Common sayings and their origins

1. "Bite the bullet": This saying originated from the practice of having soldiers bite on a bullet during surgery to help them endure the pain before anesthesia was widely used.

2. "Break the ice": This saying comes from the literal act of breaking ice to create a passage for ships to navigate through frozen waters.

3. "Burning the midnight oil": This saying refers to working late into the night, often by the light of an oil lamp or candle before the invention of electric lighting.

4. "Caught red-handed": This saying comes from the idea of catching a criminal with blood on their hands, indicating they were caught in the act of committing a crime.

5. "Cost an arm and a leg": This saying originated from the practice of artists charging more for portraits that included the subject's limbs, as it required more time and effort to paint.

6. "Don't cry over spilled milk": This saying dates back to the 17th century and is a reminder not to dwell on past mistakes or misfortunes that cannot be undone.

7. "Hit the nail on the head": This saying comes from the act of accurately hitting a nail with a hammer, symbolizing getting something exactly right or making a precise point.

8. "Piece of cake": This saying originated from the idea that something easy or simple to accomplish is as easy as eating a piece of cake.

9. "Raining cats and dogs": This saying's origin is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in 17th-century England, where heavy rainstorms would wash debris into the streets, including dead animals.

10. "The ball is in your court": This saying comes from the game of tennis, where the ball is in one player's court, meaning it is their turn to make a move or decision.

Above is Common sayings and their origins.