Idioms and Phrases

The idiom 'to haul over the coals' means to reprimand or criticize someone severely for their wrongdoing or poor performance. The imagery comes from the practice of dragging heretics over hot coals as punishment or interrogation. Modern usage refers to sharp criticism or severe scolding.

'To tempt providence' means to take unnecessary risks or to recklessly challenge fate, assuming that fortune will protect you regardless of your actions. It implies overconfidence in luck or divine favor while engaging in dangerous behavior. The phrase suggests pushing one's luck beyond reasonable limits.

'A dog in the manger' describes a person who selfishly prevents others from using or enjoying something that they themselves cannot use or do not need. The fable tells of a dog that sleeps in a manger filled with hay, preventing the hungry oxen from eating the hay even though the dog cannot eat it himself. It refers to selfish, obstructive behavior.

'Pony up' is a standard American idiom meaning to pay money, typically as a contribution toward a shared expense. The other options don't capture the financial aspect of this expression.

'Cow college' is historical American slang for an agricultural school or college, particularly land-grant institutions focused on farming and practical agriculture. It's not about actual cows or serious academic institutions.

'Chapter and verse' refers to specific biblical citations, and by extension, means providing exact references, detailed proof, or comprehensive evidence for something. It's about being precise and thorough in substantiating claims.

'Keep your eyes peeled' means to remain watchful, alert, and attentive for something. The imagery suggests keeping eyelids pulled back to see more clearly and notice everything happening around you.

'Yellow streak' refers to cowardice, originating from yellow's traditional association with fear and weakness (as in 'yellow-bellied'). Someone with a 'yellow streak' lacks courage, especially in fearful situations like being home alone at night.

'Busy as a one-armed paperhanger' is a colorful idiom meaning extremely busy or overwhelmed with work. The imagery suggests someone trying to do an inherently two-handed task with only one arm, making the job nearly impossible.

It means it will be be poorly received/will not be liked.

'To set the people by ears' means to incite, provoke, or stir up conflict between people. The imagery suggests causing people to fight like animals, similar to 'setting dogs on each other.' It's about creating discord and quarrels.

'Plugging a product' means to promote, endorse, or advertise it, typically in a prominent or repeated way. It comes from the idea of 'plugging' something like inserting it into public consciousness repeatedly.