Category Archives: Culture

The Lion’s Share: Why do we say someone got the lion’s share?

When someone gets the lion’s share of something (be it a cake, profits from a company, or anything else), it means they are getting most, if not all of it. Why would a lion’s share mean this? Where does this … Continue reading

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One Trick Pony: Why do we say someone is a one trick pony?

Dictionaries define “one trick pony” as a person or thing that is thought to be limited to only one single talent, capability, or quality; much like a pony that has been taught only one trick. But where does this phrase … Continue reading

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Why do we say a time of day is AM or PM? What does AM PM stand for?

The AM and PM abbreviation is often used to describe the time of day, but what does AM PM stand for? What is the meaning of AM and PM?

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Money in the Kitty: Why do we say we put money in the kitty?

If you haven’t heard this phrase before, let me assure you we are not talking about sprinkling your cat’s food bowl with coins and dollar bills. “Putting money in the kitty” is a term often referring to putting money into … Continue reading

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Pardon my French origin: Why do we say Excuse my French when we swear?

It’s not uncommon to find someone saying “Pardon my French” after a tirade of less-than-dignified language. The classic movie, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off exemplifies its use when Bueller says: “Pardon my French, but you’re an asshole.” Why would anyone claim … Continue reading

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Fly off the handle: Why do we say someone is flying off the handle?

“My teacher absolutely flew off the handle today when I was 30 minutes late for class this morning…” We use the phrase “flying off the handle” to describe someone who has lost their temper and self-control, and has become so … Continue reading

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Green St Patricks Day: What is St Patricks day and why do we wear green on St Patricks day?

Every March 17th, many places around the globe celebrate St Patrick’s Day with parades, costumes, wearing green, glugging down Irish beer and  generally having some good old craic! Why do we wear green on this day? And more importantly, what … Continue reading

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Pancake day history: Why do we eat pancakes on Shrove Tuesday?

Once a year it is customary to stuff our faces with pancakes. Yes, I’m talking about Pancake Day! Or as it’s more correctly known by it’s Christian name, Shrove Tuesday. But how did “Pancake Day” arise? Why do we eat … Continue reading

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Cold feet Meaning and Origin: Why do say we get Cold Feet?

People who commit to something and then back out are referred to as “getting cold feet”. Although it can refer to any commitment where there is timidity or fearfulness causing backtracking, it is a popular slang term for people chickening … Continue reading

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Limelight meaning: Why do we say a celebrity is in the limelight?

When a celebrity or politician pops up in the news for their most recent escapades, it’s not uncommon to hear the media comment that these people are “in the limelight” yet again. They mean that they’ve got our attention, as … Continue reading

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