Buzz
This collection highlights phrases that are widely recognized and frequently used by many. The origins of these expressions are often surprising and peculiar. As you explore this list, you’ll find that some of these sayings come from sources that are hard to believe. If you know of any other phrases with intriguing backstories, feel free to share them in the comments. The information here is sourced from The Book of Beginnings, which is currently out of print.
10. Always a Bridesmaid, Never a Bride
Surprisingly, this phrase was part of a marketing campaign for Listerine mouthwash! To promote their product, Listerine’s creators tapped into the experiences of young women at the time, who longed to marry but often found themselves overlooked. First introduced in the 1920s, the phrase captures a common scenario and offers a possible reason for their struggles. Here’s the transcript of the original advertisement:
Edna, nearing thirty, watched as most of her friends were either married or soon to be. She longed to be the bride instead of the perpetual bridesmaid. Yet, her romances always fizzled out quickly. The reason? Unbeknownst to her, she had bad breath, and no one, not even her closest friends, had the heart to tell her. This advertisement not only sold millions of mouthwash bottles but also introduced a new phrase into the English language!
9. Bark up the wrong tree
This phrase dates back to the era when hunting was a popular sport. It stems from the practice of using dogs to track and retrieve prey, particularly raccoons, which were often hunted at night. The dogs were trained to bark at the tree where the raccoon had hidden. However, even the best-trained dogs could make mistakes and sometimes barked up the wrong tree.
8. Be on a good footing
Being ‘on a good footing’ with someone, especially those in higher positions, signifies a positive and harmonious relationship. There are two theories about the origin of this phrase. One traces it back to early apprenticeships, where new apprentices would host their colleagues with drinks on their first day. If the apprentice was generous, they earned lasting friendships and were said to have gained ‘a good footing.’ Another theory connects it to an old belief in human anatomy, where the length of a person’s middle toes determined their social standing. Those with larger feet were considered fortunate to be ‘on a good footing.’ Draw your own conclusions!
7. Beat around the bush
The phrase ‘beat around the bush’ describes someone who avoids getting to the point. Its origins lie in hunting, particularly boar hunting. Boars, known for their ferocity, often hid in dense undergrowth. Hunters employed beaters to flush them out, but fearing the boars’ sharp tusks, the beaters often hesitated and merely ‘beat around the bush,’ much to the disapproval of their employers.
6. Best foot forward
The phrase ‘best foot forward’ is often used when someone aims to make a strong impression. One theory suggests its origin lies in the belief that the left side was associated with evil and misfortune, as the Latin word ‘sinister’ means left and carries a negative connotation. To avoid bad luck, people would step forward with their right foot, considered the ‘best’ foot.
However, this expression likely stems from the world of fashion rather than superstition. It gained popularity in the late 18th century, during the era of the dandy, when men sought attention through elaborate appearances. It was believed that one leg was more attractive than the other, so individuals would position their less appealing leg behind, literally putting their ‘best foot forward’ to showcase their more flattering side.
5. Bite the bullet
The phrase ‘bite the bullet’ describes someone who faces adversity with bravery and without fear. It originates from a risky military practice in the 1850s involving the British Enfield rifle. Soldiers had to bite off the tip of a cartridge to expose the gunpowder, a task requiring immense courage and precision, especially during battle. Any hesitation or mistake could put the soldier’s life in danger.
4. Blow Hot and Cold
The expression ‘blow hot and cold’ refers to someone who frequently changes their stance, shifting between enthusiasm and indifference. Its origins lie in one of Aesop’s Fables, where a traveler blows on his cold fingers to warm them and later on hot food to cool it. A satyr, observing this, becomes suspicious of the man’s ability to ‘blow hot and cold from the same mouth’ and sends him away, unwilling to associate with someone so inconsistent.
3. By hook or by crook
The phrase ‘by hook or by crook’ refers to achieving a goal through any means necessary, whether fair or unfair. Its origins trace back to an old British custom when forests were royal property. Commoners were forbidden from cutting wood, but the poor were allowed to collect fallen branches or deadwood using tools like hooks or crooks. This practice gave rise to the expression, symbolizing resourcefulness and determination.
2. Bury the hatchet
Burying the hatchet signifies the act of making peace. With conflicts resolved, the hatchet became unnecessary and could be discarded. This phrase, now purely symbolic, originates from a genuine tradition of Native Americans. During peace negotiations, they would bury their weapons, including tomahawks, scalping knives, and clubs. This gesture not only demonstrated their sincerity but also ensured that they could not resume fighting.
1. Break a leg
Wishing an actor to 'break a leg' before they step onto the stage is a widely recognized tradition. While it may seem like an odd wish, it is actually intended to bring them good fortune and ensure a successful performance. Rooted in superstitious beliefs, it was thought that envious forces, ever-present, were eager to ruin any endeavor. A direct good luck wish might provoke these forces to cause harm, whereas a curse would divert their attention. The idea is that wishing for something bad will result in something good, a concept now often referred to as reverse psychology.
