The phrase "fly in the teeth of" means to directly oppose or challenge something. It is believed to have originated from the image of a fly flying into the teeth of a horse, despite the danger. The spelling of the word "fly" is [flaɪ] in IPA phonetic transcription, and the spelling of the word "teeth" is [tiːθ]. The phrase may be difficult to spell correctly as it contains homophones (words that sound the same but have different meanings and spellings) such as "fly" and "in."
"Fly in the teeth of" is a phrase that is typically used in idiomatic English expressions, conveying the sense of opposing or contradicting established expectations or beliefs. When someone or something "flies in the teeth of" a prevailing view or widely accepted notion, they defy it outright or show resistance against it.
This expression can be traced back to the metaphorical image of a fly buzzing around, particularly in the face of an opposing force or stubborn obstacle like teeth. The word "fly" represents an action that is often seen as reckless or daring, as it goes against the natural inclination of others to adhere to the accepted norm or conventional wisdom.
"Fly in the teeth of" can be used to describe a wide range of situations. For example, it can refer to individuals challenging societal norms, going against the grain or standing against prevailing opinions. It can also refer to acts of opposition or defiance against authority or established systems, displaying boldness and nonconformity.
This expression is commonly used in figurative language to highlight the concept of resistance or rebellion, demonstrating a deliberate and often disruptive act of opposition. Overall, "fly in the teeth of" is a phrase that carries a sense of audacity, courage, and even defiance in the face of established beliefs, norms, or expectations.