sticking-place: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘sticking-place’ mean?
The idiom "sticking-place" refers to a situation or problem that needs to be addressed directly and cannot be avoided. It is derived from Shakespeare's play "Macbeth" and is used to emphasize the importance of confronting and dealing with difficulties instead of avoiding or ignoring them.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "the buck stops here" means taking responsibility for a situation and not passing it on to others.
The idiom "the box they're going to bury it in" refers to the final resting place or ultimate outcome of something. It implies that the situation or matter will be closed or resolved completely.
The idiom "that way" is used to refer to a specific direction, manner, or situation. It can indicate a way of doing something, a specific course of action, or a specific outcome. It can also be used to express someone's preference or perspective about a particular matter.
The idiom "that's the thing" is used to emphasize a crucial point or argument in a discussion or conversation.
The idiom "tell someone where to shove it" means to angrily reject or dismiss someone or something, often with hostility or contempt.
An idiom that refers to the difficulties or setbacks experienced at the initial stages of a new project, process, or endeavor.
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The idiom "take it outside" means resolving a conflict or argument by moving it outside, usually from a public space to a more private one. This phrase is often used to suggest dealing with an issue physically or away from others.
FAIL
The phrase "screw your courage to the sticking-place" implies the act of tightening or securing one's courage in order to hold it steadfast. The word "screw" is used metaphorically, emphasizing the need to firmly attach or fasten one's courage. The term "sticking-place" indicates a point of resistance or adherence, suggesting that courage should be firmly planted in order to withstand any obstacles.
While the specific origin of the idiom is tied to Shakespeare, it is important to note that similar expressions emphasizing courage and determination can be found across different cultures and historical periods. The idiom has since become a recognizable phrase in the English language, often used to encourage someone to face their fears or confront a challenging situation head-on.
Throughout history, the idiom *sticking-place* has been referenced in various contexts, including literature, film, and everyday conversation. It is worth noting that the usage of the idiom has evolved to some extent over time. While its original context in "Macbeth" indirectly relates to the act of committing a crime, contemporary usage primarily focuses on summoning courage and conviction to overcome obstacles or face difficult decisions.
In contemporary usage, the idiom *sticking-place* often appears in a figurative sense, emphasizing the importance of resolve and determination in achieving success. People may use this idiom to encourage others to stay strong in the face of adversity, demonstrating the need to remain committed and resolute in pursuing their goals.
The idiom *sticking-place* contains layers of meaning that reflect the complexities of human nature and the ambiguities of courage. It encapsulates the struggle to muster the necessary bravery for confronting daunting situations, while also highlighting the potential consequences of engaging in morally ambiguous actions.
By delving into the etymology and usage of this idiom, we gain a deeper understanding of the rich tapestry of language and its ability to capture and convey complex emotions and concepts.
The idiom *sticking-place* is related to the idiom "out of fix". When someone finds themselves in a difficult situation or facing a problem, they may feel "out of fix". This means they are uncertain or unable to find a solution. In such situations, one must apply the principles of the idiom *sticking-place*, "screw their courage to the sticking-place", to summon the resilience and determination necessary to tackle the issue at hand.
The idiom *sticking-place* is also related to the idiom "place to be". When someone is in a situation that offers great opportunities or benefits, they can say that they are in the "place to be". This idiom conveys a sense of being in the right position or environment to succeed. Applying the principles of the idiom *sticking-place*, individuals in the "place to be" must anchor their courage and determination firmly to navigate the challenges and obstacles that come their way.
Another related idiom is "tight spot". This idiom refers to a difficult or challenging situation from which it is hard to escape. When someone finds themselves in a "tight spot", it is essential to invoke the spirit of the idiom *sticking-place* and muster the courage and strength necessary to face the predicament head-on and find a way out.
The final related idiom is "stay put". This idiom means to stay in one place or keep things as they are without moving or making any changes. When facing adversity or daunting circumstances, staying put may seem appealing. However, the idiom *sticking-place* advises against complacency. It encourages individuals to firmly fasten their courage and resolve, summoning the strength to confront challenges and actively work towards a resolution.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "sticking-place" can be used in a sentence:
- She firmly believed that her career in acting was her sticking-place, as she had great passion and talent for it.
- After facing numerous setbacks, he finally found his sticking-place in the world of entrepreneurship, where he thrived.
- Despite the challenges, their marriage proved to be their sticking-place, as they supported and loved each other unconditionally.
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