Common Phrases And Sayings Starting With "R"
Learn English and International Phrases and Sayings
Rock N Roll
"Rock and roll" is a style of music that originated in the 1950s in the United States, characterized by strong rhythmic emphasis, significant use of guitar and drums, and often a rebellious, youthful, and energetic vibe. The term "rock and roll" was initially a euphemism for the emerging genre, as it was considered too innately sensual and supposed to appeal to young people, particularly teenagers and youth.
Roman A Clef
"Roman à clef" is a French term that translates to "novel with a key." It refers to a work of fiction in which real people or events are disguised as fictional characters or situations. The "key" is typically the understanding that the reader needs to decipher the hidden meanings and identify the real-life counterparts behind the fictional narrative. This literary technique allows authors to discuss or criticize real events and individuals while maintaining some level of anonymity or protection from legal repercussions.
Roman De Renart
"Roman de Renart" is a medieval French literary work that features a cunning fox named Renart as its main character. It is an episodic collection of tales, often satirical and humorous, which portray the adventures and interactions of animals, each representing human qualities. The stories serve as a form of social commentary and critique on medieval society, politics, and morality.
Roman De Rou
"Roman de Rou" is a historical novel written by the French author Walter Scott. It tells the story of the Norman adventurer and historian Wace, who lived during the 12th century. The title can be translated as "The Romance of Rou" or "The Story of Rou." It focuses on the history of Normandy and the adventures of William the Conqueror and his descendants.
Romeo And Juliet
"Romeo and Juliet" is a famous play written by William Shakespeare. It tells the tragic story of two young lovers from feuding families, the Montagues and Capulets, who fall in love and ultimately meet their demise due to their families' conflict. The phrase "Romeo and Juliet" is often used to refer to a star-crossed or doomed love affair.
Rond De Jambe
"Rond de jambe" is a French term used in ballet, which translates to "circle of the leg" in English. It refers to a movement where the dancer traces a circular path with their leg, either on the ground or in the air, typically while standing on one foot. It's a fundamental exercise that helps develop flexibility, control, and coordination.
Ross Ice Shelf
The Ross Ice Shelf is the largest ice shelf in Antarctica, floating on the Ross Sea. It is a massive sheet of ice about the size of France, and it acts as a barrier for glaciers flowing into the sea. Ice shelves are important because they help regulate the flow of land-based ice into the ocean, which affects global sea levels.
Rouge Croix Pursuivant
"Rouge Croix Pursuivant" is a title or position in the British College of Arms, which is a royal corporation responsible for the regulation of coats of arms and related heraldic matters in England, Wales, and some Commonwealth countries. "Rouge Croix" refers to the red cross, and "Pursuivant" is a term used for a junior officer of arms. So, Rouge Croix Pursuivant is a rank below that of a Herald and above that of an Esquire in the hierarchical structure of the College of Arms. They typically assist in various ceremonial duties and heraldic consultations.
Rough And Tumble
"Rough and tumble" refers to a situation or activity that is chaotic, energetic, and perhaps a bit rough, typically involving physical play or competition. It can also describe a disorderly or rowdy behavior.
Round And Round
"Round and round" typically refers to something moving in a circular motion or going around repeatedly. It can also be used metaphorically to express a situation where something is going in circles, not making progress, or continuing without resolution.
Round Of Applause
"A round of applause" is an expression used to encourage people to clap their hands together repeatedly to show appreciation, approval, or encouragement for someone or something, such as a performance, a speech, or an achievement. It's a way of giving collective praise or recognition.
Royal Albert Hall
The Royal Albert Hall is a concert hall located in London, England. It is a iconic venue known for hosting various cultural events, including classical music concerts, the annual BBC Proms, and other performances. The hall was opened in 1871 and has a distinctive domed roof, making it one of London's most recognizable landmarks.
Royal Dutch Shell
"Royal Dutch Shell" is a multinational oil and gas company headquartered in the Netherlands and incorporated in the United Kingdom. The name combines the titles of its two founding companies: "Royal Dutch," which refers to its Dutch origins, and "Shell," derived from the name of the company founded by Marcus Samuel and his sons, who initially traded in seashells but later moved into the oil business. Today, Royal Dutch Shell is one of the largest oil and energy companies in the world, involved in exploration, production, refining, marketing, and the development of alternative energy sources.
Rozencrantz And Guildenstern
"Rozencrantz and Guildenstern" refers to two characters from William Shakespeare's play "Hamlet." They are friends of the title character, Prince Hamlet, and are often portrayed as somewhat insignificant and bewildered figures caught up in the complex events unfolding around them. The names are typically used together as they are closely associated and have similar roles in the story.
Rub' Al Khali
"Rub'al Khali" is a phrase in Arabic that translates to "Empty Quarter" in English. It refers to the largest continuous sand desert in the world, located in the Arabian Peninsula.
Rub It In
"Rub it in" means to emphasize or draw attention to something, often something unpleasant, in a way that makes someone feel worse about it. It can also refer to the act of deliberately making someone feel more aware of their mistake or misfortune.
Rub Shoulders With
"Rub shoulders with" means to mix or associate with important, influential, or famous people, often implying that one has the opportunity to interact with them personally. It can also suggest experiencing the same social or professional circles as these individuals.
Rule Of Law
The rule of law is a principle that governs a society, stating that everyone, including the government and its officials, must abide by and be subject to the laws of the land. It ensures equality before the law, due process, and the protection of individual rights. No one is above the law, and decisions are made based on established legal principles rather than arbitrary power or influence.
Rule Of Thumb
The phrase "rule of thumb" refers to a general principle or guideline that is based on practical experience rather than strict scientific measurement or exact calculation. It is a rough and approximate method for solving a problem or making a decision. The origin of the phrase comes from carpentry, where a thumb was used as an informal measuring tool, but now it is commonly used in various contexts.
Rumor Has It That
"Rumor has it that" means there are unverified or unsubstantiated reports or whispers about something, suggesting that information is circulating but not necessarily confirmed or true. It's often used to introduce a piece of gossip or hearsay.
Rumour Has It That
"Rumour has it that" is an expression used to introduce a statement or piece of information that is circulating as gossip or hearsay, but whose accuracy may not be confirmed. It suggests that the information comes from unofficial or unreliable sources and implies that there might be some truth to it, but it's not necessarily based on solid facts.
Run Out Of
"Run out of" means to have used up or exhausted a supply of something, so there is none left. For example, "I've run out of coffee - I need to buy more."
Ruse De Guerre
"Ruse de guerre" is a French term that translates to "military deception" or "war trick" in English. It refers to a tactic or strategy used in warfare to deceive or mislead the enemy, often to gain an advantage or to achieve a specific objective. This can include false information, camouflage, decoys, or other methods to create confusion or misinformation.
Rutherford Birchard Hayes
Rutherford Birchard Hayes (1822-1893) was the 19th President of the United States, serving from 1877 to 1881. He was a member of the Republican Party and is often remembered for his efforts to end Reconstruction and remove federal troops from the South, leading to the end of formal reconstruction and the Plessy v. Ferguson Supreme Court decision in 1896, which legitimized segregation.