The common English phrase, out with the old, in with the new, means “it is good to replace old things with new things”—“to get rid of the old and welcome the new.” People often say this phrase when getting a new leader, a new job, a new relationship, or a new style, for example. In […]
Loath vs Loathe: Here’s the Difference with Sentence Examples
These are basically the same word in different forms, both meaning “dislike” or “hate.” Loath is the adjective and loathe is the verb: Adjective: I am loath to leave my mother when she is sick. Verb: I loathe leaving my mother when she is sick. Loath and loathe are polite words that you can use in place of hate. Because […]
First vs Firstly: Here’s the Difference in Meaning and Usage
First and firstly are essentially the same word—at least when used for listing things (‘enumeration’): First, you must apply to the school; then, afterwards, you can apply for financial aid. Firstly, you must apply to the school; then, afterwards . . . These are equally correct, according to linguists—although a lot of people just don’t like the […]
Double-edged Sword: Meaning and Usage of This Common English Idiom
A double-edged sword is something that can have two opposite effects at the same time, such as both helping and hurting: Social media is a double-edged sword; it connects us but separates us in harmful ways. A real double-edged sword, is a sword with two cutting edges, like most Western swords of the medieval time period—as seen […]
To Each Their Own: Meaning and Usage of This Common English Phrase
To each their own means that it is okay for each person to follow their own personal tastes, which may be different from the tastes of others: I’m having coffee, but you can have tea if you like; to each their own. Naturally, people say this most when they disagree with […]
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