phrases, sayings, proverbs and idioms at

The meaning and origin of the expression: A sorry sight

A sorry sight

Other phrases by:

What's the meaning of the phrase 'A sorry sight'?

A 'sorry sight' is a regrettable and unwelcome feature. Now also used to mean something or someone of untidy appearance.

What's the origin of the phrase 'A sorry sight'?

The meaning and origin of the expression 'A sorry sight'The phrase originated in Shakespeare's play Macbeth, 1605:

MACBETH:
Hark! Who lies i' the second chamber?

LADY MACBETH:
Donalbain.

MACBETH:
This is a sorry sight.
[Looking on his hands]

LADY MACBETH:
A foolish thought, to say a sorry sight.

Gary Martin - the author of the phrases.org.uk website.

By Gary Martin

Gary Martin is a writer and researcher on the origins of phrases and the creator of the Phrase Finder website. Over the past 26 years more than 700 million of his pages have been downloaded by readers. He is one of the most popular and trusted sources of information on phrases and idioms.

Browse phrases beginning with:
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T UV W XYZ Full List