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friend of Bill W.

Meaning: A recovering alcoholic, especially one in Alcoholics Anonymous.

Language: English

Literally: (Already vivid in English)

Category: Daily Life

Origin: A coded reference to Bill Wilson, co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous, used by members as a discreet way to identify others in recovery.

More idioms — Daily Life

  • wear out one's welcome — To overstay one's time as a guest until one's presence becomes unwelcome or burdensome.
  • nothing short of — Absolutely; entirely; completely—nothing less than the full extent of what is stated.
  • live in the past — To be preoccupied with previous events and unable to move forward in life.
  • hammer and tongs — With great vigor and force; in a determined and vigorous manner.
  • in black and white — Stated explicitly and in writing; absolutely clear and unambiguous.
  • string attached — A hidden condition or requirement that makes something less advantageous than it initiall…

More English idioms

  • give up the ghost — To die, or to cease functioning entirely.
  • rhyme or reason — Any logical sense or reasonable explanation.
  • drop in the bucket — A contribution or action so small it is negligible compared to a massive problem.
  • bed of roses — A situation or life that is entirely easy, comfortable, and free from hardship.
  • made in the shade — Assured of comfort, success, or an effortless, favorable position.
  • blow up in one's face — To fail spectacularly or cause a plan to collapse in an embarrassing way.

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