all over the map »
Widely scattered or distributed; numerous and differing greatly.
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avant la lettre »
An example of a term before the term was coined. Describing a term used anachronistically.
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barrel »
The ribs and belly of a horse or pony.
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been to the rodeo »
N.d., Alan Neff, Precious Tribes, Vicious Lies, page 72.
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believe in »
To ascribe existence to.
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believe in »
To ascribe some powers or other attributes to.
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beyond the pale »
Describing behaviour that is considered to be outside the bounds of morality, good behaviour or judgement in civilised company.
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birds and bees »
Informal sex education, especially describing the sexual activity of animals rather than that of people.
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blanket term »
A word or phrase that is used to describe multiple groups of related things. The degree of relation may vary. Blanket terms often trade specificity for ease-of-use; in other words, a blanket term by itself gives little detail about the things that it describes or the relationships between them, but is easy to say and remember. Blanket terms often originate as slang, and eventually become integrated into the general vocabulary.
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born with a silver spoon in one's mouth »
Note. The original nautical expression is just born with a silver spoon and describes those young gentlemen who were able to enter the Royal Navy without examination and whose promotion was assured. the converse was born with a wooden ladle.
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calling card »
An attribute, object, or behavior which is distinctly characteristic of someone or something.
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carry one's weight »
To contribute or produce one's fair share, as of work, money, etc.
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catbird seat »
Expression used to describe an enviable position, often one of great advantage.
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chalk up »
To attribute, credit, or blame.
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chalk up to »
To attribute or account for something.
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| BTW, Why won't you become an editor? |
