IdiomThe Absurd
English
Englishrhyme or reason
Meaning: Any logical sense or reasonable explanation.
Example: “The office seating chart has no rhyme or reason to it.”
Equivalents in other languages
Italian: senza capo né coda Literally: Without head nor tail
French: Sans queue ni tête Literally: Without tail or head
Origin: The phrase draws from the idea of narrative coherence: something that neither rhymes (has pattern) nor has reason (has sense) is utterly nonsensical.
More English idioms
- 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.
- back up the truck To make a large purchase by taking advantage of a favorable price.
- haul someone over the coals To scold or reprimand someone severely for wrongdoing.
- make a fist of To accomplish something with reasonable competence or success.
Explore another collection: Compliments & Insults
Compliments and insults from around the world, from the sweet to the savage.
- Sei un fenomeno You're amazing — exceptionally good at what you do.
- Eres la leche You're the best — absolutely fantastic.
- Eline sağlık Praise and thanks to someone — especially a cook — for something made beautifully by hand.
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