Udall, Nicholas - phrases collected by | English Idioms and Phrases

Definitions

to provide a collection of phrases and sayings
To refer to a compilation of idioms, sayings, or phrases collected by someone named Nicholas Udall

Examples of Udall, Nicholas - phrases collected by

"She didn't bat an eyelash when he proposed."

This idiom, "bat an eyelash," is used to describe someone who shows no reaction or is unfazed by a situation. The phrase means that the person did not even blink their eyes when the proposal was made.
"Their plan hit a snag, but they didn't throw in the towel."

This idiom, "throw in the towel," refers to giving up or admitting defeat. In this example, the phrase means that the couple faced a setback in their plan, but they did not surrender or admit defeat.
"I've knocked the rust off my skills with some practice."

This idiom, "knock the rust off," means to improve or refine skills that have not been used in a while. The phrase implies that there is a buildup of rust or dust on skills that need to be removed before they can be used again efficiently.
"His nerve failed him at the crucial moment."

This idiom, "nerve failed him," means that someone lacks the courage to carry out a task. It implies that the person's nerves or composure deserted them at a critical juncture.
The weather has been beating around the bush all day.

This is an idiomatic way of saying that the weather has been unpredictable and uncertain, delaying any clear decision or action.
After the job interview, I felt like a fish out of water.

This idiom is used to describe a feeling of being unfamiliar or uncomfortable in a new situation, as if one were suddenly sent to swim in an unfamiliar environment where they are not accustomed to.
Don't beat about the bush, just tell me the truth!

This is an idiomatic way of requesting someone to be direct and straightforward in their communication, without any unnecessary delays or roundabout manner.
I'm not making a mountain out of a molehill, am I?

This idiom is used to check whether one is over-reacting to a small issue, by comparing it to a mountain, which is a large and significant entity compared to a molehill, which is a small and insignificant one.

Conclusion

The idiom "Udall, Nicholas - phrases collected by" is used to denote a collection of phrases and sayings attributed to Nicholas Udall. It is often used in reference to a specific compilation of idioms or sayings.

Origin of "Udall, Nicholas - phrases collected by"

The origin of this idiom can be traced back to Nicholas Udall, an English playwright and schoolmaster who lived during the 16th century. Udall was known for his literary works, as well as his keen interest in collecting and compiling phrases and sayings. The idiom likely originated from the recognition of Udall's efforts in gathering and documenting various idioms and sayings, which eventually led to his name becoming associated with the concept of a collection of phrases.

One example of the idiom's usage can be found in literary or scholarly contexts, where a reference to "Udall, Nicholas - phrases collected by" may indicate a specific compilation of idioms or sayings attributed to Udall. Overall, the idiom serves as a tribute to Nicholas Udall's contributions to the preservation and documentation of English language expressions.