give someone to understand: Idiom Meaning and Origin

One idiom that has stood the test of time is "give someone to understand." This phrase has been used in English-speaking countries since the early 16th century. It carries the meaning of causing someone to believe or infer something without explicitly stating it.

In this idiom, the word "give" is a verb that conveys information or a message to someone. When combined with "to understand," it takes on a distinct meaning. In this context, "understand" refers to comprehending or grasping the intended message or implication.

The idiom "give someone to understand" can be useful when you want to convey a message subtly. By using this idiom, you are subtly suggesting or hinting at something without explicitly stating it. This can be seen as a form of persuasion, as the speaker relies on the receiver's ability to read between the lines and infer the intended meaning.

This idiom can be used in various situations, including those where you want to change someone's mind. If you want to convince someone to see things from a different perspective, you can give them to understand your point of view without directly telling them to change their mind.

Another related idiom is "catch someone's drift." It is similar to "give someone to understand" in that it involves conveying a message indirectly. When you catch someone's drift, you grasp the meaning or intention behind their words or actions without them explicitly stating it. It requires interpreting subtle cues and signals to understand what someone is trying to communicate.

The idiom "give the lie" is another phrase that can be connected to "give someone to understand." It means to accuse someone of lying or contradicting the truth. When you give the lie to someone, you are challenging their statements or indicating that you believe they are not telling the truth.

A similar idiom is "give the lie to," which also involves disproving or contradicting something. However, it carries a slightly different connotation than "give the lie." When you give the lie to something, you provide evidence or information that directly contradicts it. It undermines the credibility or validity of the thing being contradicted.

The idiom "get one's head around" can also be related to "give someone to understand." It means to understand or comprehend something that is difficult or complex. When you get your head around something, you are able to grasp or comprehend it, even if it initially seemed challenging or confusing.

Let's consider an example to illustrate how "give someone to understand" can be related to these idioms. Imagine you are in a heated debate with someone who has a different opinion than you. Instead of directly trying to change their mind, you can give them to understand your perspective by subtly presenting your points and allowing them to catch your drift. You can give the lie to their arguments by providing evidence that contradicts their claims, and ultimately, hope that they will get their head around your viewpoint and reconsider their stance.

While the origin of the "give someone to understand" idiom remains unclear, its usage and understanding have remained relatively consistent over the years. It is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, showcasing the adaptability of the English language and its idiomatic expressions.

The idiom "give someone to understand" is a timeless expression that conveys subtle suggestion and manipulation. With its origins dating back to the 16th century, this phrase has endured the test of time and remains relevant in modern English usage. By employing this idiom, one can convey a message indirectly, relying on the receiver's ability to decipher the intended meaning. Its usage often carries a negative connotation, indicating false assumptions or misinterpretations. Despite its age, the idiom continues to captivate and intrigue, leaving room for interpretation and exploration.