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Bet You Didn’t Guess These Strange Origins of Common Phrases
Have you ever wondered about the origins of the phrases we use every day? Some of these phrases have been around for centuries, passed down from generation to generation. But did you know that many of them have bizarre and unexpected origins? In this article, we’ll explore some of the strangest origins of common phrases.
1. “Bite the bullet”
This phrase is believed to have originated during the 19th century, when soldiers in battle would bite down on a bullet to distract themselves from the pain of amputations and other surgeries. The phrase is now used to mean “to endure a difficult or unpleasant situation.”
2. “Saved by the bell”
This phrase is often used to describe a situation where someone narrowly avoids a bad outcome. Its origin, however, is quite macabre. In the 19th century, people were sometimes buried alive by mistake. To prevent this, a bell was attached to a string inside the coffin, so the person could ring it if they woke up. Hence, if someone was “saved by the bell,” it meant they were not buried alive.
3. “On the wagon”
This phrase is used to describe someone who has stopped drinking alcohol. Its origin dates back to the early 20th century when a popular method of transporting goods was by horse-drawn wagon. If someone was on the wagon, it meant they were not drinking and could safely operate the wagon.
4. “Cat got your tongue”
This phrase is often used to describe someone who is unusually quiet. Its origin is unclear, but one theory is that it comes from the practice of punishing liars by cutting out their tongues and feeding them to cats.
5. “Rule of thumb”
This phrase is used to describe a general principle or guideline. Its origin dates back to the 17th century when it was legal for a man to beat his wife with a stick, as long as it was no thicker than his thumb. Hence, the “rule of thumb” referred to the maximum size of the stick that could be used to beat a spouse.
In conclusion, the origins of common phrases can be surprising and sometimes disturbing. However, knowing the history behind these phrases can add a new level of understanding and appreciation to our everyday language.
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