, inspired by circus jugglers managing multiple objects.

Meaning:
To manage multiple responsibilities at the same time.

Usage:

1. She had to juggle priorities between work and family.
2. Balancing studies and a part-time job means juggling priorities.
3. He’s always juggling priorities as the manager of three teams.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Balance tasks", "Wear many hats", "Multitask".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to balancing multiple important tasks. The metaphorical use of "juggle" is directly tied to the literal sense of managing multiple items.

Origin:
Originated from the act of juggling objects, first used metaphorically in the 20th century.

Meaning:
To manage multiple tasks or duties simultaneously.

Usage:

1. She’s juggling responsibilities at work and home.
2. He struggled to juggle responsibilities as a student and part-time worker.
3. Parents often juggle responsibilities to balance family and career.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Wear many hats", "Balance the load", "Handle multiple tasks".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to managing multiple obligations simultaneously. The meaning is metaphorical but directly tied to the concept of juggling tasks.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century and refers to the performance of a juggler, symbolizing the act of balancing multiple tasks or responsibilities.

Meaning:
To balance multiple tasks or responsibilities.

Usage:

1. Managing work and family life is a juggling act for her.
2. He described his daily routine as a juggling act.
3. They perfected their juggling act to meet all their commitments.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Multitasking," "Balancing act," "Handling multiple duties."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to the act of managing or balancing multiple tasks or responsibilities at the same time. The term "juggling" in this context refers to the literal action of juggling objects, and the meaning of the phrase is tied to the figurative idea of handling many different tasks simultaneously. It’s more closely tied to the individual words and their interpretation in a specific context, making it a phrase rather than an idiom.

Origin:
First appearing in the 20th century, the term "juice" symbolized energy or power, often in mechanical or electrical contexts.

Meaning:
To enhance or energize something.

Usage:

1. They juiced up the presentation with animations.
2. Adding spices really juiced up the flavor of the dish.
3. He juiced up his car’s performance with a new engine.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Spice it up", "Energize", "Enhance"

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to add energy, excitement, or enhancement to something. While slightly metaphorical, the phrase ties closely to the literal idea of adding "juice" to invigorate.

Origin:
This phrase gained popularity in the 20th century, with "juice" symbolizing energy or enhancement.

Meaning:
To exaggerate or embellish a story to make it more interesting.

Usage:

1. He juiced up the story to make it more thrilling for the audience.
2. The journalist was accused of juicing up the report to attract readers.
3. Don’t juice up the story; just tell the truth.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Spice up", "Exaggerate", "Add flair".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to make a story more exciting or exaggerated. The meaning is metaphorical but closely tied to the literal idea of enhancing something.

Origin:
Likely from the early 20th century, symbolizing total commitment by diving fully into a task.

Meaning:
To become fully involved in something without hesitation.

Usage:

1. She jumped in with both feet when starting her new business.
2. He always jumps in with both feet when learning new skills.
3. The team jumped in with both feet to tackle the new project.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Dive headfirst", "Go all in", "Throw yourself into it".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it figuratively means to become fully involved in something, usually without hesitation or without considering potential consequences. The phrase does not refer to a literal act of jumping but instead conveys the idea of committing oneself completely to an activity or situation. The meaning cannot be deduced from the individual words, as "jumping in with both feet" does not literally suggest action in the way it is figuratively used.

Origin:
Emerged in the 19th century, describing swift and decisive movements.

Meaning:
To start doing something quickly and energetically.

Usage:

1. The firefighters jumped into action as soon as they heard the alarm.
2. She jumped into action to fix the mistake before the deadline.
3. He jumped into action when the opportunity arose.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Spring into action", "Leap into gear", "Get moving".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it closely relates to initiating or taking quick action, with "jump" metaphorically indicating a quick movement or response. It's more literal in the context of taking immediate action.

Origin:
Borrowed from automotive language, this phrase originated in the early 20th century, symbolizing the activation or initiation of action.

Meaning:
To start working or acting efficiently and effectively.

Usage:

1. The team jumped into gear as the deadline approached.
2. He finally jumped into gear after weeks of procrastination.
3. It’s time to jump into gear and tackle this project head-on.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Get the ball rolling", "Shift into high gear", "Kick into action".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to shifting into a higher level of activity or readiness. It metaphorically connects to the idea of shifting gears in a vehicle, but it's directly tied to the action of preparing for something.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of overcoming obstacles. It likely comes from the sport of track and field, where athletes physically jump over hurdles.

Meaning:
To overcome difficulties or challenges.

Usage:

1. 1. Starting a new business requires jumping over many hurdles.
2. She had to jump over hurdles to finish her education.
3. The team jumped over all the hurdles to complete the project on time.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Overcome obstacles", "Clear the barriers", "Break through challenges".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to overcoming obstacles or challenges. While metaphorical, it is closely tied to the literal idea of "hurdles" and the action of jumping over them.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the mid-20th century, primarily in British English, symbolizing the act of driving through a traffic light when it is red.

Meaning:
To drive through a traffic light when it is red.

Usage:

1. He was fined for jumping the lights at the intersection.
2. She cautioned him not to jump the lights in the city.
3. They witnessed a car jump the lights and cause an accident.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Run a red light," "Ignore traffic signals," "Break traffic rules."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to moving or acting before the appropriate time, especially in the context of crossing a traffic signal before it turns green. The phrase can be metaphorical, implying that someone is rushing ahead of circumstances, but the connection to the literal words (jumping traffic lights) is clear and direct. It doesn’t have a non-literal meaning that’s entirely disconnected from its components, so it’s a phrase.

Origin:
First recorded in the 18th century, where "jump" implies quick action and eagerness.

Meaning:
To help someone immediately.

Usage:

1. She jumped to her friend’s aid during the argument.
2. They jumped to the family’s aid after the fire.
3. He jumped to the stranger’s aid when the car broke down.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Come to the rescue", "Lend a hand", "Step in".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to quickly helping someone when they are in need. Although metaphorical in a sense, it is closely tied to the literal action of providing immediate support or assistance, making it a more context-based expression.

Origin:
Originating in the mid-20th century from music and dance, this phrase symbolizes synchronization with a tempo or trend.

Meaning:
To align oneself with a rhythm, trend, or prevailing mood.

Usage:

1. The dancers jumped to the beat of the lively music.
2. He jumped to the beat of the new corporate culture.
3. She’s always ready to jump to the beat of changing circumstances.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Go with the flow", "March to the same beat", "Dance to the tune".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to moving or acting in synchronization with the rhythm of music, closely tied to the literal act of jumping in time with the beat. The meaning is connected directly to the context of musical rhythm.

Origin:
This phrase became common in the 18th century, symbolizing a swift and proactive stance in protection.

Meaning:
To act quickly to protect or defend someone or something.

Usage:

1. He jumped to the defense of his friend during the argument.
2. The lawyer jumped to the defense of her client in court.
3. They jumped to the defense of their rights.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Spring to someone’s aid", "Come to someone’s defense", "Stand up for".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to quickly offering protection or support, typically in a situation where someone is being criticized or attacked. The meaning is closely tied to the literal idea of defending someone, but metaphorically it refers to acting quickly.

Origin:
Originating in the 19th century, this phrase symbolizes prompt and heroic actions in perilous situations.

Meaning:
To act quickly to help or save someone in trouble.

Usage:

1. The firefighters jumped to the rescue during the emergency.
2. He always jumps to the rescue when his friends need help.
3. They jumped to the rescue of the stranded dog.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Come to the aid", "Ride to the rescue", "Step up to help".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to quickly coming to someone’s aid in an emergency or time of need. Although metaphorical, it is more directly tied to the action of providing immediate assistance.

Origin:
Likely derived from music and dance, where performers follow the rhythm or tune, symbolizing obedience. It became figurative in the 19th century.

Meaning:
To follow someone’s orders or instructions without question.

Usage:

1. He always jumps to the tune of his boss.
2. The children jumped to the tune of their strict teacher.
3. She refused to jump to the tune of societal expectations.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Toe the line", "Follow suit", "Dance to someone’s tune".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to responding to the guidance or influence of someone or something, typically in the context of following instructions or directions. It is closely tied to the literal action of moving in sync with a musical rhythm.

Origin:
Borrowed from engineering and automotive terms of the 20th century, where “getting up to speed” referred to achieving full operational capability.

Meaning:
To quickly catch up or become knowledgeable about something.

Usage:

1. He needs to jump up to speed on the latest developments in the project.
2. The new hire jumped up to speed with training in just a week.
3. I’ll jump up to speed before the meeting tomorrow.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Catch up", "Get in the loop", "Be on the same page".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to becoming quickly knowledgeable or up-to-date with a situation or information. The phrase is closely tied to the literal idea of increasing speed or efficiency, but metaphorically it refers to catching up quickly.

Origin:
This phrase developed in the 20th century, reflecting the longing for something desired but out of immediate reach.

Meaning:
Something that feels close in imagination but far from reality.

Usage:

1. Her dreams of fame felt just a daydream away.
2. Success seemed just a daydream away for the struggling artist.
3. The perfect vacation was just a daydream away during her busy workday.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Out of reach", "Pie in the sky", "Wishful thinking".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it implies something is very close or easy to achieve, with "daydream" referring to something imagined or wished for. The phrase itself is figurative but maintains a connection to the individual words and their contextual meaning, suggesting something that is just out of reach but not entirely unattainable.

Origin:
Derived from playful descriptions of short distances, this phrase dates back to the early 19th century. It evokes the idea of traveling a small, easy distance.

Meaning:
Very close or near in distance.

Usage:

1. The coffee shop is just a hop, skip, and a jump away from here.
2. Her house is just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the park.
3. The bookstore is just a hop, skip, and a jump away from my office.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"A stone’s throw", "Just around the corner", "Within walking distance".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to something being very close or easy to reach, but the meaning is still connected to the literal words "hop," "skip," and "jump." These words suggest that the distance or effort involved is minimal, so it maintains a more direct relationship to the context.

Origin:
The act of nodding as a gesture of acknowledgment or agreement has been in use since the Middle Ages, making it a symbol of proximity and accessibility.

Meaning:
Easily accessible or readily available.

Usage:

1. Assistance is just a nod away if you need it.
2. The information you need is just a nod away with our online support.
3. Success felt just a nod away for the talented artist.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
 "Within reach", "At your fingertips", "Close at hand".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it suggests something is very close or easily accessible, and the meaning is tied to the concept of a "nod" being a small, quick action or gesture. The words are metaphorical but can be understood from the context in which they are used.

Origin:
The phrase originates from measurement tools where “notches” represent levels or increments. It became figurative in the early 20th century.

Meaning:
Slightly better or superior.

Usage:

1. Her cooking is just a notch above the rest.
2. This new phone is just a notch above its predecessor.
3. His performance was just a notch above everyone else's.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"A cut above", "One step ahead", "Head and shoulders above".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it suggests that something is slightly better or higher in rank, with "notch" being a small mark or level. The phrase is metaphorical, but its meaning can be easily understood from the individual words used in the context.

Origin:
The phrase originates from the 19th century, symbolizing transient periods or behaviors that don’t endure.

Meaning:
Something temporary or fleeting that is unlikely to last.

Usage:

1. His obsession with rock climbing is just a passing phase.
2. The fashion trend turned out to be just a passing phase.
3. Don’t worry, her moodiness is just a passing phase.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Short-lived trend", "Temporary craze", "Ephemeral interest".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to something temporary, with "phase" signifying a stage or period of time. While it is metaphorical, the meaning can be easily derived from the literal interpretation of "passing" and "phase."

Origin:
This phrase originated in the 20th century in industrial and repair contexts, symbolizing a band-aid solution rather than a comprehensive one.

Meaning:
A temporary solution to a problem that doesn’t address the root cause.

Usage:

1. The patch on the software is just a quick fix, not a permanent solution.
2. Installing this filter is just a quick fix for the water problem.
3. Don’t rely on just a quick fix for such a critical issue.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Band-aid solution", "Stopgap measure", "Temporary workaround".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to a temporary or superficial solution to a problem, with "quick" and "fix" directly suggesting a solution that is not long-lasting. The phrase can be understood from its individual words in context.

Origin:
Made famous by Neil Armstrong’s quote during the moon landing in 1969, it symbolizes progress, however small.

Meaning:
A modest action or progress toward a larger goal.

Usage:

1. Switching to reusable bags is just a small step toward sustainability.
2. Her success is just a small step in her long career.
3. Learning the basics is just a small step in mastering the language.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"One step at a time", "A step in the right direction", "Baby steps".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to a minor or initial action in a larger process, with "small step" being a literal action in a figurative context. It is metaphorical but can be easily understood based on the individual words.

Origin:
The term "token" has been used since the 14th century to signify a symbol or gesture, often small but meaningful.

Meaning:
A small gesture or gift meant to show appreciation or gratitude.

Usage:

1. This book is just a small token of my gratitude.
2. They gave her flowers as just a small token for her hard work.
3. The souvenir was just a small token of their trip abroad.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"A token of appreciation", "A little something", "A simple gesture".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to a small gesture or item, typically symbolic. The words are used literally to suggest something minimal, but in a figurative context, they convey the idea of a gesture that represents more than its physical value.

Origin:
Dating back to the 18th century, this phrase refers to a distance that could be covered by throwing a stone. It symbolizes proximity.

Meaning:
Very close or nearby.

Usage:

1. The café is just a stone’s throw away from here.
2. Her house is a stone’s throw away from the park.
3. The office is just a stone’s throw away from the train station.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Within arm’s reach", "Close at hand", "Right around the corner".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it suggests something is very close, and the meaning is tied to the literal words of "stone" and "throw," implying a small distance. Though figurative, the meaning is contextually clear from the individual words.

Origin:
The use of "fraction" to signify small parts dates back to the Middle Ages, symbolizing divisions in measurement and portions.

Meaning:
A very small portion or part of something.

Usage:

1. His savings represent just a tiny fraction of what he needs for retirement.
2. The budget cut was just a tiny fraction of the company’s expenses.
3. This data covers just a tiny fraction of the population.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"The tip of the iceberg", "A drop in the bucket", "A sliver".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to a very small part of something larger, and the meaning can be understood from the words "tiny" and "fraction." The context helps emphasize how small a portion is being referred to.

Origin:
The phrase gained popularity in the mid-20th century, symbolizing anonymity or blending into a group.

Meaning:
An unremarkable or ordinary individual among many others.

Usage:

1. He didn’t want to be just another face in the crowd at the event.
2. The singer stood out, refusing to be just another face in the crowd.
3. She felt like just another face in the crowd at her new school.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"One of the herd", "A dime a dozen", "Blending into the background".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to someone who is not distinguished from others in a group. While figurative, the meaning is still closely related to the words "face" and "crowd," implying a lack of individuality.

Origin:
Rooted in travel, particularly by road or river, this phrase reflects something physically or metaphorically near but not yet visible. It became common in the 19th century.

Meaning:
Happening or arriving very soon.

Usage:

1. The holidays are just around the bend.
2. The solution to this problem might be just around the bend.
3. Her big opportunity is just around the bend.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Around the corner", "Close at hand", "Coming soon".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it implies something is very close or imminent, with "bend" referring to a curve in the road. The phrase retains its connection to the literal sense of something being just out of view, but figurative in the context of time or events.

Origin:
The phrase has been used since the 19th century and likely comes from the literal idea of something being close by, just out of immediate sight but easily reachable.

Meaning:
Something that is about to happen or is very close in time or distance.

Usage:

1. Spring is just around the corner, so start planning your garden.
2. With graduation just around the corner, I’m feeling both nervous and excited.
3. The store is just around the corner from here.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Close at hand," "Coming soon," "Imminent"

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to something that is near or upcoming, and the meaning can be inferred from the literal sense of being just around a corner.

Origin:
This phrase originated in the early 20th century and is commonly used in legal and official contexts. It signifies that the information being stated should be formally noted or remembered.

Meaning:
To clarify or emphasize a point, ensuring that it is officially recorded or remembered.

Usage:

1. Just for the record, I did complete the assignment on time.
2. Just for the record, I never agreed to those terms.
3. Just for the record, the meeting starts at 10 AM, not 9 AM.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"For the sake of clarity," "To set the record straight," "For future reference."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it is used to emphasize that something is being stated for clarity, accuracy, or official confirmation. While it may seem somewhat metaphorical, the meaning is closely tied to the individual words: "just" meaning only, "for the" indicating purpose, and "record" implying an official account or acknowledgment. It doesn’t have a figurative meaning unrelated to the literal words, so it is a phrase rather than an idiom.

Origin:
This phrase emerged in the 19th century as industrial practices emphasized punctuality.

Meaning:
At the last possible moment.

Usage:

1. He arrived just in time for the meeting.
2. The firefighters got there just in time to save the house.
3. She submitted her assignment just in time before the deadline.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"By the skin of one’s teeth", "At the eleventh hour", "Cutting it close".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to something happening at the last possible moment, but the meaning is closely tied to the individual words "in" and "time," which help contextualize it.

Origin:
This phrase combines the literal idea of "earshot," meaning the range of hearing, which dates back to the 1500s.

Meaning:
Far enough away that one cannot hear.

Usage:

1. They waited until she was just out of earshot before discussing the surprise party.
2. He moved just out of earshot to take the private call.
3. The kids whispered secrets just out of earshot of their parents.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Out of hearing range", "Out of ear reach", "Beyond hearing distance".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to something being within a short distance from the range of hearing, and its meaning can be understood literally from the words "earshot" (the range within which sound can be heard) and "out of." While metaphorical in context, it’s more about proximity than a figurative expression.

Origin:
This phrase emerged in the late 19th century, drawing from the idea of minimal effort or resources required to sustain oneself.

Meaning:
To barely manage to survive or make ends meet.

Usage:

1. He’s just scraping by on his current salary.
2. During tough times, the family was just scraping by.
3. The company is just scraping by while waiting for new investments.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Living paycheck to paycheck", "Barely making it", "Getting by".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to just managing to survive or get by, often in challenging conditions. The term "scraping" is used metaphorically but refers to the act of barely managing. Its meaning is tied closely to the words themselves.

Origin:
Popularized by Rudyard Kipling’s Just So Stories (1902), which were fanciful tales explaining natural phenomena.

Meaning:
Stories or explanations made up to justify or rationalize something, often in a fanciful way.

Usage:

1. His reasons for being late sounded like just so stories.
2. The myths about the creation of the world are fascinating just so stories.
3. Don’t believe all those just so stories about his success.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Tall tales", "Fanciful stories", "Cooked-up explanations".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to tales that are often made-up or invented to explain something, particularly in an oversimplified manner. The meaning can be understood from the context of the words "so" (as in 'so as to explain') and "stories" (tales that are made up).

Origin:
Derived from swimming, where “treading water” means staying afloat without moving forward. The phrase became figurative in the late 19th century.

Meaning:
Making minimal progress or barely maintaining a situation.

Usage:

1. He feels like he’s just treading water in his career.
2. The company is just treading water financially until the new product launches.
3. She’s just treading water while waiting for better opportunities.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Barely holding on", "Marking time", "Stuck in a rut".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to a situation where progress is stalled, but survival is maintained. The phrase uses "treading water" in a metaphorical sense, but the meaning of maintaining position is clearly tied to the words themselves.

Origin:
Originating from the Latin root "juxta" (beside) and "pose," this phrase gained prominence in the 19th century in literary and artistic circles.

Meaning:
To place two ideas or things side by side for comparison.

Usage:

1. The book juxtaposes ideas of freedom and control.
2. They juxtaposed modern art with classical pieces.
3. The documentary juxtaposes poverty with wealth.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Compare and contrast", "Side-by-side analysis", "Put things into perspective"

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to place ideas next to each other for comparison or contrast, with the meaning being directly tied to the words "juxtapose" (to place side by side) and "ideas." This expression is metaphorical but is closely connected to the literal meaning of arranging or positioning items.