get out of someone’s hair: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘get out of someone's hair’ mean?
The idiom "get out of someone's hair" means to stop bothering or annoying someone, to leave them alone or to give them space.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "out of someone's way" means to move or step aside in order to not impede or obstruct someone or something. It implies giving space or allowing someone to proceed without hindrance or interference.
The idiom "let someone go" means to allow someone to leave or end a relationship, usually in a work context, such as firing an employee or ending a romantic relationship.
The idiom "let one's hair down" means to relax or be less formal or restrained, often in a social setting.
The idiom "let one's hair down" is a commonly used phrase in the English language. It originated in the 19th century and has since become a well-known expression with a specific meaning. While its exact origin is unclear, there are several theories and explanations surrounding its usage.
Meaning: To stop or cease doing something or to end an activity or behavior.
This idiom is commonly used to indicate the act of discontinuing or putting an end to a particular action or behavior.
The idiom "lay off" means to stop doing or using something, to stop bothering someone, or to stop employing someone, usually due to a lack of work or financial issues.
One of the most commonly used idioms in the English language is "lay off." This phrase has various meanings and can be used in different contexts, but its underlying principle is always related to stopping or ceasing an action.
The idiom "knock it off" means to stop a certain behavior or to cease doing something annoying or inappropriate.
The idiom "it's none of your business" means that a person should not interfere or ask about something that does not concern them.
The idiom "have someone by the short hairs" means to have someone in a position of complete control or power, making them unable to escape or avoid a certain situation or demand.
The idiom "go their separate ways" means to separate or part ways, typically after a period of being together or working together.
The idiom "give someone the slip" means to escape or elude someone's pursuit or surveillance.
The idiom "give someone the slip" originated in the 19th century and is widely used in both British and American English. It means to evade or elude someone or something, often without their knowledge or detection. The word "slip" in this idiom refers to escaping from a pursuer or avoiding being caught.
Reclaiming personal boundaries
The idiom "get out of someone's hair" is a commonly used expression in the English language. It means to leave someone alone or stop bothering them. The phrase is typically used when someone is being a nuisance or causing annoyance to another person. It implies a desire for distance or freedom from someone's presence or attention.
The origin of this idiom is not entirely clear, but it likely comes from the literal sense of being physically present in someone's personal space. The hair is often considered a personal and intimate part of a person's body, and having someone in one's hair can be seen as intrusive or bothersome. The idiom appears to have originated in the mid-19th century and has since become a widely recognized expression.
Usage of the idiom "get out of someone's hair" is most prevalent in American English, though it is also used in other English-speaking countries. It is an idiomatic expression often employed in casual conversations, as opposed to formal or academic settings.
Another related idiom is "get out of my face," which also means to leave someone alone or stop bothering them. This idiom is even more direct in conveying a desire for distance or freedom from someone's presence. It is often used in situations where someone is being particularly bothersome or intrusive.
Similarly, the idiom "out of someone's way" means to move aside or make space for someone else. It implies a desire to not be an obstacle or hindrance to someone. This idiom is often used when someone wants to avoid causing inconvenience or getting in someone's path.
Lastly, the idiom "buzz off" is another way of telling someone to leave or go away. It is a more informal and potentially rude way of expressing annoyance with someone's presence. This idiom is often used when someone is being persistent or refusing to take a hint.
The idiom "get out of someone's hair" and its related idioms serve as reminders of the complexity and richness of the English language. They offer concise and expressive ways of conveying various degrees of annoyance or a desire for distance from someone's presence. These idioms show how language can evolve and adapt to different contexts, allowing us to express ourselves in unique and nuanced ways.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "get out of someone's hair" can be used in a sentence:
- After the project was completed, I was so glad to finally get out of my manager's hair.
- Could you please find something to do to get out of my hair? I really need to concentrate on this work.
- The kids were constantly fighting, so their mother asked them to go outside and get out of her hair for a while.
More "Annoyance" idioms
