PhrasesHub

On with the motley

    Definitions

      • encourage or urge
        To motivate or inspire someone to continue with a task or activity, often in the face of adversity or difficulty

      • carry on with the show
        To continue with a performance or event, not allowing setbacks or challenges to disrupt the proceedings

    Examples of On with the motley

    • Despite the chaotic scenes backstage, the show must go on with the motley crew of actors taking their places on the stage.

      This use of the idiom "on with the motley" suggests that a group of diverse and potentially disorganized individuals must come together and proceed with their performance, despite the unpredictable and varied circumstances that led them to this point.

    • The race was marred by a series of misfortunes for the team, but they pressed on with the motley collection of equipment they had left.

      Here, "on with the motley" highlights the persistence and determination required in the face of adversity, as the team grits their teeth and makes do with whatever resources remain, rather than abandoning the race altogether.

    • As the storm raged on outside, the battered and bruised survivors struggled on with the remnants of their damaged supplies.

      This use of the idiom contrasts the challenges they face with the haphazard and disparate state of their remaining supplies, implying that they must remain resolute in order to overcome the obstacles before them.

    • The campaign had hit a series of unexpected snags, but the candidate refused to give up and pressed on with the odd assortment of aides at her disposal.

      In this final example, "on with the motley" suggests the candidate's ingenuity and fortitude, as she adapts to the unpredictable circumstances she encounters and forges ahead with the scattered and eclectic group she has at her disposal.

    • Despite the chaotic and disorganized scene that had ensued during the theater production's dress rehearsal, the director said, "On with the motley! Show must go on."

      In this example, "On with the motley" is being used as a command or instruction, similar to saying "Let's continue with the show, despite its unkempt appearance." "Motley" refers to a mix of colors and patterns, which can be seen in the costumes of the actors.

    • The group of artists, each with their own unique style and techniques, came together to produce a vibrant and diverse exhibition. It was said that they had "thrown their motleys into the ring" and created something truly extraordinary.

      In this example, "thrown their motleys into the ring" is being used figuratively to describe how the group of artists contributed their individual talents and styles to the exhibition. It's an expression that comes from the world of sports, where boxers would enter the ring wearing a variety of colorful clothing, or motleys, before changing into their fighting garb.

    • During the annual festival, people of all ages and backgrounds flocked to the streets, dressed in an assortment of brightly colored costumes and masks. It was said that they had "donned their motleys" and were eagerly participating in the festivities.

      In this example, "donned their motleys" is being used to describe how people dressed up in a variety of colorful and eclectic costumes for the festival.

    • The group of friends gathered together for a wild and raucous game of dress-up. They rummaged through their closets, pulling out all sorts of mismatched clothes and accessories, and said, "Let's put on our motleys and have some fun!"

      In this example, "put on their motleys" is being used to describe how the friends dressed up in a haphazard and disorganized manner, wearing a mix of different styles and patterns. The use of "motley" in this context creates a playful and lighthearted tone, similar to the word "costume" but with a more whimsical and carefree feel.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "On with the motley" can be used to both encourage someone to persevere through a difficult situation and to carry on with a performance or event despite obstacles. It embodies a sense of determination and resilience, urging people to push forward and not be discouraged by challenges.

    Origin of "On with the motley"

    The phrase "On with the motley" has its origins in the world of theater. "Motley" refers to the traditional costume of a jester, which typically consists of brightly colored and mismatched clothing. In this context, the phrase was used to encourage performers to continue with their act, even if things were not going as planned. Over time, it has come to be used more broadly to encourage perseverance in any situation, not just in the context of a performance. The idiom has become a symbol of resilience and determination, urging people to carry on in the face of adversity.