TAIL Meaning and
Definition
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Tail (noun) refers to the elongated appendage located at the posterior part of an animal's body, beyond the trunk or torso. It is a distinctive feature found in numerous species, mainly mammals and reptiles. The tail serves various functions depending on the animal and its environment.
In animals, the tail typically aids in balance, stability, and locomotion. It contains skeletal structures such as vertebrae that provide support and flexibility. Tail muscles facilitate movement, allowing animals to perform activities like swimming, climbing, or communicating non-verbally. Different species possess tails of varying lengths, shapes, and compositions, which contribute to their specific behavioral and physiological requirements.
Moreover, the tail can also serve additional functions, such as prey capture in certain mammals or signaling social interactions among animals. For example, in dogs, the tail can convey emotions like happiness, fear, or aggression through wagging, raising, or lowering gestures. In the case of some reptiles, such as lizards, the tail can detach as a defensive mechanism when under threat, allowing the animal to escape and regenerate a new tail.
In a broader sense, the term "tail" is not only limited to animals but can also refer to the elongated rear part of certain objects, vehicles, or structures. Additionally, it may metaphorically describe the rear section of a group or sequence, suggesting a hierarchical or chronological order.
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• The part which terminates an animal body; the hinder part of anything; a shoot or projection hanging loosely from the hinder part; the bottom or lower part of anything; anything long and pendent; the end or spent part.
• In arch., to fasten by one of its ends into a wall.
• Limitation; abridgment; an estate tail, a partial estate cut or carved out of the fee-simple; an estate limited to certain heirs.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for TAIL *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for TAIL
Etymology of TAIL
The word "tail" originated from the Old English word "tæġel". This word had various meanings, such as the movable part attached to the rear end of an animal or the long, tapering part of something. It is believed to have derived from the Proto-Germanic word "taglaz". This term was used to refer to the tail or tag of an animal, particularly a horse. The word "tail" has remained relatively unchanged in its spelling and pronunciation throughout its history.
Idioms with the word TAIL
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turn tail
The idiom "turn tail" means to suddenly and quickly run away or retreat from a situation, often out of fear or in order to avoid confrontation. It can also imply a loss of courage or determination when faced with adversity.
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tickle the dragon's tail
The idiom "tickle the dragon's tail" refers to engaging in a dangerous or risky endeavor, particularly one that may provoke anger or retaliation. It suggests that one is knowingly tempting or provoking a powerful force or individual, similar to the perilous act of tickling a dragon's tail.
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twist the lion's tail
The idiom "twist the lion's tail" refers to deliberately provoking or antagonizing someone or something strong, powerful, or dangerous. It implies intentionally irritating or challenging a powerful individual or entity, often risking negative consequences or retaliation.
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have the world by the tail
The idiom "have the world by the tail" means to be extremely successful, fortunate, or in a position of great advantage or opportunity. It suggests that someone has control, power, and mastery over their circumstances, as if they have a firm grip on the world itself.
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turn tail (and run)
The idiom "turn tail (and run)" refers to a sudden retreat, escape, or retreat from a situation or confrontation out of fear or cowardice. It is often used to describe someone backing down or giving up when faced with a challenging or intimidating situation.
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be on sb's tail
The idiom "be on someone's tail" typically refers to someone closely following or pursuing another person, usually with the intention of catching or monitoring them. It often implies that the person being followed is trying to elude or escape from the person behind them.
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freeze one's tail off
The idiom "freeze one's tail off" is used to express feeling extremely cold or experiencing intense freezing temperatures. It is a figurative way of saying someone is very cold, emphasizing the discomfort and severity of the cold weather.
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the tail end of
The idiom "the tail end of" refers to the final or last part of something. It implies being near the conclusion or at the very end of a particular period or sequence.
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work tail off
The idiom "work tail off" is a colloquial expression that means to work extremely hard or put in a great amount of effort into completing a task or achieving a goal. It implies a strong dedication and commitment to one's work, often involving long hours and intense labor.
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has the world by the tail
The idiom "has the world by the tail" means being in a very fortunate or successful situation. It describes someone who is in full control of their circumstances and experiencing great success or luck in various aspects of life.
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can't make head nor/or tail of sth
The idiom "can't make head nor/or tail of something" means that someone is unable to understand or make sense of something. It often refers to a confusing or puzzling situation where the person is completely at a loss to comprehend or decipher the information or situation at hand.
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can't make head or tail of
The idiom "can't make head or tail of" means to be unable to understand or comprehend something at all or find any logical sense or meaning in it.
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tail between one's legs, with one's
The idiom "tail between one's legs, with one's" refers to a situation where someone feels embarrassed, defeated, or humiliated and retreats in a submissive or ashamed manner, similar to how a dog might tuck its tail between its legs when scared or feeling inferior.
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bust one's tail
The idiom "bust one's tail" is an informal expression that means making an immense effort or working extremely hard to achieve a goal. It implies pushing oneself to the limits, often in strenuous or challenging circumstances.
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have (someone or something) by the tail
The idiom "have (someone or something) by the tail" means to have control or power over someone or something, often to the point of being able to manipulate or influence them easily. It suggests having complete domination or advantage over a situation or individual.
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hunk of tail
The phrase "hunk of tail" is an informal and derogatory idiom typically used to refer to an attractive or sexually desirable person, usually a woman. It objectifies and reduces a person to solely their physical attributes. This idiom is considered offensive and inappropriate in most contexts.
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get some tail
The idiom "get some tail" is typically a slang expression referring to engaging in a sexual encounter or pursuing intimate relationships, often with a focus on casual or non-committal encounters. It usually implies seeking and involving oneself in romantic or sexual activities, particularly in relation to one's desire for physical intimacy.
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cannot make head or tail of something
The idiom "cannot make head or tail of something" means to be confused or unable to understand something because it is unclear, disorganized, or lacks coherence.
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chase your tail
The idiom "chase your tail" means to engage in a futile or pointless activity or to be busy doing something without making any progress or achieving a desired outcome. It is often used to describe a situation where someone is caught in a cycle of unproductive or repetitive actions, similar to how a dog chasing its own tail goes around in circles without ever catching it.
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make head or tail (out) of (someone or something)
The idiom "make head or tail (out) of (someone or something)" means to understand or comprehend someone or something, especially when they or it are confusing or unclear. It implies trying to make sense or find meaning in a situation or person.
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be chasing tail
The idiom "be chasing tail" typically refers to someone who is actively seeking romantic or sexual relationships, often in a persistent or obsessive manner. It implies that the person is constantly pursuing and attempting to attract potential partners.
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the tail wags the dog
The idiom "the tail wags the dog" means a situation where the less important or influential element (the tail) exerts control or dominance over the more important or influential element (the dog). It suggests that something that is supposed to be subordinate or secondary has gained an undue amount of power or influence, resulting in an imbalance or distortion of the normal order of things.
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in two shakes (of a lamb's tail)
The idiom "in two shakes (of a lamb's tail)" means doing something quickly or in a very short amount of time. It implies that the task or action will be completed swiftly, often emphasizing efficiency and speed.
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tail between legs
The idiom "tail between legs" typically means to be in a state of defeat, humiliation, shame, or surrender, often as a result of a failed or embarrassing situation. It is often used to describe someone who is displaying a lack of confidence, remorse, or embarrassment after a negative experience. The phrase is derived from the behavior of certain animals, such as dogs, who tuck their tails between their legs when feeling submissive or afraid.
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work one's tail off
The idiom "work one's tail off" means to work extremely hard or put in a significant amount of effort and dedication to accomplish a task or goal. It implies relentless and strenuous work, often beyond what is expected or required.
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have (one's) tail up
The idiom "have (one's) tail up" means to be in a state of heightened alertness, vigilance, or excitement, often due to anticipation or a perceived threat or challenge. It originates from the behavior of certain animals, like dogs, whose tails stand erect when they are alert or agitated.
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tail end (of something)
The idiom "tail end (of something)" refers to the final or last part of something, often indicating the concluding phase or the smallest, least significant part remaining. It can be used to refer to the end portion of a physical object or a period of time. For example, "I arrived at the tail end of the party" means you arrived towards the end when most of the guests had already left.
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the tail wagging the dog
The idiom "the tail wagging the dog" means a situation where a minor or less important factor or element is controlling or having a significant influence on a more substantial or significant factor or element. It refers to a scenario where something logically insignificant is dictating the overall direction or outcome.
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make head or tail of
The idiom "make head or tail of" means to understand or comprehend something fully or to make sense of it. It implies trying to organize or decipher a confusing or complicated situation or information.
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two shakes of a lamb’s tail
The idiom "two shakes of a lamb’s tail" means in a very short amount of time, or quickly. It suggests that something will be done or happen rapidly, comparable to how quickly a lamb shakes its tail.
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have a tiger by the tail
The idiom "have a tiger by the tail" means to be in a situation where one is in control of a powerful or dangerous entity but faces difficulties or risks in managing it. It suggests that one has taken on a challenge or responsibility that is difficult to control or handle.
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hold an eel by the tail
The idiom "hold an eel by the tail" means to engage in a difficult or dangerous situation without having complete control or understanding of it. It refers to the challenge of trying to handle a slippery eel, which can be very elusive and difficult to grasp. Similarly, when someone is "holding an eel by the tail," they are struggling to manage a complicated or tricky circumstance with limited knowledge or control, resulting in a potentially chaotic or hazardous situation.
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chase tail
The idiom "chase tail" refers to someone pursuing or attempting to attract someone of the opposite sex, typically in a flirtatious or romantic manner. It is often used to describe someone who is actively seeking out multiple romantic or sexual partners.
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on someone's tail
The idiom "on someone's tail" means to closely follow, pursue, or track someone, often with the intention of catching or apprehending them. It suggests being determined to keep up with or stay behind someone to monitor or chase them closely.
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chase (one's) tail
The idiom "chase one's tail" refers to engaging in a lot of activity or effort without making any progress or achieving the desired outcome. It can be compared to the behavior of a dog that spins around in circles trying to catch its own tail but never succeeds.
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chase your (own) tail
The idiom "chase your (own) tail" means to engage in a futile or pointless activity that results in no progress or achievement. It refers to the circular motion that a dog makes when it tries to catch its own tail, suggesting a repetitive and unproductive behavior that leads nowhere.
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two shakes of a lamb's tail
The idiom "two shakes of a lamb's tail" means to do something very quickly or in a short period of time. It suggests that the task will be completed in just a few moments, similar to the quick wagging motion of a lamb's tail.
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the tail (is) wagging the dog
The idiom "the tail (is) wagging the dog" refers to a situation where a small or unimportant part is controlling or overtaking the larger and more significant whole. It implies that something less important or influential is dictating the actions or decisions of something more important or powerful, thereby causing a disproportionate balance of power or control.
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not able to make head or tail of sth
The idiom "not able to make head or tail of something" means to be completely unable to understand or comprehend something. It is often used to describe a situation or information that is confusing, unclear, or difficult to decipher.
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with one's tail between one's legs
The idiom "with one's tail between one's legs" refers to someone feeling embarrassed, ashamed, or defeated, usually after a negative experience or outcome. It suggests that the person is retreating or returning in a humiliated manner, much like a submissive or defeated animal with its tail tucked between its legs.
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be (sitting) on (one's) tail
The idiom "be (sitting) on (one's) tail" means to be closely following or watching someone, often with the intention of catching them doing something wrong or to keep a close eye on their actions. It can also indicate someone being impatient or pressuring someone else to act quickly or take action.
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with tail between legs
The idiom "with tail between legs" refers to someone feeling ashamed, defeated, or humiliated as a result of a negative experience or failure. It originates from the behavior of a submissive or frightened animal that tucks its tail between its hind legs as a display of fear or submissiveness. Thus, when someone is said to leave "with tail between legs," it implies a similar state of defeat or embarrassment.
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tail end
The idiom "tail end" refers to the final or concluding part or position of something, often referring to the last part of a group, event, or period of time. It can also signify the least desirable or least favorable part of something.
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work one’s tail off
The idiom "work one's tail off" is an informal expression that means to put in a great amount of effort or work extremely hard. It implies putting in maximum effort and dedicating oneself to a task or job, often to the point of exhaustion or fatigue.
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be chasing your tail
The idiom "be chasing your tail" means to be engaging in a series of futile or unproductive actions that do not lead to any significant progress or resolution; it refers to the behavior of a dog that repeatedly spins in a circle trying to catch its own tail.
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get off one's tail
The idiom "get off one's tail" typically means to stop bothering or stalking someone, giving them space and freedom. It can also imply someone wanting another person to stop following them closely, either literally or metaphorically.
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top and tail
The idiom "top and tail" generally refers to the act of completing both the beginning and the end of something, typically a task or process. It can also be used to describe the act of tidying or organizing something by addressing both ends. Additionally, it may refer to the practice of opening and closing a document or presentation with a summary or conclusion.
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be chasing (one's) (own) tail
The idiom "be chasing (one's) (own) tail" refers to a situation where someone is engaging in futile or pointless activities that do not produce any meaningful results. It often conveys a sense of frustration, confusion, or being stuck in a cycle of unproductive actions, much like a dog chasing its own tail without being able to catch it.
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the tail end
The idiom "the tail end" refers to the final or last part of something, often indicating the conclusion, completion, or the least significant portion or remaining part of a sequence or period. It can also refer to the rear or bottom part of something.
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can't make head nor tail of sth
The idiom "can't make head nor tail of something" means being unable to understand or make sense of a particular situation, information, or problem. It usually implies confusion or lack of comprehension.
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get off your tail
"Get off your tail" is an idiomatic expression that means to stop being lazy or inactive and to start taking action or doing something productive. It is usually used as an admonition or encouragement to motivate someone to stop procrastinating and start working or engaging in a particular activity.
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tail wagging the dog, the
The idiom "tail wagging the dog" refers to a situation where a small or unimportant part of something is controlling or influencing the whole. It describes when the less significant or subordinate element has a disproportionate influence or impact on the more important or dominant entity.
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can't make head nor tail of
The idiom "can't make head nor tail of" means to be completely confused or unable to understand something. It suggests being unable to make any sense or find any meaning in a situation, statement, or information.
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have a sting in the/its tail
The idiom "have a sting in the/its tail" means to have an unexpected or unpleasant surprise or consequence at the end of a situation or event. It implies that something may initially appear harmless or benign, but ultimately reveals a negative or harmful aspect.
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can't make head nor tail of (someone or something)
The idiom "can't make head nor tail of (someone or something)" means to be unable to understand or comprehend someone or something. It implies that the person or object is confusing or perplexing, making it difficult to figure out their meaning or purpose.
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with your tail between your legs
The idiom "with your tail between your legs" refers to someone feeling embarrassed, ashamed, or defeated after a failure or setback. It originates from the behavior of a submissive or defeated dog that tucks its tail between its hind legs, indicating its submissiveness or defeat.
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nose to tail
The idiom "nose to tail" typically refers to a driving style or traffic pattern where vehicles are closely following each other in a single line, resembling a line of animals moving in such a manner. It suggests a high level of coordination and synchronization, usually seen in organized and disciplined situations.
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tail wagging the dog
The idiom "tail wagging the dog" refers to a situation where a small or unimportant part of something controls or has a disproportionate influence over the whole. It implies that the normal hierarchy or order of importance is reversed, with the less significant aspect manipulating or dictating the more significant one.
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leave, go off, etc. with your tail between your legs
The idiom "leave, go off, etc. with your tail between your legs" refers to someone feeling humiliated, defeated, or ashamed after a failure or negative experience. It describes a person's retreat or departure from a situation while displaying a sense of defeat, similar to how a defeated or scared animal might walk away with its tail drooping between its hind legs.
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Better be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion
The idiom "Better be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion" is a figurative expression that suggests it is preferable to be in a position of leadership, no matter how modest or lowly it may seem, rather than being a subordinate or follower in a more prestigious or powerful position. It emphasizes the importance of personal autonomy, authority, and self-determination.
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drag (one's) tail
The idiom "drag (one's) tail" means to move or act slowly, reluctantly, or lazily. It implies a lack of motivation, energy, or enthusiasm in completing a task or fulfilling a responsibility.
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tail off
The idiom "tail off" means to diminish gradually in quantity, intensity, or quality. It refers to something becoming smaller, weaker, or less impressive over time.
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a couple of shakes, at in two shakes (of a lamb's tail)
The idiom "a couple of shakes" or "in two shakes (of a lamb's tail)" is an informal expression used to convey a very short amount of time or a brief moment. It suggests that something will be done or completed quickly, usually within a few moments or a matter of seconds. It is often used to emphasize the immediacy or swiftness of an action.
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not able to make head or tail of
The idiom "not able to make head or tail of" means being unable to understand or comprehend something. It implies that the person is confused and unable to make any sense or find any logical order or meaning in a situation, information, or conversation.
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can't make head or/nor tail of something
The idiom "can't make head nor tail of something" means being unable to understand or make sense of something. It indicates that the information or situation is confusing, unclear, or incomprehensible, making it difficult to grasp any meaning or logical explanation.
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skin an eel by the tail
The idiom "skin an eel by the tail" means to undertake a difficult or complex task that requires a great deal of skill, patience, and determination. It implies successfully accomplishing something challenging or intricate, often used in the context of problem-solving or completing a task that most others would find too difficult or time-consuming.
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a sting in the tail
The idiom "a sting in the tail" refers to a surprising or unpleasant outcome or consequence that occurs at the end of a situation or event that initially seemed positive or harmless. It depicts a hidden or unexpected threat or problem that arises, similar to being stung by a bee or insect.
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tail away
The idiom "tail away" means to gradually decrease in intensity, volume, or effectiveness. It refers to something diminishing or fading gradually, often referring to sound or interest.
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get one’s tail somewhere immediately!
The idiom "get one’s tail somewhere immediately!" is an expressive and informal way of telling someone to hurry up and go to a particular place without delay. It implies a sense of urgency and emphasizes the need for swift action or movement.
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the tail end of something
The idiom "the tail end of something" refers to the final or last part of a certain period, event, or process. It signifies the concluding phase or the remaining portion of something.
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get one’s tail somewhere fast!
The idiom "get one's tail somewhere fast!" is a figurative expression used to emphasize the urgency or importance of reaching a particular location quickly. It implies the need to move quickly and without delay, as if referring to the speed at which an animal's tail might move when startled or under threat.
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get one’s tail in gear
The idiom "get one's tail in gear" means to start working diligently, quickly, or efficiently. It is often used to urge someone to begin taking action or to increase their level of productivity.
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tail after
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on tail
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get off tail
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freeze tail off
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be on tail
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fuzzy (tail)
The idiom "fuzzy (tail)" is used to describe someone who is scatterbrained or easily distracted. It suggests that the person's thoughts or attention are not clear or focused, similar to a fuzzy image.
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Go chase your tail!
The idiom "Go chase your tail!" is a sarcastic or dismissive way of telling someone to stop wasting time or energy on something frivolous or unimportant. It can also imply that the person is behaving in a foolish or futile manner.
Similar spelling words for TAIL
- tall,
- tale,
- tallow,
- Talley,
- Tallie,
- Tai Lue,
- taal,
- Taul,
- Talia,
- tala,
- tally,
- Tawil,
- tael.
Conjugate verb Tail
CONDITIONAL PERFECT
I
would have tailed
you
would have tailed
he/she/it
would have tailed
we
would have tailed
they
would have tailed
I
would have tail
you
would have tail
he/she/it
would have tail
we
would have tail
they
would have tail
CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE
I
would have been tailing
you
would have been tailing
he/she/it
would have been tailing
we
would have been tailing
they
would have been tailing
CONDITIONAL PRESENT
I
would tail
you
would tail
he/she/it
would tail
we
would tail
they
would tail
CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE
I
would be tailing
you
would be tailing
he/she/it
would be tailing
we
would be tailing
they
would be tailing
FUTURE
I
will tail
you
will tail
he/she/it
will tail
we
will tail
they
will tail
FUTURE CONTINUOUS
I
will be tailing
you
will be tailing
he/she/it
will be tailing
we
will be tailing
they
will be tailing
FUTURE PERFECT
I
will have tailed
you
will have tailed
he/she/it
will have tailed
we
will have tailed
they
will have tailed
FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
will have been tailing
you
will have been tailing
he/she/it
will have been tailing
we
will have been tailing
they
will have been tailing
IMPERATIVE
you
tail
we
let´s tail
to tail
PAST CONTINUOUS
I
was tailing
you
were tailing
he/she/it
was tailing
we
were tailing
they
were tailing
PAST PARTICIPLE
tailed
PAST PERFECT
I
had tailed
you
had tailed
he/she/it
had tailed
we
had tailed
they
had tailed
PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
had been tailing
you
had been tailing
he/she/it
had been tailing
we
had been tailing
they
had been tailing
PRESENT
I
tail
you
tail
he/she/it
tails
we
tail
they
tail
PRESENT CONTINUOUS
I
am tailing
you
are tailing
he/she/it
is tailing
we
are tailing
they
are tailing
PRESENT PARTICIPLE
tailing
PRESENT PERFECT
I
have tailed
you
have tailed
he/she/it
has tailed
we
have tailed
they
have tailed
PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
have been tailing
you
have been tailing
he/she/it
has been tailing
we
have been tailing
they
have been tailing
PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE
he/she/it
tail
SIMPLE PAST
I
tailed
you
tailed
he/she/it
tailed
we
tailed
they
tailed
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