PhrasesHub

Grose - Captain Francis - phrases first recorded by.

    Definitions

      • to be angry or upset
        Expressing frustration or annoyance with a situation or person

      • to be disgusting or unpleasant
        Describing something as unappealing or repulsive

      • to be extreme or intense
        Emphasizing the severity or intensity of a situation or emotion

    Examples of Grose - Captain Francis - phrases first recorded by.

    • The new employee hit the ground running.

      This idiom means that the person started their job with a lot of energy and enthusiasm, as if they were running very fast. The phrase "hit the ground running" was first recorded by Captain Francis Grose in 1785 in his publication, "Antiquities of England and Wales."

    • The rain kicked up dust on the road.

      This idiom means that the rain made dust rise into the air because it was blowing strongly, making it hard to see. The phrase "kicked up dust" was first recorded by Captain Francis Grose in 1785 in his publication, "Antiquities of England and Wales."

    • The wind had a mind of its own.

      This idiom means that the wind seemed to be acting independently and unpredictably, as if it had a will of its own. The phrase "had a mind of its own" was first recorded by Captain Francis Grose in 1785 in his publication, "Antiquities of England and Wales."

    • The team worked like clockwork.

      This idiom means that the team functioned smoothly and efficiently, working together like all the parts of a clock working perfectly. The phrase "worked like clockwork" was first recorded by Captain Francis Grose in 1785 in his publication, "Antiquities of England and Wales."

    • Let's not beat about the bush. The new marketing strategy needs to be discussed openly.

      "Let's not beat about the bush" is an idiom that means "let's not waste time on unnecessary details or avoid the main issue." In this example, it's suggesting that rather than beat around the bush or avoid the main point, we should openly and directly discuss the new marketing strategy.

    • She's been going straight for the jugular from the get-go.

      "Going straight for the jugular" is an idiom that means "going directly for the main point or target, specifically when attacking or criticizing someone." In this example, it's suggesting that she has been directly attacking or criticizing someone from the beginning.

    • John's a real bleeding heart when it comes to animal rights.

      "Bleeding heart" is an idiom that means "a person who is overly emotional, particularly when it comes to causes such as animal rights or social justice." In this example, it's suggesting that John is very emotional and passionate about animal rights.

    • I could've sworn I saw a ghost in that house!

      "Could've sworn" is an idiom that means "it seemed very likely that" or "it appeared that." In this example, it's suggesting that it appeared very likely or seemed very likely that the person speaking saw a ghost in that house.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "grose" can be used in a variety of ways, but all share a common theme of negativity. Whether expressing anger or frustration, describing something as unpleasant, or emphasizing intensity, the word "grose" conveys a strong sense of distaste and disapproval.

    Origin of "Grose - Captain Francis - phrases first recorded by."

    The idiom "grose" is believed to have originated in the early 18th century, with its first recorded use by Captain Francis Grose in his 1785 work, "A Classical Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue." Grose was an English antiquary and lexicographer, known for his interest in colloquial language and slang.

    The word "grose" itself is thought to be derived from the Old English word "grās," meaning "grass." This may have evolved over time to refer to something that is considered low or base, eventually taking on its current negative connotations. The idiom may also have ties to the Middle English word "groys," meaning "repugnant" or "disgusting."

    Overall, the origin of the idiom "grose" remains somewhat unclear, but its usage has endured for centuries, cementing its place in the English language as a term of disapproval and negativity.