IdiomThe Absurd
English
EnglishRussian roulette
Meaning: Any high-risk activity undertaken needlessly, where disaster may strike without warning.
Example: “Driving without a seatbelt is playing Russian roulette with your life.”
Origin: The phrase originates from an actual deadly game played by Russian soldiers in the 19th century, in which a revolver with a single loaded chamber is spun and fired at the head.
More English idioms
- pull back the curtain To expose a hidden truth or reality behind an appearance.
- present company excepted These remarks do not apply to anyone currently present in this conversation.
- on sufferance Tolerated reluctantly and only because one has no better choice.
- set in stone Unchangeable and permanent, fixed beyond modification.
- friend of Bill W. A recovering alcoholic, especially one in Alcoholics Anonymous.
- wear out one's welcome To overstay one's time as a guest until one's presence becomes unwelcome or burdensome.
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