Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 19th century and symbolizes something that is inappropriate or slightly indecent.

Meaning:
Something that is inappropriate or slightly indecent.

Usage:

1. He made an off-color joke at the party.
2. She didn't appreciate his off-color remarks.
3. They warned him to avoid off-color comments.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Inappropriate," "Indecent," "Rude"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to something that is inappropriate or in poor taste, typically regarding humor or behavior. "Color" in this context does not refer to actual hues but to the appropriateness of the situation or conversation, making the phrase idiomatic.

Origin:
This idiom originated in the 20th century and symbolizes not performing as well as usual.

Meaning:
Not performing as well as usual.

Usage:

1. He was off his game during the match.
2. She felt off her game after the long trip.
3. They noticed he was off his game at work.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Not at one's best," "Out of form," "Underperforming"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to someone not performing at their usual level, especially in a mental or physical task. The idiom doesn't refer to a literal "game" but to someone's overall performance, making it idiomatic.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 19th century and symbolizes someone who is crazy or behaving irrationally.

Meaning:
Someone who is crazy or behaving irrationally.

Usage:

1. They thought he was off his rocker for his wild ideas.
2. She acted like she was off her rocker during the argument.
3. He described his neighbor as off his rocker.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Crazy," "Mad," "Insane"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means that someone is acting crazy or irrational. "Rocking" here doesn't refer to the literal rocking of an object but is used metaphorically to suggest instability, which makes it idiomatic.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the 19th century and symbolizes something that happens immediately or right away.

Meaning:
Something that happens immediately or right away.

Usage:

1. He scored a goal right off the bat.
2. She knew the answer off the bat.
3. They started working on the project off the bat.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Immediately," "Right away," "At once"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to something happening immediately or without delay. The expression comes from the world of sports (particularly baseball), but its meaning is figurative, referring to something starting without hesitation or preparation.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 19th century and symbolizes being freed from a difficult situation or responsibility.

Meaning:
Being freed from a difficult situation or responsibility.

Usage:

1. He was relieved to be off the hook for the mistake.
2. She got off the hook for the late assignment.
3. They let him off the hook after the misunderstanding.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Freed," "Released," "Exempt"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means to be freed from a difficult situation or responsibility. "Hook" here is used metaphorically to describe the state of being trapped or held, so being "off the hook" means no longer being in that predicament, making it idiomatic.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the 19th century and symbolizes being inaccurate or incorrect.

Meaning:
Being inaccurate or incorrect.

Usage:

1. His guess was off the mark.
2. She realized her estimate was off the mark.
3. They told him his analysis was off the mark.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Inaccurate," "Wrong," "Mistaken"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means being incorrect or not close to the desired result. "Mark" here refers to an expected target or goal, so being "off the mark" means missing the target, which is a figurative use of the word.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 19th century and symbolizes something that has gone wrong or out of control.

Meaning:
Something that has gone wrong or out of control.

Usage:

1. The project went off the rails after the budget cuts.
2. She felt her life was off the rails after the breakup.
3. They tried to get the meeting back on track after it went off the rails.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Out of control," "Gone wrong," "Derailed"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means something has gone astray or out of control. "Rails" refer to the tracks of a train, but when something goes "off the rails," it means that it has deviated from its intended course or order, which is a non-literal meaning.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the 19th century and symbolizes being misled or losing the trail of something.

Meaning:
Being misled or losing the trail of something.

Usage:

1. The detectives were off the scent after the false lead.
2. She threw them off the scent with a clever distraction.
3. They realized they were off the scent and needed to regroup.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Misled," "Off track," "Barking up the wrong tree"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means losing track of or failing to follow a clue or trail. The idiom uses "scent" metaphorically, referring to tracking something or following a lead, so being "off the scent" means not being on the correct path, which is a figurative use of the word.

Origin:
This idiom originated in the 20th century and symbolized something that is unconventional or eccentric.

Meaning:
Something that is unconventional or eccentric.

Usage:

1. His idea was off the wall but intriguing.
2. She made an off-the-wall comment during the meeting.
3. They loved the off-the-wall design of the artwork.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Unconventional," "Eccentric," "Outlandish"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to something unusual or unconventional. While "wall" can literally refer to something solid, the phrase does not relate to the wall itself but to the idea of something being unexpected or strange, which requires figurative interpretation.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 19th century and symbolizes someone who is acting crazy or irrationally.

Meaning:
Someone who is acting crazy or irrationally.

Usage:

1. They thought he was off his trolley with his wild ideas.
2. She acted like she was off her trolley during the argument.
3. He described his neighbor as off his trolley.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Crazy," "Mad," "Insane"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means that someone is acting crazy or irrational. "Trolley" here is not meant literally as a vehicle but as a metaphor for mental stability, so it is understood figuratively.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 19th century and symbolizes a story or joke that has been repeated too often.

Meaning:
A story or joke that has been repeated too often.

Usage:

1. He told the old chestnut about the trip again.
2. She rolled her eyes at the old chestnut he shared.
3. They laughed politely at the old chestnut.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Cliché," "Overused story," "Repetitive joke"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to an old, tired story or joke that has been repeated many times. "Chestnut" in this case does not refer to the literal nut but to an overused anecdote, which is a figurative use of the term.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the 19th century and symbolizes a former romantic partner.

Meaning:
A former romantic partner.

Usage:

1. She ran into her old flame at the reunion.
2. He reminisced about his old flame from college.
3. They talked about their old flames during the gathering.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Ex-lover," "Former partner," "Past relationship"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to a former romantic relationship or someone from the past. "Flame" metaphorically refers to the passion or intensity of a past relationship, and not a literal flame, which makes it idiomatic.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 19th century and symbolizes a group of established and traditional members of an organization.

Meaning:
A group of established and traditional members of an organization.

Usage:

1. The old guard resisted the new changes.
2. She was part of the old guard in the company.
3. They respected the old guard's experience and wisdom.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Traditionalists," "Established members," "Veterans"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to the long-established members of a group, especially those resistant to change. "Guard" does not refer literally to a person standing watch but is used metaphorically to signify those who have been around for a long time and are seen as protectors or guardians of tradition.

Origin:
This idiom originated in the 17th century and symbolizes the difficulty of changing long-standing habits.

Meaning:
The difficulty of changing long-standing habits.

Usage:

1. He found that old habits die hard when trying to quit smoking.
2. She realized old habits die hard when she fell back into her routine.
3. They joked that old habits die hard during the meeting.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Hard to change," "Set in one's ways," "Difficult to break habits"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to the difficulty of changing established behaviors or patterns, particularly those formed over a long period. It doesn't literally mean that old habits physically "die," but it implies that they are hard to break or let go of.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 19th century and symbolizes an experienced sailor.

Meaning:
An experienced sailor.

Usage:

1. He learned the ropes from an old salt.
2. She admired the old salt's sea stories.
3. They relied on the old salt's navigation skills.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Seasoned sailor," "Veteran mariner," "Experienced seafarer"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to someone with a lot of experience, particularly in maritime work. "Salt" is used figuratively here to denote someone seasoned or experienced, particularly in nautical contexts, making the meaning not immediately literal.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the 16th century and symbolizes a superstition or traditional belief that is often untrue.

Meaning:
A superstition or traditional belief that is often untrue.

Usage:

1. The belief that cracking knuckles causes arthritis is an old wives' tale.
2. She dismissed the health tip as an old wives' tale.
3. They realized the warning about cold weather was just an old wives' tale.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Superstition," "Myth," "Traditional belief"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to a traditional belief or superstition that is widely considered untrue or outdated. The idiom uses "wives" metaphorically to symbolize old-fashioned or unreliable ideas, making the connection figurative rather than literal.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 20th century and symbolizes traditional, old-fashioned ways or methods.

Meaning:
Traditional, old-fashioned ways or methods.

Usage:

1. He prefers old-school teaching techniques.
2. She listens to old-school hip-hop.
3. They used old-school tools for the project.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Traditional," "Classic," "Old-fashioned"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to things that are from an earlier time, often traditional or outdated. While "school" can refer to a literal institution, the term "old-school" is used figuratively to describe a set of values or practices that are considered old-fashioned, not literal schooling.

Origin:
This idiom originated in the 20th century and symbolized experiencing a series of successes.

Meaning:
Experiencing a series of successes.

Usage:

1. He's been on a roll with his sales this month.
2. She felt on a roll after winning several games in a row.
3. They were on a roll with their successful product launches.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Winning streak," "Successful run," "Hot streak"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to a period of continuous success or good fortune. "Roll" is metaphorically used to describe a positive, unstoppable momentum, which is a figurative rather than literal reference to rolling.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of deviating from the main topic. It comes from the mathematical term "tangent," which refers to a line that touches a curve at a single point and then moves off in a different direction.

Meaning:
To deviate from the main topic.

Usage:

1. He went off on a tangent during his speech.
2. She realized she was on a tangent and returned to the main point.
3. They frequently go on tangents in their meetings.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Off-topic," "Digress," "Sidetrack."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to a situation where a person deviates from the main subject or conversation. The words "on a tangent" are not meant to be understood literally as in moving along a tangent in geometry; instead, they represent a figurative shift in direction. The meaning cannot be deduced from the literal interpretation of the words, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the 20th century, during World War II, and symbolizes a desperate effort with little chance of success.

Meaning:
A desperate effort with little chance of success.

Usage:

1. They started the project on a wing and a prayer.
2. She hoped to pass the exam on a wing and a prayer.
3. He completed the task on a wing and a prayer.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Desperately," "By a slim chance," "Against the odds"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to attempting something with little chance of success or with minimal resources. The "wing" and "prayer" are metaphorical, representing an uncertain and desperate attempt, rather than literal elements related to flying.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 19th century and symbolizes being steady and balanced.

Meaning:
Being steady and balanced.

Usage:

1. After the crisis, he worked to get his life back on an even keel.
2. She kept the team on an even keel during the project.
3. They wanted to maintain their finances on an even keel.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Steady," "Balanced," "Stable"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to being in a stable or balanced condition, especially in difficult situations. "Keel" here refers to the bottom of a ship, which keeps it steady, but the phrase is used to mean emotional or situational stability, making the meaning non-literal.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 20th century and symbolizes being extremely happy.

Meaning:
Being extremely happy.

Usage:

1. She was on cloud nine after her promotion.
2. He felt on cloud nine when he won the lottery.
3. They were on cloud nine after the birth of their child.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Ecstatic," "Over the moon," "Elated"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means being extremely happy or elated. "Cloud nine" does not refer to a literal cloud but evokes a state of bliss or euphoria, making the phrase idiomatic and non-literal.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 19th century and symbolizes being in a state of nervous anticipation.

Meaning:
Being in a state of nervous anticipation.

Usage:

1. She was on pins and needles waiting for the test results.
2. He felt on pins and needles before his job interview.
3. They were on pins and needles during the election results.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Anxious," "Nervous," "Tense"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means being in a state of nervous anticipation. "Pins and needles" refer to a physical sensation but is used here to describe emotional tension or anxiety, which makes the meaning non-literal.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the 18th century and symbolizes being in a state of suspense or anxiety.

Meaning:
Being in a state of suspense or anxiety.

Usage:

1. They were on tenterhooks waiting for the verdict.
2. She felt on tenterhooks before the big presentation.
3. He was on tenterhooks while waiting for the phone call.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Anxious," "Nervous," "In suspense"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to being in a state of anxious suspense or waiting. "Tenterhooks" were once used in the process of stretching cloth, but the phrase has evolved into a figurative expression for discomfort or anticipation, making the meaning non-literal.

Origin:
This idiom originated in the 20th century and symbolized postponing or giving lower priority to something.

Meaning:
Postponing or giving lower priority to something.

Usage:

1. The project was put on the back burner due to budget cuts.
2. She had to put her travel plans on the back burner for now.
3. They decided to put the discussion on the back burner until next week.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Postpone," "Delay," "Put aside"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means something is being postponed or given less priority. "Back burner" refers to a less important position on a stove but is used metaphorically to describe a task or project that is temporarily put aside, not literally on a stove.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 20th century and symbolizes being alert and efficient.

Meaning:
Being alert and efficient.

Usage:

1. He is always on the ball at work.
2. She needed to be on the ball to meet the deadline.
3. They were on the ball and completed the task early.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Alert," "Efficient," "Attentive"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means being alert, competent, or quick to respond. The "ball" here is metaphorical, referring to being in control of a situation, especially in contexts like sports or work, and not related to the literal meaning of a ball.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the 19th century and symbolizes joining others in doing something fashionable or popular.

Meaning:
Joining others in doing something fashionable or popular.

Usage:

1. He decided to get on the bandwagon and start exercising regularly.
2. She jumped on the bandwagon of the latest fashion trend.
3. They got on the bandwagon and supported the new policy.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Join the trend," "Follow the crowd," "Get with the program"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to joining a popular trend or following something that is gaining success. The idiom originates from circus parades where the "bandwagon" was the wagon carrying the band, but now it figuratively means joining a popular movement, making it non-literal.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 20th century and symbolizes something that is malfunctioning or broken.

Meaning:
Something that is malfunctioning or broken.

Usage:

1. The TV is on the blink again.
2. She noticed her computer was on the blink.
3. They had to fix the printer because it was on the blink.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Malfunctioning," "Broken," "Out of order"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to something being broken or malfunctioning. "Blink" in this case is metaphorical, and while it might suggest something flashing or momentarily out of order, the meaning is more about something not working properly, which makes it non-literal.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the 20th century and symbolizes being in a precarious or uncertain position.

Meaning:
Being in a precarious or uncertain position.

Usage:

1. The team is on the bubble for making the playoffs.
2. She was on the bubble for getting the promotion.
3. They are on the bubble with their budget.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Uncertain," "Precarious," "On the edge"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to something being in a state of uncertainty or in danger of failing. "Bubble" metaphorically conveys something fragile or on the verge of popping, but it is used to describe precarious situations rather than something literal.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 20th century and symbolizes doing something inexpensively.

Meaning:
Doing something inexpensively.

Usage:

1. They traveled around Europe on the cheap.
2. She managed to furnish her apartment on the cheap.
3. He threw a great party on the cheap.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Inexpensively," "Economically," "On a budget"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to obtaining something at a lower price or in a less expensive way. "Cheap" here is used figuratively to describe cost-effectiveness, not referring to literal cheapness or poor quality.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the 20th century and symbolizes receiving unemployment benefits.

Meaning:
Receiving unemployment benefits.

Usage:

1. He has been on the dole for six months.
2. She needed to go on the dole after losing her job.
3. They discussed the increasing number of people on the dole.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Unemployed," "On welfare," "Receiving benefits"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to receiving government assistance or unemployment benefits. "Dole" comes from a historical term for charity or welfare, and while it once referred literally to a form of charity, it now represents a broader concept of social support, making it idiomatic.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 20th century and symbolizes something that is malfunctioning or broken.

Meaning:
Something that is malfunctioning or broken.

Usage:

1. The refrigerator is on the fritz again.
2. She noticed her phone was on the fritz.
3. They had to repair the air conditioner because it was on the fritz.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Malfunctioning," "Broken," "Out of order"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to something that is malfunctioning or out of order. "Fritz" is a colloquial term that metaphorically describes something broken or not working, and it is used figuratively here to describe malfunction rather than a literal object named Fritz.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the 19th century and symbolizes a situation that is experiencing difficulties, often used in the context of relationships.

Meaning:
A situation that is experiencing difficulties.

Usage:

1. Their marriage is on the rocks.
2. The business deal is on the rocks after recent events.
3. She knew her friendship was on the rocks.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"In trouble," "Struggling," "In jeopardy"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to a situation that is in trouble or facing difficulties, especially in relationships. "Rocks" metaphorically represent obstacles or challenges, not literal stones.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 20th century and symbolizes being in a vulnerable or weak position, often in the context of sports or competition.

Meaning:
Being in a vulnerable or weak position.

Usage:

1. The team is on the ropes after losing several games.
2. He felt on the ropes during the intense negotiation.
3. They knew they were on the ropes in the final round.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Struggling," "In a weak position," "Vulnerable"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to someone being in a difficult or losing situation, often in the context of competition. The idiom comes from boxing, where being "on the ropes" means being close to defeat, requiring figurative understanding.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the 19th century and symbolizes doing something secretly or discreetly.

Meaning:
Doing something secretly or discreetly.

Usage:

1. He made plans on the sly without telling anyone.
2. She ate the last cookie on the sly.
3. They handled the transaction on the sly.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Secretly," "Discreetly," "Under the radar"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means something done secretly or covertly. "Sly" here figuratively refers to stealth or hidden actions, rather than its literal meaning of being crafty.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the 20th century and symbolizes being honest or improving.

Meaning:
Being honest or improving.

Usage:

1. He assured them his business dealings were on the up and up.
2. She felt her career was on the up and up.
3. They believed the company was on the up and up after the changes.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Honest," "Trustworthy," "Improving"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means something is legitimate, honest, or improving. "Up and up" figuratively represents something progressing or being transparent, beyond the literal meaning of the words.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the 20th century and symbolizes feeling extremely happy and successful.

Meaning:
Feeling extremely happy and successful.

Usage:

1. He felt on top of the world after the promotion.
2. She was on top of the world during her wedding day.
3. They were on top of the world after winning the championship.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Elated," "Over the moon," "Ecstatic"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to feeling elated or in a very positive state. The idiom uses "top of the world" figuratively to describe a peak of happiness or success.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 19th century and symbolizes something that happens very rarely.

Meaning:
Something that happens very rarely.

Usage:

1. We only go out to fancy restaurants once in a blue moon.
2. She visits her hometown once in a blue moon.
3. They have family reunions once in a blue moon.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Rarely," "Seldom," "Infrequently"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means something that happens very rarely. The "blue moon" is not a literal astronomical event, but a figurative expression referring to something uncommon or infrequent.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 19th century, symbolizing the act of starting a story in a fairy tale or nostalgic manner. It comes from traditional story beginnings.

Meaning:
To start a story in a fairy tale or nostalgic manner.

Usage:

1. Once upon a time, there was a brave knight.
2. She began her story with, "Once upon a time."
3. They listened eagerly as he said, "Once upon a time."

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Long ago," "In a distant past," "In a faraway land."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it is a traditional phrase used to begin a fairy tale or a story, with no literal connection to time. It is not meant to indicate a specific moment or instance in time but instead evokes a sense of storytelling or fantasy. The meaning is understood figuratively and cannot be deduced from the literal words, making it an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the 19th century and symbolizes being very old or near death.

Meaning:
Being very old or near death.

Usage:

1. He joked that he had one foot in the grave after his birthday.
2. She felt like she had one foot in the grave after the illness.
3. They remarked that their ancient cat had one foot in the grave.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Near death," "Old," "At death's door"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to someone who is near death or in a very frail condition. The "foot in the grave" is not literal but uses a metaphorical image of nearing death, emphasizing the frailty of life.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 20th century and symbolizes a person or group that only has one successful effort.

Meaning:
A person or group that only has one successful effort.

Usage:

1. The band was a one-hit wonder with their chart-topping single.
2. She didn't want to be remembered as a one-hit wonder after her book's success.
3. They hoped their startup wouldn't become a one-hit wonder.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Flash in the pan," "Single success," "Brief fame"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to a person or entity that achieves success once but is not able to repeat that success. The idiom doesn't literally refer to a "hit" but figuratively to a fleeting or single achievement, making it an idiomatic expression.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the 20th century and symbolizes a person who is fixated on one idea or topic.

Meaning:
A person who is fixated on one idea or topic.

Usage:

1. He has a one-track mind when it comes to his hobby.
2. She couldn't focus on anything else because of her one-track mind.
3. They joked that he had a one-track mind for chocolate.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Single-minded," "Obsessive," "Fixated"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to someone who is fixated or obsessed with a single idea or thought. The "one-track" is not literal, but symbolizes being focused or narrow in thought, which is a figurative meaning.

Origin:
This idiom has been in use since the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of waiting to see the outcome of a situation. It comes from the idea that the passage of time will reveal the results.

Meaning:
To wait to see the outcome of a situation.

Usage:

1. Only time will tell if their plan succeeds.
2. She knew only time would tell if the decision was right.
3. They said only time would tell about the project's impact.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Wait and see," "Time will reveal," "Future will tell."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to the idea that the outcome or result of a situation will only become clear with the passage of time. The idiom "only time" does not literally mean that time is the only factor; it symbolically refers to the unfolding of events, which can only be fully understood in hindsight. Thus, it is an idiom, as its figurative meaning is not directly linked to the individual words.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 20th century and symbolizes starting something that will lead to many problems.

Meaning:
Starting something that will lead to many problems.

Usage:

1. She was afraid to bring up the topic and open a can of worms.
2. He knew the decision could open a can of worms.
3. They avoided the issue to not open a can of worms.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Stir up trouble," "Create complications," "Cause problems"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it means to start a situation that could become complicated or troublesome. The "can of worms" is a figurative expression, where the literal idea of worms spilling out symbolizes the chaos or difficulty created by opening the issue.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the 20th century and symbolizes a situation that is simple and straightforward to resolve.

Meaning:
A situation that is simple and straightforward to resolve.

Usage:

1. The evidence made it an open and shut case.
2. She presented the facts, making it an open and shut case.
3. They believed it was an open and shut case from the start.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Clear-cut," "Straightforward," "Simple"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to a situation that is straightforward and easy to resolve. The "open and shut" concept is figurative, meaning something is simple and doesn't require further examination, rather than a literal action.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the 19th century and symbolizes a strong desire for revenge or confrontation.

Meaning:
A strong desire for revenge or confrontation.

Usage:

1. After the betrayal, he was out for blood.
2. She was out for blood after hearing the accusations.
3. They knew he was out for blood during the competition.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Seeking revenge," "Vengeful," "Looking for a fight"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to someone seeking revenge or looking to harm others. The "out for blood" expression uses the metaphor of blood to symbolize violent intent or a pursuit of revenge, not a literal need for blood.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 20th century and symbolizes something that is unexpected or surprising.

Meaning:
Something that is unexpected or surprising.

Usage:

1. His comment came out of left field and shocked everyone.
2. She received an offer out of left field.
3. They were caught off guard by the news out of left field.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Unexpected," "Surprising," "Unanticipated"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to something unexpected or surprising, often coming from an unusual or unexpected source. The idiom doesn't literally relate to a "left field" in sports but instead uses it metaphorically to describe an event that catches someone off guard.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 20th century and symbolizes being in a situation that is beyond one's ability or knowledge.

Meaning:
Being in a situation that is beyond one's ability or knowledge.

Usage:

1. He felt out of his depth in the advanced class.
2. She was out of her depth in the technical discussion.
3. They realized they were out of their depth with the project.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Overwhelmed," "Beyond capacity," "Inexperienced"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively describes being in a situation or encountering a task that one is unable to handle due to a lack of knowledge, experience, or skill. It uses the metaphor of "depth" to express feeling overwhelmed or ill-equipped, rather than a literal situation involving depth.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the 19th century and symbolizes being in a situation that is unfamiliar or uncomfortable.

Meaning:
Being in a situation that is unfamiliar or uncomfortable.

Usage:

1. She felt out of her element at the formal dinner.
2. He was out of his element during the art class.
3. They were out of their element in the new city.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Uncomfortable," "Unfamiliar," "Out of place"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to being in an environment or situation that feels uncomfortable or unfamiliar, suggesting that the person is not in their usual or comfortable context. It is metaphorical, drawing on the idea of an "element" to express discomfort.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the 19th century and symbolizes something that happens unexpectedly.

Meaning:
Something that happens unexpectedly.

Usage:

1. She received a job offer out of the blue.
2. He called her out of the blue after years of no contact.
3. The news came out of the blue and surprised everyone.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Unexpectedly," "Surprisingly," "Without warning"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means something happening unexpectedly or without warning. It doesn’t literally mean something coming from a blue sky but uses the metaphor of the sky to describe an event that appears suddenly and without any prelude.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the 16th century and symbolizes escaping a bad situation only to end up in a worse one.

Meaning:
Escaping a bad situation only to end up in a worse one.

Usage:

1. Quitting his job without a plan was like jumping out of the frying pan into the fire.
2. She left one problematic relationship only to fall into another, out of the frying pan into the fire.
3. They moved to avoid the harsh winters but found the summers unbearable, out of the frying pan into the fire.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"From bad to worse," "Escalating troubles," "Out of the frying pan and into the fire"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means moving from a bad situation to one that is worse, using the metaphor of transitioning from the heat of a frying pan to the danger of a fire. The literal meaning doesn't apply, and the phrase conveys a deeper message about worsening circumstances.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the early 20th century, symbolizing the act of becoming profitable or out of debt. It comes from accounting, where "red" indicates a loss.

Meaning:
To become profitable or out of debt.

Usage:

1. The company worked hard to get out of the red.
2. She celebrated being out of the red with her finances.
3. They finally got their business out of the red.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Profitable," "In the black," "Debt-free."

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it refers to a financial state where debts or losses are no longer present, meaning one is now in a positive or profitable position. The idiom "out of the red" uses "red" metaphorically to indicate negative financial standing, and this figurative usage cannot be understood by the literal meaning of the words. Therefore, it is an idiom.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 20th century and symbolizes being in a helpless or disadvantageous position.

Meaning:
Being in a helpless or disadvantageous position.

Usage:

1. They had him over a barrel during the negotiation.
2. She felt over a barrel with no support from her team.
3. He knew he was over a barrel when the client made demands.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"At a disadvantage," "Helpless," "Backed into a corner"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively describes being in a difficult or powerless situation, where one has no other options. It doesn't relate to an actual barrel but uses the metaphor to convey a sense of helplessness or being forced into a decision.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 19th century and symbolizes something too difficult to understand or beyond one's ability.

Meaning:
Something too difficult to understand or beyond one's ability.

Usage:

1. The technical jargon was over her head.
2. He felt the advanced math class was over his head.
3. They realized the project might be over their heads.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Beyond comprehension," "Too difficult," "Above one's understanding"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means something is too difficult to understand or handle. It uses the metaphor of something being physically "over one's head" to suggest a lack of comprehension or ability, which is not meant to be taken literally.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the 20th century and symbolizes being past one's prime or no longer at one's best.

Meaning:
Being past one's prime or no longer at one's best.

Usage:

1. He joked about being over the hill after turning 50.
2. She worried people thought she was over the hill in her career.
3. They felt their old car was over the hill.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Past one's prime," "Aging," "No longer at peak"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to a person who is past their prime or in the later stages of life, using the metaphor of "over the hill" to describe age or decline. It doesn't refer to a literal hill but instead symbolizes the notion of aging or peak performance.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 20th century and symbolizes being extremely happy.

Meaning:
Being extremely happy.

Usage:

1. She was over the moon about her new job.
2. He felt over the moon after the birth of his child.
3. They were over the moon with their holiday plans.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Ecstatic," "Elated," "On cloud nine"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means feeling extremely happy or pleased, using the metaphor of being "over the moon" to convey a sense of joy. The literal moon is irrelevant here, and the phrase instead conveys the intensity of emotions.

Origin:
This idiom dates back to the 20th century and symbolizes something excessive or exaggerated.

Meaning:
Something excessive or exaggerated.

Usage:

1. Her party decorations were over the top.
2. He made an over-the-top gesture to apologize.
3. They found his reaction to be over the top.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Excessive," "Exaggerated," "Too much"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively refers to something being excessive or exaggerated, going beyond what is considered normal or reasonable. The idiom uses "over the top" to describe going beyond limits, not a literal object but rather a metaphor for excess.

Origin:
This idiom has been used since the 20th century and symbolizes overestimating one's position or ability, leading to mistakes.

Meaning:
Overestimating one's position or ability, leading to mistakes.

Usage:

1. He overplayed his hand in the negotiations and lost the deal.
2. She overplayed her hand by demanding too much from her employer.
3. They realized they had overplayed their hand and backed off.

Similar Idioms / Phrases:
"Overreach," "Overestimate," "Misjudge"

Justifications:
This is an idiom because it figuratively means to take a risk or act in a way that reveals too much or goes too far, leading to a disadvantage. It uses a metaphor related to card games (hand) to suggest overestimating one's position or resources.