then and there: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘then and there’ mean?
The idiom "then and there" means immediately or right away, without any delay or hesitation. It is often used to emphasize the urgency or promptness of an action or decision.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "without further ado" means to proceed or continue without any unnecessary delay or time wasted on formalities or unnecessary actions.
The idiom "upon the instant" means immediately or without delay.
The idiom "this minute" means immediately or without any delay. It implies that the action or event being referred to needs to happen right away, emphasizing the urgency and importance of the situation.
The idiom "there you go" is often used to indicate that something has been understood, completed, or provided. It can also be used to express agreement or approval.
The idiom "there you are" is used to draw attention to someone or something that has been found or located, or to acknowledge someone's presence or arrival.
The idiom "straight away" means to do something immediately or without delay.
The idiom "right away" means immediately or without delay.
The idiom "on-the-spot" means to be in a situation where decisions or actions must be made immediately, without any time to prepare or think about it.
The idiom "on the spot" means to do something immediately or to be put in a situation where one is required to perform or make a decision without any preparation or advance notice.
The idiom "now or never" means that something must be done immediately or it will never be possible to do it. It emphasizes the urgency of taking action without delay.
In a Split Second
The phrase "then and there" is an idiom commonly used in the English language. It has a clear meaning that is commonly understood by native speakers. When used, it implies that a particular action or event happened at a specific time and place, without delay or hesitation. The idiom is often used to convey a sense of immediacy and decisiveness.
The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the Middle English period. The word "then" derives from the Old English word "þonne," which means "at that time." The word "there" refers to a specific place or location. When combined, the idiom "then and there" emphasizes both the time and place in which an action or event occurred.
The idiom's meaning is rooted in the temporal and spatial elements it encompasses. It indicates that an action or decision was taken promptly, without delay or procrastination. This sense of immediacy and resolve is further emphasized by the repetition of the adverbial conjunctions "then" and "there." The idiom's straightforward and concise nature allows for its widespread usage and easy understanding by English speakers.
The idiom "then and there" is frequently used in various contexts and situations. It can be employed in storytelling to describe a pivotal moment that shaped the course of events. For example, one might say, "He decided right away to pursue his dreams," indicating a definitive decision made at a specific moment. The idiom can also be used in legal or formal settings to convey the precise timing and location of a particular incident or occurrence.
While the origins of the idiom can be traced back to Middle English, the phrase continues to be used in contemporary English. Its popularity and longevity can be attributed to its simplicity and effectiveness in conveying a specific meaning. The idiom's adaptability to various contexts ensures its continued relevance in everyday language.
The idiom "then and there" encapsulates a sense of decisiveness and prompt action. Its usage enables speakers and writers to emphasize the immediate nature of an event or decision, highlighting both the precise timing and location in which it occurred. The origin of the idiom can be traced back to Middle English, but its continued usage in modern English demonstrates its enduring significance in the language. The idiom's concise yet meaningful expression allows for diverse applications and ensures its place as a familiar phrase in the English lexicon.
Example usage
Examples of the idiom "then and there" used in sentences:
- She made up her mind to quit her job and gave her resignation then and there.
- When he saw the car accident, he called for an ambulance then and there.
- I was so impressed by the live performance that I decided to buy tickets to their next show then and there.
The idiom "then and there" is used to indicate that an action or decision is taken immediately, without delay or hesitation. It emphasizes the promptness and determination of the action, which occurs at that exact moment or without further delay.
More "Time" idioms
