PhrasesHub

Far cry from

    Definitions

      • a significant difference or contrast
        To emphasize how vastly different two things are, often in a negative or disappointing context

      • not even close to
        To convey a large gap or disparity between two things, often in a sarcastic or exaggerated manner

      • a long way from
        To highlight the distance or progress still needed to reach a goal or desired outcome

    Examples of Far cry from

    • The luxurious penthouse with a stunning view of the city skyline is a far cry from the cramped and dingy apartment I grew up in.

      This idiom is used to compare two things that are vastly different from each other. In this example, the spacious and elegant penthouse is a complete contrast to the small and run-down apartment the speaker grew up in.

    • The peaceful and serene beach is a far cry from the chaotic and crowded city streets.

      This idiom is used to illustrate a stark contrast between two things. In this example, the tranquil beach is a complete opposite to the bustling and congested city streets.

    • The high-tech and state-of-the-art computer system is a far cry from the outdated and clunky machines we used to work with.

      This idiom is used to describe a significant difference between two things. In this example, the advanced computer system is a complete contrast to the old and obsolete machines the speaker used to work with.

    • The happy and contented family is a far cry from the dysfunctional and troubled households we read about in the news.

      This idiom is used to depict a significant contrast between two things. In this example, the harmonious and satisfied family is a complete opposite to the troubled and dysfunctional families that are often featured in the news.

    • The vibrant and colorful carnival is a far cry from the dull and monotonous routine of everyday life.

      This idiom is used to illustrate a stark contrast between two things. In this example, the lively and vivid carnival is a complete opposite to the mundane and uneventful routine of everyday life.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "far cry from" is used to express a significant difference or contrast between two things. It can be used to emphasize disappointment or dissatisfaction with a current situation, or to sarcastically exaggerate the gap between expectations and reality. It can also be used to convey the distance or progress still needed to reach a desired outcome.

    Origin of "Far cry from"

    The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the 17th century, when it was first used in the context of hunting. A "cry" was the sound made by hounds when they were in pursuit of their prey. A "far cry" referred to the distance between the hunters and the hounds, indicating that the prey was still a long way off and could not be easily reached. Over time, this phrase evolved to be used in a figurative sense, referring to a significant difference or distance between two things.

    Today, the idiom "far cry from" is commonly used in everyday speech and writing. Its origins in hunting may not be immediately apparent, but the imagery of a distant prey still holds true in its meaning. It is often used to convey disappointment or to highlight a vast difference between expectations and reality. Its sarcastic usage adds a humorous element to the phrase, making it a versatile idiom in expressing various emotions and situations.