When we encounter a new phrase or expression, it can be challenging to understand its meaning without prior knowledge. The idiom “as they come” is no exception. This phrase is often used in everyday conversation, but its meaning may not be immediately clear to non-native speakers or those unfamiliar with English idioms.
To begin, let us first define what an idiom is. An idiom is a group of words that has a figurative meaning beyond the literal definition of each word. In other words, idioms cannot be understood by simply translating each individual word; instead, their meaning must be inferred from context.
The idiom “as they come” falls into this category. It is often used as a modifier to describe something or someone’s quality or characteristics. However, depending on the context in which it is used, it can have different connotations.
Types of Usage
- Describing people
- Describing things
- Comparing qualities
- Expressing indifference or acceptance
Examples of Usage
- “He’s not perfect but he’s honest as they come.”
- “This car isn’t flashy, but it’s reliable as they come.”
- “She may not be the most talented musician, but she’s as dedicated as they come.”
Origins and Historical Context of the Idiom “as they come”
The phrase “as they come” is a common idiom used in English to describe something or someone that is unremarkable, ordinary, or typical. The origins of this expression are not entirely clear, but it likely dates back to at least the 19th century.
One possible explanation for the origin of this idiom is that it comes from the world of commerce and trade. In this context, “as they come” might refer to goods or products that are sold exactly as they were received from the manufacturer or supplier, without any additional processing or refinement. This would imply that such goods are standard and unexceptional.
Another possibility is that “as they come” has its roots in everyday speech patterns. People may have started using this phrase simply because it was an easy way to convey a sense of normalcy or ordinariness. Over time, it became a more widely recognized idiom with its own distinct meaning.
Regardless of its exact origins, “as they come” has become a fixture in modern English usage. It can be found in all sorts of contexts, from casual conversations among friends to formal business meetings and written documents. Understanding the historical context behind this phrase can help us appreciate its significance and use it more effectively in our own communication.
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Usage and Variations of the Idiom “as they come”
When it comes to idioms, there are often variations in how they are used depending on the context. The same can be said for the idiom “as they come”. This phrase is commonly used to describe something or someone that is not exceptional or outstanding in any way, but rather average or ordinary. However, there are also variations of this idiom that can alter its meaning slightly.
One variation of “as they come” is “take them as you find them”. This means that you should accept people or things as they are without trying to change them. Another variation is “take it as it comes”, which means to deal with situations as they arise without worrying about what might happen in the future.
In some cases, “as they come” can also be used in a positive sense. For example, if someone says “I like my friends just as they come”, it means that their friends do not need to change anything about themselves in order to be liked.
Synonyms, Antonyms, and Cultural Insights for the Idiom “as they come”
When it comes to synonyms for “as they come”, there are a few options. One could use phrases like “without any filter” or “with no particular order”. These phrases convey a similar meaning to “as they come” but offer some variety in language choice.
On the other hand, antonyms for “as they come” might include phrases like “meticulously planned” or “in strict order”. These phrases suggest an opposite approach to doing things compared to taking them as they come.
Culturally speaking, the idea of taking things as they come is often associated with a laid-back attitude. In many Western cultures, being able to go with the flow and adapt easily is seen as a positive trait. However, in some Eastern cultures where planning and structure are highly valued, taking things as they come may not be viewed so positively.
Practical Exercises for the Idiom “as they come”
Enhance Your Vocabulary
Put It into Practice
Scenario 1:
You are at work and your boss asks if you can complete a project by tomorrow. You know it’s going to be difficult but instead of making excuses, you say: “I’ll take on the project as they come.”
Scenario 2:
You are planning a trip with friends but one of them is always late. Instead of getting angry, try saying: “Let’s just go as they come.” This means that everyone should arrive when they can and not worry about being punctual.
Scenario 3:
Your friend is worried about an upcoming exam because there is too much material to study. You reassure them by saying: “Don’t worry about it too much, just take each question as they come.”
By practicing these scenarios and using the idiom “as they come” in different situations, you’ll become more comfortable with its usage and feel confident incorporating it into your everyday conversations.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using the Idiom “as they come”
When using idioms, it’s important to understand their meaning and usage in context. The idiom “as they come” is no exception. However, even if you know what the idiom means, there are still common mistakes that people make when using it.
One mistake is using the idiom too often or in inappropriate situations. While “as they come” can be a useful phrase for describing things that are unsorted or unpredictable, it may not always be the best choice of words. Overusing this idiom can also make your speech or writing sound repetitive and dull.
Another mistake is misusing the tense of the verb in relation to “as they come”. For example, saying “I will take them as they came” instead of “I will take them as they come” changes the meaning of the sentence entirely. It’s important to use present tense when referring to something happening now or in future.
Additionally, some people mistakenly use “as they go” instead of “as they come”. These two phrases have different meanings and should not be used interchangeably.
Lastly, it’s important to avoid confusing this idiom with similar ones such as “take things as you find them”. While these idioms share similarities in meaning, each has its own nuances and should be used appropriately.