Greek origin
Achilles’ heel
Meaning
A fatal weakness in an otherwise strong person or thing.
Examples
JFK’s Achilles heel was his inability to ignore the charms of a long-legged blonde.
Where did it originate?
The United Kingdom – 19th century.
Where is it used?
Worldwide, but more commonly amongst the older generation.
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Cloud cuckoo-land
Meaning
An imaginary idealistic state where everything is perfect. It is usually used with reference to someone who has an overly optimistic and unrealistic belief.
Examples
If you think you can get a managerial job without any qualifications or experience you are living in cloud cuckoo-land.
Where did it originate?
‘Cloud cuckoo-land’ derives from a comment made by was coined by the 4th century BC Greek playwright Aristophanes in the whimsical and extravagant play The Birds. First used in English in the 1820s, in the United Kingdom.
Where is it used?
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