Where Does Skin Of My Teeth Come From
Introduction
Have you ever heard the phrase "by the skin of my teeth"? It's a common expression used to describe a situation where someone barely manages to escape danger or failure. But where did this phrase come from?
The Origin
The origin of the phrase "by the skin of my teeth" can be traced back to the Bible. In the book of Job, Job is going through a series of trials and tribulations, and at one point he says, "My bone cleaveth to my skin and to my flesh, and I am escaped with the skin of my teeth" (Job 19:20).
The Meaning
The phrase "by the skin of my teeth" means to barely escape from a dangerous or difficult situation. It implies that the situation was so close that only a thin layer of skin or a tiny margin separated the person from disaster.
Other Similar Expressions
There are several other expressions that are similar to "by the skin of my teeth". These include:
- "Narrowly escaping"
- "Just in the nick of time"
- "Barely making it"
Usage Examples
Here are some examples of how "by the skin of my teeth" can be used in a sentence:
- "I was in a car accident yesterday, but I managed to walk away by the skin of my teeth."
- "I almost missed my flight, but I made it to the gate by the skin of my teeth."
- "I failed the test, but I passed the class by the skin of my teeth."
Conclusion
The phrase "by the skin of my teeth" is a common expression used to describe a situation where someone barely manages to escape danger or failure. It has its roots in the Bible, specifically the book of Job. Next time you use this phrase, you'll know where it comes from!