Tagged Questions
1
vote
2answers
48 views
Origin of “Homeward ho!”
In the English translation of an essay by Leon Trotsky that came out in Foreign Affairs, I read [emphasis added]:
Now it turns out that the world exchange is the source of all
misfortunes and ...
0
votes
2answers
244 views
Understanding “Mother of God!” or “Holy Mother of God!”
I have come across this term numerous times and this expression is well used when something unbelievable or shocking happens but I don't understand how Mother of God can imply its meaning. Does refer ...
7
votes
2answers
5k views
Origin of “I see, said the blind man, as he waved his wooden leg”
"I see", said the blind man, as he waved his wooden leg.
is an expression used by someone on whom comprehension has just dawned, or a catch-phrase addressed to that person. Sometimes it can be ...
2
votes
2answers
2k views
Why is “bloody hell” offensive or shocking?
It seems to me that if one describes hell as 'bloody', that is simply describing one of the properties you'd expect of it. So, why is 'bloody hell' used as an offensive or shocking phrase?
2
votes
3answers
3k views
What does “Merlin's beard!” mean?
I know that Merlin's beard! is an exclamation from Harry Potter which is similar to "Oh Lord!". and it is a common wizarding expression used to show surprise. Can we use it this expression in the ...
5
votes
4answers
2k views
What is the origin of “shh”?
The word "sh" (or "shh") is an exclamation for silence:
Shh! They're listening...
Etymonline only mentions a date (1847) and the common practice of "putting a finger to the lips." Does anyone ...
