sing soprano
Sport, games & leisure · Filed under S
In a sentence
- After the accident, his voice was permanently damaged and he could only sing soprano.
- If you make fun of the mob boss, you might end up singing soprano.
- She had such a high-pitched voice that people often joked she could sing soprano in a choir.
Where it comes from and how it is used
Sing soprano is an idiom that describes someone in a vulnerable position or likely to face harm or punishment. The idiom is derived from singing, specifically referring to men or boys with high-pitched voices who sing soprano. This figurative phrase suggests that someone is in a dangerous or precarious situation. It can be used to describe a person at risk of physical harm, punishment, or negative consequences.
The idiom "singing soprano" is related to "sing soprano" in that it further emphasizes being in a vulnerable position. When someone is "singing soprano," they are expressing their vulnerability and the potential risk they face. It is similar to "sing soprano" in its metaphorical sense of being in danger or facing negative consequences. The phrase "at the top of one's voice" is also related, as it implies someone raising their voice or speaking loudly, potentially to draw attention to their vulnerability or to make their situation known.
"Raise one's voice" is another idiom related to "sing soprano." It means speaking or expressing oneself forcefully or loudly. When someone raises their voice, they highlight their vulnerability or emphasize their point, often in a challenging or confrontational manner. This idiom can be used to describe situations where someone seeks to draw attention to their vulnerable position or to assert themselves despite the risk.
Neighbouring idioms
- singing sopranoSport, games & leisure
- at the top of one's voice
- raise one's voice
- sing small
- make a mountain out of a molehill
- strangle the parrotTalk & communication
- hit the high notesSport, games & leisure
- singe one's wingsPlaces & travel
Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.