In today’s world, idioms are an essential part of communication. They add color to our language and make it more interesting. One such idiom is “put store by,” which has been in use for centuries. It is a phrase that can be used in various contexts, but its meaning remains the same.
The Meaning of “Put Store By”
“Put store by” means to place importance or value on something or someone. It implies that you hold something or someone in high regard and consider them essential to your life.
Origins of the Idiom
The origin of this idiom is unclear, but it dates back to at least the 16th century when people used it in their daily conversations. Some believe that it may have come from the practice of storing valuable items like food or money in a safe place where they could be protected from theft or damage.
Over time, people began using this phrase metaphorically to express how much they valued certain things or people in their lives. Today, we still use this idiom as a way to convey our appreciation for those who matter most to us.
Origins and Historical Context of the Idiom “put store by”
The idiom “put store by” is a phrase that has been used for centuries in the English language. Its origins can be traced back to the Middle Ages, when people would use it to describe their trust in something or someone. Over time, the phrase evolved and became more commonly used in everyday speech.
During the 17th century, the phrase began to take on a more specific meaning related to commerce. People would use it to describe their reliance on certain goods or products that they believed were of high quality and value. This usage continued into the 18th and 19th centuries as trade expanded across Europe and North America.
Today, “put store by” is still used in modern English but has taken on a broader meaning beyond just commerce. It can now refer to any situation where someone places significant importance or value on something or someone.
Understanding the historical context of this idiom helps us appreciate its evolution over time and how it continues to be relevant today. In fact, many idioms we use today have similar roots dating back hundreds of years!
To summarize, “put store by” is an idiom with deep historical roots related to trust and commerce that has evolved over time into a broader expression of valuing something or someone highly.
Usage and Variations of the Idiom “put store by”
One variation of this idiom is “set great store by,” which emphasizes a stronger sense of value or importance. For example, one might say “I set great store by my family’s traditions” to convey that these traditions hold significant meaning and are highly valued.
Another variation is “place/store stock in,” which puts emphasis on trust or confidence in something. For instance, one might say “I place great stock in my friend’s advice” to express their trust in their friend’s opinions.
In some regions, particularly British English, the phrase may also be shortened to simply “store by.” This abbreviated form still conveys the same meaning as its longer counterpart but may sound more colloquial or informal.
Synonyms, Antonyms, and Cultural Insights for the Idiom “put store by”
One synonym for “put store by” is “place value on.” This phrase suggests that something is important or valuable to us. Other synonyms include “esteem,” “cherish,” and “treasure.” These words all convey a sense of appreciation or admiration for something.
On the other hand, there are also antonyms for “put store by” that suggest a lack of value or importance. For example, we might say that someone “disregards” or “dismisses” something if they don’t consider it worth their time or attention. Similarly, if someone doesn’t care about something at all, we might say they are “indifferent” to it.
Understanding the synonyms and antonyms of an idiom like “put store by” can help us better understand its cultural significance as well. For example, if a particular culture places great value on family relationships, then phrases like this one may be more commonly used than in cultures where individual achievement is prioritized over familial ties.
Practical Exercises for the Idiom “put store by”
Exercise 1: Write a short paragraph about something or someone you “put store by”. Use the idiom in a sentence and explain why this thing or person is important to you.
Example: I really put store by my morning routine. It sets me up for success throughout the day and helps me feel grounded. I take time each morning to meditate, exercise, and eat a healthy breakfast. These activities give me energy and focus that I need to tackle whatever challenges come my way.
Exercise 2: Create a dialogue between two people where one person uses the idiom “put store by” and explains its meaning to the other person who is unfamiliar with it.
Example:
Person A: Hey, have you seen my lucky pen? I can’t find it anywhere.
Person B: Why do you need a lucky pen?
Person A: Well, I always use it when I’m taking tests or filling out important forms. It’s kind of silly, but I put store by it.
Person B: Put what by it?
Person A: Put store by it. It means that something is very important to me and has value beyond its actual worth.
Exercise 3: Write a short story that incorporates the idiom “put store by” in at least one sentence.
Example:
Samantha had always put store by her grandmother’s advice. So when her grandmother told her not to trust anyone who didn’t look her in the eye, Samantha took it to heart. She had been interviewing candidates for a new job all day and noticed that one person in particular kept avoiding eye contact. Despite his impressive resume, Samantha couldn’t shake the feeling that something was off. In the end, she decided not to hire him and felt grateful for her grandmother’s wise words.
By practicing these exercises, you will become more comfortable using the idiom “put store by” in various contexts and gain a deeper understanding of its meaning.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using the Idiom “put store by”
When using idioms, it’s important to understand their meaning and usage. However, even if you know what an idiom means, there are still common mistakes that can be made when using them. This is especially true for the idiom “put store by”, which has a specific context and should not be used in certain situations.
Avoid Using “Put Store By” as a Synonym for “Believe”
One common mistake is using “put store by” as a synonym for “believe”. While they may seem similar, these two phrases have different connotations. “Put store by” implies that you place a lot of importance or trust in something or someone, while “believe” simply means to accept something as true. For example, saying “I put store by my friend’s advice” implies that you highly value your friend’s opinion and will follow their advice closely.
Avoid Using It in Negative Contexts
Another mistake is using this idiom in negative contexts. The phrase itself has positive connotations and should only be used when talking about things or people that are valued or trusted. For example, saying “I don’t put much store by his opinions” implies that you do not value his opinions at all.
- Avoid Overusing the Phrase
- Using the same phrase repeatedly can make your writing sound repetitive and dull.
- Instead of always saying “putting store” try other synonyms such as “placing importance” or “valuing greatly”.