Words we take for granted
Moth Offline
Chissit No-digger
#1
Sometimes we use words and phrases without knowing their true origin. For example, today I heard someone say something was "in the offing". It's a funny expression when you really look at it, isn't it? I was impelled to find out more, and was surprised at the etymology and real meaning.

So, without reference to a dictionary or goggle-ducking, who can explain what, who, or where an offing is?
Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished  – Lao Tzu
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Veggie Offline
Super Pest Controller
#2
Is it nautical?
The Moneyless Chicken says:- 
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JJB Offline
Moonraker
#3
I have no idea. Perhaps religious?
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Can the Man Offline
Can the Man with the van
#4
I know it’s not Irish but I think it means it’s going to happen
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Jimny14 Offline
Member
#5
I'm with veggie, it's nautical, something to do with offshore I think.
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Moth Offline
Chissit No-digger
#6
Yes it is nautical, as most of our unusual but everyday phrases seem to be.

It's the area of sea beyond the roads but this side of the horizon.
Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished  – Lao Tzu
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Bren Offline
Member
#7
I thought it meant something was going to happen.
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Jimny14 Offline
Member
#8
(30-06-2021, 08:05 AM)Bren Wrote: I thought it meant something was going to happen.


It does. The offing is water that can be seen from land but is away from shore. So if a ship is in the offing coming towards you it will arrive at land but not for a while.
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Jimny14 Offline
Member
#9
Here are a few more phrases of probably nautical origin.

3 sheets to the wind.
No room to swing a cat
Swinging the lead
Hand over fist
Brass monkeys
At a loose end
Give a wide berth
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Veggie Offline
Super Pest Controller
#10
Similarly, "Standing off" or "Stood off" refers to boats waiting off shore before they can come into a berth.
The Moneyless Chicken says:- 
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