have someone by the short and curlies: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "have someone by the short and curlies" is an informal British expression that means to have complete control or power over another person. It can be traced back to the mid-20th century and is a variation of the longer expression "have someone by the short hairs," which itself is derived from the phrase "have someone by the balls." While the longer phrase can be traced back to the early 20th century, the specific origin of "have someone by the short and curlies" is unclear, but it is believed to have emerged in the mid-20th century.

When someone has another person "by the short and curlies," it implies that they are in a position of complete control or power. It often suggests a coercive or manipulative relationship, where the person being controlled is unable to escape or resist the influence of the person in control. This can be likened to having someone held hostage, figuratively speaking, with no choice but to comply with the demands or wishes of the person in control.

The phrase "have someone by the short and curlies" uses a metaphorical reference to convey its meaning. The phrase "short and curlies" refers to a person's pubic hair, which is a sensitive and private area of the body. By using this metaphor, the idiom emphasizes the vulnerability and powerlessness of the person being controlled, as having control over someone's private and sensitive parts is seen as a position of great power.

Despite its graphic nature, the idiom is often used humorously or lightheartedly, particularly in informal conversations or comical contexts. However, it is important to note that the idiom can also be seen as vulgar or offensive, especially in more formal or sensitive settings. Therefore, it is important to use the idiom appropriately and be mindful of the audience and context when using it.

In addition to "have someone by the short and curlies," there are several other idioms and expressions related to control or power. One such idiom is "curl someone's hair," which means to shock or surprise someone. Although it may seem unrelated at first, this phrase can be connected to the idea of having control over someone. When someone has complete control or power over another person, they can manipulate and influence them in a way that can be shocking or surprising.

Another related expression is "short hairs," which also refers to having control over someone. Similar to "have someone by the short and curlies," having someone "by the short hairs" suggests a position of power and control. By using the word "short," it implies that the control is firm and immediate.

A similar idiom is "have a tiger by the tail," which means to have a problem or situation that is difficult to control or manage. This phrase can be connected to "have someone by the short and curlies" in the sense that both expressions highlight the idea of being in a position of control. However, "have a tiger by the tail" focuses more on the challenges and difficulties that arise from having control, rather than the vulnerability and powerlessness of the person being controlled.

Another idiom related to control is "have one's way with," which means to do whatever one wants with someone or something. While it may have a negative connotation in some contexts, it can also simply mean having control or influence over someone or something.

Lastly, there is the expression "have one's wig snatched," which means to be surprised or caught off guard by someone's actions or words. This idiom is related to the idea of control or power in the sense that it implies someone taking control or power away from another person in a surprising or unexpected manner.

It is worth noting that the idiom "have someone by the short and curlies" is primarily used in British English, but it may also be encountered in other English-speaking countries, including the United States. However, it is relatively less common and may be less familiar to American audiences. As with any idiomatic expression, understanding the context and cultural connotations is crucial for accurately interpreting and using the idiom.

The idiom "have someone by the short and curlies" is an informal expression that conveys the idea of having complete control or power over someone. Its metaphorical reference to sensitive body parts adds emphasis to the vulnerability and powerlessness of the person being controlled. While it is primarily used in British English, it may also be encountered in other English-speaking countries to convey a similar meaning. It is important to use the idiom appropriately and be mindful of the audience and context when using it.