Blow hot and cold

Definitions

• to be inconsistent or indecisive
  To frequently and abruptly change one's opinions or actions, causing confusion or uncertainty in others. Can also refer to someone who is unpredictable or unreliable in their behavior.

• to show interest or enthusiasm
  To express strong interest or enthusiasm initially, but then quickly lose interest or enthusiasm. Can also indicate someone who is fickle or easily swayed.

Examples of Blow hot and cold

• The boss has been blowing hot and cold about the new project. Sometimes she's enthusiastic and supportive, but other times she's hesitant and critical.

  This idiom means to be inconsistent in one's opinions or behavior, fluctuating between extremes. It comes from the idea of changing the temperature of something rapidly, going from hot to cold and back again. In this example, the boss's behavior is unpredictable and uncertain, making it difficult for the team to know how to proceed with the project.

Conclusion

This idiom is often used to describe someone who is inconsistent in their behavior or opinions. They may seem enthusiastic and interested in something one moment, but then quickly change their mind and become disinterested. This can be confusing and frustrating for others, as they may not know which version of the person to expect.

It can also be used to describe someone who is unreliable or unpredictable. They may seem enthusiastic and committed to something, but then suddenly change their mind and go in a completely different direction. This can make it difficult to trust or rely on this person.

Origin of "Blow hot and cold"

The origin of this idiom is unclear, but it is believed to have originated from the natural elements of fire and water. Fire can represent passion, enthusiasm, and warmth, while water can represent indifference, fickleness, and coldness. When the two are mixed or alternated, it can create an unpredictable and inconsistent result, much like the behavior of someone who "blows hot and cold."

This idiom has been used in literature dating back to the 16th century, but it became more commonly used in the 19th century. It is often used in relation to romantic relationships, but can also be applied to other situations where someone's behavior is inconsistent or unpredictable.