The meanings and origins of sayings and phrases

1,700 English phrases, sayings, idioms and expressions, with their meanings and origins explained...

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English Proverbs

Nothing defines a language better than its proverbs. Here's a list of 500 of the best-known English proverbs, many with their origin and first usage.

135 phrases coined by William Shakespeare

Shakespeare added more phrases and sayings to the English language than anyone else. See this list of phrases from Shakespeare.

Misquotes

People love quotes, but misquotes even more so. See this list of misquotes.

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37 phrases coined at sea

The world of sail has given us more phrases and sayings than any other occupation. Check these nautical phrases.

122 phrases that come from the Bible

If it isn't Shakespearian and it isn't nautical there's a good chance it's Biblical. Check our list of phrases from the Bible.

Famous Last Words

When it comes to memorable quotations, many prominent people save the best until last. See our list of Famous Last Words to find out who said what before they bit the dust.