“If the mountain does not come to Mohammed”, “On a silver platter”, “And you, Brutus!” - how firmly these phrases have entered our lives. And each of them very briefly and accurately, in just a few words, can describe the current situation or convey the feelings experienced.
What it is?
Winged words or expressions are phraseological units that are drawn from historical events, folklore and various literary sources - artistic, journalistic, scientific. They often contain the names of literary characters, historical figures, geographical names. These may be quotes from speeches famous people.
Majority catch phrases loses its original meaning and is used in relation to current realities.
Winged words can have the features of an aphorism, or simply have a figurative character, or be used in figuratively. They, like proverbs, are known to many, are often and widely used, have special expressiveness and accurately convey ideas.
Where did this name come from?
The very phrase “winged words” belongs to Homer and has by no means the meaning that is attributed to it now. The Greek poet in his Odyssey had in mind loud speech. Later, however, the expression “winged words” acquired a slightly different meaning in the mouth of Homer. It has come to mean smooth speech, the words of which fly from the speaker’s mouth to the listener’s ear.
This phrase acquired its current meaning thanks to the publication in 1864 of the collection popular quotes, compiled by the German scientist Georg Buchmann. Since then, the expression has become a term used in stylistics and linguistics.
The history of the appearance of some catch phrases dates back to ancient times. Some of them relate to mythology, others - to historical events or the speeches of eminent figures and philosophers of the past. Translated from Latin and Greek, catchphrases have firmly entered our lives, although they have lost their original meaning. And expressions drawn from mythology are generally used only in a figurative sense.
Sources
A special place is occupied by winged words, the source of which is the Bible. Individual phrases or even entire sentences - biblical words - are often found in everyday speech and give it a special coloring and meaning. The most famous of them are “judge not, lest ye be judged”, “the book of seven seals”, “the voice of one crying in the wilderness” and many others.
In addition to biblical quotes, a separate niche occupied by literary sayings found in the works of Russian and Ukrainian classics - N.V. Gogol, A.S. Pushkin, M.Yu. Lermontov. A huge source of popular expressions are the fables of I. A. Krylov and “Woe from Wit” by A. S. Griboyedov. Much later, the collection of similar phrases was replenished with quotes from the works of Ilf and Petrov.
Losing their original meaning, partially changing under the influence of time, winged words, however, decorate our speech, making it richer and more interesting. Some expressions are instructive, others add a humorous spin to the words. Increasingly, popular expressions can be found in the titles of books and articles.
Conclusion
However, some phrases in different countries may have a slightly different meaning, although they are taken from the same source. There are expressions that have no analogues at all in another language, and when translated they will seem completely meaningless. This is worth knowing for people who want to show off their speech and knowledge abroad, so as not to get into an awkward position. It’s better to memorize several popular expressions that are actively used in a given country. It will be the best evidence genuine interest in the culture and history of the host country.
The catchphrase is set phrase. The winged expression is usually aphoristic and expressive.
Aphorism is the originality of a complete thought expressed in a laconic form. In fact, the concepts of “aphorism” and “catchphrase” are synonymous.
Origin of the term "catchphrase"
U ancient Greek poet Homer's poem "Odyssey" says:
Having entered the door, he began to force Odysseus to leave
your home; and, irritated, threw him the winged word:
“Get away from the door, old man, or you’ll be dragged out by the legs!”
And although in in this case the expression “winged word” meant loud speech; this expression itself became winged (recursion).
Sources of catchphrases
There are many such sources. These can be speeches of famous people, literature, myths, folklore, songs, films, etc.
Many popular expressions, having appeared and then acquired independent life, lose contact with the source and already exist on their own, when used in relation to current, modern events. This applies, for example, to many biblical expressions. For example, the expression " voice in the wilderness" Now we use this expression when we want to talk about a vain call, vain words that remain unattended and unanswered. In the Old Testament, in the Book of the Prophet Isaiah it is said: “The voice of one crying in the wilderness: prepare the ways of the Lord, make straight the paths of our God” (Bible Is. 40:3); in the Gospels, John the Baptist, his calls are also called “the voice of one crying in the wilderness” (Bible John 1:23). However, the calls of the prophets remained in vain; most people did not listen to them.
Many popular expressions are of Latin origin:
"leaving go!"(Abiens, abi!)
« other me", "close friend and like-minded person" (Alter ego)
« Plato is my friend but the truth is dearer"(Amicus Plato, sed magis amica est veritas)
« love conquers all" (Amor vincit omnia)
« art is long lasting, but life is short"(Ars longa, vita brevis)
« one foot in the coffin" (Articulo mortis)
« let the other side be heard"(Audiatur et altera pars)
« Hello Caesar, those going to death salute you"(Ave, Caesar, morituri te salutant)
« through thorns to the stars" (Per aspera ad astra)
« money doesn't smell"(Pecunia non olet).
The history of some popular expressions
Alea iacta est (the die is cast)
This expression means: “the choice is made”, “to risk everything for the sake of great goal" Used to emphasize the irreversibility of what is happening. This catchphrase has synonyms in Russian: “the bridges are burned”, “there is no turning back”, “either the chest is in crosses, or the head is in the bushes”, etc.
Gaius Julius Caesar (ancient Roman statesman and political figure, commander, writer), crossing the Rubicon, uttered this phrase and, at the head of his army, entered the territory northern Italy. Thus began a long Civil War Caesar against the Roman Senate led by Pompey the Great. Caesar took a certain risk, because... had only a small number of legions sympathizing with him near Rome. But this risk was fully justified, since the strategic occupation of Rome and the retreat of Pompey played key role in conflict.
Accuracy - the politeness of kings
The meaning of this catchphrase: to be precise, not to be late, means to act like a king.
Translated from French in full, this statement sounds like this: “Accuracy is the courtesy of kings and the duty of all good people" This saying French king Louis XIV was actually the reason rapid development etiquette in Europe. Since then, punctuality, accuracy and skillful handling of one's own and other people's time have been highly valued in society.
Alpha and Omega 
Literally this expression means “the first and last letter Greek alphabet", i.e. "the beginning and end of something."
The expression goes back to a quote from the Bible: “I am the alpha and the omega, the beginning and the end...” (Apocalypse, 1:8). In this case, Jesus Christ is meant, after whose second coming the existence of civilization in the form as it exists now will end.
Catchphrases from literature
To grandfather's village
This expression means: without a specific address, a letter or package “to nowhere.”
An expression from A. P. Chekhov’s story “Vanka” (1886). Main character In the story, a 9-year-old boy Vanka Zhukov, brought from the village to Moscow and apprenticed to a shoemaker, writes a letter to his grandfather asking him to take him from the city to the village. “Vanka folded the scribbled sheet of paper into four and put it in an envelope he had bought the day before for a penny... After thinking a little, he wet his pen and wrote the address: “ To grandfather's village" Then he scratched himself, thought and added: “To Konstantin Makarych.”
Who are the judges?
The meaning of this catchphrase is contempt for the opinions of authorities who are no better than those whom these judges are trying to blame, criticize, etc.
Quote from A. S. Griboedov’s comedy “Woe from Wit” (act 2).
Chatsky:
Who are the judges?? for ancient times
TO free life their enmity is irreconcilable,
Judgments are drawn from forgotten newspapers
The times of Ochakovsky and the conquest of Crimea...
A mixture of French and Nizhny Novgorod
This is what they say about someone’s ignorance and bad taste, which allows the combination of completely incompatible things.
The hero of A. S. Griboyedov’s comedy “Woe from Wit” (1824), Chatsky, condemning and ridiculing noble gallomania (addiction to everything French), is interested in:
What's the tone here these days?
At conventions, at big ones, on parish holidays?
A confusion of languages still prevails:
French with Nizhny Novgorod?
One but fiery passion
This can be said about a person who devotes all his energy and time to some kind of hobby: he was possessed by one, but fiery passion.
This is a catchphrase from the 3rd stanza of the poem “Mtsyri” by M. Yu. Lermontov. This is what the young man Mtsyri says about his desire to escape from the monastery, into which he ended up against his will:
I knew only the power of the thought.
One but fiery passion:
She lived inside me like a worm,
She tore her soul and burned it.
And Vaska listens and eats 
This expression characterizes the situation when one speaks and convinces, and the other does not listen to him, regardless of the speaker, and continues to do his job.
An expression from I. A. Krylov’s fable “The Cat and the Cook” has become popular:
Vaska the cat is a cheat!
Vaska the cat is a thief!
And Vaska didn’t just go to the cookhouse,
There is no need to let him into the yard,
Like a greedy wolf into a sheepfold:
He is corruption, he is a plague, he is a plague of these places!
(And Vaska listens and eats).
Winged expressions from the works of A. de Saint-Exupéry
Here is my secret, it is very simple: only the heart is vigilant. You can't see the most important thing with your eyes.
If you can judge yourself correctly, then you are truly wise.
Antoine de Saint-Exupery
When we understand our role on Earth, even the most modest and inconspicuous, then only we will be happy. Then only we will be able to live and die in peace, for what gives meaning to life gives meaning to death.
It's easy to find friends who are willing to help us. It's hard to earn friends who need our help.
Loving does not mean looking at each other, loving means looking together in the same direction.
Don't skimp on your soul. Do not prepare supplies where the heart must work. Giving means throwing a bridge over the abyss of your loneliness.
You are forever responsible for those you have tamed.
The main thing is to go. The road does not end, and the goal is always a deception of the wanderer’s vision: he has climbed to the top, but he already sees another one...
Catchphrases from myths
Hannibal's Oath
Meaning: a firm determination to be irreconcilable towards someone or something to the end.
The Carthaginian commander Hannibal (Hannibal, 247-183 BC), according to legend, as a boy vowed to be an implacable enemy of Rome all his life. He kept his oath: during the Second Punic War (218-210 BC), the troops under his command inflicted a number of heavy defeats on the troops of Rome.
Catchphrases from songs
Otherwise, beautiful marquise, everything is fine
The meaning of this catchphrase: there are troubles that you need to come to terms with.
Taken from a song performed by L. Utesov. This is a French song translated by A. Bezymensky (1936) “Tout va très bien madame la marquise”.
And instead of a heart - a fiery engine
This is what they say about an active, tireless person or, in a figurative sense, about a soulless person.
The expression is taken from the song “Air March” (music by Yu. A. Khait, lyrics by P. D. German, 1922):
We were born to make a fairy tale come true,
Overcome space and space,
The mind gave us steel wings,
And instead of a heart there is a fiery motor.
Catchphrases from films
And you, Stirlitz, I’ll ask you to stay
A humorous phrase in conversational style used as a request to stay for a conversation when addressing one of those leaving the room.
The catchphrase is based on Muller’s remark (performed by L. Bronevoy) from the television film “Seventeen Moments of Spring”: “ Stirlitz, I’ll ask you to stay».
And along the roads the dead stand with scythes 
A humorous remark about something terrible or threatening (with disbelief in its existence).
From the film “The Elusive Avengers” (1967), spoken by actor Savely Kramarov.
To die is not to rise
In a conversational style, the phrase is used when you need to express strong surprise or shock.
This phrase is uttered by secretary Verochka (Liya Akhedzhakova) in the film “ Love affair at work"(1977). This film is an adaptation of the play “Colleagues” by E. Braginsky and E. Ryazanov, where this expression was first used. In the story, director Kalugina (A. Freindlich) comes to work in a transformed state and, in a conversation with the surprised Verochka, asks: “What do you think of my hairstyle?” She exclaims: “ Die - don't get up!».
Catchphrases from the speeches of politicians
The dead have no shame
This catchphrase can have several meanings depending on the situation in which it is pronounced: death in battle is always honorable; the dead cannot be condemned; A dead person can be blamed for anything because he cannot be asked.
According to the chronicler, Prince Svyatoslav addressed his soldiers with these words before the battle with the Greeks in 970.
They don’t change horses midway
Meaning: at a decisive moment for a business, neither plans nor people can be changed.
The phrase was heard in a speech given in 1864 by the 16th US President Abraham Lincoln on the occasion of his candidacy for a second presidential term.
Winged expressions from the Bible
Even those of you who have never read the Bible have quoted it at least once. In our speech there are many popular expressions that have biblical origin. Here are some of them.
Burying talent in the ground(prevent the development of the abilities inherent in a person). From the Gospel parable about the servant who buried a talent (a measure of the weight of silver) in the ground instead of using it in business and making a profit. The word “talent” subsequently became synonymous with outstanding ability.
doubting Thomas- a doubting person. The Apostle Thomas did not immediately believe in the resurrection of Christ: “Unless I see in His hands the marks of the nails, and put my finger into the marks of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe.” Subsequently, the Apostle Thomas atoned for his momentary doubt with apostolic service.
Lost Sheep- this is what they say about a person who has lost his way. The expression is taken from the Gospel parable about the joy of the owner who found and returned one lost sheep to the flock.
A catchphrase (or catchphrase) is a stable expression that is from some cultural or literary sources. If the data is very expressive and memorable, then it receives a popular expression.
Often many people no longer understand the source of this catchphrase, but the words themselves remain unforgettable. For example, everyone knows the catchphrase “After us, at least,” but few will remember what was said by the Marquise de Pompadour. There are a great many such examples.
The concept of “catchphrase” is very closely intertwined with another, related to it - “phraseological unit”. A phraseological unit is also a stable verbal expression, but, unlike a catchphrase, a phraseological unit does not always have a literary source. In addition, a phraseological unit is an indivisible, separate lexical unit, which cannot be said about a catchphrase.
A winged expression can have different lives. It depends on how high the level is cultural development of this or that society, as well as on the speed of introduction of new trends and elements into cultural life. As an example, we can recall the popular expression “Life, as they say, is good. A good life is even better!" from the film "Prisoner of the Caucasus". This expression is often consumed by the old. It is unlikely that the same phrase can cause the same positive emotions among young people who have different value and cultural guidelines.
Idioms are cultural phenomenon, which indicates a high spiritual development and phenomenon cultural memory. Cultural memory is a phenomenon associated with the continuity of traditions and customs of ancestors by new generations. With a developed cultural memory, there should be no doubt that the new generation will disrespect the events of past years.
Related article
Most of my free time modern people carried out on the Internet. Wide use social networks and messaging programs makes it popular to use various statuses inside similar sites.
Instructions
Status is the text with a picture that your interlocutors see when communicating with you. The status can be easily changed at any time you want, or removed altogether.
Come up with your own status or borrow it from special sites. The status can be set in icq, mail-, in Odnoklassniki, VKontakte, etc.
Choose a status depending on your mood. It is your reflection, characterizing the feelings, desires or experiences that you experience in this moment. When communicating, people can understand what is going on in your soul by the expression on your face. On the Internet, this function is performed by status. If, for example, you are sick and put an icon with a thermometer, your online friends will immediately ask what happened and if you need help. If you install a happy emoticon with the text “Hurray! I passed math!!!”, a flurry of congratulations will fall on you.
This catchphrase is used when a person finds himself in some awkward, uncomfortable situation. In prosak they called a special device for weaving ropes and ropes. It was a fairly complex mechanism for that time. The prosak twisted the threads and strands so tightly that if part of a person’s clothing or hair got into it, then this carelessness could cost him his life.
Bosom Friend
In Rus', the process of drinking alcoholic beverages was called “pouring over the Adam’s apple.” Accordingly, in the process of “pouring the Adam's apple,” a rapprochement and complete mutual understanding of all participants in the feast occurred; they became “bosom friends.” Currently, it denotes a very close long-time friend.
If we don't wash, we'll ride
In the old days, women used a special rolling pin when doing laundry, which they used to roll wet laundry. Even poorly washed clothes looked clean and ironed after riding. IN modern world this catchphrase is used when talking about some complex and confusing matter. It turns out that the desired result was achieved with great difficulties, which we nevertheless managed to overcome, be it difficult negotiations or a job interview.
Reach the handle
In the old days, there was a very popular dish in Rus' - kalach. It was then baked in the shape of a castle with a rounded bow. Kalachis were very often eaten right on the streets, holding them by the bow, or in other words, the handle. The handle itself was not eaten, considering it unsanitary. Usually the uneaten part of the roll was thrown to the dogs or given to the poor. It turns out that those who have “reached the end” are experiencing extreme need and hunger. Nowadays they say this about people who have sunk and completely lost their human appearance, about those who find themselves in an almost hopeless situation.
This catchphrase has transformed over time. They used to say “tyn-grass,” and they called a fence “tyn.” It turned out that this phrase meant weeds growing under the fence, in other words, “weed under the fence.” This phrase now means complete hopelessness in life, indifference.
In Rus', the most experienced and strong barge hauler was called “bump”. He always went first in the strap. Now they call it a "big shot" important person, who occupies a responsible position.
Goal like a falcon
A falcon used to be called a battering gun, which was made of cast iron. The falcon was hung on chains and, gradually swinging, they broke the walls of the fortifications. It was a completely smooth weapon, which became associated with a poor, beggarly person.
Orphan Kazan
Ivan the Terrible conquered Kazan, and the Tatar princes came to visit him, while complaining about their poor and hard life in order to beg all sorts of concessions from the Russian Tsar.
Unlucky man
In the old days, the word “path” meant not only a road, but also various positions at the prince’s court. For example, the falconer's path was in charge of falconry, and the stablemaster's path was in charge of the prince's carriages. It turns out that this catchphrase came from this.
Washing the bones
Among the Orthodox Greeks and some Slavs there was ancient custom reburial of the dead. The bodies of the deceased were taken out of the grave, then they were washed with wine and water and buried again. It was believed that if the bones were clean and the deceased had completely decayed, it meant that he led a righteous life and went straight to God. If a corpse that was not decayed and swollen was taken out of the burial place, this meant that the person was a great sinner during his lifetime, and after his death he was transformed into a ghoul or ghoul.
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Sources:
- Where did catchphrases come from?
“A house cannot be built without corners, speech cannot be said without a proverb” - phraseological units, catchphrases, proverbs not only make speech expressive, but also allow one or two words to express what cannot always be explained in whole sentences.
In any language there are stable expressions - phraseological units. A phraseological unit is a ready-made combination of words that can be used to mean a single word or expression. The origin of the term itself is attributed to the French linguist Charles Bally.
Often the original meaning is hidden by history, but the phrase itself illustrates a fact that is linguistically unrelated to the specific expression. For example, the expression “ate the dog” means vast experience in a certain matter. And in exactly that order and not another. “Eat a dog” - this is exactly the case when the “sum” changes due to a change in the places of the terms.
Winged expressions from the depths of folklore
The initial sources of phraseological units were proverbs and sayings, some of which became an inseparable part of the Russian colloquial and literary language, as well as ancient grammatical forms and archaisms of the Russian language.
note
The presence of this member in a sentence is not always necessary. In cases where it is not present, the object can be determined based on the context.
The catchphrase “Procrustean bed” is often used in disputes between speakers, logical discussions, and it is also found in ordinary colloquial speech. But who is Procrustes, and why did his bed become so famous?
Who is Procrustes?
Ancient Greek myths gave the world many catchphrases and expressions. To a large extent, the spread of phraseological units was facilitated by the fact that it was in Ancient Greece Philosophy and logic were born. Therefore, it is not surprising that concepts and phenomena from Greek myths are still actively used in many languages.
The famous “Procrustean bed” is one of these stable expressions. Procrustes is a negative character from the legends of Theseus. IN different sources he is also Polypemon or Damaste. He was a demigod, that is, the son of a mortal woman and one of the gods - Poseidon. Procrustes was evil and cruel person, who terrorized travelers from Athens to Megara. Luring random people into his home, he offered them his bed. However, if the bed was too short for a guest, Procrustes cut off his legs, and stretched out those whose bed was too long. Theseus was also among the potential victims of Procrustes, but was able to defeat him. Having laid the defeated robber on the bed, Theseus found out that the bed was small. Then he “shortened” Procrustes by cutting off his head.
According to some versions of the myth, Theseus was also the son of Poseidon, so that in fact Procrustes was his half-brother.
Allegorical meaning of the expression
In modern times, the expression “Procrustean bed” means attempts to fit this or that circumstance or phenomenon into a predetermined framework, even in the case when for the sake of this it is necessary to invent missing ones or, conversely, neglect existing ones. This approach is one of the classic logical errors or tricks that turn reasoned discussion into bad faith persuasion.
The term “logical trick” is used not only in logic, but also in philosophy, rhetoric, oratory. There are many logical errors that make the argument untenable.
The usual idea of any logical trick is to convince the interlocutor that you are right, while certain theses are formulated and justified with reasoning. Such methods work if the interlocutor is too receptive with psychological point vision or does not have enough knowledge and experience to notice the error. For example, using the “Procrustean bed”, you can omit significant exceptions, putting forward a certain generalizing thesis. If the opponent is not completely clear on the subject of the discussion, this method may well work.
Pyotr Arkadyevich Stolypin, who came from an ancient noble family, was large landowner and one of the prime ministers of Russia. His bills went down in history as “Stolypin’s agrarian reform" During his lifetime, he was criticized for the cruelty of the measures taken. The expression “Stolypin tie” is directly related to this.
What is a “Stolypin tie”
Stolypin was famous for his controversial reforms in many areas. First of all in agriculture. His personality caused a lot of controversy during his lifetime. At the beginning of the 20th century, revolutionaries repeatedly made attempts on the life of Prime Minister Pyotr Arkadyevich Stolypin. They shot at him and threw bombs at him. In the summer of 1906, Stolypin’s daughter was seriously wounded on Aptekarsky Island in St. Petersburg. In 1911, anarchist Dmitry Bogrov, having entered the building of the Kyiv drama theater, fired the fatal shot.
The catchphrase “Stolypin tie” appeared in 1907. At the meeting State Duma of the third convocation, the representative of the Cadet Party, Fyodor Rodichev, paraphrased V. Purishkevich’s then-famous expression about “Muravievsky”. Vladimir Purishkevich was famous as a talented speaker. After General M.N. Muravyov was liquidated Polish uprising In 1863, the gallows rope began to be called the “Ant Collar.” During the meeting, Purishkevich asked Stolypin a question: “Where are the murderers, are they all strung up and given Ant’s tie?” After this, Fyodor Rodichev said from the podium that descendants would be forced to call the “Muravyov collar” a “Stolypin tie.”
How did this catchphrase appear?
The occasion for the speech was the Chairman of the Council of Ministers of Russia A.P. Stolypin in the Duma. Then he promised to fight the revolutionaries and warmly supported the idea of military courts. The idea of “quick courts” was proposed by him after a large-scale terrorist attack, in which about 100 people were injured, including Stolypin’s children. Such courts heard cases of civilians accused of participating in and other crimes against political system. Cases were considered in a simplified manner, that is, without the participation of a prosecutor and a lawyer. Usually the sentence was carried out within 24 hours. Petitions for pardon and even appeals against sentences were not allowed.
The State Duma hall reacted violently. Indignant deputies tried to drag Rodichev from the podium, crowding around her. Following Stolypin, the ministers and Chairman of the Third State Duma N.A. left the hall. Khomyakov. After the meeting was disrupted, Stolypin gave Rodichev a challenge to a duel. But the incident was settled after the representative of the Cadet Party apologized to the Prime Minister.
Fyodor Rodichev’s statement was interpreted as an “unparliamentary expression.” In this regard, Rodichev was deprived of the right to attend 15 Duma meetings.
Latin, ancient Greek, Sanskrit - all these are “dead” languages, many phrases and expressions of which were lost over time, others lost their meaning. Single words and phrases thanks to myths, traditions and legends are still used to this day. But few people think about their origin and meaning.
Campaign against Troy. He also called Achilles. In defense of Troy, Paris, guided by Apollo himself, struck Achilles with a poisoned arrow. It hit him in the heel - the only thing vulnerable spot on the body of Achilles. This is where "Achilles's" came from heel", i.e. the only vulnerable, or weak point. Now this is also used in relation to any weaknesses(“sick” places) of a person. And these are not always some physical aspects; they are more often used to indicate moral, psychological or spiritual vulnerability. In addition, this term is used in medicine. Doctors call the “Achilles tendon” or “Achilles heel” the ligament that runs from the calf muscle to the heel. This tendon is considered the strongest in the human body and plays an important role in the process of raising and lowering the heel and foot.
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Phraseology is a branch of the science of language that studies stable combinations of words. Phraseologism is a stable combination of words, or a stable expression. Used to name objects, signs, actions. It is an expression that arose once, became popular and became entrenched in people's speech. The expression is endowed with imagery and may have a figurative meaning. Over time, an expression can take on a broad meaning in everyday life, partially including the original meaning or completely excluding it.
Lexical meaning has a phraseological unit as a whole. The words included in a phraseological unit individually do not convey the meaning of the entire expression. Phraseologisms can be synonymous (at the end of the world, where the raven did not bring bones) and antonymous (raise to heaven - trample into the dirt). A phraseological unit in a sentence is one member of the sentence. Phraseologisms reflect a person and his activities: work (golden hands, playing the fool), relationships in society (bosom friend, putting a spoke in the wheels), personal qualities(turn up your nose, sour face), etc. Phraseologisms make statements expressive and create imagery. Set expressions used in works of art, in journalism, in everyday speech. Set expressions are also called idioms. There are many idioms in other languages - English, Japanese, Chinese, French.
To clearly see the use of phraseological units, refer to their list or on the page below.
Augean stables
In Greek mythology, the “Augean stables” are the vast stables of Augeas, the king of Elis, which were not cleaned for many years. They were cleansed in one day by Hercules: he directed the Alpheus River through the stables, the waters of which carried away all the impurities. This myth was first reported by the ancient Greek historian Diodorus Siculus. The expression that arose from this is " Augean stables" - about an extremely neglected premises, as well as about affairs in extreme disorder.
Aurora
In Roman mythology, Aurora is the goddess of the dawn. In figurative and poetic speech generally synonymous with dawn. The expression “rose-fingered Aurora” entered literary speech from the poems of Homer. In Greek mythology, it corresponds to Eos.
Antey
In Greek mythology, Antaeus is a giant, the ruler of Libya, the son of the god of the seas Poseidon and the goddess of the earth Gaia. He challenged everyone who appeared in his domain to battle, and was invincible as long as he was in contact with mother earth. Strangled by Hercules, who tore him off the ground. This myth was conveyed by the Greek writer Apollodorus in the “Library”. The image of Antaeus is used when talking about the power that a person possesses if he is connected with his native land, his native people.
- 29 November 2012, 01:54
Poor as Ir.
In Greek mythology, Ir is one of the characters in the Odyssey, a beggar who got into a fight with Odysseus when he, disguised as a beggar, returned to native home. In a figurative sense - a poor man.
Balzac age
The expression arose after the publication of O. de Balzac’s novel “A Woman of Thirty” and is used as a humorous definition of women aged 30-40.
White crow
This expression, as a designation of a rare, exceptional person, is given in a satire by the Roman poet Juvenal:
Fate gives kingdoms to slaves and brings triumphs to captives.
However, such a lucky person is rarer than a black sheep.
Prodigal son
The expression arose from the Gospel parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32), which tells how a certain man divided his property between two sons; the younger one went to the far side and, living dissolutely, squandered his share. Having experienced need and hardship, he returned to his father and repented before him, and his father accepted and forgave him: Let us eat and be merry, for this son of mine was dead and is alive again, he was lost and is found. The expression “Prodigal Son” is used both in the meaning of “a dissolute man” and in the meaning of “repentant of his errors.”
- 29 November 2012, 02:32
Age of Astraea
In Greek mythology, Dike Astraea is one of the Or, the goddess of justice, daughter of Zeus and Themis. Dike informed Zeus about all the injustices happening on earth. The time when she was on earth was a happy, “golden age.” She left the earth in the Iron Age and since then, under the name of Virgo, she has been shining in the constellation of the Zodiac. The nickname Astraea (starry, heavenly) is probably associated with the idea that true justice is possible only in heaven. The expression “age of Astraea” is used to mean: a happy time.
Barbarian
Barbarian is a contemptuous term for a rude and uncultured person. It arose from "barbaros" - "incomprehensibly chattering." This is what the Greeks called those who did not speak Greek.
Libation [worship] of Bacchus [Bacchus]
Bacchus (Bacchus) - roman name greek god wine and joy of Dionysus. The ancient Romans had a libation ritual when making sacrifices to the gods, which consisted of pouring wine from a cup in honor of the god. This is where the humorous expression “libation to Bacchus” arose, used to mean: drinking. The name of this ancient Roman god is also used in other humorous expressions about drunkenness: “worship Bacchus,” “serve Bacchus.”
Babel
The expression originates from a biblical myth about an attempt to build a tower in Babylon that would reach the sky. When the builders began their work, the angry God “confused their language,” they ceased to understand each other and could not continue the construction (Genesis, 11, 1 - 9). (Church Glav.: pandemonium - the structure of a pillar, tower.) Used in the meaning: disorder, confusion, noise, turmoil
- 29 November 2012, 02:35
Hercules. Herculean labor (feat) Pillars of Hercules (pillars.)
Hercules (Hercules) is a hero in Greek mythology, the son of Zeus and the mortal woman Alcmene. He performed the famous twelve labors: he strangled the Nemean lion, killed the Lernaean hydra, cleaned the Augean stables, etc. In memory of his wanderings, Hercules erected the “Pillars of Hercules”. So in ancient world called two rocks on opposite banks Strait of Gibraltar. These pillars were considered the “edge of the world”, beyond which there is no way. Therefore, the expression “to reach the pillars of Hercules” began to be used in the meaning: to reach the limit of something, to extreme point. The name of Hercules himself became a household name for a person with great physical strength. The expression “Herculean labor, feat” is used when talking about any task that requires extraordinary effort.
Hercules at the crossroads
The expression arose from the speech of the Greek sophist Prodicus, which became known to us in the presentation of Xenophon. In this speech, Prodicus told an allegory he had composed about Hercules (Hercules), sitting at a crossroads and reflecting on the path of life that he had to choose. Two women approached him: Effeminacy, who promised him a carefree life full of pleasures, and Virtue, who showed him the difficult path to glory. Hercules chose the latter and after much labor became a god. The expression “Hercules at the crossroads” is applied to a person who finds it difficult to choose between two decisions.
Voice in the wilderness
An expression from the Bible (Isaiah, 40, 3; quoted: Matt., 3, 3; Mark, 1, 3; John, 1, 23), used in the meaning: a vain call for something, remaining unheeded, unanswered
Hannibal at the Gate
This expression, meaning imminent and formidable danger, was figuratively used for the first time by Cicero in one of his speeches (Philippics 1:5,11) against the commander Anthony, who was marching on Rome to seize power. Cicero was referring to the Carthaginian commander Hannibal (Annibal) (247-183 BC), who was an ardent enemy of Rome.
- 29 November 2012, 02:37
Sword of Damocles
The expression originated from an ancient Greek legend told by Cicero. Damocles, one of the close associates of the Syracusan tyrant Dionysius the Elder, began to enviously speak of him as the happiest of people. Dionysius, in order to teach the envious man a lesson, put him in his place. During the feast, Damocles saw a sharp sword hanging above his head from a horsehair. Dionysius explained that this is a symbol of the dangers to which he, as a ruler, is constantly exposed, despite the apparent happy life. Hence the expression “sword of Damocles” received the meaning of impending, threatening danger.
Greek gift. Trojan horse
The expression is used to mean: insidious gifts that bring with them death for those who receive them. Originated from Greek legends about Trojan War. The Danaans (Greeks), after a long and unsuccessful siege of Troy, resorted to cunning: they built a huge wooden horse, left it at the walls of Troy, and themselves pretended to sail away from the shores of Troy. The priest Laocoon, seeing this horse and knowing the tricks of the Danaans, exclaimed: “Whatever it is, I am afraid of the Danaans, even those who bring gifts!” But the Trojans, not listening to the warnings of Laocoon and the prophetess Cassandra, dragged the horse into the city. At night, the Danaans, hiding inside the horse, came out, killed the guards, opened the city gates, let in their comrades who had returned on ships, and thus took possession of Troy (Homer’s “Odyssey”, Virgil’s “Aeneid”). Virgil’s hemistich “I am afraid of the Danaans, even those who bring gifts,” often quoted in Latin (“Timeo Danaos et dona ferentes”), has become a proverb. This is where the expression " Trojan horse", used in the meaning: secret, insidious plan; betrayal.
Two-Faced Janus
In Roman mythology, Janus - the god of time, as well as every beginning and end, entrances and exits (janua - door) - was depicted with two faces facing opposite sides: young - forward, to the future, old - back, to the past. The expression “two-faced Janus” or simply “Janus” that arose from here means: a hypocrite, a two-faced person.
Two Ajax
In Homer's poems, Ajax is two friends, heroes of the Trojan War, who together performed feats. The expression “Two Ajaxes” means two inseparable friends. Offenbach's operetta "Beautiful Helen" contributed to its popularity.
- 29 November 2012, 03:13
Echidna
In Greek mythology, Echidna is a monster, half-maiden, half-snake, who gave birth to whole line monsters: Sphinx, Cerberus, Nemean lion, chimera, etc. In a figurative sense - an evil, sarcastic and treacherous person.
Egyptian darkness
This expression, used in the meaning: thick, hopeless darkness, arose from the biblical story about one of the miracles that Moses allegedly performed: he “stretched out his hand to heaven, and there was thick darkness throughout the whole land of Egypt for three days” (Exodus, 10, 22).
If you want peace, prepare for war
This expression is often quoted in latin form: “Si vis pacem, para bellum”, belongs to the Roman historian Cornelius Nepos (94 - 24 BC) and is found in the biography of the Theban commander of the 4th century. BC e. Epaminondas. A similar formula: “Qui desiderat pacem, praeparet bellum (Who desires peace, prepares war)” is found in a Roman military writer of the 4th century. n. e. Flavia Vegetia.
Eat to live, not live to eat.
The statement belongs to Socrates, was often quoted by ancient writers (Quintilian, Diogenes Laertius, Aulus Helius, etc.). Subsequently it was also actively used, including in famous comedy Moliere "The Miser".
- 29 November 2012, 03:15
Life is a struggle
The expression goes back to ancient authors. In Euripides’ tragedy “The Petitioner”: “Our life is a struggle.” In Seneca's letters: “To live is to fight.” Voltaire in the tragedy “Fanaticism, or the Prophet Mohammed” puts it into the mouth of Mohammed; phrase: “My life is a struggle”
Die is cast
Exclamation of Julius Caesar when crossing the Rubicon. Used to mean: the final decision has been made. According to Suetonius, the words “the die is cast” were pronounced by Julius Caesar in Latin (alea jacta est), and by Plutarch - in Greek, as a quote from the comedy of Menander: “Let the lot be cast.” Caesar's historical phrase is often quoted in its Latin form.
Life is short, art is long lasting.
An aphorism by the Greek thinker and physician Hippocrates. It is often used not in the sense in which it was said - art is longer lasting than the life of one person - but also in a more expanded interpretation - art is greater, more significant than a person’s life, for understanding it and mastering it in a person’s life it will never be enough.
He reaps where he did not sow.
This is what they say about people who benefit from the fruits of other people's labor. It arose from the Gospel: “You are a cruel man, reaping where you did not sow and gathering where you did not scatter”, Matthew 25.24; “You take away what you did not put in and reap what you did not sow,” Luke 19:21.
Yellow press
This expression, used to mean a low-quality, deceitful, sensation-hungry press, originated in the USA. In 1895, the American artist Richard Outcault published in a number of issues of the New York newspaper "The World" a series of frivolous drawings with humorous text, among which was a boy in a yellow shirt, to whom various funny sayings were attributed. Soon, another newspaper, the New-York Journal, began publishing its own series of drawings with a similar meaning and content. A furious dispute broke out between the newspapers over the right to the “yellow boy”. In 1896, Erwin Wardman, editor of the New-York Press, published an article in his magazine in which he spoke very contemptuously of both disputing sides. For the first time he used the expression “yellow press” in relation to disputants and since then the expression has become popular.
- 29 November 2012, 03:16
The Golden Fleece. Argonauts
Ancient Greek myths tell that the hero Jason went to get the Golden Fleece - the golden skin of a magic ram - which was guarded by the dragon of the king of Colchis, Aeetes. Jason built the ship "Argo" and, having gathered the greatest heroes, who began to be called Argonauts after the name of the ship, set off. Having overcome many adventures, Jason obtained the Golden Fleece. The poet Pindar was the first to expound this myth. Since then, the golden fleece has been called gold, the wealth that people strive to acquire; Argonauts - brave sailors, adventurers.
Golden age
Hesiod called the Golden Age the very first and happiest time in the history of mankind, when people knew no wars, no worries, no suffering. In a figurative sense, the golden age is the time of greatest prosperity.
Golden Rain
This image arose from Greek myth about Zeus, who, captivated by the beauty of Danae, the daughter of King Acrisius, appeared to her in the form of golden rain, after which her son Perseus was born. Danaë, showered with a shower of gold coins, is depicted in the paintings of many Renaissance artists (Titian, Correggio, Van Dyck, etc.). Metaphorically, “golden shower” refers to abundant gifts.
Bury your talent in the ground
The expression arose from the Gospel parable about how a certain man, leaving, instructed slaves to guard his estate; He gave one slave five talents, another two, and a third one. (Talent is an ancient monetary unit.) The slaves who received five and two talents “used them for business,” that is, they lent them at interest, and those who received one talent buried it in the ground. When the departing owner returned, he demanded an account from the slaves. Those who gave money on interest returned him instead of the five talents they had received, ten, and instead of two, four. And the master praised them. But the one who received one talent said that he buried it in the ground. And the owner answered him: “You are a wicked and lazy slave. You should have given my silver to the traders, and I would have received it with profit” (Matt. 25:15-30). The word “talent” (Greek talanton) was originally used in the meaning: scales, weight, then the amount of money of a certain weight and, finally, became synonymous with outstanding abilities in any field. The expression “bury talent in the ground” is used to mean: do not care about the development of talent, let it die out.
Zeus the Thunderer
Zeus (Zeus) - in Greek mythologies supreme god, father and king of the gods. In figurative speech - majestic, unparalleled. Zeus is the lord of thunder and lightning; one of his constant epithets is “thunderer.” Hence, ironically, “Zeus the Thunderer” is a formidable boss.
Golden calf
The expression is used in the meaning: gold, wealth, the power of gold, money, - according to the biblical story about a calf made of gold, which the Jews, wandering in the desert, worshiped as a god (Exodus, 32)
Lost Sheep
This is what they say about a dissolute person who has strayed from the righteous path. The expression arose from the Gospel (Matt. 18:12; Luke 15:4-6)
Rear contemplation
The expression originated from the Bible; God said that people should not see his face, and if anyone looks, he will be struck with death; only Moses allowed him to see himself only from behind: “Behold my backside” (Exodus, 33:20-23). Hence the expression “to contemplate the rear” received the meaning: not to see true face to know something, to know something without foundation.
the Forbidden fruit
The expression is used to mean: something tempting, desirable, but forbidden or inaccessible. It arose from the biblical myth about the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, the fruits of which God forbade Adam and Eve to eat.
Here is Rhodes, here and jump
Expression from Aesop's fable "The Braggart". A certain man boasted that he had once made a colossal leap in Rhodes and cited witnesses as proof. One of the listeners objected: “Friend, if this is true, you don’t need witnesses: here’s Rhodes, jump here.” The expression is used to mean: instead of showing off something in words, show it in action."
Knowledge is power.
Expression of the English materialist philosopher Francis Bacon (1561-1626) in Moral and Political Essays, 2.11 (1597).
Golden mean
This is how they talk about some decision, a course of action that is alien to extremes and risk. This expression, "aurea mediocritas", is from the 2nd book of odes of the Roman poet Horace.
- 29 November 2012, 03:17
And you Brute?
In Shakespeare’s tragedy “Julius Caesar” (d. 3, iv. 1), with these words (in the original Latin: “Et tu, Brute?”), the dying Caesar addresses Brutus, who was among the conspirators who attacked him in the Senate . Historians consider this phrase legendary. Marcus Junius Brutus, whom Caesar considered a supporter, became the head of a conspiracy against him and was one of the participants in his assassination in 44 BC. e. Caesar, at the first wound inflicted on him, as Suetonius reports in his biography, only sighed and did not utter a single word. However, at the same time, Suetonius adds, they said that Caesar, seeing Brutus advancing on him, exclaimed in Greek: “And you, my child?” But according to Shakespeare's tragedy, Caesar's legendary phrase became a catchphrase to describe his friend's unexpected betrayal.
Trumpet of Jericho Walls of Jericho.
An expression from a biblical myth. The Jews, upon leaving Egyptian captivity, on their way to Palestine, had to take the city of Jericho. But its walls were so strong that it was impossible to destroy them. However, from the sound of the sacred trumpets, the walls of Jericho fell by themselves, and thanks to this miracle, the city was taken by the Jews (book of Joshua, 6). The expression “trumpet of Jericho” is used to mean: a loud, trumpet voice.
Massacre of the innocents
The expression arose from the Gospel legend about the killing of all babies in Bethlehem by order of the Jewish king Herod, after he learned from the Magi about the birth of Jesus, whom they called the king of the Jews (Matt. 2, 1 - 5 and 16). Used as a definition of child abuse, and also when jokingly talking about strict measures applied to anyone in general.
- 29 November 2012, 03:32
Carthage must be destroyed
The phrase with which, as Plutarch tells us, the Roman commander and statesman Cato the Elder (234 - 149 BC), an implacable enemy of Carthage, ended each of his speeches in the Senate. Titus Livia, Cicero and others talk about the same thing. This expression began to be used as a persistently repeated call for a stubborn struggle against an enemy or some obstacle. Often quoted in Latin: "Carthaginem esse delendam."
Sink into oblivion. Summer
In Greek mythology, Lethe is the river of oblivion in the underworld. The souls of the dead, having tasted the water from Lethe, forgot about their earthly life. “Sink into oblivion” - to be forgotten, to disappear without a trace.
Cassandra, prophetic Cassandra
In Greek mythology, Cassandra is the daughter of the Trojan king Priam. Cassandra received a prophetic gift from Apollo, but when she rejected his love, he made sure that her prophecies were no longer believed. Thus, the Trojans did not heed the words of Cassandra, who warned her brother Paris against the abduction of Helen; the latter, as is known, led to the Trojan War and the destruction of Troy. Cassandra's name became common noun a person who warns of danger, but who is not believed.
Carnival
Carnival is a holiday. The word refers to Anthesteria, large spring holidays awakening of nature, held in Athens. The first two days of Anthesteria, “the day of opening the barrels” and “the day of the mugs,” were dedicated to Dionysus: the statue of the god of wine was transported in a boat on wheels. The word “carnival” comes from the name of this boat (Latin carrus-navalis - “chariot-ship”).