The Phrase Finder
2,500 English idioms, phrases and proverbs that we use every day, with their meanings and origins explained.
Meanings and Origins
The meanings and origins of thousands of English idioms, expressions and sayings
Proverbs
A list of hundreds of the proverbs that give meaning to our language like no other form of expression.
American Expressions
Divided by a common language? Not when you understand the phrases that were born in the USA.
Phrases coined by Shakespeare
The Bard of Avon, he gave us more words and expressions than anyone else.
Nautical phrases
Ahoy there, me hearties, here’s the language that came from our nautical friends.
Phrases from the Bible
The single book that has given more sayings, idioms and proverbs to the English language than any other.
Categories of phrases
Expressions and sayings grouped under topic headings.
Resources
Tools, helpers and notes to help with writers block, or to settle an argument
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, just before they bit the dust.
Also, a special form of last words – notable suicide notes.


Phrase Thesaurus
The Phrase Thesaurus is a writers’ resource that stimulates ideas for headlines, copy, song lyrics, fiction writing etc.
Idioms
We also host a wide range of idioms and Words instead of collections.

A stylised exclamation of surprise, similar to ‘Heavens to Betsy’.
‘Heavens to Murgatroyd’ is American in origin and dates from the mid 20th century.

Popular today
Latest additions
- As straight as an arrow Honest and genuine.
- As smooth as silk Extremely smooth.
- As hot as hell Extremely and uncomfortably hot.
- There are plenty more fish in the sea A single person has lots of options for future partners.
- You’re dead wrong You are utterly, completely wrong and extremely incorrect.
- You’re spot on You are exactly right or perfectly accurate.
- Let someone off the hook Freeing someone from either an obligation (or a responsibility) to…
- You can say that again Expressing complete (or strong) agreement with what has just been…
- Like pulling teeth Very difficult to do and very frustrating and uncomfortable to…
- Brat summer A mindset of feeling confident and proud of how you…
- As bright as a button Very intelligent and quick to learn.
- White as a ghost Turned extremely pale, usually in reaction to something (for example…
- Blind as a bat Having very poor eyesight, or being unwilling to recognise something…
- The struggle is real Something is a frustrating struggle or challenge to deal with.
- Nerves of steel Very brave, confident and courageous, with a calm and collected…