Where Does Skin Of Your Teeth Come From
Have you ever heard the expression "by the skin of your teeth"? It’s a phrase that’s often used to describe a close call or a narrow escape from danger. But where does this peculiar phrase come from? What does it mean? In this article, we’ll explore the history and origins of the phrase “skin of your teeth.”
What Does the Phrase “Skin of Your Teeth” Mean?
The phrase “skin of your teeth” is used to describe a situation where someone has narrowly escaped a difficult or dangerous situation. It’s often used to describe situations where someone has just barely managed to avoid disaster or a close call.
Origins of the Phrase “Skin of Your Teeth”
The phrase “skin of your teeth” can be traced back to the Bible. In the Book of Job, Job describes his own suffering and says, “My bone cleaveth to my skin and to my flesh, and I am escaped with the skin of my teeth.”
Over time, the phrase “skin of your teeth” came to be a popular expression in English, and it has been used in literature and popular culture for centuries. Today, it’s a common idiom that is used in many different contexts.
Other Similar Expressions
There are many other expressions in English that are similar to “skin of your teeth.” Here are a few examples:
- Barely made it
- Just scraped by
- Narrowly escaped
- Close call
Conclusion
The phrase “skin of your teeth” may be a strange and unusual expression, but it has a long and interesting history. From its origins in the Bible to its use in modern English, this phrase has been used to describe close calls and narrow escapes for centuries. So next time you narrowly avoid disaster, you can thank the skin of your teeth for saving the day!
