Language is a living, breathing entity that evolves with time, but sometimes, in the process of evolution, certain phrases get twisted and turned into something they were never meant to be.
At YourLifeChoices, we understand that keeping up with the correct usage of common idioms can be a bit of a challenge, especially when misheard versions spread like wildfire. So, let’s set the record straight on some of the most commonly misused phrases that might be tripping up even the most seasoned wordsmiths among us.
‘Did a 360-degree turn’ vs ‘Did a 180-degree turn’
When you hear someone say they ‘did a 360-degree turn’ on an issue, they might be spinning in circles without realising it. The correct phrase should be ‘did a 180-degree turn,’ which means making a complete change in direction or opinion.
Remember, a 360-degree turn puts you right back where you started—not very helpful if you’re trying to convey a significant change.
‘Escape goat’ vs ‘Scapegoat’
If you’ve been using ‘escape goat’ to describe someone who takes the fall for others, it’s time to switch to the correct term, ‘scapegoat.’ The latter is the proper idiom, originating from a biblical practice of symbolically placing sins on a goat before sending it into the wilderness.
An ‘escape goat,’ on the other hand, might just be a particularly crafty farm animal.
‘First come, first serve’ vs ‘First come, first served’
This one is a subtle but important distinction. The phrase ‘first come, first served’ means that services or goods are provided in the order that people arrive.
Dropping the ‘d’ from ‘served’ changes the meaning entirely, suggesting that the first person to arrive has to serve everyone else—probably not what you intended.
‘For all intensive purposes’ vs ‘For all intents and purposes’
The phrase ‘for all intents and purposes’ is often mistakenly said as ‘for all intensive purposes.’
The correct version, which means ‘in every practical sense,’ has its roots in legal jargon from the 16th century. So, unless you’re talking about purposes that are particularly intense, it’s best to stick with the original.
‘Hunger pains’ vs ‘Hunger pangs’
While both ‘pains’ and ‘pangs’ can describe the discomfort of an empty stomach, ‘hunger pangs’ is the traditional term. It refers to the sharp spasms or cramps that come with hunger.
‘Pains’ might make sense to modern ears, but ‘pangs’ is the word with historical precedence.
‘I could care less’ vs ‘I couldn’t care less’
This is a classic case of a phrase losing its meaning through common misuse. ‘I couldn’t care less’ is the correct expression, indicating that it’s impossible for you to care any less about the subject at hand.
Meanwhile, ‘I could care less’ suggests that there’s still some care left to lose, which is the opposite of what most people mean when they use this phrase.
‘Nip it in the butt’ vs ‘Nip it in the bud’
The correct phrase, ‘nip it in the bud,’ comes from horticulture, where removing buds prevents plants from growing.
If you’re trying to stop something from developing further, you’ll want to nip it in the bud, not the butt. The latter might give you a chuckle, but it won’t convey the right message.
‘On tender hooks’ vs ‘On tenterhooks’
Feeling anxious? Then you’re ‘on tenterhooks,’ not ‘tender hooks.’ This phrase originates from the hooks used in the textile industry to hold fabric taut while it dried.
If you’re stretched to your limit with anticipation, the correct term paints a vivid picture of your state of mind.
‘Pass the mustard’ vs ‘Pass muster’
While ‘pass the mustard’ might be a common request at the dinner table, if you’re talking about meeting a standard or being satisfactory, the phrase you’re looking for is ‘pass muster.’
This military term refers to passing inspection, so make sure your idioms are up to the required standard and pass muster.
‘You’ve got another thing coming’ vs ‘You’ve got another think coming’
Finally, the phrase ‘you’ve got another think coming’ is often misheard and repeated as ‘you’ve got another thing coming.’ The original phrase means that someone needs to reconsider or rethink their position or opinion.
While ‘thing’ has become widely accepted, ‘think’ is the historically accurate word and is still preferred by British English speakers.
Language may be fluid, but clarity is key to effective communication. By brushing up on these common phrases, you can ensure that your words are not only heard but also understood as you intended.
Have you caught yourself or others using these phrases incorrectly? Share your experiences with the YourLifeChoices community in the comments below.
Also read: A pinch of history and a dash of culture in these tasty idioms
