down cellar: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "down the toilet" is a phrase used in American English to describe a situation or event that has turned out to be a failure, gone wrong, or been ruined. The phrase "down the toilet" is often used metaphorically to convey a sense of disappointment, loss, or wasted effort. It is believed to have originated from the idea of something being flushed down a toilet, which signifies its complete disposal or elimination.

The idiom "down the toilet" is related to the concept of going down cellar in the sense that both phrases involve a downward movement or descent. While "down cellar" refers to physically going or being in a basement or underground storage area, "down the toilet" suggests a metaphorical decline or deterioration. Both idioms convey a sense of something being lost, either in a literal or metaphorical sense.

The idiom "down the toilet" is commonly used in everyday speech, particularly in informal contexts. It is often used to express frustration, disappointment, or regret over a situation or outcome that did not turn out as expected or desired. For example, someone might say, "All our hard work went down the toilet when the project got canceled." This idiom adds a touch of colloquialism and emotional emphasis to the speaker's statement.

The idiom "bargain basement" is a phrase used to describe a section or area of a store where goods are sold at a significantly reduced price. The term "bargain" refers to a good deal or a favorable purchase, while "basement" refers to a lower level or underground space. Together, the phrase "bargain basement" suggests a place where one can find inexpensive or discounted items.

While the idiom "bargain basement" does not directly relate to the concept of going down cellar, both phrases involve the idea of something being located at a lower level. In the case of "bargain basement," it is a physical location within a store that is typically below ground level. However, the phrase does not carry the same connotation of descent or movement as "down cellar." Instead, it highlights the availability of affordable products.

The idiom "bargain basement" is commonly used in the context of shopping and retail. It is often employed to describe a section of a store where customers can find discounted or clearance items. For instance, someone might say, "I found this great deal in the bargain basement at the department store!" This phrase adds a sense of excitement and discovery to the speaker's statement, suggesting that they obtained a good product at a low price.

The idiom "go to ground" is a phrase used to describe the act of hiding or taking cover to avoid detection or capture. The term "ground" refers to a physical surface, such as the earth or the floor. In the context of the idiom, it represents a safe and concealed location where one can seek refuge or evade pursuit.

The idiom "go to ground" does not directly relate to the concept of going down cellar or being in a basement. Instead, it shares a common thread of seeking shelter or concealment. While "down cellar" involves physical movement to an underground space, "go to ground" implies a figurative action of finding a hidden or secure place.

The idiom "go to ground" is often used in the context of evading enemies, escaping danger, or avoiding capture. It can be employed to describe an individual or group taking refuge in a secure location, such as a hidden room or underground bunker. For example, one might say, "The fugitive went to ground in an abandoned warehouse to avoid being caught by the police." This idiom adds a sense of urgency and clandestine action to the speaker's description.

The idiom "down cellar" is a phrase commonly used in American English to refer to going or being in a basement or underground storage area. It carries a literal meaning and is often heard in everyday speech, particularly in the northeastern states of the US. The exact origins of the idiom are unclear, but it likely developed from the natural evolution of language. The idiom is related to other idioms such as "down the toilet", "bargain basement", and "go to ground," which share a common theme of movement, descent, or concealment. These idioms highlight the richness and diversity of idiomatic expressions in American English and provide colorful ways to convey meaning and emotion.