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Old Time Sayings

   I started a little volume just recently on old sayings and what they mean. I have had positive comments so I will continue for a bit longer. At the Virden Empire-Advance office the other day, Lauren asked me what does “Dollars to donuts” mean? Well just for you Lauren, Dollars to donuts means that something is almost completely certain to happen. It implies a figurative bet where the speaker is so confident in their predication that they would gladly wager something of high value like (hard cash) against something of little value, (donuts). This phrase originated in the United States in the mid 1800s. At that time a dollar was a significant amount of money, and a donut was very cheap making it a sure bet in the speaker's favour.

     “Don't cry over spilled milk” means there is no use getting upset over something that has already happened and cannot be changed.

    “Curiosity killed the cat” means being overly inquisitive can lead you into a dangerous or unpleasant situation. Could also mean being nosey!

    “Rome wasn't built in a day” is a great and meaningful achievements take time and continuous effort. Like a lot of tasks, they do not always get completed in a day.

    “More hands make light work” is a timeless proverb meaning that tasks become much easier and quicker when people work together.

   “Absence makes the heart grow fonder”, is a well-known proverb meaning that being physically separated from someone you love intensifies your affection and longing for them. Distance often brings deeper appreciation for the relationship.

    The opposite of this is, “Familiarity breeds contempt”. This suggests that being around someone too often can cause you to grow tired of them or focus on their flaws. 

   Until next time, keep cool!