LIKE THE DICKENS Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "like the dickens" is an idiomatic expression used to convey intensity, speed, force, or magnitude. It is often used as an adverbial modifier to describe something that is done in a vigorous or fervent manner. The origin of this phrase traces back to the English playwright William Shakespeare, who used "dickens" as a euphemism for "devil" in his works. However, over time, the term lost its association with the devil and evolved to mean "a lot" or "intensely."
When used in conversation or writing, "like the dickens" adds emphasis to a statement or action, suggesting that it is being performed vigorously, energetically, or with great determination. It can refer to the intensity of a physical activity like running or dancing or be used metaphorically to describe emotional states like happiness, anger, or fear. For instance, someone might say, "That storm hit us like the dickens" to convey the tremendous force or violence of the weather.
In summary, "like the dickens" is an idiomatic expression that amplifies the intensity, speed, force, or magnitude of an action or situation. Its origins in Shakespearean literature have transformed it into a versatile phrase that can be applied to various contexts, providing a colorful and vivid description of the degree of a particular event or emotion.
Common Misspellings for LIKE THE DICKENS
- kike the dickens
- pike the dickens
- oike the dickens
- luke the dickens
- ljke the dickens
- lkke the dickens
- loke the dickens
- l9ke the dickens
- l8ke the dickens
- lije the dickens
- lime the dickens
- lile the dickens
- lioe the dickens
- liie the dickens
- likw the dickens
- liks the dickens
- likd the dickens
- likr the dickens
- lik4 the dickens
- lik3 the dickens
