phrases, sayings, idioms and expressions at

The Phrase Finder
Phrases, Sayings and Idioms Home > Discussion Forum

- We are also on

A Phrase A Week - Facebook Group & Follow aphraseaweek on Twitter

Re: Some expressions in english

Posted by Bob on February 20, 2004

In Reply to: Some expressions in english posted by HCD on February 20, 2004

: I'd like to know if somebody can help me with the meaning of the following expressions: "round and about" and "held and turned", shown in the contexts
: below:
: The war became a consuming fire 'round and about' the world, causing losses both to victors and vanquished out of all proportion to the issues involved.

: The first phase of the war was a tremendous rush of the Germans upon Paris and an invasion of East Prussia by the Russians. Both attacks were 'held and turned.'
: Thanks,
: HCD

"around and about" is to be completely surrounded, as in an out-of-control fire that threatens your life.