The phrase "not born yesterday" means that someone is not naive or easily fooled. The spelling of this phrase is straightforward except for the pronunciation of "born" as /bɔːrn/ with the "or" vowel sound as in the word "corn." The rest of the words are pronounced as expected. It's interesting to note that this phrase is often changed to "I wasn't born yesterday" in casual conversation, showing how common phrases can evolve over time.
"Not born yesterday" is a colloquial expression used to describe someone who is astute, discerning, and experienced, implying that they are not naive or easily deceived. The phrase suggests that the individual in question is not inexperienced or ignorant, but rather possesses knowledge and awareness regarding various situations, often gained through previous experiences or by being well-informed.
The origin of this phrase can be traced back to the idea that a newborn baby lacks the knowledge and understanding that comes with age and experience. Therefore, if someone is described as "not born yesterday," it implies that they are not gullible or easily fooled, as they have acquired wisdom and insight over time.
This expression is often used in a figurative sense to highlight someone's shrewdness, skepticism, or ability to recognize deception. It suggests that the person has lived long enough to become familiar with common strategies employed to mislead or take advantage of others, and therefore, they are not easily swayed by manipulative tactics.
In summary, to describe someone as "not born yesterday" is to acknowledge their ability to detect falsehoods and navigate the complexities of life based on their discerning nature and substantial experience.