built like a brick shipyard: Idiom Meaning and Origin

Another related idiom is "built like a brick outhouse," which also refers to something that is extremely solid or sturdy. In this case, the comparison is made to an outhouse, a small outdoor building typically used as a toilet. By describing something as "built like a brick outhouse," the idiom suggests that it is well-constructed and can withstand various challenges or pressures. The addition of "brick" reinforces the idea of strength and durability, as bricks are known for their solid and robust nature. This idiom is often used to compliment someone's physical attributes or to describe a well-built structure or object.

Similarly, the idiom "built like a brick shithouse" also conveys the idea of someone or something being extremely solid or sturdy. Although the origin of this idiom is uncertain, it has been widely used in British English since the early 20th century. The phrase "brick shithouse" refers to a small building made of brick that was historically used as a toilet. By likening someone's physical build to a brick shithouse, the idiom emphasizes their strength, size, or muscular physique. It is often used as a colloquial compliment or to express admiration for someone's robust appearance.

Another related idiom is "hard as nails," which is used to describe someone who is tough, resilient, or unyielding. This idiom implies that the person is not easily affected or influenced by challenges or adversity. Just like nails, which are known for their hardness and durability, the individual referred to as "hard as nails" is seen as strong and unbreakable. This idiom can be applied to a variety of situations and is often used to praise someone's determination, resilience, or endurance.

The idiom "built different" is a more modern expression that gained popularity in recent years, particularly in youth culture and internet slang. It does not have a fixed meaning and can be used in different contexts to convey various ideas. Generally, "built different" is used to describe someone or something that is unique, unconventional, or extraordinary in some way. It implies that the individual or object in question possesses exceptional qualities, whether physical, intellectual, or emotional. This idiom is often used to emphasize individuality, talent, or exceptional skills.

The expression "build on sand" is another idiom that conveys a slightly different meaning. It is derived from the biblical story of the wise man who built his house on rock and the foolish man who built his house on sand. By "building on sand," the idiom suggests that something is constructed on an unstable or unreliable foundation. It is often used metaphorically to criticize or warn against relying on unstable or unreliable principles, beliefs, or plans. This idiom implies that a solid and stable foundation is necessary for long-term success and stability.

While "built like a brick shipyard" and its related idioms share the common theme of strength, solidity, or durability, they each have their own nuanced meanings and contexts. Whether used to compliment someone's physical build, emphasize resilience and toughness, or convey uniqueness and exceptional qualities, these idioms provide colorful and expressive ways to describe various aspects of human experiences and the constructed world around us.