20240810生成俗语390~399

390. Fall off the wagon

This phrase originally referred to people who, after quitting alcohol, start drinking again.

In the late 19th century, America saw a temperance movement, and those who joined the temperance pledge would say they were “on the wagon”.

If they resumed drinking, it was termed “fall off the wagon”.

Nowadays, this idiom can be used to describe anyone falling back into an old habit or vice they had previously quit.

John was doing well with his diet, but he fell off the wagon and started eating junk food again.

She hadn’t smoked in years, but she fell off the wagon last weekend.

It’s hard to quit an addiction; sometimes people fall off the wagon even after a long time. 

391. Fall on deaf ears

This phrase literally means that the speaker’s words are considered trivial, delivered but neither received nor valued.

It can be traced back to the 16th century and was used to describe people who refuse to heed advice or information.

Her concerns about the project fell on deaf ears.

The warning fell on deaf ears, and no one took action. 

When he tried to explain his side of the story, it fell on deaf ears.

392. Familiarity breeds contempt

This phrase comes from an old proverb, indicating that when we become too familiar with someone or something, we often lose our respect and appreciation for them.

The expression dates back to ancient Roman times, with a similar Latin saying: “Familiarity breeds contempt”.

In modern usage, it often describes situations where people who are too close or exposed to an environment become neglectful or disdainful towards it.

After working with him for years, she realized that familiarity breeds contempt and they no longer got along.

Living in the same house for so long, familiarity breeds contempt and brothers start to fight often. 

Even the most beautiful scenery can be taken for granted; familiarity breeds contempt.

393. Fancy pants

The phrase originates from the early 20th century, usually describing someone who dresses elaborately or in a flashy manner.

It carries a slight negative connotation, indicating that someone is overly concerned with their appearance or shows off too much.

Look at Mr. Fancy Pants over there with his shiny new car. 

She’s such a fancy pants, always showing off her designer clothes. 

Don’t be such a fancy pants; we’re just going to a casual dinner. 

394. Fashion victim

This phrase originates from the fashion world, used to describe those who follow the latest fashion trends blindly without considering their personal circumstances.

In Anglo-American fashion culture, this term often carries a slightly negative connotation, referring to those who pursue the latest trends at any cost, even if those trends do not suit them or are impractical.

She buys every new design but ends up looking like a fashion victim.

Don’t be a fashion victim. Wear what suits you.

He was mocked as a fashion victim for wearing an overly trendy outfit.

395. Fat cat

This phrase originated in the 1920s in the United States and is commonly used to describe people who live luxuriously and hold significant power, often with a negative connotation, implying that they are enjoying these privileges without earning them or at the expense of others.

The new policy gives more power to the fat cats who already control the market.

Many people believe that the fat cats on Wall Street have too much influence over the government.

It’s hard for small businesses to compete when fat cats control the industry. 

396. Feather in one’s cap

This idiom originates from certain traditional European and American customs, where a person would place a feather in their cap to signify an achievement or display of exceptional skill.

Hence, “feather in one’s cap” is used to denote a proud or highly lauded accomplishment.

Winning the championship was a real feather in his cap.

Getting that promotion was another feather in her cap.

Completing the project ahead of schedule was a feather in their cap.

397. Feather one’s nest

This phrase originates from the way birds use feathers to line their nests, making them more comfortable and secure.

Similarly, it metaphorically describes people who continuously gather wealth and benefits for their own comfort and security.

In modern usage, it often has a negative connotation, referring to those who exploit their position or power for personal gain.

The corrupt official used the charity funds to feather his own nest. 

She was accused of feathering her nest by taking credit for others’ work. 

Many believe the new policy is just a way for the officials to feather their nests. 

398. Feeding frenzy

This phrase originates from the animal world, particularly the intense feeding behavior seen in groups of sharks during a feeding spree.

Over time, the expression has been extended to refer to humans in situations such as market frenzies, auctions, or media rushes, describing the feverish and competitive behavior.

There was a feeding frenzy at the mall when the new iPhone went on sale.

The media had a feeding frenzy over the scandal. 

Investors went into a feeding frenzy when the company’s stock price started rising rapidly. 

399. Feel like a million dollars

This phrase originated in the early 20th century, during America’s millionaire era.

A million dollars symbolized great wealth and a luxurious life, so saying “Feel like a million dollars” is a metaphor for someone feeling very good or in excellent spirits.

After the massage, I felt like a million dollars.

With this new suit, John feels like a million dollars.

After a good night’s sleep, you’ll feel like a million dollars