lick out: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "lick the pants off" is a phrase often used in colloquial English to describe outperforming or surpassing someone or something by a wide margin. This idiom can be used when one person or thing exceeds the expectations or abilities of another, resulting in a clear victory or success. The phrase implies a figurative act of licking the pants of the person or thing being surpassed, indicating a complete and decisive victory.

When related to the idiom "lick out," the phrase "lick the pants off" can be used to emphasize the thoroughness and effectiveness of consuming or enjoying something. Just as licking out a container signifies a complete and meticulous cleaning or consumption, "licking the pants off" conveys the idea of thoroughly outperforming or surpassing someone or something.

For example, imagine a competitive sports event where one team dominates the other. If the winning team wins by a large margin and completely outperforms their opponents, it could be said that they "licked the pants off" the other team. This phrase emphasizes the thoroughness and superiority of their victory, as if they consumed or defeated their opponents entirely.

Similarly, in a professional context, someone who completes a project or task with remarkable efficiency and quality can be said to have "licked the pants off" their colleagues or competitors. This indicates a comprehensive success and surpassing of expectations, as if they have consumed or accomplished their goals with complete thoroughness.

It is important to note that the use of the phrase "lick the pants off" should be avoided in formal or professional contexts due to its informal and potentially crude connotations. In more casual or informal settings, however, its use can add a touch of vividness and emphasis to the description of a thorough victory or accomplishment.

The idiom "spit out" is another phrase commonly used in colloquial English, and it conveys the act of forcibly expelling or ejecting something from one's mouth. This action is typically associated with a strong negative reaction or rejection of whatever is being spat out. It can be used figuratively to express disgust, disdain, or rejection of an idea, situation, or person.

In relation to the idiom "lick out," the phrase "spit out" can be used to contrast the act of thoroughly consuming or enjoying something with the act of forcefully rejecting or disliking it. While "licking out" a container implies thoroughness and satisfaction, "spitting out" indicates rejection, disdain, or dissatisfaction.

For example, imagine someone tries a new dish at a restaurant and finds it extremely distasteful. They might say, "I took one bite and immediately spit it out." This expression communicates their immediate and forceful rejection of the food, emphasizing their strong distaste for it.

Similarly, in a figurative sense, the phrase "spit out" can be used to convey a strong negative reaction or rejection of an idea or suggestion. For instance, if someone proposes a plan that is met with strong disagreement or disapproval, others might say, "They quickly spat out that idea." This phrase emphasizes the strong rejection and disdain for the proposed plan.

It is worth noting that the idiom "spit out" in this context is not directly related to the act of "licking out" a container. While both involve the mouth and have an association with consumption, they convey opposite meanings. "Licking out" suggests thoroughness and satisfaction, while "spitting out" implies rejection and disdain.

As with the idiom "lick out" and other colloquial phrases, it is important to consider the context and audience when using the phrase "spit out." While it can add emphasis and vividness to conveying strong negative reactions or rejections, it may be considered inappropriate or crass in formal or professional settings. Being mindful of the appropriateness of language used is essential to effective communication.