sleeveless errand: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘sleeveless errand’ mean?
A "sleeveless errand" refers to a pointless or fruitless task, without any meaningful outcome or purpose.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "wild-goose chase" refers to a fruitless or pointless pursuit or search that is unlikely to be successful. It implies a wasted effort and a sense of futility.
The idiom "wild-goose chase" refers to a futile or pointless pursuit. It is often used to describe a futile search for something or a task that is ultimately fruitless. The idiom suggests a sense of aimlessness and futility, emphasizing the idea that the pursuit is as fruitless as chasing a wild goose.
An idiom meaning an unrealistic or unattainable desire/expectation, often used to convey someone wanting something that is impossible to obtain.
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The idiom "sweep away" means to completely remove or eliminate something, often in a forceful or dramatic manner.
The idiom "sweep aside" means to dismiss or ignore something or someone as unimportant or insignificant, usually due to a lack of interest or consideration.
"Suck the mop" is an idiom that means to perform a menial or undesirable task. The phrase is often used to describe a task that is boring, unpleasant, or repetitive.
The idiom "strip off" means to remove clothing or other outer layers or coverings.
The idiom "strip off" is a commonly used expression in the English language. It is mainly used in informal contexts and has multiple meanings depending on the context in which it is used.
An idiom meaning to leave or depart, often used to describe ending a project or leaving a place quickly.
The idiom "strike the tent" is rooted in the practice of camping or living in temporary shelters, such as tents. This expression is commonly used to convey the idea of packing up and leaving a place, often abruptly or hastily. It has become a widely recognized phrase that encapsulates the concept of ending or closing a particular endeavor or activity.
The idiom "sling one's hook" means to leave or go away, often used in a command or as a suggestion. It may have originated from the action of throwing a fishing hook to move away from a certain place.
The idiom "sleeves from one's vest" means revealing one's true intentions, usually in a manipulative or deceitful manner.
The idiom "sleeves from one's vest" is an expression that is used to describe someone who is secretive, unwilling to reveal their true thoughts or intentions. The exact origin of this idiom is unclear, but it is believed to have emerged sometime in the late 19th century.
Unveiling the Mystery
An idiom in American English, sleeveless errand, is used to describe a pointless task or errand with no tangible benefit or result. The term "sleeveless" refers to clothing or garments without sleeves, while "errand" means a short journey taken to accomplish a specific purpose. When combined, these words convey the idea of an errand lacking substance or purpose.
This idiom has its roots in the early 17th century, and has been used figuratively since then. It is commonly used in both spoken and written contexts to emphasize the fruitlessness or pointlessness of a particular task or action. You may come across it in literature, novels, plays, poetry, or even everyday conversations.
It's interesting to note that this idiom is primarily used in American English. While idiomatic expressions often vary across different dialects and regions, this particular one is more commonly recognized and employed in American English.
The idiom "lost errand" is related to sleeveless errand. "Lost errand" suggests a task or errand that is not only pointless, but also lost or wasted, with no hope of achieving any desired result. It implies a greater sense of futility and disappointment.
Another related idiom is "fool's errand." Similar to sleeveless errand, it refers to a task or errand that is devoid of any real purpose or benefit and is likely to be a waste of time. However, "fool's errand" additionally conveys the sense of being foolish or naïve for undertaking such a task.
The idiom "mug's game" is also connected to sleeveless errand. "Mug" is a slang term for a gullible or easily deceived person. Therefore, a "mug's game" refers to a task or activity that is a complete waste of time, often with the added implication of being fooled or tricked into engaging in it.
Lastly, there's the idiom "sleeves from one's vest." While not directly related to sleeveless errand, it includes the word "sleeves" and provides an interesting contrast. "Sleeves from one's vest" means to reveal or expose one's true intentions or feelings, especially when they were previously hidden or kept secret. It highlights the idea of metaphorically removing the sleeves from one's vest to reveal what was concealed.
To sum up, sleeveless errand is an idiom used to describe a purposeless task or errand. Its roots can be traced back to the early 17th century, and it remains a part of American English idiomatic language. Other related idioms include "lost errand," "fool's errand," "mug's game," and "sleeves from one's vest." Each of these idioms adds a unique nuance to the concept of a fruitless or pointless task.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom sleeveless errand can be used in a sentence:
- Going to the grocery store without a shopping list is a sleeveless errand, as you will likely forget to buy important items.
- Trying to convince him to change his mind is a sleeveless errand; he is too stubborn to reconsider.
- Attending that meeting without any preparation would be a complete sleeveless errand; you won't be able to contribute effectively.
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