irons in the fire: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘irons in the fire’ mean?
The idiom "irons in the fire" means having multiple projects or tasks in progress or pursuing multiple opportunities at the same time. It suggests being busy with various things and being proactive in pursuing new prospects or ventures.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "strike while the iron is hot" means to take advantage of a favorable situation or opportunity promptly, as it may not last long.
The idiom "kindle-fire" means to ignite or arouse strong emotions or passions within someone or a situation.
The idiom "ironing board" refers to a and phrase is used metaphorically to describe plans, ideas, or projects that are temporary or not meant to last. It implies that these plans are just "flattening out wrinkles" or preparing for something more permanent.
The idiom "in the works" means that something is being planned or developed, but it is not yet complete or finalized.
The idiom "in the works" is a commonly used expression in the English language. It conveys the idea of something being planned, developed, or in progress. It is often used to refer to projects, ideas, or undertakings that are not yet completed or fully formed.
The idiom "in the weeds" means being overwhelmed or swamped with work or tasks, typically to the point of being unable to keep up or falling behind.
The idiom "in the swim" means to be actively involved or participating in something, typically referring to being part of the current trends, events, or activities. It suggests being well-informed and connected to what is happening around you.
The idiom "in the crosshairs" means to be the target of attention, criticism, or potential harm.
The idiom "in the business of" means actively engaged or involved in a particular activity or profession.
The idiom "in the business of" means to be actively engaged or involved in a particular field or occupation. It originated in the 18th century and has since become a common way to express someone's professional involvement or specialization.
An idiom meaning to do something quickly and efficiently, often describing the completion of multiple tasks or actions in a single swift and decisive motion.
The idiom "in focus" means to have clarity or clear understanding of a situation or topic. It refers to being attentive, concentrated and having a sharp mental focus on a specific subject.
Fiery Opportunities Unveiled
One common idiom in the English language is "irons in the fire." This idiom has several different meanings, but all revolve around the idea of being involved in multiple activities or projects simultaneously.
The origins of this idiom are uncertain, as it dates back several centuries and has evolved over time.
The phrase "irons in the fire" first appeared in print in the late 16th century, but its exact origin is unknown. Some sources suggest that it may have originated from the blacksmithing profession, where irons were placed in the fire to be heated and then shaped into various tools.
This connection to blacksmithing implies the idea of having multiple tasks or projects in progress simultaneously. Just as a blacksmith would have several irons in the fire, a person with "irons in the fire" is someone who is actively involved in many different things at once.
Having "irons in the fire" is like fighting fires. You constantly need to address different tasks and make sure nothing falls through the cracks. It requires quick thinking and efficiency to handle all the different projects or responsibilities effectively.
Another possible origin of the idiom is the practice of baking bread. In traditional baking, irons were used to test the temperature of the oven. More irons meant more tasks at hand, and thus the idiom came to represent juggling multiple responsibilities.
When you have many "irons in the fire," you need to strike while the iron is hot. This means taking advantage of opportunities as they arise and not wasting any time. It's vital to seize the moment and make the most of the various projects or tasks you are working on.
The idiom "irons in the fire" has remained in common usage over the centuries and often carries a positive connotation. It suggests that the person referred to is industrious and ambitious, always seeking new projects or opportunities.
Having numerous "irons in the fire" is like having all your cylinders firing. It means that you are firing on all cylinders and giving your full effort and attention to everything you are involved in.
Having "irons in the fire" can feel a bit like catching fire. It's a state of being constantly engaged and moving forward. With so much going on, you have a sense of energy and momentum, similar to a fire that spreads quickly and grows stronger.
It's easy to become overwhelmed when you have too many irons in the fire. However, it's also essential to maintain balance and avoid spreading yourself too thin. You need to prioritize tasks and manage your time effectively to ensure that everything gets done.
When you have multiple "irons in the fire," it's like having your fingers in many pies. This means that you are involved in various projects, activities, or pursuits. It highlights your diverse interests and commitments.
Overall, the idiom "irons in the fire" conveys the idea of being engaged in multiple activities or projects simultaneously. It suggests a level of ambition, busyness, and perhaps even a touch of chaos.
Having "irons in the fire" means that you are constantly managing a multitude of tasks or pursuing various goals simultaneously. It requires flexibility, organization, and the ability to adapt to different situations.
Whether you are starting new business ventures, pursuing different career paths, or engaging in various hobbies or interests, having "irons in the fire" is a testament to your drive and determination.
So, embrace the challenge and keep your "irons in the fire!" Just remember to strike while the iron is hot, manage your time effectively, and maintain balance to avoid burning out.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "irons in the fire" can be used in a sentence:
- She has so many irons in the fire right now, between her job, volunteer work, and starting a new business.
- He likes to keep multiple irons in the fire to stay busy and productive.
- With so many irons in the fire, it's difficult for him to prioritize his tasks and projects.