at the door of: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘at the door of’ mean?
The idiom "at the door of" means to be responsible for or blamed for something.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "leave at the door" means to put aside or forget about something, usually negative or burdensome, and not let it affect the current situation or environment.
The idiom "lay something at the feet of" means to hold someone responsible or blame someone for something. It implies the act of attributing a problem or fault to someone else.
The idiom "lay at someone's door" means to blame someone for a particular situation or problem. It suggests that the responsibility for the issue rests solely on that person.
The idiom "knock on heaven's door" means to be near or at death's door, to be in a critical or life-threatening condition.
The idiom "knock on heaven's door" is a commonly used phrase in English. It refers to someone who is nearing death, using the metaphor of approaching the door to heaven and entering the afterlife. Derived from Christian beliefs, heaven is seen as a celestial dwelling place for the souls of the righteous.
The idiom "have blood on one's hands" is a vivid expression that signifies being responsible for someone's death or suffering. This longstanding idiom can be traced back to ancient times when having blood on one's hands was associated with guilt and moral responsibility.
The idiom "have a hand in" means to be involved or to play a part in something.
The idiom "have a hand in" is a commonly used expression in the English language. It has a figurative meaning that represents involvement or participation in a particular matter or event. The origins of this idiom can be traced back to the 17th century, and it is believed to have derived from the idea of physically having a hand in something.
The idiom "go in the out door" means to do something in an unconventional or contrary way, often against the established rules or norms. It implies going against the expected or traditional direction, similar to entering through the 'out' door instead of the 'in' door.
The idiom "get the door" means to open the door for someone or go and answer the door when someone is at the door.
The idiom "get one's foot in the door" means to establish a small opportunity or gain initial access to a job or a new opportunity, which may eventually lead to further success or advancements.
The idiom "fall on one's sword" is used to describe taking responsibility for a mistake or failure, often by sacrificing oneself or accepting blame.
Unleashed Potential: The True Power
The idiom "at the door of" is a commonly used phrase in the English language. It indicates the location of someone or something. The word "door" represents a physical entrance or exit, and it is used metaphorically to convey being close to or on the verge of a particular situation or outcome.
This idiom has various uses. It can describe a person or an event that is imminent or about to happen. It can also hold someone accountable or responsible for a particular situation or problem. Additionally, it can indicate the physical proximity or location of someone or something.
When used metaphorically, "at the door of" suggests a sense of anticipation or impending action. It implies that a person or thing is on the threshold, ready to enter or be confronted with a particular situation. For example, phrases like "opportunity is knocking at the door" or "success is right at the door" convey this idea.
The origin of this idiom is unclear, but doors have long been symbols of transition and change in many cultures. Doors represent openings and new beginnings, making them a natural choice for metaphoric expressions.
Overall, the idiom "at the door of" is widely used in the English language to convey the idea of proximity, anticipation, and responsibility. It can be applied in various contexts, making it a useful addition to one's vocabulary. Whether used to describe a situation on the brink of happening or to hold someone accountable, this idiom captures the essence of being at the threshold of an event or outcome.
Furthermore, related idioms to "at the door of" are "at someone's door" and "lay at someone's door." These idioms are also used to convey accountability and responsibility.
The idiom "at someone's door" means to attribute the blame or responsibility for something to a specific person. It suggests that the person is held accountable for the situation or problem.
"Lay at someone's door" is similar to "at someone's door" and means to place the blame or responsibility for something on a specific person or entity. It also implies that the person or entity is accountable for the situation or problem.
Both "at someone's door" and "lay at someone's door" are idioms that signify the attribution of responsibility. They share a common theme with "at the door of" in conveying accountability and holding someone responsible for a particular circumstance.
In exploring the idiom "at the door of," one appreciates its ability to encapsulate the concept of proximity and anticipation. It reminds us of the constant state of transition we reside in, where we are on the verge of experiences, challenges, and opportunities.
The idiom also highlights our desire for accountability and responsibility. By placing someone or something "at the door," we acknowledge their role in a particular situation or problem, making them the point of confrontation or resolution. This responsibility brings a sense of urgency and the need for action, pushing us forward.
The metaphorical usage of doors in this idiom resonates with our understanding of these physical structures. Doors symbolize new beginnings and the opportunities that await us. They also act as a barrier, separating the known from the unknown. The idiom "at the door of" embodies the simultaneous sense of trepidation and excitement we experience during times of change.
The idiom "at the door of" encompasses a wide range of meanings. Its versatility allows it to be applied in diverse contexts, making it a valuable tool for communication. Whether used to convey proximity, anticipation, responsibility, or the metaphorical significance of doors, this idiom continues to play a prominent role in the English language. Like visitors at the door, we are perpetually on the cusp of new experiences and opportunities as we navigate through life.
Example usage
Examples:
1. He stood at the door of the restaurant, waiting for his friends to arrive.
2. The opportunity of a lifetime was at the door of the young entrepreneur.
3. I could hear the thunderstorm approaching as I stood at the door of my house.
More "location" idioms
