Common Phrases And Sayings Starting With "U"
Learn English and International Phrases and Sayings
Ultima Ratio Regum
"Ultima ratio regum" is a Latin phrase that translates to "the last argument of kings." It refers to the use of force or military power as a final resort in resolving disputes or conflicts, often when diplomacy and other peaceful means have failed. The phrase encapsulates the idea that war or military action is the ultimate decision-making tool in the hands of rulers when all else fails.
Ulysses S Grant
Ulysses S. Grant was the 18th President of the United States (1869-1877) and a Union General during the American Civil War. His full name was Hiram Ulysses Grant, but due to an error in his application to West Point Military Academy, he was listed as Ulysses S. Grant, which he eventually adopted as his official name. He is known for his military victories against Confederate forces and his efforts to rebuild the country after the war, including support for civil rights for freed slaves.
United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a federation of seven emirates located in the Arabian Gulf. It was founded in 1971 and consists of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Ras Al-Khaimah, and Fujairah. The capital city is Abu Dhabi, while Dubai is the most populous and internationally known city. The UAE has a diverse economy, with a focus on oil, tourism, trade, and finance. It's known for its modern architecture, luxury shopping, and cultural attractions.
United States Of America
The "United States of America" refers to a country located in North America, commonly known as the USA or the United States. It is a federal republic consisting of 50 states, a federal district (Washington, D.C.), and various territories. The country was founded in 1776 with the Declaration of Independence and is known for its democracy, constitution, and cultural diversity.
Unter Den Linden
"Unter den Linden" is a famous boulevard in Berlin, Germany. The phrase translates to "Under the Lime Trees" in English, referring to the linden trees that line the street. It's known for its historical significance, grand buildings, and as a popular tourist destination.
Until Further Notice
"Until further notice" means that something will continue or remain in its current state until a specific point in time when a new announcement or decision is made. It implies that there is no predetermined end date, and the situation will be reevaluated as necessary.
Up And Coming
"Up and coming" refers to someone or something that is rising in popularity, success, or prominence. It often describes a person who is on the verge of becoming successful or well-known in their field, or an area that is developing rapidly and gaining attention.
Up And Down
"Up and down" refers to a movement or change that alternates between two opposite directions, typically vertically. It can also describe fluctuations or variations in a situation, emotion, or condition.
Up And Running
"Up and running" means that something, such as a system, machine, or operation, is functioning or operational. It indicates that it has started working and is now active or in motion.
Up For It
"Up for it" is an informal phrase used to express willingness or enthusiasm to do something, often a challenging or adventurous activity. If someone asks if you're up for it, they're asking if you're ready and willing to participate or try something.
Up In Arms
"Up in arms" is an idiomatic expression that means people are very angry and protesting or taking action against something. It suggests that they are figuratively or literally raising their arms in defiance or preparing to fight.
Up To Date
The phrase "up to date" is an idiomatic expression that means thoroughly modern, current, or in conformity with the latest developments. It refers to something that is accurately reflecting the most recent information, techniques, or trends. For instance, a person who is up to date with the latest technology is well-informed about the most recent advancements and innovations in that field. Similarly, a company that is up to date with changes in their industry is ahead of the competition in terms of innovation and adaptability.
Up To It
"Up to it" means having the willingness, ability, or capacity to do something. It suggests that someone is ready and able to take on a task or challenge.
Up To Now
"Up to now" means until this point in time or currently. It refers to something that has happened or been true up until the present moment.
Up To You
"Up to you" means that the decision or responsibility is in your hands, and it's entirely up to you to choose or determine the outcome.
Upping The Ante
"Upping the ante" means to increase or raise the stakes, effort, or level of something, usually in a competitive situation. It comes from gambling, where adding more money to the pot is called "raising the ante." In a broader context, it refers to intensifying one's commitment or actions to outdo others or achieve a higher level of performance.
Ups And Downs
"Ups and downs" refers to the fluctuating or alternating periods of good and bad times, success and failure, or happiness and sadness in one's life or a situation. It indicates the unpredictable nature of events and emotions that can change over time.
Urbi Et Orbi
"Urbi et orbi" is a Latin phrase that means "to the city and the world." It is a traditional salutation used by the Pope in his Christmas and Easter messages to refer to the global Catholic community. The phrase is a way of addressing all people on earth, emphasizing the Pope's role as the spiritual leader of the worldwide Catholic Church.
Urim And Thummim
"Urim and Thummim" refers to an ancient Hebrew method of divine communication or decision-making, used by the high priest of Israel. It was usually associated with two objects, kept in the breastplate of the high priest, which were used to receive divine guidance or confirmation for important matters. The exact nature and mechanism of these objects remain unclear, but they are often mentioned together in the Old Testament.
Used To Be
"Used to be" is a phrase that indicates something was true or happened in the past but is no longer the case now. It often implies a change or a difference from the present situation. For example, "I used to be a smoker, but I quit five years ago" means the person was a smoker at some point in the past but isn't one now.
Uti Possidetis Juris
"Uti possidetis juris" is a legal principle that, at the end of a conflict or the dissolution of a state, territories and other assets are distributed among the successor states or entities as they existed at the beginning of the conflict or at the time of dissolution. It basically means that what you possess, you keep, ensuring stability and preventing territorial disputes. This principle has been used in various historical contexts, particularly in the breakup of empires or colonies.