straight from the horse’s mouth: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘straight from the horse's mouth’ mean?
The idiom "straight from the horse's mouth" means getting information or news directly from the most reliable source or someone with first-hand knowledge.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom *third hand* means information that is received from a source who heard it from someone else, not directly from the original source.
The idiom "third hand" is a phrase that has its roots in the 18th century. It's used to describe information obtained indirectly or from an unreliable source. The term suggests a sense of distance and potential inaccuracy, often referring to secondhand information that has been further passed on.
The idiom "tell you the truth" is a way to emphasize honesty in a statement, suggesting that the speaker is about to share their true thoughts or feelings on a matter. It signifies a candid and sincere expression.
The idiom "tell the truth" means to be honest and not lie or deceive. It is often used in the context of revealing or sharing accurate information or facts without any distortion.
The idiom "tell tales out of school" means to reveal or gossip about private or confidential information or secrets, especially ones that should not be shared publicly.
The idiom "tell tales" means to reveal or disclose secret information or to give away confidential or incriminating details about someone or something.
The idiom "tell tales" has a long history and is used in various contexts. It is commonly used to describe someone who spreads gossip or shares information that may not be accurate or reliable.
"Tell it like it is" means to speak honestly and bluntly, without sugarcoating or hiding the truth.
The idiom "tell it like it is" is a prevalent and widely used phrase in American English. It carries a straightforward and direct connotation, implying honesty and frankness in communication. The roots of this idiom can be traced back to the early 19th century, with its usage evolving over time to its current form.
The idiomatic expression "talk through one's hat" means to say something without knowledge or authority, often resulting in falsehoods or nonsense.
The idiom "talk through one's hat" is commonly used in the English language to describe someone who is speaking without knowing the facts or speaking in a foolish or uninformed manner. It implies that the person is making up or exaggerating what they are saying.
The idiom "talk out of one's ass" means to speak in a nonsensical or uninformed manner, without any knowledge or basis in reality.
The idiom "take to the bank" means to consider something as certain or reliable, usually in the context of information or promises that can be trusted and relied upon without any doubt or hesitation.
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The idiom "straight from the horse's mouth" is a commonly used phrase in English. It refers to obtaining information or news directly from the most reliable source. The idiom's structure emphasizes the authenticity and accuracy of the information.
The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the world of horse racing. In the early 20th century, people would gather at racetracks to place bets. It was vital to have reliable information about the horses' performance and conditions. The most reliable source of such information was believed to be the trainers or jockeys who had firsthand experiences and knowledge of the horses. Therefore, when someone had the opportunity to obtain information directly from the people involved with the horses, it was regarded as getting it "straight from the horse's mouth."
Over time, the idiom expanded beyond horse racing and became a common expression. It is used in various situations where having firsthand and trustworthy information is valued. Whether in politics, journalism, or personal matters, knowing the truth directly from the main source has always been highly regarded.
The idiom has also taken on a figurative meaning, where the "horse's mouth" represents someone who is knowledgeable or closely involved in a certain matter. By extension, the idiom suggests that obtaining information from such a person is the most reliable and accurate way to receive it.
However, it is important to recognize the nuances of the idiom. While it implies reliability, it does not guarantee the absolute truth of the information received. The idiom emphasizes getting information directly from the most reliable source available, but it does not eliminate the possibility of mistakes, biases, or intentional misinformation.
The idiom "straight from the horse's mouth" has become widely recognized in English. Its roots in horse racing and the emphasis on obtaining reliable information directly from the most informed source have contributed to its popularity. However, its usage should always be approached with critical thinking and the awareness that even trusted sources can sometimes convey inaccuracies. While the idiom conveys a sense of directness and authenticity, it also reminds us to consider multiple perspectives and sources of information in pursuit of a comprehensive understanding.
Example usage
* "I heard straight from the horse's mouth that the company will be laying off employees next month."
* "The coach told me straight from the horse's mouth that I made the starting lineup for the game."
* "I didn't believe the rumor until I heard it straight from the horse's mouth."
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