Mixing
A word or phrase that implies “a struggle or hardship is about to begin”? [closed]
Looking for a word or phrase that embodies the feeling of "the struggle is about to begin". Can be a borrowed/loan word or phrase from another language (Latin, French, etc). It should have the feeling of something is about to happen, something unpleasant that will be taxing on the individual.
I am planning to use this phrase in a story, in which a struggle is about to begin.
expressions
asked Jan 3 at 22:20
peabody2peabody2
506
We're looking for long answers that provide some explanation and context. Don't just give a one-line answer; explain why your answer is right, ideally with citations. Answers that don't include explanations may be removed.
closed as off-topic by tchrist♦ Jan 5 at 20:57
This question appears to be off-topic. The users who voted to close gave this specific reason:
- "Questions on choosing an ideal word or phrase must include information on how it will be used in order to be answered. For help writing a good word or phrase request, see: About single word requests" – tchrist
If this question can be reworded to fit the rules in the help center, please edit the question.
add a comment |
Looking for a word or phrase that embodies the feeling of "the struggle is about to begin". Can be a borrowed/loan word or phrase from another language (Latin, French, etc). It should have the feeling of something is about to happen, something unpleasant that will be taxing on the individual.
I am planning to use this phrase in a story, in which a struggle is about to begin.
expressions
asked Jan 3 at 22:20
peabody2peabody2
506
We're looking for long answers that provide some explanation and context. Don't just give a one-line answer; explain why your answer is right, ideally with citations. Answers that don't include explanations may be removed.
closed as off-topic by tchrist♦ Jan 5 at 20:57
This question appears to be off-topic. The users who voted to close gave this specific reason:
- "Questions on choosing an ideal word or phrase must include information on how it will be used in order to be answered. For help writing a good word or phrase request, see: About single word requests" – tchrist
If this question can be reworded to fit the rules in the help center, please edit the question.
3
Hi Peabody2, welcome to EL&U. You might not be aware that there are strict rules for single-word-requests: "To ensure your question is not closed as off-topic, please be specific about the intended use of the word. You must include a sample sentence demonstrating how the word would be used." You can add this using the edit link. For further guidance, see How to Ask, and make sure you also take the EL&U Tour :-)
– Chappo
Jan 4 at 2:36
Answers go below, not in a comment. Answers in comments should be flagged for deletion.
– tchrist♦
Jan 5 at 20:51
add a comment |
Looking for a word or phrase that embodies the feeling of "the struggle is about to begin". Can be a borrowed/loan word or phrase from another language (Latin, French, etc). It should have the feeling of something is about to happen, something unpleasant that will be taxing on the individual.
I am planning to use this phrase in a story, in which a struggle is about to begin.
expressions
asked Jan 3 at 22:20
peabody2peabody2
506
Looking for a word or phrase that embodies the feeling of "the struggle is about to begin". Can be a borrowed/loan word or phrase from another language (Latin, French, etc). It should have the feeling of something is about to happen, something unpleasant that will be taxing on the individual.
I am planning to use this phrase in a story, in which a struggle is about to begin.
expressions
expressions
asked Jan 3 at 22:20
peabody2peabody2
506
asked Jan 3 at 22:20
peabody2peabody2
506
edited Jan 5 at 23:01
peabody2
asked Jan 3 at 22:20
peabody2peabody2
506
asked Jan 3 at 22:20
peabody2peabody2
506
asked Jan 3 at 22:20
peabody2peabody2
506
506
We're looking for long answers that provide some explanation and context. Don't just give a one-line answer; explain why your answer is right, ideally with citations. Answers that don't include explanations may be removed.
We're looking for long answers that provide some explanation and context. Don't just give a one-line answer; explain why your answer is right, ideally with citations. Answers that don't include explanations may be removed.
closed as off-topic by tchrist♦ Jan 5 at 20:57
This question appears to be off-topic. The users who voted to close gave this specific reason:
- "Questions on choosing an ideal word or phrase must include information on how it will be used in order to be answered. For help writing a good word or phrase request, see: About single word requests" – tchrist
If this question can be reworded to fit the rules in the help center, please edit the question.
closed as off-topic by tchrist♦ Jan 5 at 20:57
This question appears to be off-topic. The users who voted to close gave this specific reason:
- "Questions on choosing an ideal word or phrase must include information on how it will be used in order to be answered. For help writing a good word or phrase request, see: About single word requests" – tchrist
If this question can be reworded to fit the rules in the help center, please edit the question.
3
Hi Peabody2, welcome to EL&U. You might not be aware that there are strict rules for single-word-requests: "To ensure your question is not closed as off-topic, please be specific about the intended use of the word. You must include a sample sentence demonstrating how the word would be used." You can add this using the edit link. For further guidance, see How to Ask, and make sure you also take the EL&U Tour :-)
– Chappo
Jan 4 at 2:36
Answers go below, not in a comment. Answers in comments should be flagged for deletion.
– tchrist♦
Jan 5 at 20:51
add a comment |
3
Hi Peabody2, welcome to EL&U. You might not be aware that there are strict rules for single-word-requests: "To ensure your question is not closed as off-topic, please be specific about the intended use of the word. You must include a sample sentence demonstrating how the word would be used." You can add this using the edit link. For further guidance, see How to Ask, and make sure you also take the EL&U Tour :-)
– Chappo
Jan 4 at 2:36
Answers go below, not in a comment. Answers in comments should be flagged for deletion.
– tchrist♦
Jan 5 at 20:51
3
3
Hi Peabody2, welcome to EL&U. You might not be aware that there are strict rules for single-word-requests: "To ensure your question is not closed as off-topic, please be specific about the intended use of the word. You must include a sample sentence demonstrating how the word would be used." You can add this using the edit link. For further guidance, see How to Ask, and make sure you also take the EL&U Tour :-)
– Chappo
Jan 4 at 2:36
Hi Peabody2, welcome to EL&U. You might not be aware that there are strict rules for single-word-requests: "To ensure your question is not closed as off-topic, please be specific about the intended use of the word. You must include a sample sentence demonstrating how the word would be used." You can add this using the edit link. For further guidance, see How to Ask, and make sure you also take the EL&U Tour :-)
– Chappo
Jan 4 at 2:36
Answers go below, not in a comment. Answers in comments should be flagged for deletion.
– tchrist♦
Jan 5 at 20:51
Answers go below, not in a comment. Answers in comments should be flagged for deletion.
– tchrist♦
Jan 5 at 20:51
add a comment |
15 Answers
15
active
oldest
votes
A few idiomatic examples:
- The die is cast.
- Caesar has crossed the Rubicon.
- Hannibal has crossed the Alps.
The first two idioms refer to the same event. From Wikipedia:
With this step, he entered Italy at the head of his army in defiance
of the Senate and began his long civil war against Pompey and the
Optimates. The phrase, either in the original Latin or in translation,
is used in many languages to indicate that events have passed a point
of no return. It is now most commonly cited with the word order
changed ("Alea iacta est") rather than in the original phrasing. The
same event inspired another idiom with the same meaning, "Crossing the
Rubicon".
More colloquially, you could say the shit has hit the fan.
answered Jan 3 at 22:52
trwtrw
28828
"the die is cast" is perfect for what I am looking for! thank you!
– peabody2
Jan 4 at 23:47
I've never heard of any of these being used. Ever. Personally, I think that this answer is better.
– David Wheatley
Jan 5 at 20:57
I've heard "the die is cast" before. It comes from the latin phrase "Alea iacta est". en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alea_iacta_est.
– peabody2
Jan 5 at 22:52
These are all good expressions indicating a point of no return. They can signify that something which was once uncertain is now inevitable. This might imply a period of hardship, depending on how it is used in the story.
– Solocutor
Jan 8 at 15:59
add a comment |
Fasten your seat belts
In the most famous line from the 1950 movie All About Eve, the character Margo Channing (played by Bette Davis) said
Fasten your seatbelts, it’s going to be a bump-y night!
"Night" is often replaced by the more sensible "ride".
As anyone who has been in a plane has experienced, a "Fasten Seat Belts" sign comes on when the pilot has to make a difficult maneuver, or if the plane goes through turbulence.
So most people will understand that some sort of turmoil is expected if you say "Fasten your seatbelts". But it's often used jocularly, as if the difficulty is trivial or survivable.
answered Jan 3 at 23:28
SpencerSpencer
4,0491226
10
Also, Buckle up
– BruceWayne
Jan 4 at 0:50
add a comment |
"A storm is coming," or "a storm is brewing" is common and well-understood.
Background: Literally speaking, storms can represent significant danger, especially for oceangoing craft. Metaphorically, a storm is often used to symbolize a finite period of intense hardship, conflict, or chaos. The word plays this role in many common idioms. (For example, someone who has "weathered a storm" has survived a period of hardship.)
answered Jan 3 at 22:59
SolocutorSolocutor
5981311
3
This is not an answer according to our standards here because it contains no reasoning or explanation in your own words. Please read this advice from SE’ss Community Management team and update this with your content. We're looking for long answers that provide some explanation and context. Don't just give a one-line answer; explain why your answer is right, ideally with citations. Answers that don't include explanations may be removed.
– tchrist♦
Jan 5 at 20:53
I added a little explanation.
– Solocutor
Jan 8 at 15:53
add a comment |
Gird your loins. Vocabulary.com says:
"Gird your loins and prepare for battle!" Okay, no one says "gird your
loins" anymore (which basically means "tighten your pants"), but gird
is still used as a verb to mean "get ready for a dangerous situation."
To gird is to prepare for a military attack, but more loosely it
refers to readying oneself for any kind of confrontation. When you
gird for something, you are preparing for the worst-case scenario.
Gird can also mean "fasten something tightly with a belt or a band"
(as in "gird your loins"), or it can mean "to surround or encircle." A
field that is girded by trees is surrounded and encircled by trees.
The source is overly dismissive of gird your loins, although it is true that it is rarely said now except semi-humorously, as in:
One hour 'til the physics final. All we can do now is gird our loins
and pray there is no surprise.
The loins are the area of the sexual organs, and girding one's loins means to put protection around that area before going into battle.
answered Jan 3 at 23:05
ab2ab2
24k95995
add a comment |
Steel yourself.
This phrase has very much the same kind of feeling as brace yourself, albeit perhaps slightly more literary, and not with the same sense of immediacy that brace necessarily infers. Steel yourself is a warning to prepare your spirit for some kind of hardship to come. (It can, of course, also be used ironically when the difficulty is only slight.)
Collins gives the following definition:
verb
to prepare (oneself) for coping with something unpleasant
I was steeling myself to call round when Simon arrived.
Synonyms of steel yourself
brace yourself
He braced himself for the icy plunge into the black water.
grit your teeth
fortify yourself
harden yourself
Oxford Living Dictionaries defines steel as follows:
verb [with object]
Mentally prepare (oneself) to do or face something difficult.
‘his team were steeling themselves for disappointment’
with infinitive ‘she steeled herself to remain calm’
The sense is, of course, to harden yourself and make yourself like steel. The Online Dictionary of Etymology attests to the verb steel being used to mean make hard or strong like steel in the 1580s. (It could be used with a fair amount of thematic consistency along with the word mettle, if you're that way minded.)
Shakespeare used the verb steel in this sense on more than one occasion.
In Henry VI Part II, he gives the following lines to Richard Plantagenet, Duke of York, in a pep-talk soliloquy. Plantagenet (or York) is plucking up his courage for the task at hand - putting down a revolt in Ireland in the name of the King and, then, usurpation of the English throne for himself:
Now, York, or never, steel thy fearful thoughts,
And change misdoubt to resolution:
Be that thou hopest to be, or what thou art
Resign to death; it is not worth the enjoying:
Let pale-faced fear keep with the mean-born man,
And find no harbour in a royal heart.1
answered Jan 4 at 1:29
tmgrtmgr
3,19911026
add a comment |
The calm before the storm.
from The Free Dictionary:
A period of inactivity or tranquility before something chaotic begins.
You mentioned that something is about to happen, so if your scenario would do well to emphasize that the current circumstance is calm then this could work well.
edited Jan 4 at 20:03
Lordology
54514
answered Jan 4 at 19:33
vancy.pantsvancy.pants
712
add a comment |
Time to put on your brown trousers.
A fictional anecdote: two armies meet on either side of a revolutionary battle ground displaying colors and wielding muskets. Generals and assistants ride to the middle of the battleground on horseback to discuss terms of battle: agreement, surrender, or fight! After a long negotiation both generals in their disappointment have declare it's time to fight.
The first general looks at his assistant and says "captain, prepare for battle and bring my red blazer".
Overhearing this order, the second general asks "Sir, respectfully, why the red blazer".
In response the first general explains "very well my most worthy opponent, when one of our officers has been wounded in battle we prefer to hide the wound in order to preserve moral. The color of the blazer will help to lessen the visibility of blood."
In turn, the second general says "Understood general...", after which he turns to his captain and orders: "Captain, prepare for battle and bring my brown trousers."
answered Jan 4 at 1:46
Jeffrey KnowlesJeffrey Knowles
412
1
Hi Jeffrey, welcome to EL&U. This isn't a bad start, but it's too short: the system has flagged it as "low-quality because of its length and content." An answer on EL&U is expected to be authoritative, detailed, and explain why it is correct. Can I suggest you edit your answer to provide more information - e.g., add a published definition of the expression (linked to the source) and perhaps an explanation? For further guidance, see How to Answer and take the EL&U Tour :-)
– Chappo
Jan 4 at 2:42
1
This is a classic boy scout skit.
– Peter Turner
Jan 4 at 17:57
Yeah, I heard it from my father-in-law. I figured it was an old classic.
– Jeffrey Knowles
Jan 5 at 22:50
add a comment |
Beware the ides of March
Shakespearean quote - it was a truthsayers warning to Julius Caesar that bad things were heading his way. It is a bit elitist to use, but when it fits, it fits.
answered Jan 4 at 9:33
Stian YttervikStian Yttervik
1884
add a comment |
Hold on to your britches
I'm not sure if you're interested in colloquialisms, however, "hold on to your britches" is typically a Southern United States expression used to indicate a sudden change of conditions. Typically it's used in driving (as in suddenly hitting the gas pedal), however, I have definitely heard it used at other times.
On a personal note, I tend to use "Hold on to your bobby-socks" which is a much much older variant (before even my time.)
answered Jan 4 at 18:51
Reginald BlueReginald Blue
20515
add a comment |
If you use the allusion:
Winter is coming
...most will understand what you mean.
Update: tchrist♦ asked me to add an explanation into my answer. I understand I'm going to be acting as Captain Obvious right now, but he's got diamond in his nickname and I have to obey.
So, there is a well-known Saga "Game of Thrones". This is one of the most significant series in the last decade. The first episode of this series is called "Winter is coming", and throughout the series this thesis is repeated countless times. I won't give here any details so as not to create a spoiler for those who for any reasons haven't watch this series yet (I didn't meet such people, but there are rumors that they exist). So I'll just give a link to Wikipedia.
answered Jan 3 at 22:52
Ivan OlshanskyIvan Olshansky
237114
2
Nice idea. The general problem is with being unoriginal because it is borrowed from contemporary literature, not something old enough to have become standard, yet. It would be amazing in conversation or a speech perhaps, but it should not be used in original, contenporary literature.
– Jesse Steele
Jan 4 at 7:36
6
I have a bad feeling about this.
– Theraot
Jan 4 at 8:53
This is not an answer according to our standards here because it contains no reasoning or explanation in your own words. Please read this advice from SE’ss Community Management team and update this with your content. We're looking for long answers that provide some explanation and context. Don't just give a one-line answer; explain why your answer is right, ideally with citations. Answers that don't include explanations may be removed.
– tchrist♦
Jan 5 at 20:53
@tchrist, I've updated my answer. I hope my explanation is sufficient and not redundant.
– Ivan Olshansky
Jan 5 at 22:02
1
Ivan, there are millions of English-speakers (including me) who haven't watched Game of Thrones. Did the expression have a meaning before the show? Note that highly popular serial TV dramas quickly become dated - e.g. "Who shot J.R.?" and "Goodbye, Farewell and Amen" would probably be meaningless to a teenager watching GoT.
– Chappo
Jan 6 at 0:42
|
show 2 more comments
"ominous signs of tough times" comes to mind. Or, simply, "tough times ahead".
ominous -1. menacing, threatening: ominous black clouds; ominous rumblings of discontent. 2. Of or being an omen, especially an evil one.
From the web:
1 - "It would require a significant change in their strategy to prepare for the tough times ahead."
2 - The ominous signs of growing tensions were everywhere. In Asia, Emperor Hirohito's armies had invaded the Chinese mainland.
Politicians often say it in times of crisis: "Yet there are still tough times ahead, and tough decisions to be made. I have reluctantly concluded that a constitutional amendment, demanding we focus our efforts on balancing the budget, is the only sure way to make us accountable, and ..."
answered Jan 3 at 23:12
CentaurusCentaurus
38.4k29123246
2
Similarly, it augurs badly.
– tmgr
Jan 4 at 1:37
add a comment |
"a sense of impending doom".
It can also be used in an ironic or hyperbolic sense, where the 'doom' you see coming is actually a fairly minor struggle.
I felt a sense of impending doom as the first drops of rain landed
lightly on the bride's veil.
This is a fairly well known and well understood set phrase in English.
It is also the name of a medical symptom which, as you might expect, is a type of anxiety where one just feels for no apparent reason as if something terrible is about to happen.
answered Jan 4 at 16:00
MegMeg
22114
add a comment |
I could feel a sense of dread at the prospect, and though we laughed naively, the true weight of our actions would not be felt...perhaps too late.
Really, one word is nice, I.e foreboding, but consider the setting and use that to your advantage.
answered Jan 4 at 20:54
clifton_hclifton_h
99
Some of the information contained in this post requires additional references. Please edit to add citations to reliable sources that support the assertions made here. Unsourced material may be disputed or deleted.
add a comment |
"...a prelude to..."
This borrows on figurative language, one common being very similar:
a prelude to war
Examples of use:
A Prelude to War (US Army article)
History Rediscovered: Prelude to War (book on Amazon)
Prelude to War (film by Frank Capra)
A Prelude to War (novella)
A "prelude" used this way doesn't need to be a "prelude to war" in particular. The connotation can stick if you use it with "prelude to rage", "prelude to divorce", "prelude to revolution", "prelude to failure", et cetera.
Having taken my own advice, I used this in my syndicated column, Prelude to Conflict, in which I began to anticipate the conflict between the US and China.
answered Jan 4 at 7:31
Jesse SteeleJesse Steele
548214
add a comment |
"I can't do this anymore, I want a divorce."
"Your test results came back positive."
"You have a right to remain silent."
"Your position has been eliminated as a result of the merger."
In general, relying on a common phrase to create suspense is not what you want to do. Simply describing the circumstances should be all you need to demonstrate that your characters are sitting precariously on the eve of battle and things are about to get hairy.
answered Jan 5 at 19:24
PacificmaelstromPacificmaelstrom
11
add a comment |
15 Answers
15
active
oldest
votes
15 Answers
15
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
A few idiomatic examples:
- The die is cast.
- Caesar has crossed the Rubicon.
- Hannibal has crossed the Alps.
The first two idioms refer to the same event. From Wikipedia:
With this step, he entered Italy at the head of his army in defiance
of the Senate and began his long civil war against Pompey and the
Optimates. The phrase, either in the original Latin or in translation,
is used in many languages to indicate that events have passed a point
of no return. It is now most commonly cited with the word order
changed ("Alea iacta est") rather than in the original phrasing. The
same event inspired another idiom with the same meaning, "Crossing the
Rubicon".
More colloquially, you could say the shit has hit the fan.
answered Jan 3 at 22:52
trwtrw
28828
"the die is cast" is perfect for what I am looking for! thank you!
– peabody2
Jan 4 at 23:47
I've never heard of any of these being used. Ever. Personally, I think that this answer is better.
– David Wheatley
Jan 5 at 20:57
I've heard "the die is cast" before. It comes from the latin phrase "Alea iacta est". en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alea_iacta_est.
– peabody2
Jan 5 at 22:52
These are all good expressions indicating a point of no return. They can signify that something which was once uncertain is now inevitable. This might imply a period of hardship, depending on how it is used in the story.
– Solocutor
Jan 8 at 15:59
add a comment |
A few idiomatic examples:
- The die is cast.
- Caesar has crossed the Rubicon.
- Hannibal has crossed the Alps.
The first two idioms refer to the same event. From Wikipedia:
With this step, he entered Italy at the head of his army in defiance
of the Senate and began his long civil war against Pompey and the
Optimates. The phrase, either in the original Latin or in translation,
is used in many languages to indicate that events have passed a point
of no return. It is now most commonly cited with the word order
changed ("Alea iacta est") rather than in the original phrasing. The
same event inspired another idiom with the same meaning, "Crossing the
Rubicon".
More colloquially, you could say the shit has hit the fan.
answered Jan 3 at 22:52
trwtrw
28828
"the die is cast" is perfect for what I am looking for! thank you!
– peabody2
Jan 4 at 23:47
I've never heard of any of these being used. Ever. Personally, I think that this answer is better.
– David Wheatley
Jan 5 at 20:57
I've heard "the die is cast" before. It comes from the latin phrase "Alea iacta est". en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alea_iacta_est.
– peabody2
Jan 5 at 22:52
These are all good expressions indicating a point of no return. They can signify that something which was once uncertain is now inevitable. This might imply a period of hardship, depending on how it is used in the story.
– Solocutor
Jan 8 at 15:59
add a comment |
A few idiomatic examples:
- The die is cast.
- Caesar has crossed the Rubicon.
- Hannibal has crossed the Alps.
The first two idioms refer to the same event. From Wikipedia:
With this step, he entered Italy at the head of his army in defiance
of the Senate and began his long civil war against Pompey and the
Optimates. The phrase, either in the original Latin or in translation,
is used in many languages to indicate that events have passed a point
of no return. It is now most commonly cited with the word order
changed ("Alea iacta est") rather than in the original phrasing. The
same event inspired another idiom with the same meaning, "Crossing the
Rubicon".
More colloquially, you could say the shit has hit the fan.
answered Jan 3 at 22:52
trwtrw
28828
A few idiomatic examples:
- The die is cast.
- Caesar has crossed the Rubicon.
- Hannibal has crossed the Alps.
The first two idioms refer to the same event. From Wikipedia:
With this step, he entered Italy at the head of his army in defiance
of the Senate and began his long civil war against Pompey and the
Optimates. The phrase, either in the original Latin or in translation,
is used in many languages to indicate that events have passed a point
of no return. It is now most commonly cited with the word order
changed ("Alea iacta est") rather than in the original phrasing. The
same event inspired another idiom with the same meaning, "Crossing the
Rubicon".
More colloquially, you could say the shit has hit the fan.
answered Jan 3 at 22:52
trwtrw
28828
answered Jan 3 at 22:52
trwtrw
28828
answered Jan 3 at 22:52
trwtrw
28828
answered Jan 3 at 22:52
trwtrw
28828
28828
"the die is cast" is perfect for what I am looking for! thank you!
– peabody2
Jan 4 at 23:47
I've never heard of any of these being used. Ever. Personally, I think that this answer is better.
– David Wheatley
Jan 5 at 20:57
I've heard "the die is cast" before. It comes from the latin phrase "Alea iacta est". en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alea_iacta_est.
– peabody2
Jan 5 at 22:52
These are all good expressions indicating a point of no return. They can signify that something which was once uncertain is now inevitable. This might imply a period of hardship, depending on how it is used in the story.
– Solocutor
Jan 8 at 15:59
add a comment |
"the die is cast" is perfect for what I am looking for! thank you!
– peabody2
Jan 4 at 23:47
I've never heard of any of these being used. Ever. Personally, I think that this answer is better.
– David Wheatley
Jan 5 at 20:57
I've heard "the die is cast" before. It comes from the latin phrase "Alea iacta est". en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alea_iacta_est.
– peabody2
Jan 5 at 22:52
These are all good expressions indicating a point of no return. They can signify that something which was once uncertain is now inevitable. This might imply a period of hardship, depending on how it is used in the story.
– Solocutor
Jan 8 at 15:59
"the die is cast" is perfect for what I am looking for! thank you!
– peabody2
Jan 4 at 23:47
"the die is cast" is perfect for what I am looking for! thank you!
– peabody2
Jan 4 at 23:47
I've never heard of any of these being used. Ever. Personally, I think that this answer is better.
– David Wheatley
Jan 5 at 20:57
I've never heard of any of these being used. Ever. Personally, I think that this answer is better.
– David Wheatley
Jan 5 at 20:57
I've heard "the die is cast" before. It comes from the latin phrase "Alea iacta est". en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alea_iacta_est.
– peabody2
Jan 5 at 22:52
I've heard "the die is cast" before. It comes from the latin phrase "Alea iacta est". en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alea_iacta_est.
– peabody2
Jan 5 at 22:52
These are all good expressions indicating a point of no return. They can signify that something which was once uncertain is now inevitable. This might imply a period of hardship, depending on how it is used in the story.
– Solocutor
Jan 8 at 15:59
These are all good expressions indicating a point of no return. They can signify that something which was once uncertain is now inevitable. This might imply a period of hardship, depending on how it is used in the story.
– Solocutor
Jan 8 at 15:59
add a comment |
Fasten your seat belts
In the most famous line from the 1950 movie All About Eve, the character Margo Channing (played by Bette Davis) said
Fasten your seatbelts, it’s going to be a bump-y night!
"Night" is often replaced by the more sensible "ride".
As anyone who has been in a plane has experienced, a "Fasten Seat Belts" sign comes on when the pilot has to make a difficult maneuver, or if the plane goes through turbulence.
So most people will understand that some sort of turmoil is expected if you say "Fasten your seatbelts". But it's often used jocularly, as if the difficulty is trivial or survivable.
answered Jan 3 at 23:28
SpencerSpencer
4,0491226
10
Also, Buckle up
– BruceWayne
Jan 4 at 0:50
add a comment |
Fasten your seat belts
In the most famous line from the 1950 movie All About Eve, the character Margo Channing (played by Bette Davis) said
Fasten your seatbelts, it’s going to be a bump-y night!
"Night" is often replaced by the more sensible "ride".
As anyone who has been in a plane has experienced, a "Fasten Seat Belts" sign comes on when the pilot has to make a difficult maneuver, or if the plane goes through turbulence.
So most people will understand that some sort of turmoil is expected if you say "Fasten your seatbelts". But it's often used jocularly, as if the difficulty is trivial or survivable.
answered Jan 3 at 23:28
SpencerSpencer
4,0491226
10
Also, Buckle up
– BruceWayne
Jan 4 at 0:50
add a comment |
Fasten your seat belts
In the most famous line from the 1950 movie All About Eve, the character Margo Channing (played by Bette Davis) said
Fasten your seatbelts, it’s going to be a bump-y night!
"Night" is often replaced by the more sensible "ride".
As anyone who has been in a plane has experienced, a "Fasten Seat Belts" sign comes on when the pilot has to make a difficult maneuver, or if the plane goes through turbulence.
So most people will understand that some sort of turmoil is expected if you say "Fasten your seatbelts". But it's often used jocularly, as if the difficulty is trivial or survivable.
answered Jan 3 at 23:28
SpencerSpencer
4,0491226
Fasten your seat belts
In the most famous line from the 1950 movie All About Eve, the character Margo Channing (played by Bette Davis) said
Fasten your seatbelts, it’s going to be a bump-y night!
"Night" is often replaced by the more sensible "ride".
As anyone who has been in a plane has experienced, a "Fasten Seat Belts" sign comes on when the pilot has to make a difficult maneuver, or if the plane goes through turbulence.
So most people will understand that some sort of turmoil is expected if you say "Fasten your seatbelts". But it's often used jocularly, as if the difficulty is trivial or survivable.
answered Jan 3 at 23:28
SpencerSpencer
4,0491226
edited Jan 3 at 23:45
answered Jan 3 at 23:28
SpencerSpencer
4,0491226
answered Jan 3 at 23:28
SpencerSpencer
4,0491226
answered Jan 3 at 23:28
SpencerSpencer
4,0491226
4,0491226
10
Also, Buckle up
– BruceWayne
Jan 4 at 0:50
add a comment |
10
Also, Buckle up
– BruceWayne
Jan 4 at 0:50
10
10
Also, Buckle up
– BruceWayne
Jan 4 at 0:50
Also, Buckle up
– BruceWayne
Jan 4 at 0:50
add a comment |
"A storm is coming," or "a storm is brewing" is common and well-understood.
Background: Literally speaking, storms can represent significant danger, especially for oceangoing craft. Metaphorically, a storm is often used to symbolize a finite period of intense hardship, conflict, or chaos. The word plays this role in many common idioms. (For example, someone who has "weathered a storm" has survived a period of hardship.)
answered Jan 3 at 22:59
SolocutorSolocutor
5981311
3
This is not an answer according to our standards here because it contains no reasoning or explanation in your own words. Please read this advice from SE’ss Community Management team and update this with your content. We're looking for long answers that provide some explanation and context. Don't just give a one-line answer; explain why your answer is right, ideally with citations. Answers that don't include explanations may be removed.
– tchrist♦
Jan 5 at 20:53
I added a little explanation.
– Solocutor
Jan 8 at 15:53
add a comment |
"A storm is coming," or "a storm is brewing" is common and well-understood.
Background: Literally speaking, storms can represent significant danger, especially for oceangoing craft. Metaphorically, a storm is often used to symbolize a finite period of intense hardship, conflict, or chaos. The word plays this role in many common idioms. (For example, someone who has "weathered a storm" has survived a period of hardship.)
answered Jan 3 at 22:59
SolocutorSolocutor
5981311
3
This is not an answer according to our standards here because it contains no reasoning or explanation in your own words. Please read this advice from SE’ss Community Management team and update this with your content. We're looking for long answers that provide some explanation and context. Don't just give a one-line answer; explain why your answer is right, ideally with citations. Answers that don't include explanations may be removed.
– tchrist♦
Jan 5 at 20:53
I added a little explanation.
– Solocutor
Jan 8 at 15:53
add a comment |
"A storm is coming," or "a storm is brewing" is common and well-understood.
Background: Literally speaking, storms can represent significant danger, especially for oceangoing craft. Metaphorically, a storm is often used to symbolize a finite period of intense hardship, conflict, or chaos. The word plays this role in many common idioms. (For example, someone who has "weathered a storm" has survived a period of hardship.)
answered Jan 3 at 22:59
SolocutorSolocutor
5981311
"A storm is coming," or "a storm is brewing" is common and well-understood.
Background: Literally speaking, storms can represent significant danger, especially for oceangoing craft. Metaphorically, a storm is often used to symbolize a finite period of intense hardship, conflict, or chaos. The word plays this role in many common idioms. (For example, someone who has "weathered a storm" has survived a period of hardship.)
answered Jan 3 at 22:59
SolocutorSolocutor
5981311
edited Jan 8 at 15:54
answered Jan 3 at 22:59
SolocutorSolocutor
5981311
answered Jan 3 at 22:59
SolocutorSolocutor
5981311
answered Jan 3 at 22:59
SolocutorSolocutor
5981311
5981311
3
This is not an answer according to our standards here because it contains no reasoning or explanation in your own words. Please read this advice from SE’ss Community Management team and update this with your content. We're looking for long answers that provide some explanation and context. Don't just give a one-line answer; explain why your answer is right, ideally with citations. Answers that don't include explanations may be removed.
– tchrist♦
Jan 5 at 20:53
I added a little explanation.
– Solocutor
Jan 8 at 15:53
add a comment |
3
This is not an answer according to our standards here because it contains no reasoning or explanation in your own words. Please read this advice from SE’ss Community Management team and update this with your content. We're looking for long answers that provide some explanation and context. Don't just give a one-line answer; explain why your answer is right, ideally with citations. Answers that don't include explanations may be removed.
– tchrist♦
Jan 5 at 20:53
I added a little explanation.
– Solocutor
Jan 8 at 15:53
3
3
This is not an answer according to our standards here because it contains no reasoning or explanation in your own words. Please read this advice from SE’ss Community Management team and update this with your content. We're looking for long answers that provide some explanation and context. Don't just give a one-line answer; explain why your answer is right, ideally with citations. Answers that don't include explanations may be removed.
– tchrist♦
Jan 5 at 20:53
This is not an answer according to our standards here because it contains no reasoning or explanation in your own words. Please read this advice from SE’ss Community Management team and update this with your content. We're looking for long answers that provide some explanation and context. Don't just give a one-line answer; explain why your answer is right, ideally with citations. Answers that don't include explanations may be removed.
– tchrist♦
Jan 5 at 20:53
I added a little explanation.
– Solocutor
Jan 8 at 15:53
I added a little explanation.
– Solocutor
Jan 8 at 15:53
add a comment |
Gird your loins. Vocabulary.com says:
"Gird your loins and prepare for battle!" Okay, no one says "gird your
loins" anymore (which basically means "tighten your pants"), but gird
is still used as a verb to mean "get ready for a dangerous situation."
To gird is to prepare for a military attack, but more loosely it
refers to readying oneself for any kind of confrontation. When you
gird for something, you are preparing for the worst-case scenario.
Gird can also mean "fasten something tightly with a belt or a band"
(as in "gird your loins"), or it can mean "to surround or encircle." A
field that is girded by trees is surrounded and encircled by trees.
The source is overly dismissive of gird your loins, although it is true that it is rarely said now except semi-humorously, as in:
One hour 'til the physics final. All we can do now is gird our loins
and pray there is no surprise.
The loins are the area of the sexual organs, and girding one's loins means to put protection around that area before going into battle.
answered Jan 3 at 23:05
ab2ab2
24k95995
add a comment |
Gird your loins. Vocabulary.com says:
"Gird your loins and prepare for battle!" Okay, no one says "gird your
loins" anymore (which basically means "tighten your pants"), but gird
is still used as a verb to mean "get ready for a dangerous situation."
To gird is to prepare for a military attack, but more loosely it
refers to readying oneself for any kind of confrontation. When you
gird for something, you are preparing for the worst-case scenario.
Gird can also mean "fasten something tightly with a belt or a band"
(as in "gird your loins"), or it can mean "to surround or encircle." A
field that is girded by trees is surrounded and encircled by trees.
The source is overly dismissive of gird your loins, although it is true that it is rarely said now except semi-humorously, as in:
One hour 'til the physics final. All we can do now is gird our loins
and pray there is no surprise.
The loins are the area of the sexual organs, and girding one's loins means to put protection around that area before going into battle.
answered Jan 3 at 23:05
ab2ab2
24k95995
add a comment |
Gird your loins. Vocabulary.com says:
"Gird your loins and prepare for battle!" Okay, no one says "gird your
loins" anymore (which basically means "tighten your pants"), but gird
is still used as a verb to mean "get ready for a dangerous situation."
To gird is to prepare for a military attack, but more loosely it
refers to readying oneself for any kind of confrontation. When you
gird for something, you are preparing for the worst-case scenario.
Gird can also mean "fasten something tightly with a belt or a band"
(as in "gird your loins"), or it can mean "to surround or encircle." A
field that is girded by trees is surrounded and encircled by trees.
The source is overly dismissive of gird your loins, although it is true that it is rarely said now except semi-humorously, as in:
One hour 'til the physics final. All we can do now is gird our loins
and pray there is no surprise.
The loins are the area of the sexual organs, and girding one's loins means to put protection around that area before going into battle.
answered Jan 3 at 23:05
ab2ab2
24k95995
Gird your loins. Vocabulary.com says:
"Gird your loins and prepare for battle!" Okay, no one says "gird your
loins" anymore (which basically means "tighten your pants"), but gird
is still used as a verb to mean "get ready for a dangerous situation."
To gird is to prepare for a military attack, but more loosely it
refers to readying oneself for any kind of confrontation. When you
gird for something, you are preparing for the worst-case scenario.
Gird can also mean "fasten something tightly with a belt or a band"
(as in "gird your loins"), or it can mean "to surround or encircle." A
field that is girded by trees is surrounded and encircled by trees.
The source is overly dismissive of gird your loins, although it is true that it is rarely said now except semi-humorously, as in:
One hour 'til the physics final. All we can do now is gird our loins
and pray there is no surprise.
The loins are the area of the sexual organs, and girding one's loins means to put protection around that area before going into battle.
answered Jan 3 at 23:05
ab2ab2
24k95995
edited Jan 3 at 23:56
answered Jan 3 at 23:05
ab2ab2
24k95995
answered Jan 3 at 23:05
ab2ab2
24k95995
answered Jan 3 at 23:05
ab2ab2
24k95995
24k95995
add a comment |
add a comment |
Steel yourself.
This phrase has very much the same kind of feeling as brace yourself, albeit perhaps slightly more literary, and not with the same sense of immediacy that brace necessarily infers. Steel yourself is a warning to prepare your spirit for some kind of hardship to come. (It can, of course, also be used ironically when the difficulty is only slight.)
Collins gives the following definition:
verb
to prepare (oneself) for coping with something unpleasant
I was steeling myself to call round when Simon arrived.
Synonyms of steel yourself
brace yourself
He braced himself for the icy plunge into the black water.
grit your teeth
fortify yourself
harden yourself
Oxford Living Dictionaries defines steel as follows:
verb [with object]
Mentally prepare (oneself) to do or face something difficult.
‘his team were steeling themselves for disappointment’
with infinitive ‘she steeled herself to remain calm’
The sense is, of course, to harden yourself and make yourself like steel. The Online Dictionary of Etymology attests to the verb steel being used to mean make hard or strong like steel in the 1580s. (It could be used with a fair amount of thematic consistency along with the word mettle, if you're that way minded.)
Shakespeare used the verb steel in this sense on more than one occasion.
In Henry VI Part II, he gives the following lines to Richard Plantagenet, Duke of York, in a pep-talk soliloquy. Plantagenet (or York) is plucking up his courage for the task at hand - putting down a revolt in Ireland in the name of the King and, then, usurpation of the English throne for himself:
Now, York, or never, steel thy fearful thoughts,
And change misdoubt to resolution:
Be that thou hopest to be, or what thou art
Resign to death; it is not worth the enjoying:
Let pale-faced fear keep with the mean-born man,
And find no harbour in a royal heart.1
answered Jan 4 at 1:29
tmgrtmgr
3,19911026
add a comment |
Steel yourself.
This phrase has very much the same kind of feeling as brace yourself, albeit perhaps slightly more literary, and not with the same sense of immediacy that brace necessarily infers. Steel yourself is a warning to prepare your spirit for some kind of hardship to come. (It can, of course, also be used ironically when the difficulty is only slight.)
Collins gives the following definition:
verb
to prepare (oneself) for coping with something unpleasant
I was steeling myself to call round when Simon arrived.
Synonyms of steel yourself
brace yourself
He braced himself for the icy plunge into the black water.
grit your teeth
fortify yourself
harden yourself
Oxford Living Dictionaries defines steel as follows:
verb [with object]
Mentally prepare (oneself) to do or face something difficult.
‘his team were steeling themselves for disappointment’
with infinitive ‘she steeled herself to remain calm’
The sense is, of course, to harden yourself and make yourself like steel. The Online Dictionary of Etymology attests to the verb steel being used to mean make hard or strong like steel in the 1580s. (It could be used with a fair amount of thematic consistency along with the word mettle, if you're that way minded.)
Shakespeare used the verb steel in this sense on more than one occasion.
In Henry VI Part II, he gives the following lines to Richard Plantagenet, Duke of York, in a pep-talk soliloquy. Plantagenet (or York) is plucking up his courage for the task at hand - putting down a revolt in Ireland in the name of the King and, then, usurpation of the English throne for himself:
Now, York, or never, steel thy fearful thoughts,
And change misdoubt to resolution:
Be that thou hopest to be, or what thou art
Resign to death; it is not worth the enjoying:
Let pale-faced fear keep with the mean-born man,
And find no harbour in a royal heart.1
answered Jan 4 at 1:29
tmgrtmgr
3,19911026
add a comment |
Steel yourself.
This phrase has very much the same kind of feeling as brace yourself, albeit perhaps slightly more literary, and not with the same sense of immediacy that brace necessarily infers. Steel yourself is a warning to prepare your spirit for some kind of hardship to come. (It can, of course, also be used ironically when the difficulty is only slight.)
Collins gives the following definition:
verb
to prepare (oneself) for coping with something unpleasant
I was steeling myself to call round when Simon arrived.
Synonyms of steel yourself
brace yourself
He braced himself for the icy plunge into the black water.
grit your teeth
fortify yourself
harden yourself
Oxford Living Dictionaries defines steel as follows:
verb [with object]
Mentally prepare (oneself) to do or face something difficult.
‘his team were steeling themselves for disappointment’
with infinitive ‘she steeled herself to remain calm’
The sense is, of course, to harden yourself and make yourself like steel. The Online Dictionary of Etymology attests to the verb steel being used to mean make hard or strong like steel in the 1580s. (It could be used with a fair amount of thematic consistency along with the word mettle, if you're that way minded.)
Shakespeare used the verb steel in this sense on more than one occasion.
In Henry VI Part II, he gives the following lines to Richard Plantagenet, Duke of York, in a pep-talk soliloquy. Plantagenet (or York) is plucking up his courage for the task at hand - putting down a revolt in Ireland in the name of the King and, then, usurpation of the English throne for himself:
Now, York, or never, steel thy fearful thoughts,
And change misdoubt to resolution:
Be that thou hopest to be, or what thou art
Resign to death; it is not worth the enjoying:
Let pale-faced fear keep with the mean-born man,
And find no harbour in a royal heart.1
answered Jan 4 at 1:29
tmgrtmgr
3,19911026
Steel yourself.
This phrase has very much the same kind of feeling as brace yourself, albeit perhaps slightly more literary, and not with the same sense of immediacy that brace necessarily infers. Steel yourself is a warning to prepare your spirit for some kind of hardship to come. (It can, of course, also be used ironically when the difficulty is only slight.)
Collins gives the following definition:
verb
to prepare (oneself) for coping with something unpleasant
I was steeling myself to call round when Simon arrived.
Synonyms of steel yourself
brace yourself
He braced himself for the icy plunge into the black water.
grit your teeth
fortify yourself
harden yourself
Oxford Living Dictionaries defines steel as follows:
verb [with object]
Mentally prepare (oneself) to do or face something difficult.
‘his team were steeling themselves for disappointment’
with infinitive ‘she steeled herself to remain calm’
The sense is, of course, to harden yourself and make yourself like steel. The Online Dictionary of Etymology attests to the verb steel being used to mean make hard or strong like steel in the 1580s. (It could be used with a fair amount of thematic consistency along with the word mettle, if you're that way minded.)
Shakespeare used the verb steel in this sense on more than one occasion.
In Henry VI Part II, he gives the following lines to Richard Plantagenet, Duke of York, in a pep-talk soliloquy. Plantagenet (or York) is plucking up his courage for the task at hand - putting down a revolt in Ireland in the name of the King and, then, usurpation of the English throne for himself:
Now, York, or never, steel thy fearful thoughts,
And change misdoubt to resolution:
Be that thou hopest to be, or what thou art
Resign to death; it is not worth the enjoying:
Let pale-faced fear keep with the mean-born man,
And find no harbour in a royal heart.1
answered Jan 4 at 1:29
tmgrtmgr
3,19911026
edited Jan 4 at 1:48
answered Jan 4 at 1:29
tmgrtmgr
3,19911026
answered Jan 4 at 1:29
tmgrtmgr
3,19911026
answered Jan 4 at 1:29
tmgrtmgr
3,19911026
3,19911026
add a comment |
add a comment |
The calm before the storm.
from The Free Dictionary:
A period of inactivity or tranquility before something chaotic begins.
You mentioned that something is about to happen, so if your scenario would do well to emphasize that the current circumstance is calm then this could work well.
edited Jan 4 at 20:03
Lordology
54514
answered Jan 4 at 19:33
vancy.pantsvancy.pants
712
add a comment |
The calm before the storm.
from The Free Dictionary:
A period of inactivity or tranquility before something chaotic begins.
You mentioned that something is about to happen, so if your scenario would do well to emphasize that the current circumstance is calm then this could work well.
edited Jan 4 at 20:03
Lordology
54514
answered Jan 4 at 19:33
vancy.pantsvancy.pants
712
add a comment |
The calm before the storm.
from The Free Dictionary:
A period of inactivity or tranquility before something chaotic begins.
You mentioned that something is about to happen, so if your scenario would do well to emphasize that the current circumstance is calm then this could work well.
edited Jan 4 at 20:03
Lordology
54514
answered Jan 4 at 19:33
vancy.pantsvancy.pants
712
The calm before the storm.
from The Free Dictionary:
A period of inactivity or tranquility before something chaotic begins.
You mentioned that something is about to happen, so if your scenario would do well to emphasize that the current circumstance is calm then this could work well.
edited Jan 4 at 20:03
Lordology
54514
answered Jan 4 at 19:33
vancy.pantsvancy.pants
712
edited Jan 4 at 20:03
Lordology
54514
edited Jan 4 at 20:03
Lordology
54514
edited Jan 4 at 20:03
Lordology
54514
54514
answered Jan 4 at 19:33
vancy.pantsvancy.pants
712
answered Jan 4 at 19:33
vancy.pantsvancy.pants
712
answered Jan 4 at 19:33
vancy.pantsvancy.pants
712
712
add a comment |
add a comment |
Time to put on your brown trousers.
A fictional anecdote: two armies meet on either side of a revolutionary battle ground displaying colors and wielding muskets. Generals and assistants ride to the middle of the battleground on horseback to discuss terms of battle: agreement, surrender, or fight! After a long negotiation both generals in their disappointment have declare it's time to fight.
The first general looks at his assistant and says "captain, prepare for battle and bring my red blazer".
Overhearing this order, the second general asks "Sir, respectfully, why the red blazer".
In response the first general explains "very well my most worthy opponent, when one of our officers has been wounded in battle we prefer to hide the wound in order to preserve moral. The color of the blazer will help to lessen the visibility of blood."
In turn, the second general says "Understood general...", after which he turns to his captain and orders: "Captain, prepare for battle and bring my brown trousers."
answered Jan 4 at 1:46
Jeffrey KnowlesJeffrey Knowles
412
1
Hi Jeffrey, welcome to EL&U. This isn't a bad start, but it's too short: the system has flagged it as "low-quality because of its length and content." An answer on EL&U is expected to be authoritative, detailed, and explain why it is correct. Can I suggest you edit your answer to provide more information - e.g., add a published definition of the expression (linked to the source) and perhaps an explanation? For further guidance, see How to Answer and take the EL&U Tour :-)
– Chappo
Jan 4 at 2:42
1
This is a classic boy scout skit.
– Peter Turner
Jan 4 at 17:57
Yeah, I heard it from my father-in-law. I figured it was an old classic.
– Jeffrey Knowles
Jan 5 at 22:50
add a comment |
Time to put on your brown trousers.
A fictional anecdote: two armies meet on either side of a revolutionary battle ground displaying colors and wielding muskets. Generals and assistants ride to the middle of the battleground on horseback to discuss terms of battle: agreement, surrender, or fight! After a long negotiation both generals in their disappointment have declare it's time to fight.
The first general looks at his assistant and says "captain, prepare for battle and bring my red blazer".
Overhearing this order, the second general asks "Sir, respectfully, why the red blazer".
In response the first general explains "very well my most worthy opponent, when one of our officers has been wounded in battle we prefer to hide the wound in order to preserve moral. The color of the blazer will help to lessen the visibility of blood."
In turn, the second general says "Understood general...", after which he turns to his captain and orders: "Captain, prepare for battle and bring my brown trousers."
answered Jan 4 at 1:46
Jeffrey KnowlesJeffrey Knowles
412
1
Hi Jeffrey, welcome to EL&U. This isn't a bad start, but it's too short: the system has flagged it as "low-quality because of its length and content." An answer on EL&U is expected to be authoritative, detailed, and explain why it is correct. Can I suggest you edit your answer to provide more information - e.g., add a published definition of the expression (linked to the source) and perhaps an explanation? For further guidance, see How to Answer and take the EL&U Tour :-)
– Chappo
Jan 4 at 2:42
1
This is a classic boy scout skit.
– Peter Turner
Jan 4 at 17:57
Yeah, I heard it from my father-in-law. I figured it was an old classic.
– Jeffrey Knowles
Jan 5 at 22:50
add a comment |
Time to put on your brown trousers.
A fictional anecdote: two armies meet on either side of a revolutionary battle ground displaying colors and wielding muskets. Generals and assistants ride to the middle of the battleground on horseback to discuss terms of battle: agreement, surrender, or fight! After a long negotiation both generals in their disappointment have declare it's time to fight.
The first general looks at his assistant and says "captain, prepare for battle and bring my red blazer".
Overhearing this order, the second general asks "Sir, respectfully, why the red blazer".
In response the first general explains "very well my most worthy opponent, when one of our officers has been wounded in battle we prefer to hide the wound in order to preserve moral. The color of the blazer will help to lessen the visibility of blood."
In turn, the second general says "Understood general...", after which he turns to his captain and orders: "Captain, prepare for battle and bring my brown trousers."
answered Jan 4 at 1:46
Jeffrey KnowlesJeffrey Knowles
412
Time to put on your brown trousers.
A fictional anecdote: two armies meet on either side of a revolutionary battle ground displaying colors and wielding muskets. Generals and assistants ride to the middle of the battleground on horseback to discuss terms of battle: agreement, surrender, or fight! After a long negotiation both generals in their disappointment have declare it's time to fight.
The first general looks at his assistant and says "captain, prepare for battle and bring my red blazer".
Overhearing this order, the second general asks "Sir, respectfully, why the red blazer".
In response the first general explains "very well my most worthy opponent, when one of our officers has been wounded in battle we prefer to hide the wound in order to preserve moral. The color of the blazer will help to lessen the visibility of blood."
In turn, the second general says "Understood general...", after which he turns to his captain and orders: "Captain, prepare for battle and bring my brown trousers."
answered Jan 4 at 1:46
Jeffrey KnowlesJeffrey Knowles
412
edited Jan 4 at 3:47
answered Jan 4 at 1:46
Jeffrey KnowlesJeffrey Knowles
412
answered Jan 4 at 1:46
Jeffrey KnowlesJeffrey Knowles
412
answered Jan 4 at 1:46
Jeffrey KnowlesJeffrey Knowles
412
412
1
Hi Jeffrey, welcome to EL&U. This isn't a bad start, but it's too short: the system has flagged it as "low-quality because of its length and content." An answer on EL&U is expected to be authoritative, detailed, and explain why it is correct. Can I suggest you edit your answer to provide more information - e.g., add a published definition of the expression (linked to the source) and perhaps an explanation? For further guidance, see How to Answer and take the EL&U Tour :-)
– Chappo
Jan 4 at 2:42
1
This is a classic boy scout skit.
– Peter Turner
Jan 4 at 17:57
Yeah, I heard it from my father-in-law. I figured it was an old classic.
– Jeffrey Knowles
Jan 5 at 22:50
add a comment |
1
Hi Jeffrey, welcome to EL&U. This isn't a bad start, but it's too short: the system has flagged it as "low-quality because of its length and content." An answer on EL&U is expected to be authoritative, detailed, and explain why it is correct. Can I suggest you edit your answer to provide more information - e.g., add a published definition of the expression (linked to the source) and perhaps an explanation? For further guidance, see How to Answer and take the EL&U Tour :-)
– Chappo
Jan 4 at 2:42
1
This is a classic boy scout skit.
– Peter Turner
Jan 4 at 17:57
Yeah, I heard it from my father-in-law. I figured it was an old classic.
– Jeffrey Knowles
Jan 5 at 22:50
1
1
Hi Jeffrey, welcome to EL&U. This isn't a bad start, but it's too short: the system has flagged it as "low-quality because of its length and content." An answer on EL&U is expected to be authoritative, detailed, and explain why it is correct. Can I suggest you edit your answer to provide more information - e.g., add a published definition of the expression (linked to the source) and perhaps an explanation? For further guidance, see How to Answer and take the EL&U Tour :-)
– Chappo
Jan 4 at 2:42
Hi Jeffrey, welcome to EL&U. This isn't a bad start, but it's too short: the system has flagged it as "low-quality because of its length and content." An answer on EL&U is expected to be authoritative, detailed, and explain why it is correct. Can I suggest you edit your answer to provide more information - e.g., add a published definition of the expression (linked to the source) and perhaps an explanation? For further guidance, see How to Answer and take the EL&U Tour :-)
– Chappo
Jan 4 at 2:42
1
1
This is a classic boy scout skit.
– Peter Turner
Jan 4 at 17:57
This is a classic boy scout skit.
– Peter Turner
Jan 4 at 17:57
Yeah, I heard it from my father-in-law. I figured it was an old classic.
– Jeffrey Knowles
Jan 5 at 22:50
Yeah, I heard it from my father-in-law. I figured it was an old classic.
– Jeffrey Knowles
Jan 5 at 22:50
add a comment |
Beware the ides of March
Shakespearean quote - it was a truthsayers warning to Julius Caesar that bad things were heading his way. It is a bit elitist to use, but when it fits, it fits.
answered Jan 4 at 9:33
Stian YttervikStian Yttervik
1884
add a comment |
Beware the ides of March
Shakespearean quote - it was a truthsayers warning to Julius Caesar that bad things were heading his way. It is a bit elitist to use, but when it fits, it fits.
answered Jan 4 at 9:33
Stian YttervikStian Yttervik
1884
add a comment |
Beware the ides of March
Shakespearean quote - it was a truthsayers warning to Julius Caesar that bad things were heading his way. It is a bit elitist to use, but when it fits, it fits.
answered Jan 4 at 9:33
Stian YttervikStian Yttervik
1884
Beware the ides of March
Shakespearean quote - it was a truthsayers warning to Julius Caesar that bad things were heading his way. It is a bit elitist to use, but when it fits, it fits.
answered Jan 4 at 9:33
Stian YttervikStian Yttervik
1884
answered Jan 4 at 9:33
Stian YttervikStian Yttervik
1884
answered Jan 4 at 9:33
Stian YttervikStian Yttervik
1884
answered Jan 4 at 9:33
Stian YttervikStian Yttervik
1884
1884
add a comment |
add a comment |
Hold on to your britches
I'm not sure if you're interested in colloquialisms, however, "hold on to your britches" is typically a Southern United States expression used to indicate a sudden change of conditions. Typically it's used in driving (as in suddenly hitting the gas pedal), however, I have definitely heard it used at other times.
On a personal note, I tend to use "Hold on to your bobby-socks" which is a much much older variant (before even my time.)
answered Jan 4 at 18:51
Reginald BlueReginald Blue
20515
add a comment |
Hold on to your britches
I'm not sure if you're interested in colloquialisms, however, "hold on to your britches" is typically a Southern United States expression used to indicate a sudden change of conditions. Typically it's used in driving (as in suddenly hitting the gas pedal), however, I have definitely heard it used at other times.
On a personal note, I tend to use "Hold on to your bobby-socks" which is a much much older variant (before even my time.)
answered Jan 4 at 18:51
Reginald BlueReginald Blue
20515
add a comment |
Hold on to your britches
I'm not sure if you're interested in colloquialisms, however, "hold on to your britches" is typically a Southern United States expression used to indicate a sudden change of conditions. Typically it's used in driving (as in suddenly hitting the gas pedal), however, I have definitely heard it used at other times.
On a personal note, I tend to use "Hold on to your bobby-socks" which is a much much older variant (before even my time.)
answered Jan 4 at 18:51
Reginald BlueReginald Blue
20515
Hold on to your britches
I'm not sure if you're interested in colloquialisms, however, "hold on to your britches" is typically a Southern United States expression used to indicate a sudden change of conditions. Typically it's used in driving (as in suddenly hitting the gas pedal), however, I have definitely heard it used at other times.
On a personal note, I tend to use "Hold on to your bobby-socks" which is a much much older variant (before even my time.)
answered Jan 4 at 18:51
Reginald BlueReginald Blue
20515
answered Jan 4 at 18:51
Reginald BlueReginald Blue
20515
answered Jan 4 at 18:51
Reginald BlueReginald Blue
20515
answered Jan 4 at 18:51
Reginald BlueReginald Blue
20515
20515
add a comment |
add a comment |
If you use the allusion:
Winter is coming
...most will understand what you mean.
Update: tchrist♦ asked me to add an explanation into my answer. I understand I'm going to be acting as Captain Obvious right now, but he's got diamond in his nickname and I have to obey.
So, there is a well-known Saga "Game of Thrones". This is one of the most significant series in the last decade. The first episode of this series is called "Winter is coming", and throughout the series this thesis is repeated countless times. I won't give here any details so as not to create a spoiler for those who for any reasons haven't watch this series yet (I didn't meet such people, but there are rumors that they exist). So I'll just give a link to Wikipedia.
answered Jan 3 at 22:52
Ivan OlshanskyIvan Olshansky
237114
2
Nice idea. The general problem is with being unoriginal because it is borrowed from contemporary literature, not something old enough to have become standard, yet. It would be amazing in conversation or a speech perhaps, but it should not be used in original, contenporary literature.
– Jesse Steele
Jan 4 at 7:36
6
I have a bad feeling about this.
– Theraot
Jan 4 at 8:53
This is not an answer according to our standards here because it contains no reasoning or explanation in your own words. Please read this advice from SE’ss Community Management team and update this with your content. We're looking for long answers that provide some explanation and context. Don't just give a one-line answer; explain why your answer is right, ideally with citations. Answers that don't include explanations may be removed.
– tchrist♦
Jan 5 at 20:53
@tchrist, I've updated my answer. I hope my explanation is sufficient and not redundant.
– Ivan Olshansky
Jan 5 at 22:02
1
Ivan, there are millions of English-speakers (including me) who haven't watched Game of Thrones. Did the expression have a meaning before the show? Note that highly popular serial TV dramas quickly become dated - e.g. "Who shot J.R.?" and "Goodbye, Farewell and Amen" would probably be meaningless to a teenager watching GoT.
– Chappo
Jan 6 at 0:42
|
show 2 more comments
If you use the allusion:
Winter is coming
...most will understand what you mean.
Update: tchrist♦ asked me to add an explanation into my answer. I understand I'm going to be acting as Captain Obvious right now, but he's got diamond in his nickname and I have to obey.
So, there is a well-known Saga "Game of Thrones". This is one of the most significant series in the last decade. The first episode of this series is called "Winter is coming", and throughout the series this thesis is repeated countless times. I won't give here any details so as not to create a spoiler for those who for any reasons haven't watch this series yet (I didn't meet such people, but there are rumors that they exist). So I'll just give a link to Wikipedia.
answered Jan 3 at 22:52
Ivan OlshanskyIvan Olshansky
237114
2
Nice idea. The general problem is with being unoriginal because it is borrowed from contemporary literature, not something old enough to have become standard, yet. It would be amazing in conversation or a speech perhaps, but it should not be used in original, contenporary literature.
– Jesse Steele
Jan 4 at 7:36
6
I have a bad feeling about this.
– Theraot
Jan 4 at 8:53
This is not an answer according to our standards here because it contains no reasoning or explanation in your own words. Please read this advice from SE’ss Community Management team and update this with your content. We're looking for long answers that provide some explanation and context. Don't just give a one-line answer; explain why your answer is right, ideally with citations. Answers that don't include explanations may be removed.
– tchrist♦
Jan 5 at 20:53
@tchrist, I've updated my answer. I hope my explanation is sufficient and not redundant.
– Ivan Olshansky
Jan 5 at 22:02
1
Ivan, there are millions of English-speakers (including me) who haven't watched Game of Thrones. Did the expression have a meaning before the show? Note that highly popular serial TV dramas quickly become dated - e.g. "Who shot J.R.?" and "Goodbye, Farewell and Amen" would probably be meaningless to a teenager watching GoT.
– Chappo
Jan 6 at 0:42
|
show 2 more comments
If you use the allusion:
Winter is coming
...most will understand what you mean.
Update: tchrist♦ asked me to add an explanation into my answer. I understand I'm going to be acting as Captain Obvious right now, but he's got diamond in his nickname and I have to obey.
So, there is a well-known Saga "Game of Thrones". This is one of the most significant series in the last decade. The first episode of this series is called "Winter is coming", and throughout the series this thesis is repeated countless times. I won't give here any details so as not to create a spoiler for those who for any reasons haven't watch this series yet (I didn't meet such people, but there are rumors that they exist). So I'll just give a link to Wikipedia.
answered Jan 3 at 22:52
Ivan OlshanskyIvan Olshansky
237114
If you use the allusion:
Winter is coming
...most will understand what you mean.
Update: tchrist♦ asked me to add an explanation into my answer. I understand I'm going to be acting as Captain Obvious right now, but he's got diamond in his nickname and I have to obey.
So, there is a well-known Saga "Game of Thrones". This is one of the most significant series in the last decade. The first episode of this series is called "Winter is coming", and throughout the series this thesis is repeated countless times. I won't give here any details so as not to create a spoiler for those who for any reasons haven't watch this series yet (I didn't meet such people, but there are rumors that they exist). So I'll just give a link to Wikipedia.
answered Jan 3 at 22:52
Ivan OlshanskyIvan Olshansky
237114
edited Jan 5 at 22:20
answered Jan 3 at 22:52
Ivan OlshanskyIvan Olshansky
237114
answered Jan 3 at 22:52
Ivan OlshanskyIvan Olshansky
237114
answered Jan 3 at 22:52
Ivan OlshanskyIvan Olshansky
237114
237114
2
Nice idea. The general problem is with being unoriginal because it is borrowed from contemporary literature, not something old enough to have become standard, yet. It would be amazing in conversation or a speech perhaps, but it should not be used in original, contenporary literature.
– Jesse Steele
Jan 4 at 7:36
6
I have a bad feeling about this.
– Theraot
Jan 4 at 8:53
This is not an answer according to our standards here because it contains no reasoning or explanation in your own words. Please read this advice from SE’ss Community Management team and update this with your content. We're looking for long answers that provide some explanation and context. Don't just give a one-line answer; explain why your answer is right, ideally with citations. Answers that don't include explanations may be removed.
– tchrist♦
Jan 5 at 20:53
@tchrist, I've updated my answer. I hope my explanation is sufficient and not redundant.
– Ivan Olshansky
Jan 5 at 22:02
1
Ivan, there are millions of English-speakers (including me) who haven't watched Game of Thrones. Did the expression have a meaning before the show? Note that highly popular serial TV dramas quickly become dated - e.g. "Who shot J.R.?" and "Goodbye, Farewell and Amen" would probably be meaningless to a teenager watching GoT.
– Chappo
Jan 6 at 0:42
|
show 2 more comments
2
Nice idea. The general problem is with being unoriginal because it is borrowed from contemporary literature, not something old enough to have become standard, yet. It would be amazing in conversation or a speech perhaps, but it should not be used in original, contenporary literature.
– Jesse Steele
Jan 4 at 7:36
6
I have a bad feeling about this.
– Theraot
Jan 4 at 8:53
This is not an answer according to our standards here because it contains no reasoning or explanation in your own words. Please read this advice from SE’ss Community Management team and update this with your content. We're looking for long answers that provide some explanation and context. Don't just give a one-line answer; explain why your answer is right, ideally with citations. Answers that don't include explanations may be removed.
– tchrist♦
Jan 5 at 20:53
@tchrist, I've updated my answer. I hope my explanation is sufficient and not redundant.
– Ivan Olshansky
Jan 5 at 22:02
1
Ivan, there are millions of English-speakers (including me) who haven't watched Game of Thrones. Did the expression have a meaning before the show? Note that highly popular serial TV dramas quickly become dated - e.g. "Who shot J.R.?" and "Goodbye, Farewell and Amen" would probably be meaningless to a teenager watching GoT.
– Chappo
Jan 6 at 0:42
2
2
Nice idea. The general problem is with being unoriginal because it is borrowed from contemporary literature, not something old enough to have become standard, yet. It would be amazing in conversation or a speech perhaps, but it should not be used in original, contenporary literature.
– Jesse Steele
Jan 4 at 7:36
Nice idea. The general problem is with being unoriginal because it is borrowed from contemporary literature, not something old enough to have become standard, yet. It would be amazing in conversation or a speech perhaps, but it should not be used in original, contenporary literature.
– Jesse Steele
Jan 4 at 7:36
6
6
I have a bad feeling about this.
– Theraot
Jan 4 at 8:53
I have a bad feeling about this.
– Theraot
Jan 4 at 8:53
This is not an answer according to our standards here because it contains no reasoning or explanation in your own words. Please read this advice from SE’ss Community Management team and update this with your content. We're looking for long answers that provide some explanation and context. Don't just give a one-line answer; explain why your answer is right, ideally with citations. Answers that don't include explanations may be removed.
– tchrist♦
Jan 5 at 20:53
This is not an answer according to our standards here because it contains no reasoning or explanation in your own words. Please read this advice from SE’ss Community Management team and update this with your content. We're looking for long answers that provide some explanation and context. Don't just give a one-line answer; explain why your answer is right, ideally with citations. Answers that don't include explanations may be removed.
– tchrist♦
Jan 5 at 20:53
@tchrist, I've updated my answer. I hope my explanation is sufficient and not redundant.
– Ivan Olshansky
Jan 5 at 22:02
@tchrist, I've updated my answer. I hope my explanation is sufficient and not redundant.
– Ivan Olshansky
Jan 5 at 22:02
1
1
Ivan, there are millions of English-speakers (including me) who haven't watched Game of Thrones. Did the expression have a meaning before the show? Note that highly popular serial TV dramas quickly become dated - e.g. "Who shot J.R.?" and "Goodbye, Farewell and Amen" would probably be meaningless to a teenager watching GoT.
– Chappo
Jan 6 at 0:42
Ivan, there are millions of English-speakers (including me) who haven't watched Game of Thrones. Did the expression have a meaning before the show? Note that highly popular serial TV dramas quickly become dated - e.g. "Who shot J.R.?" and "Goodbye, Farewell and Amen" would probably be meaningless to a teenager watching GoT.
– Chappo
Jan 6 at 0:42
|
show 2 more comments
"ominous signs of tough times" comes to mind. Or, simply, "tough times ahead".
ominous -1. menacing, threatening: ominous black clouds; ominous rumblings of discontent. 2. Of or being an omen, especially an evil one.
From the web:
1 - "It would require a significant change in their strategy to prepare for the tough times ahead."
2 - The ominous signs of growing tensions were everywhere. In Asia, Emperor Hirohito's armies had invaded the Chinese mainland.
Politicians often say it in times of crisis: "Yet there are still tough times ahead, and tough decisions to be made. I have reluctantly concluded that a constitutional amendment, demanding we focus our efforts on balancing the budget, is the only sure way to make us accountable, and ..."
answered Jan 3 at 23:12
CentaurusCentaurus
38.4k29123246
2
Similarly, it augurs badly.
– tmgr
Jan 4 at 1:37
add a comment |
"ominous signs of tough times" comes to mind. Or, simply, "tough times ahead".
ominous -1. menacing, threatening: ominous black clouds; ominous rumblings of discontent. 2. Of or being an omen, especially an evil one.
From the web:
1 - "It would require a significant change in their strategy to prepare for the tough times ahead."
2 - The ominous signs of growing tensions were everywhere. In Asia, Emperor Hirohito's armies had invaded the Chinese mainland.
Politicians often say it in times of crisis: "Yet there are still tough times ahead, and tough decisions to be made. I have reluctantly concluded that a constitutional amendment, demanding we focus our efforts on balancing the budget, is the only sure way to make us accountable, and ..."
answered Jan 3 at 23:12
CentaurusCentaurus
38.4k29123246
2
Similarly, it augurs badly.
– tmgr
Jan 4 at 1:37
add a comment |
"ominous signs of tough times" comes to mind. Or, simply, "tough times ahead".
ominous -1. menacing, threatening: ominous black clouds; ominous rumblings of discontent. 2. Of or being an omen, especially an evil one.
From the web:
1 - "It would require a significant change in their strategy to prepare for the tough times ahead."
2 - The ominous signs of growing tensions were everywhere. In Asia, Emperor Hirohito's armies had invaded the Chinese mainland.
Politicians often say it in times of crisis: "Yet there are still tough times ahead, and tough decisions to be made. I have reluctantly concluded that a constitutional amendment, demanding we focus our efforts on balancing the budget, is the only sure way to make us accountable, and ..."
answered Jan 3 at 23:12
CentaurusCentaurus
38.4k29123246
"ominous signs of tough times" comes to mind. Or, simply, "tough times ahead".
ominous -1. menacing, threatening: ominous black clouds; ominous rumblings of discontent. 2. Of or being an omen, especially an evil one.
From the web:
1 - "It would require a significant change in their strategy to prepare for the tough times ahead."
2 - The ominous signs of growing tensions were everywhere. In Asia, Emperor Hirohito's armies had invaded the Chinese mainland.
Politicians often say it in times of crisis: "Yet there are still tough times ahead, and tough decisions to be made. I have reluctantly concluded that a constitutional amendment, demanding we focus our efforts on balancing the budget, is the only sure way to make us accountable, and ..."
answered Jan 3 at 23:12
CentaurusCentaurus
38.4k29123246
edited Jan 3 at 23:26
answered Jan 3 at 23:12
CentaurusCentaurus
38.4k29123246
answered Jan 3 at 23:12
CentaurusCentaurus
38.4k29123246
answered Jan 3 at 23:12
CentaurusCentaurus
38.4k29123246
38.4k29123246
2
Similarly, it augurs badly.
– tmgr
Jan 4 at 1:37
add a comment |
2
Similarly, it augurs badly.
– tmgr
Jan 4 at 1:37
2
2
Similarly, it augurs badly.
– tmgr
Jan 4 at 1:37
Similarly, it augurs badly.
– tmgr
Jan 4 at 1:37
add a comment |
"a sense of impending doom".
It can also be used in an ironic or hyperbolic sense, where the 'doom' you see coming is actually a fairly minor struggle.
I felt a sense of impending doom as the first drops of rain landed
lightly on the bride's veil.
This is a fairly well known and well understood set phrase in English.
It is also the name of a medical symptom which, as you might expect, is a type of anxiety where one just feels for no apparent reason as if something terrible is about to happen.
answered Jan 4 at 16:00
MegMeg
22114
add a comment |
"a sense of impending doom".
It can also be used in an ironic or hyperbolic sense, where the 'doom' you see coming is actually a fairly minor struggle.
I felt a sense of impending doom as the first drops of rain landed
lightly on the bride's veil.
This is a fairly well known and well understood set phrase in English.
It is also the name of a medical symptom which, as you might expect, is a type of anxiety where one just feels for no apparent reason as if something terrible is about to happen.
answered Jan 4 at 16:00
MegMeg
22114
add a comment |
"a sense of impending doom".
It can also be used in an ironic or hyperbolic sense, where the 'doom' you see coming is actually a fairly minor struggle.
I felt a sense of impending doom as the first drops of rain landed
lightly on the bride's veil.
This is a fairly well known and well understood set phrase in English.
It is also the name of a medical symptom which, as you might expect, is a type of anxiety where one just feels for no apparent reason as if something terrible is about to happen.
answered Jan 4 at 16:00
MegMeg
22114
"a sense of impending doom".
It can also be used in an ironic or hyperbolic sense, where the 'doom' you see coming is actually a fairly minor struggle.
I felt a sense of impending doom as the first drops of rain landed
lightly on the bride's veil.
This is a fairly well known and well understood set phrase in English.
It is also the name of a medical symptom which, as you might expect, is a type of anxiety where one just feels for no apparent reason as if something terrible is about to happen.
answered Jan 4 at 16:00
MegMeg
22114
answered Jan 4 at 16:00
MegMeg
22114
answered Jan 4 at 16:00
MegMeg
22114
answered Jan 4 at 16:00
MegMeg
22114
22114
add a comment |
add a comment |
I could feel a sense of dread at the prospect, and though we laughed naively, the true weight of our actions would not be felt...perhaps too late.
Really, one word is nice, I.e foreboding, but consider the setting and use that to your advantage.
answered Jan 4 at 20:54
clifton_hclifton_h
99
Some of the information contained in this post requires additional references. Please edit to add citations to reliable sources that support the assertions made here. Unsourced material may be disputed or deleted.
add a comment |
I could feel a sense of dread at the prospect, and though we laughed naively, the true weight of our actions would not be felt...perhaps too late.
Really, one word is nice, I.e foreboding, but consider the setting and use that to your advantage.
answered Jan 4 at 20:54
clifton_hclifton_h
99
Some of the information contained in this post requires additional references. Please edit to add citations to reliable sources that support the assertions made here. Unsourced material may be disputed or deleted.
add a comment |
I could feel a sense of dread at the prospect, and though we laughed naively, the true weight of our actions would not be felt...perhaps too late.
Really, one word is nice, I.e foreboding, but consider the setting and use that to your advantage.
answered Jan 4 at 20:54
clifton_hclifton_h
99
I could feel a sense of dread at the prospect, and though we laughed naively, the true weight of our actions would not be felt...perhaps too late.
Really, one word is nice, I.e foreboding, but consider the setting and use that to your advantage.
answered Jan 4 at 20:54
clifton_hclifton_h
99
answered Jan 4 at 20:54
clifton_hclifton_h
99
answered Jan 4 at 20:54
clifton_hclifton_h
99
answered Jan 4 at 20:54
clifton_hclifton_h
99
99
Some of the information contained in this post requires additional references. Please edit to add citations to reliable sources that support the assertions made here. Unsourced material may be disputed or deleted.
Some of the information contained in this post requires additional references. Please edit to add citations to reliable sources that support the assertions made here. Unsourced material may be disputed or deleted.
add a comment |
add a comment |
"...a prelude to..."
This borrows on figurative language, one common being very similar:
a prelude to war
Examples of use:
A Prelude to War (US Army article)
History Rediscovered: Prelude to War (book on Amazon)
Prelude to War (film by Frank Capra)
A Prelude to War (novella)
A "prelude" used this way doesn't need to be a "prelude to war" in particular. The connotation can stick if you use it with "prelude to rage", "prelude to divorce", "prelude to revolution", "prelude to failure", et cetera.
Having taken my own advice, I used this in my syndicated column, Prelude to Conflict, in which I began to anticipate the conflict between the US and China.
answered Jan 4 at 7:31
Jesse SteeleJesse Steele
548214
add a comment |
"...a prelude to..."
This borrows on figurative language, one common being very similar:
a prelude to war
Examples of use:
A Prelude to War (US Army article)
History Rediscovered: Prelude to War (book on Amazon)
Prelude to War (film by Frank Capra)
A Prelude to War (novella)
A "prelude" used this way doesn't need to be a "prelude to war" in particular. The connotation can stick if you use it with "prelude to rage", "prelude to divorce", "prelude to revolution", "prelude to failure", et cetera.
Having taken my own advice, I used this in my syndicated column, Prelude to Conflict, in which I began to anticipate the conflict between the US and China.
answered Jan 4 at 7:31
Jesse SteeleJesse Steele
548214
add a comment |
"...a prelude to..."
This borrows on figurative language, one common being very similar:
a prelude to war
Examples of use:
A Prelude to War (US Army article)
History Rediscovered: Prelude to War (book on Amazon)
Prelude to War (film by Frank Capra)
A Prelude to War (novella)
A "prelude" used this way doesn't need to be a "prelude to war" in particular. The connotation can stick if you use it with "prelude to rage", "prelude to divorce", "prelude to revolution", "prelude to failure", et cetera.
Having taken my own advice, I used this in my syndicated column, Prelude to Conflict, in which I began to anticipate the conflict between the US and China.
answered Jan 4 at 7:31
Jesse SteeleJesse Steele
548214
"...a prelude to..."
This borrows on figurative language, one common being very similar:
a prelude to war
Examples of use:
A Prelude to War (US Army article)
History Rediscovered: Prelude to War (book on Amazon)
Prelude to War (film by Frank Capra)
A Prelude to War (novella)
A "prelude" used this way doesn't need to be a "prelude to war" in particular. The connotation can stick if you use it with "prelude to rage", "prelude to divorce", "prelude to revolution", "prelude to failure", et cetera.
Having taken my own advice, I used this in my syndicated column, Prelude to Conflict, in which I began to anticipate the conflict between the US and China.
answered Jan 4 at 7:31
Jesse SteeleJesse Steele
548214
edited Jan 5 at 21:52
answered Jan 4 at 7:31
Jesse SteeleJesse Steele
548214
answered Jan 4 at 7:31
Jesse SteeleJesse Steele
548214
answered Jan 4 at 7:31
Jesse SteeleJesse Steele
548214
548214
add a comment |
add a comment |
"I can't do this anymore, I want a divorce."
"Your test results came back positive."
"You have a right to remain silent."
"Your position has been eliminated as a result of the merger."
In general, relying on a common phrase to create suspense is not what you want to do. Simply describing the circumstances should be all you need to demonstrate that your characters are sitting precariously on the eve of battle and things are about to get hairy.
answered Jan 5 at 19:24
PacificmaelstromPacificmaelstrom
11
add a comment |
"I can't do this anymore, I want a divorce."
"Your test results came back positive."
"You have a right to remain silent."
"Your position has been eliminated as a result of the merger."
In general, relying on a common phrase to create suspense is not what you want to do. Simply describing the circumstances should be all you need to demonstrate that your characters are sitting precariously on the eve of battle and things are about to get hairy.
answered Jan 5 at 19:24
PacificmaelstromPacificmaelstrom
11
add a comment |
"I can't do this anymore, I want a divorce."
"Your test results came back positive."
"You have a right to remain silent."
"Your position has been eliminated as a result of the merger."
In general, relying on a common phrase to create suspense is not what you want to do. Simply describing the circumstances should be all you need to demonstrate that your characters are sitting precariously on the eve of battle and things are about to get hairy.
answered Jan 5 at 19:24
PacificmaelstromPacificmaelstrom
11
"I can't do this anymore, I want a divorce."
"Your test results came back positive."
"You have a right to remain silent."
"Your position has been eliminated as a result of the merger."
In general, relying on a common phrase to create suspense is not what you want to do. Simply describing the circumstances should be all you need to demonstrate that your characters are sitting precariously on the eve of battle and things are about to get hairy.
answered Jan 5 at 19:24
PacificmaelstromPacificmaelstrom
11
edited Jan 5 at 19:29
answered Jan 5 at 19:24
PacificmaelstromPacificmaelstrom
11
answered Jan 5 at 19:24
PacificmaelstromPacificmaelstrom
11
answered Jan 5 at 19:24
PacificmaelstromPacificmaelstrom
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11
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3
Hi Peabody2, welcome to EL&U. You might not be aware that there are strict rules for single-word-requests: "To ensure your question is not closed as off-topic, please be specific about the intended use of the word. You must include a sample sentence demonstrating how the word would be used." You can add this using the edit link. For further guidance, see How to Ask, and make sure you also take the EL&U Tour :-)
– Chappo
Jan 4 at 2:36
Answers go below, not in a comment. Answers in comments should be flagged for deletion.
– tchrist♦
Jan 5 at 20:51