How Do You Spell PAINT THE LILY?

Pronunciation: [pˈe͡ɪnt ðə lˈɪli] (IPA)

The phrase "paint the lily" means to attempt to improve something that is already perfect. The word "lily" is spelled with the /ɪ/ vowel sound, as in "ill" or "lick". The consonants in "paint" are /p/ and /t/, both plosive sounds made by releasing air suddenly. The word "paint" begins with an unvoiced sound, so we puff air out to begin the word. Overall, the spelling of "paint the lily" follows the conventions of English phonetic spelling.

PAINT THE LILY Meaning and Definition

1. The phrase "paint the lily", was originally coined by William Shakespeare in his play "King John." The term is derived from a line in Act IV, Scene II, where a character states, "To gild refined gold, to paint the lily." Over time, the phrase has evolved to represent an unnecessary or superfluous act or effort, often done in an attempt to improve or enhance something that is already perfect or exquisite.

   In contemporary usage, "paint the lily" refers to the act of attempting to embellish or enhance something that is already beautiful, complete, or perfect in its current state. It suggests a futile attempt to improve or beautify something beyond its innate qualities. This expression typically carries a negative or critical connotation, as it implies a lack of understanding or appreciation for the existing value or state of something.

   Furthermore, "paint the lily" can also signify an unnecessary or excessive act that can potentially detract from the original beauty or simplicity of a situation or object. It underscores the idea that sometimes, attempting to add more can result in diminishing the overall effect or impact. Overall, "paint the lily" serves as a cautionary expression, reminding individuals to recognize and appreciate the inherent beauty or goodness of something rather than attempting excessive embellishment.

Common Misspellings for PAINT THE LILY

• oaint the lily
• laint the lily
• -aint the lily
• 0aint the lily
• pzint the lily
• psint the lily
• pwint the lily
• pqint the lily
• paunt the lily
• pajnt the lily
• paknt the lily
• paont the lily
• pa9nt the lily
• pa8nt the lily
• paibt the lily
• paimt the lily
• paijt the lily
• paiht the lily
• painr the lily
• painf the lily

Idioms with the word PAINT THE LILY

• paint the lily The idiom "paint the lily" means to try to improve or enhance something that is already perfect or beautiful, and therefore unnecessary. It comes from a line in Shakespeare's play "King John" where a character argues that adding decoration to a beautiful flower like a lily is redundant.