Common English phrases coined or popularized by Shakespeare and other classic literature, matched with their meaning and source, one phrase per card.
36 cards · basic cards · AI-written, checked twice. Edit anything.
- Break the ice
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To initiate interaction or conversation in an awkward situation. From The Taming of the Shrew.
- Wild goose chase
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A futile or pointless pursuit with little chance of success. From Romeo and Juliet.
- Heart of gold
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A kind and good-hearted person. From Henry V.
- Too much of a good thing
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An excess of something desirable can be harmful or unpleasant. From As You Like It.
- All's well that ends well
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A good or happy ending makes everything worthwhile, regardless of difficulties. From the play of that name.
- Wear your heart on your sleeve
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To openly display your emotions or feelings. From Othello.
- Green with envy
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Intensely jealous or envious. From The Merry Wives of Windsor.
- All the world's a stage
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Life is like a theatrical performance where people play different roles. From As You Like It.
- To be or not to be
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The fundamental existential question about whether life is worth living. From Hamlet.
- Winter of our discontent
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A sad, unhappy, or gloomy period. From Richard III.
- Brave new world
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An exciting but uncertain or unknown new reality or situation. From The Tempest.
- Pound of flesh
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A debt or obligation that is due, especially one paid with difficulty or cruelty. From The Merchant of Venice.
- In a pickle
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In a difficult, awkward, or troublesome situation. From The Tempest.
- Salad days
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A youthful, inexperienced, or carefree time of life. From Antony and Cleopatra.
- Tower of strength
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A reliable, dependable person or thing that provides strong support. From Richard III.