Tag: etymology

The Elephant in the Room and Origins of Common Phrases

Origins of Common Phrases We Use Today

The Surprising Origins of Common Phrases We Use Today Language is constantly evolving, and as a result, many of the phrases we use today have surprising origins. Here are the surprising stories behind some common sayings. Bite the bullet This phrase, which means to endure a painful or difficult situation, originated during the 19th century when soldiers were given bullets to bite on as a way to cope with the…