how goes it: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘how goes it’ mean?
The idiom "how goes it" is a casual way to ask about someone's well-being or inquire about the progress of a specific situation.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "it's all good" is used to express that everything is okay or there are no problems. It is often used to reassure others or to indicate that there is no reason to be worried or concerned.
"How's tricks" is an informal phrase used to ask someone how they are doing or what they have been up to. It originated in the early 20th century from the world of entertainment, specifically referring to the tricks or performances of magicians or other performers.
The idiom "how's the weather" is used figuratively to ask about someone's current mood or emotional state.
It implies a casual inquiry into how someone is feeling or what their general disposition is like at the moment.
The idiom "how so" is used to inquire about or challenge a statement by asking for further explanation or evidence of its validity.
The idiom "how come" is a commonly used phrase in American English that is primarily used to express surprise or curiosity regarding a particular situation or outcome. It is often used in questions and is closely related to the phrase "why is it that."
The idiom "how are you" is a common greeting asking about one's well-being or state. It is often used as a polite social interaction and does not typically require an in-depth response.
While the idiom "how are you" may seem like a simple greeting, it carries various meanings and implications in American culture. This article will delve into the origins and usage of this commonly heard phrase, shedding light on its nuances and significance.
The idiom "here you go" is used when giving something to someone. It implies a gesture of offering or presenting an item or information to another person.
"Here we go" is an idiom used to convey the beginning of an event or situation, often with a sense of anticipation or resignation. It suggests that something is about to happen, and the speaker is ready to face it, whether it is a positive or negative experience.
The idiom "here goes nothing" is used when someone is about to attempt something with little expectation of success. It conveys a sense of uncertainty or resignation about the outcome of the action.
Unraveling the Phrase
The idiom "how goes it" is a commonly used phrase in the English language. It is often used as a casual greeting to inquire about someone's well-being or the state of affairs. This friendly and informal phrase is typically used in everyday conversations among friends, colleagues, or acquaintances.
The origins of "how goes it" can be traced back to the late 16th century. It is believed to have evolved from the phrase "how does it go" or "how doth it go," which was commonly used during that time to ask about the progress or status of something. Over time, the phrase transformed into "how goes it" and gained popularity as a familiar and friendly greeting.
The idiom "how goes it" is not restricted to any specific region or group of people. It is widely used in spoken language and is commonly heard in casual conversations. This phrase carries a sense of informality and familiarity, making it suitable for interactions among friends or colleagues.
A related idiom is "how are you," which serves a similar purpose of inquiring about someone's well-being. Both idioms are used in casual conversations to initiate friendly dialogue and show interest in the other person's current situation. The phrase "how are you" is more commonly used and understood, while "how goes it" offers a slightly different phrasing for the same purpose.
Another related idiom is "how's the weather." Although it may seem unrelated at first, this idiom is also used as a casual topic for conversation. When people ask about the weather, they are often seeking a common ground or looking for a simple and easy topic to discuss. It serves as a conversational icebreaker and allows for a light and friendly exchange.
When using the idiom "how goes it," it is important to consider the social context and the relationship between the individuals involved. While the phrase is widely understood and used, it may not be appropriate in all situations. For example, in formal settings or professional environments, a more formal greeting may be more appropriate. It is always a good idea to adapt your language and tone based on the specific situation and the people you are speaking with.
To summarize, the idiom "how goes it" is a friendly and informal greeting that is commonly used to inquire about someone's well-being or the state of affairs. It has evolved over time from earlier phrases and has become a popular expression in the English language. Along with the related idioms "how are you" and "how's the weather," it serves as a way to initiate conversations and show interest in the other person's current situation. While the idiom is widely used, it is important to consider the context and the relationship between individuals when using it.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "how goes it" can be used in a sentence:
- "Hey, John! Long time no see. How goes it?"
- "I haven't spoken to my old friend in years. I wonder how goes it with her."
- "How goes it at the office? Any news or updates?"
More "Greeting" idioms
