Origin:
This phrase became popular in the mid-20th century, particularly in military and political contexts, emphasizing the need to avoid drawing attention.

Meaning:
To avoid attracting attention or standing out.

Usage:

1. He decided to keep a low profile until the controversy died down.
2. Celebrities often keep a low profile while on vacation.
3. After the incident, she kept a low profile at work.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Fly under the radar", "Stay out of the limelight", "Lay low".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to stay out of the spotlight or avoid attracting attention. While metaphorical, the meaning is tied to the words "low" and "profile," which relate directly to being inconspicuous or unnoticed.

Origin:
This phrase likely emerged in the 19th century, referring to the physical act of controlling facial expressions to avoid showing emotions.

Meaning:
To avoid showing amusement, surprise, or emotion.

Usage:

1. She struggled to keep a straight face during the comedian’s act.
2. It’s hard to keep a straight face when he tells such absurd stories.
3. The teacher kept a straight face despite the student’s silly antics.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Play it cool", "Keep your composure", "Maintain your poker face".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to maintaining a neutral or serious expression, especially when something humorous or absurd happens. The meaning can be understood from the individual words, as it literally refers to not smiling or laughing.

Origin:
Derived from horseback riding, where keeping tight reins symbolized control over the horse. It dates back to the 17th century.

Meaning:
To maintain strict control over something or someone.

Usage:

1. The manager kept a tight rein on the budget to avoid overspending.
2. Parents often keep a tight rein on their children’s online activities.
3. The teacher kept a tight rein on classroom behavior.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Rein in", "Hold the reins", "Keep under control".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to control something or someone very strictly. The literal image of holding a rein tightly connects to the figurative meaning of exercising control or restraint.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 17th century, symbolizing the act of watching or monitoring someone or something closely.

Meaning:
To watch or monitor someone or something closely.

Usage:

1. She asked him to keep an eye on her belongings.
2. He kept an eye on the children while they played.
3. They needed to keep an eye on the stock market trends.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Watch over," "Monitor," "Observe."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to monitor or observe something or someone closely. While "eye" could have a figurative meaning in some contexts, in this case, the phrase retains a literal sense—looking or watching with attention. The meaning here is directly tied to the individual words and how we understand them in this specific context, making it a phrase rather than an idiom.

Origin:
First recorded in the 17th century, the phrase refers to being vigilant and watching for something specific.

Meaning:
To watch carefully for something or someone.

Usage:

1. Keep an eye out for sales at your favorite store.
2. He kept an eye out for the delivery truck all morning.
3. Travelers are advised to keep an eye out for pickpockets.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Be on the lookout", "Stay alert", "Keep your eyes peeled".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to watch carefully or stay alert for something. The words “eye” and “out” directly convey the idea of staying watchful, and the meaning can be easily understood from this context.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to hunting practices in the Middle Ages when hounds would bark at their prey, keeping it cornered or "at bay."

Meaning:
To prevent something undesirable from advancing or happening.

Usage:

1. She took medication to keep the pain at bay.
2. They worked hard to keep financial problems at bay.
3. He exercised regularly to keep illness at bay.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
 "Hold off", "Keep under control", "Ward off".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to keeping something or someone at a distance or preventing it from approaching. The meaning is related to the literal concept of keeping something “at bay,” as in keeping it away or under control.

Origin:
This phrase emerged in the early 20th century, symbolizing persistence in completing a task despite obstacles.

Meaning:
To continue working on something persistently.

Usage:

1. Keep at it, and you’ll eventually finish the project.
2. He kept at it despite multiple failures.
3. If you want to improve, you have to keep at it every day.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Stick with it", "Persevere", "Hang in there".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to persist with something or continue working at it. It can be understood through the words themselves, as “keep” refers to continuing, and “at it” suggests focusing on the task at hand.

Origin:
Popularized during World War II by the British government as a motivational slogan for citizens during the Blitz.

Meaning:
To remain calm and continue despite challenges.

Usage:

1. When the power went out, they decided to keep calm and carry on.
2. Keep calm and carry on, no matter what life throws at you.
3. The students kept calm and carried on through exam week.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Stay the course", "Hold steady", "Keep your cool".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to maintaining composure and continuing with one's tasks in the face of adversity. While the words themselves imply actions that are straightforward, the phrase carries a more contextual message of perseverance.

Origin:
This phrase comes from the concept of restraining something or someone, first used in the 15th century.

Meaning:
To control or restrain something.

Usage:

1. The government implemented policies to keep inflation in check.
2. She kept her emotions in check during the heated discussion.
3. The leash helps to keep the dog in check while walking.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Keep under control", "Hold back", "Rein in".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to control or restrain something or someone. It directly relates to keeping something "checked," which involves monitoring or regulating it, making it closely tied to the words themselves.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the 17th century, emphasizing the importance of remembering or considering something.

Meaning:
To remember or take into account.

Usage:

1. Keep in mind that deadlines are strict for this project.
2. Please keep in mind the weather forecast before traveling.
3. She kept in mind her mother's advice during the decision-making process.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Bear in mind", "Take into account", "Remember".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to remember or consider something. The words themselves are directly tied to the action of mentally noting something, so it is contextually clear.

Origin:
This phrase emerged in the 19th century with the advent of improved communication methods, symbolizing staying connected.

Meaning:
To maintain contact with someone.

Usage:

1. They promised to keep in touch after moving to different cities.
2. Social media makes it easier to keep in touch with old friends.
3. He kept in touch with his mentor even after graduation.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Stay connected", "Reach out", "Keep the lines of communication open".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to maintaining communication, typically with someone. The phrase is tied to the idea of staying in contact, which is understood through the words "touch" and "keep" in a context of communication.

Origin:
A modern phrase that evolved in the 20th century, symbolizing the idea of maintaining momentum or persistence.

Meaning:
To continue something without stopping.

Usage:

1. The team kept it going until the final whistle blew.
2. Despite the challenges, she kept it going with her studies.
3. Keep it going; you’re doing great!

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Stay the course", "Keep up the momentum", "Stick with it".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to continuing with something, such as an activity or a process. It is closely related to the literal idea of keeping something in motion or continuing.

Origin:
The phrase has been in use since the 19th century, emphasizing brevity and clarity in communication.

Meaning:
To make something concise yet effective.

Usage:

1. The speaker kept it short and sweet, delivering his message in five minutes.
2. Keep your email short and sweet for quicker responses.
3. She kept it short and sweet, knowing her audience appreciated brevity.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Get to the point", "Cut to the chase", "Be brief".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to making something brief but pleasant or effective. The meaning is clear from the words themselves: to shorten something while maintaining its positive qualities.

Origin:
Emerging in the mid-20th century, this phrase became widely recognized during the civil rights movement, symbolizing perseverance.

Meaning:
To continue working or moving forward despite challenges.

Usage:

1. Life is tough, but you just have to keep on keeping on.
2. He kept on keeping on, determined to reach his goal.
3. When the going gets tough, keep on keeping on.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Keep at it", "Stay the course", "Hang in there".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to continue with something, especially when it’s difficult. The words "keep on" are closely tied to the idea of persistence and can be understood literally in the context. The phrase uses literal language that refers to maintaining effort, making the meaning clear from the words themselves, even though it may carry a motivational or figurative tone.

Origin:
This phrase originates from military drills in the 17th century, where soldiers were required to march in step with one another, symbolizing synchronization and alignment.

Meaning:
To stay up to date or in step with someone or something.

Usage:

1. It’s hard to keep pace with the rapid advancements in technology.
2. She works hard to keep pace with her more experienced colleagues.
3. He couldn’t keep pace with the runners ahead of him in the marathon.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Stay in step", "Keep up", "Go with the flow".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because the words themselves directly convey the idea of moving in sync with another. The meaning is more literal and tied to the individual words.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of keeping someone informed about the latest developments.

Meaning:
To keep someone informed about the latest developments.

Usage:

1. She asked him to keep her posted about the progress.
2. He promised to keep them posted on any updates.
3. They kept their colleagues posted on the project status.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Update," "Inform," "Keep in the loop."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to keep someone informed or updated, especially about developments or changes. The phrase uses "posted" in the sense of keeping someone up to date, which is a contextual interpretation of the word. While it could have metaphorical connotations, the meaning is closely tied to the individual words and their typical use in communication, making it a phrase rather than an idiom.

Origin:
Dating back to the 16th century, this phrase originally referred to maintaining physical or social separation for respect or caution.

Meaning:
 To avoid getting too close to someone or something.

Usage:

1. He kept his distance to avoid further confrontation.
2. Keep your distance from the edge of the cliff for safety.
3. She decided to keep her distance from toxic relationships.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Stay away", "Maintain boundaries", "Keep a safe space".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it is closely tied to the literal idea of distancing oneself. The phrase is more literal, relating to maintaining physical or emotional distance, which can be understood directly from the words themselves.

Origin:
Popularized during the U.S. civil rights movement in the 1960s, this phrase symbolizes staying focused on long-term goals.

Meaning:
To remain focused on achieving a desired outcome.

Usage:

1. Keep your eyes on the prize and don’t let distractions derail you.
2. Athletes train hard, keeping their eyes on the prize of victory.
3. She kept her eyes on the prize of earning her degree despite challenges.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Stay focused", "Stay on track", "Keep your goal in sight".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because the words "eyes" and "prize" can be interpreted literally, as they connect directly to staying focused on a target or objective. Although it’s metaphorical, the phrase is grounded in a direct interpretation of staying focused, which makes it easier to understand from the context.

Origin:
This phrase emerged in the early 20th century and was popularized during wartime to encourage secrecy and caution.

Meaning:
To remain silent or not reveal information.

Usage:

1. He kept his mouth shut about the surprise party plans.
2. Keep your mouth shut unless you’re asked to speak.
3. She kept her mouth shut to avoid escalating the argument.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Zip your lips", "Stay tight-lipped", "Bite your tongue".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because the literal action of shutting one's mouth directly correlates with the intended meaning of silence. The phrase is closely tied to the literal meaning of keeping one’s mouth closed, making it understandable in the context of maintaining quiet.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of maintaining a sense of balance and perspective.

Meaning:
To maintain a sense of balance and perspective.

Usage:

1. She reminded them to keep the problem in proportion.
2. He advised keeping the issue in proportion and not overreacting.
3. They tried to keep things in proportion during the crisis.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Keep perspective," "Stay balanced," "Remain realistic."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to maintaining a proper balance or perspective, especially when considering the significance of something relative to other factors. While it uses the word "proportion" metaphorically, the concept of balancing or considering something in relation to other things is tied directly to the literal meaning of the words. This gives it a more literal connection, making it a phrase rather than an idiom.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to medieval times when maintaining peace and order in communities was essential, especially during conflicts.

Meaning:
To prevent or avoid conflict or violence.

Usage:

1. The police worked hard to keep the peace during the protest.
2. She tried to keep the peace between her arguing siblings.
3. Leaders must find ways to keep the peace in divided societies.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Maintain order", "Avoid conflict", "Hold the line".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because the words themselves relate directly to the literal concept of ensuring peace. The meaning is closely tied to the individual words and their straightforward interpretation.

Origin:
This phrase originated in the 19th century to describe people who preferred solitude or avoided sharing personal matters, symbolizing self-reliance and privacy.

Meaning:
To be reserved and avoid socializing or sharing personal information.

Usage:

1. She tends to keep to herself during social events.
2. It’s best to keep to yourself in a new environment until you get to know people.
3. He keeps to himself and rarely discusses his personal life.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Mind your own business", "Stay private", "Be a lone wolf".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to the literal or contextual act of remaining private or refraining from sharing with others. While it can imply some figurative meaning, the connection to the literal words is clear and direct.

Origin:
The phrase originates from the practice of making physical marks or "tracks" to record events, widely adopted in the 18th century to symbolize monitoring or recording details.

Meaning:
To monitor or stay informed about something.

Usage:

1. It’s important to keep track of your expenses to avoid overspending.
2. The teacher asked students to keep track of their homework deadlines.
3. She kept track of her child’s milestones in a journal.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Stay on top of", "Monitor closely", "Keep tabs on".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to monitor or stay aware of something. The words directly connect to the literal action of tracking or keeping an account, making the meaning contextually clear.

Origin:
This phrase emerged in the 18th century, often used in contexts like taming animals or managing situations, symbolizing restraint and discipline.

Meaning:
To manage or restrain something to prevent it from getting out of hand.

Usage:

1. He tried to keep his temper under control during the heated discussion.
2. The authorities worked to keep the crowd under control during the protest.
3. You need to keep your emotions under control in high-pressure situations.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Hold in check", "Keep a lid on", "Rein in".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to maintaining authority or managing something effectively. The meaning is closely tied to the literal interpretation of "control," making it more straightforward and contextual.

Origin:
First appearing in 19th-century motivational language, this phrase symbolizes encouragement and acknowledgment of ongoing effort.

Meaning:
To continue doing something well.

Usage:

1. Your progress is impressive; keep up the good work!
2. The coach encouraged the team to keep up the good work during practice.
3. The teacher praised the student and told him to keep up the good work.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Stay the course", "Keep it going", "Carry on".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it literally encourages someone to continue their efforts or maintain their performance. The meaning is clear and tied to the literal interpretation of continuing good work.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century and likely comes from military terminology, symbolizing the act of protecting oneself from potential threats or dangers.

Meaning:
To protect oneself from potential threats or dangers.

Usage:

1. He always keeps his back covered by double-checking his work.
2. She advised him to keep his back covered by documenting everything.
3. They made sure to keep their backs covered during negotiations.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Stay protected," "Be cautious," "Take precautions."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to ensure you are protected or that there is someone or something to support you in case of trouble. While it may be metaphorical, the connection to the literal act of covering one’s back for protection is direct and contextual, which keeps it as a phrase rather than an idiom.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the mid-20th century, symbolizing the act of not committing to one course of action and remaining open to different possibilities.

Meaning:
To remain open to different possibilities.

Usage:

1. She decided to keep her options open before making a decision.
2. He advised them to keep their options open and explore all opportunities.
3. They kept their options open in case better offers came along.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Stay flexible," "Be open-minded," "Explore possibilities."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to maintaining flexibility and not committing to one course of action too early. While "options" might be metaphorically used, the literal meaning of keeping alternatives available is clear and directly tied to the individual words, making it a phrase.

Origin:
Rooted in rural and Western imagery from the 19th century, this phrase refers to stirring activity or chaos, symbolizing high energy or disruption.

Meaning:
To create excitement, trouble, or chaos.

Usage:

1. The kids kicked up some dust with their energetic game in the yard.
2. Her bold remarks kicked up some dust in the debate.
3. They kicked up some dust with their new business idea in the market.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Cause a stir", "Shake things up", "Make a scene".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it more literally describes causing a disturbance or physical movement of dust in certain contexts. The connection to the literal words is clearer than the figurative interpretation.

Origin:
Originating in the mid-20th century, this term describes the return of money or favors as part of an under-the-table deal, symbolizing bribery or illegal incentives.

Meaning:
A bribe or illicit benefit returned to someone.

Usage:

1. The contractor was caught accepting kickbacks from suppliers.
2. Investigators found evidence of kickbacks in the bidding process.
3. He was accused of receiving kickbacks for awarding the project to a specific company.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Under-the-table deal", "Bribe", "Payoff".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to the literal or contextual action of relaxing or reclining. While it can have metaphorical meanings (e.g., a bribe), the phrase itself is not inherently idiomatic.

Origin:
First recorded in the 18th century, this phrase reflects the idea of "spending" time aimlessly or unproductively, symbolizing an activity used to fill idle time.

Meaning:
To pass time while waiting.

Usage:

1. We played cards to kill time before the concert started.
2. She went to the café to kill time before her flight.
3. I read a book to kill time during the long commute.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
 "Pass the time", "While away the hours", "Burn time".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to the act of passing time, usually in an idle or leisurely manner. While it has a metaphorical layer, the meaning is closely tied to the literal act of passing time. The connection to the individual words is clear, making it a phrase rather than an idiom.

Origin:
First recorded in the 18th century, this phrase combines "kill" (to destroy) with "joy" (happiness), symbolizing someone who ruins fun.

Meaning:
A person who dampens the enthusiasm or enjoyment of others.

Usage:

1. Don’t be such a killjoy; we’re just having fun!
2. His strict rules turned him into the group’s killjoy.
3. She was labeled a killjoy for refusing to join the party games.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Wet blanket", "Buzzkill", "Spoilsport".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it literally refers to someone who ruins joy or fun for others. The connection to the literal words "kill" and "joy" is clear and direct.

Origin:
This phrase has roots in the late 18th century, with "kindred" meaning related or similar in spirit, symbolizing a deep connection.

Meaning:
Someone with whom you share a strong similarity or bond.

Usage:

1. We became fast friends because she’s my kindred spirit.
2. He found a kindred spirit in his coworker who shared his passion for art.
3. Travelers often meet kindred spirits on their journeys.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Soulmate", "Kind soul", "Birds of a feather".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it literally refers to someone with a similar temperament or values. The meaning is more tied to the individual words and their contextual interpretation.

Origin:
Stemming from medieval times when castles symbolized power and dominance, this phrase emerged as a metaphor for someone in a dominant position.

Meaning:
A person who is in charge or enjoys superiority.

Usage:

1. After his promotion, he felt like the king of the castle.
2. The toddler declared himself king of the castle during playtime.
3. With no opposition, she became the king of the castle in her department.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Top dog", "Head honcho", "Master of all he surveys".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it directly refers to someone who has dominance or control, like a king ruling over a castle. The phrase has more literal connections than figurative ones.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 20th century and comes from the children's game where players try to stay on top of a hill. It symbolizes being the best or most powerful in a particular area.

Meaning:
To be the best or most powerful in a particular area.

Usage:

1. He became the king of the hill in his industry.
2. She aims to be the king of the hill in her field.
3. They fought to remain the king of the hill in the market.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Top dog," "Leader," "Best in the field."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to being the best or most dominant in a particular situation or group. While the phrase has metaphorical meaning, it is closely tied to the image of someone being at the top of a hill, representing power or leadership. The meaning comes directly from the individual words and context, so it is a phrase.

Origin:
This phrase has been in use since the early 20th century and refers to the physical discomfort of having a kink or crick in the neck. It symbolizes a minor but persistent problem or annoyance.

Meaning:
A minor but persistent problem or annoyance.

Usage:

1. He complained about a kink in his neck after sleeping awkwardly.
2. She felt a kink in her neck from sitting at her desk all day.
3. They mentioned the kink in their neck after a long car ride.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Minor annoyance," "Persistent problem," "Small irritation."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to a stiff or painful neck, usually caused by muscle tension. The meaning of the expression is closely tied to the literal experience of physical discomfort or tightness in the neck. The phrase does not have a figurative meaning beyond the literal discomfort, so it is classified as a phrase.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 14th century and originates from Old English words "cȳth" (meaning knowledge or acquaintance) and "cynn" (meaning family or race). It symbolizes one's friends and relatives.

Meaning:
One's friends and relatives.

Usage:

1. She invited all her kith and kin to the wedding.
2. He spent the holidays with his kith and kin.
3. They were surrounded by their kith and kin during the celebration.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Friends and family," "Loved ones," "Close acquaintances."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to one's family and close friends. The meaning is directly tied to the individual words, with "kin" referring to relatives and "kith" referring to acquaintances or friends. The connection to the literal meaning is clear, making it a phrase.

Origin:
First used in the 19th century, this phrase likely comes from the informal action of moving about without purpose or aim.

Meaning:
To wander or move about without a specific goal; to handle roughly.

Usage:

1. We spent the afternoon knocking around the old town.
2. He’s been knocking around ideas for his next novel.
3. The suitcase was knocked around during the trip and got damaged.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Mess around", "Hang out", "Float about".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it more literally describes wandering or casually moving from place to place. The connection to the literal words "knock" and "around" is clear and direct, with less emphasis on a figurative meaning.

Origin:
This phrase became popular in the mid-20th century in America, used as a slang phrase to tell someone to stop doing something annoying.

Meaning:
To stop doing something, especially something irritating.

Usage:

1. Knock it off! You’re being too loud.
2. The teacher told the students to knock it off and focus on their work.
3. If you don’t knock it off, you’re going to get into trouble.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Cut it out", "Stop it", "Quit it".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to the literal or contextual act of stopping a behavior or action. While the phrase can be stern or colloquial, its connection to the literal interpretation is clear and direct.

Origin:
Dating back to the early 19th century, this phrase originally referred to finishing work, later evolving to mean imitation or stopping something.

Meaning:
To stop doing something; to produce a cheap imitation.

Usage:

1. We’ll knock off work early today.
2. That’s not a designer handbag; it’s a knock-off.
3. The boss told us to knock off the gossiping.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
 "Call it a day", "Imitation", "Wrap it up".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it often refers to ceasing work or copying something, both of which have literal or contextual interpretations tied to the individual words.

Origin:
This phrase comes from the literal act of knocking on doors, symbolizing seeking an opportunity, dating back to the 19th century.

Meaning:
To seek an opportunity or ask for access.

Usage:

1. She knocked on the door of several companies before landing her dream job.
2. He’s always knocking on the door of success.
3. Don’t hesitate to knock on the door if you need help.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Seek an opportunity", "Ask for a chance", "Push the envelope".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to the literal act of physically knocking on a door. While it can also imply seeking an opportunity, the phrase's core meaning is tied directly to the words.

Origin:
First used in carpentry and construction, this phrase dates back to the 19th century, referring to quickly assembling something.

Meaning:
To assemble or create something hastily.

Usage:

1. Let’s knock together a quick dinner with what we have.
2. They knocked together a makeshift shelter in the woods.
3. The team knocked together a proposal in just a few hours.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Throw together", "Whip up", "Patch up".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to literally assembling or putting something together, often quickly or carelessly. The meaning is closely tied to the words used and lacks a figurative layer.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the 18th century, symbolizing someone with practical knowledge or expertise.

Meaning:
To be knowledgeable or experienced about something.

Usage:

1. She knows a thing or two about running a business.
2. He knows a thing or two about fixing cars.
3. Ask the professor; he knows a thing or two about that topic.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Well-versed", "In the know", "Expert in the field".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to being knowledgeable or experienced about something in a straightforward way. The meaning is literal and tied to the individual words.

Origin:
This phrase has been used since the 19th century, symbolizing clarity about one’s position or status in a situation.

Meaning:
To understand your status or relationship in a situation.

Usage:

1. I had a candid talk with my manager to know where I stand.
2. It’s important to know where you stand before making decisions.
3. After the feedback session, she knows where she stands with her team.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Gauge your position", "Get clarity", "Be on solid ground".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to literally or contextually understanding your position in a situation. The meaning is tied directly to the literal words.

Origin:
This phrase dates back to the early 19th century and symbolizes the act of understanding the current situation or trend. The phrase likely comes from the idea of knowing the wind's direction to navigate accordingly.

Meaning:
To understand the current situation or trend.

Usage:

1. He always knows which way the wind blows in the market.
2. She knew which way the wind was blowing and adjusted her strategy.
3. They tried to figure out which way the wind was blowing before making decisions.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Gauge the situation," "Understand the trend," "Assess the environment."

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to understanding the direction of a situation or the mood of people, typically for practical purposes. The meaning is closely related to the literal observation of the wind's direction, making it more of a phrase than an idiom.

Origin:
This phrase originated in mathematics in the 19th century, referring to something predictable or well-defined.

Meaning:
Someone or something familiar, reliable, or predictable.

Usage:

1. The new recruit isn’t a known quantity yet.
2. I prefer working with a known quantity rather than taking risks.
3. His track record makes him a known quantity in the industry.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Familiar face", "Safe bet", "Old hand".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to a person or thing with a familiar and predictable nature. The meaning is clear and directly linked to the individual words.

Origin:
This phrase likely comes from the game of marbles, where players placed their knuckles on the ground before taking a shot. It evolved in the 19th century to mean working hard.

Meaning:
To focus and work hard on a task or problem.

Usage:

1. You need to knuckle down if you want to pass your exams.
2. After the holidays, we’ll knuckle down to meet our deadlines.
3. It’s time to knuckle down and finish this project.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Buckle down", "Put your nose to the grindstone", "Get to work".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it refers to putting in hard work or effort, with a connection to the literal act of preparing for hard labor (knuckling). The phrase is more contextual than figurative.

Origin:
This phrase comes from the 18th century and refers to bowing or showing submission, where “knuckling under” suggests yielding or giving in.

Meaning:
To submit to authority or pressure.

Usage:

1. He refused to knuckle under to the company’s unfair demands.
2. She finally knuckled under after months of negotiation.
3. Don’t knuckle under; stand up for your rights.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
 "Give in", "Throw in the towel", "Yield to pressure".

Justifications:
This is a phrase because it means to submit or give in. While it has a slightly metaphorical aspect, the meaning is closely tied to the idea of bending under pressure.