sell a bargain »
A species of wit, much in vogue about the latter end of the reign of Queen Anne, and frequently alluded to by Dean Swift, who says the maids of honour often amused themselves with it. It consisted in the seller naming his or her hinder parts, in answer to the question, What? which the buyer was artfully led to ask. As a specimen, take the following instance: A lady would come into a room full of company, apparently frightened, crying out "It is white, and follows me!" As soon as someone responded "What?" she sold him the bargain, by saying "Mine arse".
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set in one's ways »
Driven by habit; inclined or determined to continue according to one's custom or established preferences.
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soapbox »
A crate for packing soap, or, by extension, any inexpensive crude platform raised above the surrounding level to give prominence to the person on it, especially when used for speeches.
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steal somebody's thunder »
To detract from somebody's accomplishments or glory; to undermine.
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stick out »
To be prominent, noticeable, or obtrusive.
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take a gander »
To take a look; to check or examine.
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take a look »
To examine or observe.
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the die is cast »
The future is determined; there are no more options; events will proceed in an irreversible manner.
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turn upside down »
To thoroughly examine.
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vote in »
To collectively approve a nominee into an office or position as a result of voting.
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