Idioms from Shakespeare

IDIOMS FROM SHAKESPEARE

Two books that, more than any others, have shaped the English language, are the works of William Shakespeare (died 1616), and the King James Bible (published 1611). Let's look at just a few of the hundreds of common expressions created or made popular by Shakespeare. The name of the play follows the explanation.

• All's well that ends well: despite troubles along the way, things usually turn out all right (title of a play)
• I haven't slept a wink: I've been awake all night. (Cymbeline)
• in a pickle: in a difficult spot, or unable to choose between two things (The Tempest)
• Mum's the word: don't say anything except "Mmmmmm…" (Henry VI, Part 2)
• send [someone] packing: to send away in shame (Henry IV, Part I)
• There's method in your madness: what you're doing seems crazy, but in fact you have a plan (paraphrased from a line in Hamlet)
• too much of a good thing: even something or someone you like can become tiresome in large amounts (As You Like It)
• vanish into thin air: to disappear without a trace (used in different forms in Othello and The Tempest)

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