know someone from a can of paint: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "know someone from a can of paint" is a phrase that expresses the idea of not knowing or being unfamiliar with a particular person or thing. It suggests a lack of knowledge or understanding, similar to not being able to distinguish between two unrelated objects. The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the early 20th century, where it was used to convey unfamiliarity or lack of knowledge.

One possible origin of this idiom is the visual similarity between an anonymous can of paint and an unknown individual. The comparison between the two may seem peculiar, but it likely stems from the idea that just like a can of paint, a person can be unknown and unfamiliar. This usage of the idiom gained popularity over time and became entrenched in American English vernacular.

The phrase "knowing someone from a can of paint" became a colloquial way to emphasize the contrast between knowing someone intimately versus having no connection or understanding of that person. It highlighted the lack of knowledge about a person, suggesting that their identity and character were as unfamiliar as an anonymous can of paint.

This idiom has become a commonly used expression in American English, contributing to the richness and diversity of the language. Its meaning and usage have persisted and evolved through various contexts and discussions. Today, "knowing someone from a can of paint" continues to be utilized in everyday conversations, literature, and other forms of communication.

Alongside "know someone from a can of paint," there are other idioms that express similar concepts of unfamiliarity or lack of knowledge about someone. One such idiom is "know from a bar of soap," which is used to indicate that someone does not know or recognize a person or thing at all. It further emphasizes the idea that the person or thing is completely unfamiliar, similar to not being able to distinguish between a bar of soap and something else.

Another related idiom is "know someone from Adam," which is used to convey that someone is completely unknown or unfamiliar. The phrase draws a parallel between not knowing someone and not recognizing them from the biblical figure Adam, as if they were an entirely new and unknown person.

"know beans about" is an idiom that means to have little or no knowledge or understanding about a particular subject. It can be used to express the idea that someone lacks any knowledge or familiarity with a subject in the same way that they would be unfamiliar with a can of paint.

"know one's ass from a hole in the ground" is an idiom that is used to emphasize someone's lack of knowledge or understanding about a particular topic or situation. It suggests that someone is so unfamiliar or unknowledgeable that they can't even distinguish between their own body parts and random objects.

Lastly, "know one's shit" is an idiom used to describe someone who is knowledgeable or highly skilled in a particular field. It signifies that the person possesses a deep understanding and expertise, which is in contrast to not being able to distinguish someone from a can of paint.

These idioms serve to further highlight the concept of unfamiliarity or lack of knowledge about someone or something. They add depth and nuance to the idea that knowing someone can be as elusive and unfamiliar as distinguishing between unrelated objects. The inclusion of these idioms enhances the richness and expressiveness of the English language, providing unique ways to convey complex ideas and emotions.