that ever walked on two legs: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘that ever walked on two legs’ mean?
An idiom used to emphasize the extreme or exceptional quality of someone or something.
Idiom Explorer
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Remarkable Two-Legged Marvel
The idiom "that ever walked on two legs" is a colloquial expression used in American English. This idiom emphasizes the exceptional qualities or characteristics of someone or something. It is often used in a hyperbolic manner to convey a sense of awe, admiration, or astonishment.
Based on available sources, the origin and etymology of this specific idiom are not widely documented. However, idioms often evolve and change over time, making it challenging to trace their exact origins. In this case, the idiom seems to draw upon the universal association of walking on two legs as a defining characteristic of human beings, highlighting their unique abilities and superiority over other creatures.
When used in conversation or writing, the idiom "that ever walked on two legs" functions as a rhetorical device to emphasize exceptional qualities or capabilities. It suggests that the subject in question is superior or extraordinary in some way. Speakers and writers use this idiomatic expression to evoke a strong emotional response and leave a lasting impression.
It is worth noting that the hyperbolic nature of this idiom can sometimes be interpreted as sarcastic or ironic. It may be used to mock or criticize someone by suggesting that their supposed exceptional qualities are exaggerated or untrue. However, the specific tone and intent behind the usage of this idiom heavily depend on the context and the speaker's intentions.
The idiomatic expression "that ever walked on two legs" is related to the idiom "rare animal." Both idioms emphasize exceptional qualities or characteristics. While "that ever walked on two legs" focuses on the superiority of an individual, "rare animal" highlights the uniqueness or scarcity of a particular creature. These idioms serve a similar purpose of emphasizing distinctiveness and evoking admiration or astonishment.
Additionally, the idiom "that ever walked on two legs" is also related to the phrase "of an." Both expressions are used to intensify the significance or impact of a subject. While "that ever walked on two legs" emphasizes exceptional qualities, "of an" amplifies the distinctive nature or quality of a given subject. By using these idiomatic expressions, speakers and writers aim to create a sense of awe or astonishment.
The idiomatic phrase "that ever walked on two legs" can also be connected to the idiom "someone's heart out." Both expressions emphasize the exceptional qualities or capabilities of a person. While "that ever walked on two legs" focuses on overall superiority, "someone's heart out" highlights exceptional skill or talent in a specific area. These idioms function to evoke a sense of admiration and astonishment.
Furthermore, the idiom "that ever walked on two legs" relates to the expression "all that." Both idiomatic expressions serve to intensify the qualities or characteristics of someone or something. While "that ever walked on two legs" emphasizes superiority, "all that" conveys utmost excellence, often with an element of exaggeration. These idioms aim to evoke a strong emotional response and leave a lasting impression.
Finally, the idiom "that ever walked on two legs" can be connected to the phrase "big fat." Both expressions serve to intensify the exceptional qualities or characteristics of a subject. While "that ever walked on two legs" emphasizes superiority, "big fat" emphasizes the magnitude or importance of a specific attribute. These idiomatic expressions aim to captivate the audience and convey a sense of awe or astonishment.
To summarize, the idiom "that ever walked on two legs" is a well-established colloquial expression in American English. It is used to emphasize exceptional qualities or characteristics and evoke admiration or astonishment. Its usage can be both sincere and ironic, depending on the context and intent of the speaker. Related idioms, such as "rare animal," "of an," "someone's heart out," "all that," and "big fat," also serve to intensify exceptional qualities or characteristics and create a lasting impact on the audience.
Example usage
Examples:
- He is the smartest person that ever walked on two legs.
- This is the best pie that ever walked on two legs.
- She is the kindest nurse that ever walked on two legs.
The idiom "that ever walked on two legs" is used to emphasize the exceptional or superior quality of someone or something. The phrase suggests that the person or thing being described surpasses all others in a particular attribute or characteristic. It serves as a metaphorical way of expressing extreme admiration or praise.
More "Figure" idioms
We missed the mark - nothing found.
