BY THE Meaning and
Definition
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"By the" is a commonly used prepositional phrase in the English language. It is a combination of the preposition "by" and the definite article "the," and its meaning can vary depending on the context in which it is used.
Typically, "by the" is used to indicate proximity or location. It suggests being near, next to, or beside a particular object or place. For instance, if one says, "The book is by the table," it means that the book is located close to or alongside the table.
Another meaning of "by the" is to express a method or means. It implies the use of a particular route, process, or approach to achieve something. For example, if one says, "I traveled to the city by the train," it means that the mode of transportation used was the train.
In addition, "by the" can also denote a timeframe or deadline. It signifies a specific point in time by which an action should be completed or an event should occur. For instance, if someone says, "Please submit your report by the end of the day," it means that the report should be turned in before the day concludes.
Overall, "by the" is a versatile prepositional phrase that carries different meanings depending on the context. It can indicate location, means or method, and deadlines, among other possibilities. Its usage is widespread and essential for effective communication in English.
Common Misspellings for BY THE
- vy the
- ny the
- gy the
- bt the
- bg the
- bh the
- bu the
- b7 the
- b6 the
- by rhe
- by fhe
- by ghe
- by yhe
- by 6he
- by 5he
- by tge
- by tbe
- by tne
- by tje
- by tue
Etymology of BY THE
The word "by" is of Old English origin, derived from the Proto-Germanic word "bi", which means "near" or "alongside". In Middle English, it took the form "bi", and later became "by". It is related to similar words in other Germanic languages, such as the Dutch "bij" and the Icelandic "við".
The word "the", also of Old English origin, stems from the Old English definite article "þē", which later became "the". It is believed to have originated from the Proto-Germanic word "*þatē", which is related to the Old High German "diu" and the Old Norse "þí" or "þé".
When combined, "by the" forms a prepositional phrase used to indicate proximity or location.
Idioms with the word BY THE
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by the short hairs
The phrase "by the short hairs" is an idiom that means having someone in a difficult or vulnerable position, with no way of escaping or avoiding a situation. It often suggests that someone is being controlled or manipulated by someone else.
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take sth by the throat
To take something by the throat means to handle or deal with a difficult situation or problem in a forceful and determined manner. It can also mean to confront or address a challenge head-on.
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by the nape of (one's)/its/the neck
The idiom "by the nape of (one's)/its/the neck" means to grab someone or something firmly at the back of their neck, often in a forceful or controlling manner. It can also be used metaphorically to describe being in control or having authority over someone or something.
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have (someone) by the balls
To have someone by the balls means to have power or control over someone, often in a situation where they have no choice but to comply with your demands.
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do (something) by the book
To do something by the book means to follow set rules or regulations precisely and strictly without taking any shortcuts or deviating from the established procedures.
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by the grace of God
The idiom "by the grace of God" refers to something happening or being achieved through the divine intervention or favor of God. It implies that an outcome or success is due to God's help or blessing rather than mere human effort or ability.
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by the skin of your teeth
The idiom "by the skin of your teeth" means narrowly, barely, or just barely managing to do something or survive a difficult situation.
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fly by the seat of your pants
To do something by instinct or intuition, without preparation or a plan.
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by the seat of your pants
The phrase "by the seat of your pants" means to do something by using instinct, experience, or intuition rather than relying on careful planning or preparation.
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by the dozen(s)
The idiom "by the dozen(s)" means in large quantities or in abundance, typically referring to a dozen items or objects. It could also mean to do something repeatedly or to occur frequently.
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grab (something) by the throat
To forcefully take control of a situation or problem, or to deal with something assertively and decisively.
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by the roots
The phrase "by the roots" refers to something being completely destroyed or eradicated. It is often used to describe removing something completely or thoroughly.
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lead someone by the nose
To lead someone by the nose means to control or manipulate someone completely, often exploiting their blind obedience or gullibility.
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by the thousand
The idiom "by the thousand" means in very large numbers or quantities; in abundance.
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drop by the wayside
To be abandoned or neglected; to fail to continue to progress or succeed.
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hang by the eyelids
To be extremely tired or overwhelmed; to be barely able to stay awake or functioning.
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grab the bull by the horns
To take control of a difficult or challenging situation directly and decisively.
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knee-high by the 4th of July
"Knee-high by the 4th of July" is an idiom that refers to the height at which corn should be growing by the 4th of July in order to ensure a good harvest. It implies that by this date, the corn should ideally be at least knee-high in order to indicate healthy growth and a successful crop.
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have (someone) by the short hairs
To have someone completely under one's control or manipulation.
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have someone by the short and curlies
This idiom is a vulgar expression that means to have someone completely under one's control or influence, typically by having leverage or power over them. It implies having a firm grasp on someone and being able to manipulate or compel them to do as one wishes.
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he who lives by the sword dies by the sword
This idiom means that those who solve problems using violence or aggression are likely to face the same fate themselves. It suggests that using violence as a solution can lead to a violent end.
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by the look(s) of it/things
Based on appearances; judging or assuming something based on how it appears outwardly.
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have by the short and curlies
To have someone or something firmly under control or in a vulnerable position.
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pull/haul yourself up by the/your (own) bootstraps
To pull/haul yourself up by the/your (own) bootstraps means to improve your situation or overcome difficulties through your own efforts and resources, without relying on outside help or support.
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play by the rules
To obey and follow the established guidelines, regulations, or standards in a fair and honest manner.
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by the numbers
The idiom "by the numbers" means to follow a set of rules or procedures exactly, without deviation or creativity. It can also refer to a task or activity that is done in a methodical and systematic way, often lacking in originality or innovation.
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by the bye
"By the bye" means incidentally, by the way, or as an aside. It is used to introduce a minor or parenthetical point in a conversation.
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by the
The definition of the idiom "by the" is to indicate the method or manner in which something is done or accomplished. It is often used to describe how something is accomplished or the way in which an action is performed.
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by the hour
"By the hour" is an expression that means something is paid for or done on an hourly basis, or constantly changing or occurring.
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have the world by the tail
To have the world by the tail means to be in an extremely fortunate or advantageous position, to be highly successful and in control of one's circumstances.
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have the right sow by the ear
To have control or power over a situation or person; to be in a position of advantage.
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lead somebody by the nose
To lead somebody by the nose means to control and manipulate someone easily, often by taking advantage of their gullibility or lack of awareness.
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by the look of it, at by the look(s) of things
This idiom means judging from appearances or observations that have been made, without any solid evidence or confirmation. It is typically used to express a tentative conclusion or assumption about a situation based on external appearances.
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grab someone by the throat
To aggressively confront, intimidate, or control someone, often in a physically aggressive manner.
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get someone by the short and curlies
To have complete control or power over someone; to have someone in a vulnerable or compromising position.
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have (someone or something) by the tail
To have control or domination over someone or something; to have a firm grip on a situation or relationship.
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take the bear by the tooth
To take the bear by the tooth is an expression that means to confront a difficult or dangerous situation head-on. It implies taking bold and decisive action in the face of adversity.
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have (one) by the short and curlies
To have someone "by the short and curlies" is to have complete control or power over them, usually in a manipulative or coercive way. It implies having a strong hold over someone, making it difficult for them to escape or resist.
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hit by the ugly stick
The idiom "hit by the ugly stick" is a humorous way to describe someone who is unattractive or not pleasing to look at. It suggests that the person's appearance is so unappealing that it seems as if they were physically struck by a stick meant to make them ugly.
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grab you by the throat
The idiom "grab you by the throat" means to shock or startle someone, often in a forceful or aggressive manner. It can also refer to a situation or problem that is intense, urgent, or overwhelming.
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by the by/bye
"By the by/bye" is an idiomatic phrase meaning incidentally or by the way. It is used when adding additional information or making a side comment in a conversation.
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by the way
"By the way" is a phrase used to introduce a new or unrelated topic or point of discussion into a conversation. It is often used to add information or ask a question that is not directly related to the current topic of conversation.
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have (got) sb by the short hairs, at have (got) sb by the short and curlies
This idiom means to have someone in a position of extreme difficulty or vulnerability, with a strong advantage over them. It implies that the person is completely under someone else's control or power.
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have something by the ears
To have something by the ears means to have control or influence over something or someone. It often implies a sense of power or dominance in a situation.
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by the unit
By the unit is an expression that refers to pricing or selling items individually rather than as a whole set or package. It can also refer to doing something on an individual basis or one at a time.
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by the month
If something is paid for or measured by the month, it means it happens or is done every month on a regular basis.
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by the dozens
The idiom "by the dozens" means in large quantities or in large numbers. It suggests that something is being done, happening or being produced in abundance.
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hold an eel by the tail
to deal with a difficult or dangerous situation in a risky or careless way, without considering the potential consequences
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by the handful
The phrase "by the handful" means to take or handle something in a large quantity or in a handful at a time. It implies that the person is able to grasp or obtain a significant amount of something all at once.
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do something by the skin of your teeth
To do something by the skin of your teeth means to just barely succeed or do something, often with very little time or room for error.
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hold a wolf by the ears
To be in a difficult and dangerous situation where one is unable to let go or move forward without risk.
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grab (one) by the throat
The idiom "grab (one) by the throat" means to confront or challenge someone in a forceful or aggressive manner. It can also be used to describe a situation where someone is taken by surprise or overwhelmed by a sudden and intense experience.
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lead by the nose
To lead by the nose means to control or manipulate someone through persuasion or coercion, often in a negative or patronizing way.
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fly by the seat of (one's) pants
To act or make decisions impulsively, without thinking or planning ahead; to rely on instinct or intuition rather than careful planning or preparation.
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by the same token
The idiom "by the same token" is used to introduce a statement that expresses a similar or related idea to the one previously mentioned. It is used to show that the two ideas are connected or have a commonality.
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hang by the neck
The idiom "hang by the neck" refers to someone being sentenced to die by hanging. It can also be used figuratively to mean being in a dangerous or precarious situation with severe consequences.
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by the day
The idiom "by the day" means on a daily basis or for each day that passes.
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man is known by the company he keeps
This idiom means that people can be judged by the type of people they associate with. It implies that a person's character can be inferred by looking at the kind of friends or acquaintances they surround themselves with.
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by the sweat of your brow
The phrase "by the sweat of your brow" means through hard work, effort, and exertion. It is often used to describe work that requires physical labor and diligence.
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by the nape of the neck
The idiom "by the nape of the neck" refers to grabbing or holding onto someone or something firmly by the back of their neck. It can metaphorically mean having control or authority over someone, usually in a forceful or dominating manner.
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get (someone) by the balls
To have complete control or power over someone, typically in a situation where they are dependent on or vulnerable to you.
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by the name
The term "by the name" is used to refer to someone or something by their given name or the name they are known by.
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grab someone/something by the throat
To confront or address a situation aggressively or assertively.
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be bitten by the bug
The idiom "be bitten by the bug" refers to being strongly affected or influenced by a particular interest, hobby, or passion. It suggests that a person has become enthusiastic or obsessed with something and cannot stop thinking about it or engaging in it.
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by the name (of)
The idiom "by the name (of)" means by the title or designation of a particular person or thing. It is used to refer to someone or something using their specific name or label.
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get/have somebody by the short hairs
To have someone in a very difficult or vulnerable position; to have power or control over someone.
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by the skin of teeth
The idiom "by the skin of teeth" means to narrowly escape a difficult or dangerous situation. It refers to achieving something by a very small margin or by the narrowest of possibilities.
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go by the wayside
The idiom "go by the wayside" means to be neglected or forgotten, to be abandoned or overlooked.
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saved by the bell
The idiom "saved by the bell" means to be rescued or saved from a difficult or awkward situation just in time, typically at the last moment before something bad happens. It originates from boxing, where a boxer could be saved from losing a match if the round ended before they could be defeated.
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go by the board
To be disregarded or ignored; to no longer be considered important or relevant.
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have sb by the short and curlies
To have someone by the short and curlies means to have them in a situation where they are unable to escape or avoid something, such as a difficult or compromising situation. It implies having control or power over someone. The phrase is typically used informally in a humorous or colloquial context.
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have (one) by the balls
To have someone by the balls means to have power or control over them; to have them in a vulnerable or compromised position.
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by the yard
The idiom "by the yard" means to measure or gauge something by length or quantity, often indicating that something is abundant or excessive.
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by the board
The idiom "by the board" means to be rejected or dismissed, especially in a formal or official capacity.
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pull oneself up by the bootstraps
To improve one's situation or achieve success through one's own efforts, without relying on outside help or resources.
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by the thousands
The idiom "by the thousands" means in very large numbers or quantities. It is used to emphasize a large amount or a mass of something.
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by the back door
The idiom "by the back door" refers to a sneaky or indirect method of doing something, often involving deception, secrecy, or avoidance of the usual rules or procedures. It can also mean achieving or attempting to achieve something without attracting attention or scrutiny.
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lay by the heels
To imprison or confine someone, typically in a violent or forceful manner.
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hit by the stupid stick
The idiom "hit by the stupid stick" is a humorous way to describe someone who is acting foolish or making unintelligent decisions. It suggests that the person has been metaphorically struck by an imaginary stick that has significantly reduced their intelligence or common sense.
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by the end of the day
The idiom "by the end of the day" means before the day is over or before the end of a specified time period.
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by the scruff of (one's)/its/the neck
The idiom "by the scruff of (one's)/its/the neck" means to firmly grasp someone or something by the back of the neck or the collar in a rough or forceful manner. It can also refer to taking control of a situation or asserting authority over someone.
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by the book
The idiom "by the book" means to follow rules or instructions exactly as they are written, without deviation or interpretation.
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have (someone or something) by the ears
To have someone or something by the ears means to have them under control or in a position of power, often through physical or emotional manipulation.
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have by the balls
To have complete control or power over someone or something.
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have a man by the balls
To have complete control or power over someone; to have someone in a vulnerable or dependent position.
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get (someone) by the short hairs
To have full control or power over someone, usually through manipulation or coercion.
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by the scruff of somebody's/the neck
To seize, grab, or hold onto someone firmly by the back of their neck, often used figuratively to indicate taking control or showing authority over someone.
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you can't judge a book by the cover
This idiom means that you should not form an opinion about someone or something based solely on appearance, as looks can be deceiving and may not accurately reflect the true nature or value of the person or thing.
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cheaper by the dozen
The idiom "cheaper by the dozen" refers to the idea that buying or doing something in bulk or in larger quantities often results in a lower cost per unit or a more efficient use of resources. It can also be used to imply that having more of something can be more economical or beneficial.
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by the week
The idiom "by the week" typically refers to something that is paid for or done on a weekly basis. It can also imply that something is considered or measured in terms of weeks.
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fall by the wayside
It means to fail or be forgotten; to give up on something or stop trying to achieve a goal.
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go by the name of
"Go by the name of" means to be called or known as a particular name or title.
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bitten by the same bug
To be "bitten by the same bug" means to be experiencing the same intense feeling, desire, or enthusiasm for something as someone else. It suggests that both individuals are affected by the same strong emotion or interest.
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lift oneself by the bootstraps
The idiom "lift oneself by the bootstraps" means to improve or succeed through one's own efforts and determination, without the help of others. It implies taking personal responsibility and working hard to achieve goals or overcome obstacles.
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have a tiger by the tail
To "have a tiger by the tail" means to be in a risky or dangerous situation that is difficult to control or escape from. It implies that the person is in a precarious position and is struggling to manage the situation effectively.
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go by the book
To go by the book means to follow rules, guidelines, or instructions exactly as they are written or laid out. It implies adhering strictly to established procedures or protocol.
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by the seat of pants
"By the seat of pants" is an idiom that means to do something only by using instinct, intuition, or feel, without a specific plan or preparation.
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grab (someone or something) by the throat
To confront someone or something in a forceful or aggressive manner; to take control of a situation or person.
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have (or get) by the short hairs
To have (or get) by the short hairs means to have control over someone or something, to have them in a vulnerable or powerless position, to have them at a disadvantage.
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lead sb by the nose
To lead someone by the nose means to control or manipulate them easily, to make them do whatever you want.
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kneehigh by the 4th of July
The idiom "kneehigh by the 4th of July" is an old farming saying referring to the height at which corn should be by Independence Day. It means that the corn should be growing well and healthy, reaching a significant height by the 4th of July.
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by the numbers, at by numbers
The idiom "by the numbers" or "by numbers" refers to something that is done in a strictly methodical or systematic way, following a set of established rules or guidelines. It can also suggest that something is done in a routine or uncreative manner, without any originality or flair.
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lead (one) around by the nose
To control or manipulate someone easily and effectively, often through deceitful or underhanded means.
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fucked by the fickle finger of fate
This idiom is used to describe a situation where an individual or group has faced a negative outcome or experienced misfortune due to unpredictable or random circumstances beyond their control. It suggests that fate or luck has played a role in causing unexpected difficulties or hardships.
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by the sweat of one's brow
"By the sweat of one's brow" is an expression that means through hard work, effort, and physical labor. It implies that someone has achieved something through sheer perseverance and dedication.
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by the dozen
The phrase "by the dozen" typically means in large quantities or in a large group, usually referring to items or objects that are sold or obtained together in batches of twelve.
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fly by the seat of pants
To navigate a situation based on instinct and intuition rather than careful planning or preparation.
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has the world by the tail
Having the world by the tail means that someone is in a highly advantageous or successful position, often with everything going their way. It suggests that they are in control of their own destiny and have all the opportunities and resources they need to succeed.
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by the head
The idiom "by the head" means to be in a position where one's head is lower than the rest of their body. It can also refer to a ship that is listing or leaning forward in the water.
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set (someone) by the ears
To set someone by the ears means to cause or provoke a quarrel, confrontation, or dispute between two or more people.
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by the skin of one's teeth
By the skin of one's teeth means narrowly or barely; just barely managing to do something or succeed in a difficult situation.
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skin an eel by the tail
To accomplish something in a difficult or tedious way, often referring to a method that is unnecessarily complicated or inefficient.
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by the look(s) of things
By the look(s) of things means based on appearances or the current situation.
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by the sweat of brow
The idiom "by the sweat of brow" means through hard work, manual labor, or physical effort. It refers to earning something through one's own hard work and labor.
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get (or have) someone by the short and curlies (or short hairs)
To have someone in a situation where they are unable to escape, to have power or control over someone.
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take the bull by the horns
To take action confidently and decisively in a difficult or dangerous situation.
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by the seat of one's pants
The idiom "by the seat of one's pants" means to do something by instinct or intuition, rather than by careful planning or expertise. It can also refer to taking risks or making decisions based on limited information or experience.
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have a/the wolf by the ear(s)
The idiom "have a/the wolf by the ear(s)" means to be in a difficult or dangerous situation that cannot be easily escaped from or resolved, but to also be unable to let go of the situation for fear of what might happen if it is released.
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have sb by the balls
The idiom "have somebody by the balls" means to have complete control or power over someone, typically in a situation where the person is at a disadvantage and can't easily escape or resist manipulation. It implies having a strong influence or advantage over someone.
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by the by
"By the by" is an idiomatic phrase that means incidentally or by the way. It is used to introduce a tangential or unrelated point in a conversation or discussion.
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go by the book/do sth by the book
To go by the book or do something by the book means to follow rules and procedures exactly as they are written or prescribed, without taking any shortcuts or bending the rules.
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by the gross
"By the gross" means an extremely large quantity or number, usually referring to items sold or purchased in bulk or wholesale.
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set by the ears
To be in a state of conflict, disagreement, or argument with someone else.
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by the time
The idiom "by the time" means before a specific event or moment occurs or when a certain amount of time has passed. It signifies the completion of a task or action before a particular deadline or point in time.
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speak by the card
To adhere strictly to the rules and regulations; to speak precisely and accurately.
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by the by (or bye)
"By the by" (or bye) is an informal expression used to introduce a new or additional topic during a conversation, often without directly relating to the current discussion. It can also be used to casually mention something in passing.
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take time by the forelock
To take time by the forelock is to seize an opportunity promptly and decisively, to act quickly and decisively in order to take advantage of a situation. It means to take control of a situation before it becomes too late or before an advantage is lost.
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those who live by the sword, die by the sword
This idiom means that those who use violence or aggression as a way to solve problems or achieve their goals are likely to face the same fate in return. Violence begets violence, and those who rely on it will ultimately suffer its consequences.
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lead sm by the nose
To lead someone by the nose means to control or manipulate them easily, to have complete influence over their actions and decisions.
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have a wolf by the ears
To be in a difficult or dangerous situation that is challenging to control or escape from.
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by the year
The idiom "by the year" means by the deadline of a specific year, often used to indicate a deadline for completing a task or achieving a goal within a particular year.
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have (got) sb by the short and curlies
To have someone in a position of extreme vulnerability or control, in which they are unable to escape or resist.
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Live by the sword, die by the sword.
This idiomatic expression means that those who use violence or harmful tactics to achieve their goals are likely to face the same fate themselves. Essentially, it serves as a warning that one's actions will ultimately come back to haunt them.
Similar spelling words for BY THE
- Bathed,
- booth,
- both,
- bathe,
- bathes,
- byte,
- birth,
- bother,
- The,
- berth,
- bath.
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