Results: "Idioms are beautiful but illegitimate children of a language" Where did these phrases come from? ** Part Two** Here we will look into some well known idioms, their origins and the modern meaning.

"To burn the midnight oil" in modern terms is to stay up late working on a project or task. Denise has been burning the midnight oil trying to finish this report, so she must be exhausted. I'll need to burn the midnight oil to have any chance of finishing this paper before class tomorrow morning. Are you familair with this phrase?

The origin of the idiom 'jump on the bandwagon' is an interesting one. In nineteenth century America, a 'bandwagon' was a horse-drawn wagon with a platform for a group of musicians (a band) that often preceded a circus parade. The phrase was first seen in 1848, when a famous clown named Dan Rice would use his circus bandwagon to transport politicians around town while the music attracted the public to an area where campaign speeches were being given. Today to "jump on the bandwagon" means that one is going to join in with prevailing public opinion or interest. Have you ever used this phrase?

Jump to conclusions; to draw inferences too hastily from insufficient evidence. Also put in the singular (to jump to a conclusion), this cliché dates from about 1700. To make decisions or form opinions before one has all the pertinent facts. Modern usage, I know you found some suspicious things in her office, but don't jump to conclusions—talk to her first. Have you ever used this phrase?

Origin of Get Off Your High Horse, The term high horse originated around the year 1380. One of the earliest sources is John Wyclif's English Works: "Ye emperour… made hym & his cardenals ride in reed on hye ors," The phwho rase refers to a large horse, often a warhorse. Those with military or political power would often choose the biggest horses to ride, in a display of their power. Before cars, owning a horse was a sign of prominence, since nobility and high-ranking military officials were primarily the ones who own them. Getting off, was to humble yourself. Get Off Your High Horse modern meaning : Don't act so arrogant., A similar expression is get off your pedestal. Are you familiar with this phrase?

The origin of "Dressed up to the Nines" was referring to someone rich enough to literally purchase the entire nine yards of fabric, it took to make an entire tailor fitted, hand made suit of clothes. dress pants, vest, jacket, the infamous whole nine yards. It is also believed to refer to perfection, or for one very special occasion. The Modern meaning is to be 'dressed to the nines' is to be dressed flamboyantly or smartly. Have you ever used this phrase?