Common Phrases And Sayings Starting With "D"
Learn English and International Phrases and Sayings
Dab Hand At
A "dab hand at" means to be skilled or proficient in doing something. It implies that someone has a good deal of experience and is adept at a particular task or activity. For example, "She's a dab hand at playing the piano" means she is very skilled or accomplished in playing the piano.
Daddy Long Legs
"Daddy long legs" is a colloquial term for two different types of arachnids, depending on the context:<br><br>1. <strong>Spider</strong>: In some regions, it refers to a type of spider called a "harvestman" (scientific name: Phalangida). These spiders have very long, thin legs and a small, oval body. They are not venomous and generally harmless to humans.<br><br>2. <strong>Crane Fly</strong>: In other contexts, particularly in North America, "daddy long legs" can refer to the crane fly (family Tipulidae), which is a type of insect with a slender body and extremely long legs. They are often mistaken for large mosquitoes, but they do not bite and are mostly harmless.
Dao De Jing
"Dao De Jing" (also spelled "Tao Te Ching") is a classic Chinese text written by Lao Tzu, a central figure in Taoist philosophy. The phrase refers to the core teachings and principles of Taoism, which emphasize living in harmony with the natural flow of the universe, cultivating inner virtue, and practicing non-action or wu Wei. The text consists of 81 short chapters that offer wisdom on governance, personal conduct, and the nature of existence.
Daphne Du Maurier
Daphne du Maurier was a British author and playwright known for her novels, including "Rebecca," "Jamaica Inn," and "My Cousin Rachel." Her works often have elements of mystery, suspense, and gothic fiction, and have been adapted into numerous films and television productions.
Dar El Beida
"Dar el Beida" is a phrase in Arabic that translates to "White House" in English. It is often used to refer to the presidential residence or a significant white building, similar to the White House in Washington D.C., USA.
Dar Es Salaam
"Dar es Salaam" is a city name in Tanzania, which means " Haven of Peace" in Arabic. It was originally a small fishing village and later became the commercial capital and largest city of the country.
Date Of Birth
The phrase "date of birth" refers to the specific day, month, and year when a person was born. It is commonly used for record-keeping, identification, and determining age.
Davy Jones' Locker
"Davy Jones' Locker" is an idiomatic expression that refers to the bottom of the ocean, particularly where ships and their crews are said to sink. It is often used to signify a watery grave or the place where lost or drowned sailors end up. The term comes from maritime folklore, with Davy Jones being a mythical figure who was believed to punish sailors for their misdeeds.
Day After Day
"Day after day" refers to a continuous sequence of days, implying something happening repeatedly or consistently over an extended period of time. It can also convey a sense of monotony or routine.
Day In Day Out
"Day in, day out" is an idiomatic phrase that means "every day" or "on a daily basis". It is often used to describe something that is constant or routine, and is done without variation or interruption.
De Bonis Asportatis
"De bonis asportatis" is a Latin term that refers to assets or goods that have been removed or taken away from someone. In legal contexts, it often pertains to the distribution of property or assets that were taken or seized from an individual, typically after their death. This phrase is associated with inheritance laws and can be related to discussions about how such assets should be handled or divided among heirs.
De Gustibus Non Est Disputandum
"De gustibus non est disputandum" is a Latin phrase that means "there is no accounting for taste." It suggests that people's preferences and tastes are subjective, and it's pointless to argue about them because they differ from one individual to another.
De La Warr
The phrase "de la Warr" is a surname, specifically a variant of the surname "Warre" or "Warren". It is derived from the Old English words "de la" meaning "of the" and "Warre" meaning "warren" or " enclosure". In this context, the surname likely referred to someone who lived near a warren, or a small enclosure for raising rabbits.
De Lege Ferenda
"De lege ferenda" is a Latin phrase that translates to "about the law to be made" or "concerning the law to be established." It is used in legal and philosophical discussions to refer to the analysis, proposal, or debate of potential laws or reforms. It is distinct from "de lege lata," which discusses the current state of the law. In essence, de lege ferenda focuses on what the law should be or how it ought to be changed.
De Lege Lata
"De lege lata" is a Latin phrase that means "according to the law as it stands" or "as the law currently stands." It refers to the interpretation or application of laws as they exist at a particular moment in time, without considering any potential changes or future developments in the legal framework.
De Rerum Natura
"De Rerum Natura" is a Latin phrase that translates to "On the Nature of Things." It is the title of a philosophical poem written by the Roman philosopher Lucretius, which presents the atomic theory and the Epicurean philosophy of nature. The poem explores the nature of reality, the universe, and the principles of existence.
De Temporum Ratione
"De Temporum Ratione" is a Latin phrase that translates to "On the Calculation of Time" or "Concerning the Measurement of Time." It refers to the understanding and reckoning of time, including methods and concepts used to measure and organize it. This phrase could be related to astronomical studies, calendars, or philosophical discussions about the nature of time.
Dead Cat Bounce
"Dead cat bounce" is a term used in finance and investing to describe a temporary recovery in the price of a stock or asset that has been in a significant decline. It refers to the idea that even a dead cat will bounce if it falls from a high enough distance, metaphorically indicating that even the worst-performing assets may show a brief upswing before continuing their downward trend. It's often used to caution investors against assuming a long-term recovery based on a short-term price increase.
Deaf And Dumb
The phrase "deaf and dumb" is an outdated and offensive term that refers to a person who is both deaf and mute. It is considered a pejorative and has been replaced by more neutral and respectful terms, such as "deaf and hard of hearing" or "deafblind."
Dear Sir Or Madam
"Dear Sir or Madam" is a formal salutation used in written communication, typically in business or formal letters. It is an polite way to address an unknown recipient, showing respect without using their specific name.
Debit And Credit
"Debit and credit" refer to two fundamental concepts in accounting and finance. <br><br>Debit refers to an entry in an account that represents a decrease in assets or an increase in liabilities or equity. It is typically used to record payments, expenses, or withdrawals.<br><br>Credit, on the other hand, refers to an entry in an account that represents an increase in assets or a decrease in liabilities or equity. It is often used to record receipts, income, or deposits.<br><br>In a double-entry accounting system, every financial transaction involves both a debit and a credit, ensuring balance in the accounting records.
Deep Vein Thrombosis
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a medical condition in which a blood clot forms in a deep vein, typically in the legs or pelvis. This clot can block the flow of blood, causing swelling, pain, and potentially serious complications if it breaks loose and travels to the lungs.
Delusions Of Grandeur
"Delusions of grandeur" refers to a mental state where a person holds firmly onto false beliefs or illusions of their own importance, greatness, or power. They may believe they have exceptional abilities, a special mission, or are famous, even when these claims are not based in reality. This term is often associated with narcissistic personality disorder or certain psychiatric conditions.
Desmond Mpilo Tutu
Desmond Mpilo Tutu was a prominent South African Anglican cleric and activist who played a key role in the anti-apartheid movement. He was a powerful voice for human rights, reconciliation, and social justice. Tutu won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1984 for his work in opposing apartheid and later chaired the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which aimed to heal and unite South Africa after the end of apartheid. He is known for his charismatic leadership, wit, and unwavering commitment to equality and forgiveness.
Deus Ex Machina
A deus ex machina is a plot device that is used to resolve the conflicts in a story by introducing a new character, event, or object from outside the narrative that is not adequately motivated or explained within the story itself. The term "deus ex machina" is Latin for "god from the machine," and it comes from ancient Greek theater, where actors portraying gods would be lowered onto the stage from above to resolve conflicts in tragic plays.<br><br>In modern storytelling, a deus ex machina is often criticized for being an unsatisfying and unearned resolution to a plot. It can feel like a cheating or lazy way to wrap up the story, as it contradicts the internal logic of the narrative and doesn't provide a sense of closure or justice for the characters.<br><br>For example, if a hero is struggling to defeat the villain in a battle, but then a magical artifact suddenly appears out of nowhere to help the hero win, this would be a deus ex machina. The artifact's introduction would not be motivated by the events of the story, and it would feel like an unsatisfying and unearned solution to the conflict.
Did You Have A Good
The phrase "did you have a good" is an incomplete sentence and seems to be missing the rest of the question. Typically, it would be followed by a word or phrase to specify what the speaker is asking about. For example, "Did you have a good day?" or "Did you have a good meal?" The phrase is used to inquire if the person being asked experienced something positively.
Did You Try
The phrase "did you try" is a question asking if someone has attempted or tested something. It is often used to inquire about an action or effort made in a specific situation.
Dido And Aeneas
"Dido and Aeneas" refers to a tragic love story from ancient Roman mythology. Dido was the queen of Carthage, and Aeneas was a Trojan hero. After the fall of Troy, Aeneas arrived in Carthage and they fell in love. However, Aeneas was destined to found Rome and left Dido, leading her to commit suicide out of grief. The story has been retold in various works of literature, most famously in William Shakespeare's "The Tragedy of Julius Caesar" and Henry Purcell's opera "Dido and Aeneas."
Diem Ex Dei
"Die mi-ex dei" is the reversal of "iedi" which is Italian for "heavenly or divine". So, "diem ex dei" could be translated to "out of heaven or out of the divine".
Dien Bien Phu
"Dien Bien Phu" refers to a significant historical event in which the Vietnamese army, led by Ho Chi Minh, defeated the French colonial forces in a decisive battle from March to May 1954. The battle took place in Dien Bien Phu, a valley in northwestern Vietnam. It marked the end of the First Indochina War and led to the withdrawal of French forces from the region. The victory is considered a major turning point in Vietnam's struggle for independence.
Dietrich Von Choltitz
Dietrich von Choltitz was a German general during World War II. He is best known for his role as the military governor of Paris towards the end of the war. Despite orders from Adolf Hitler to destroy the city, von Choltitz refused and is credited with saving Paris from major destruction when the Allies liberated it in 1944.
Dieu Et Mon Droit
"Dieu et mon droit" is a phrase that serves as the royal motto of the British monarch. It translates to "God and my right" in English. The motto signifies the monarch's belief in their divine right to rule and their authority backed by God's will.
Dirk Hartog Island
Dirk Hartog Island is a reference to an island located off the west coast of Australia. It is named after Dutch explorer Dirk Hartog, who was the first European to land there in 1616. The island holds historical significance as it marks an important event in the early exploration of Australia.
Dirty Old Man
"Dirty old man" is a slang term used to describe an older man who is perceived as being sexually inappropriate or predatory towards younger individuals, often making lewd comments or engaging in unwanted advances. The term implies that the man has lascivious intentions and is not respected for his behavior.
District Of Columbia
The District of Columbia, also known as Washington, D.C., is the capital city of the United States. It is not a state but a federal district created by the U.S. Constitution to serve as the seat of the federal government. The name "District of Columbia" refers to the district that was named in honor of Christopher Columbus. It is located on the east coast of the country, bordered by the states of Maryland and Virginia.
Divide And Conquer
"Divide and conquer" is a strategy that involves breaking down a large, complex task or problem into smaller, more manageable parts or groups, and then addressing each part separately to achieve victory or control more easily. It can also refer to a political or social tactic where an authority splits a unified group to weaken their power or cohesion.