know from a bar of soap: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "know from a bar of soap" conveys a lack of knowledge or familiarity with a subject or person. Its exact origins and meaning are uncertain, but we can explore its possible interpretations and implications. One possible explanation is that it compares a person to a bar of soap, an everyday object most people are familiar with. By saying "I don't know you from a bar of soap," one emphasizes their unfamiliarity, as if comparing the person to something of little significance.

Alternatively, the idiom can express a complete lack of understanding or recognition. Just as one may not be able to distinguish one bar of soap from another or have any knowledge beyond its basic function, they similarly lack knowledge or familiarity about the subject or person being referred to in the idiom.

While the specific origins are unclear, idioms often evolve across different regions and time. It's possible that this phrase has roots in a specific cultural or regional context that has been lost over time.

Ultimately, "know from a bar of soap" reminds us of the limits of human knowledge and the vast extent of unfamiliarity in the world. It emphasizes the potential for encountering people or situations that are completely beyond our understanding.

The idiom "know someone from a can of paint" is another expression that highlights a lack of knowledge or familiarity with someone. Just as one may not be able to tell the difference between two cans of paint, they also lack any knowledge or familiarity about the person being referred to. This idiom underscores the complete lack of understanding or recognition.

"know someone from Adam" is yet another idiom that conveys a lack of knowledge or familiarity with someone. It draws on the biblical figure of Adam, representing the ultimate stranger or unknown person. By saying "I don't know him from Adam," one accentuates their complete unfamiliarity and lack of knowledge about the person.

"know one's ass from a hole in the ground" is a colorful idiom that highlights a severe lack of knowledge or understanding. By comparing one's ability to distinguish between their own backside and a hole in the ground, it underscores a complete lack of comprehension or familiarity with a subject or situation.

The idiom "know beans about" signifies a lack of knowledge or understanding about a particular subject. By saying "I don't know beans about it," one admits their complete unfamiliarity or lack of knowledge.

These idioms all share the common theme of emphasizing a lack of knowledge or familiarity. Whether comparing someone to a bar of soap, a can of paint, or the biblical figure of Adam, they all highlight the vast extent of the unknown. These idioms serve as a reminder of the limitations of human knowledge and the potential for encountering people or situations that are entirely beyond our understanding.