English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Dance to tune
Meaning
The idiom "dance to tune" means to do as you are told or to follow instructions without question. It implies that someone is being controlled or directed by an authority figure or external influence. The figure of speech used in this phrase suggests a person swaying to the rhythm and melody of music, metaphorically implying that they are moving to the tune of others' commands.
Usage
- I always dance to the tune of my boss at work. He has a lot of experience and I trust his judgment.
- My daughter dances to the tune of her mother when it comes to chores around the house. It's her way of showing respect for her authority figure.
- Some politicians have been accused of dancing to the tune of lobbyists and donors in order to gain political power.
- The student studied hard for the exam, but on the day of the test, he danced to the tune of his peers who were cheating and got a high score.
- The new CEO has implemented strict policies that force employees to dance to her tune or risk disciplinary action.
Roots and History
The idiom "dance to tune" has its roots in medieval folklore where dances were often performed during celebrations, festivals, and gatherings. During these performances, musicians would play tunes on their instruments that dancers would follow to show respect and honor to the authority figure or host of the event. Over time, the phrase "dance to tune" became a figurative expression used in everyday language to describe someone who is following instructions without question. There are no known variations of this idiom in different languages.
Synonyms in English
- Follow the rules
- Obey orders
- Be under someone's thumb
- Do as you're told
- Stay within the lines
Synonyms in other languages
- 遵循規則 (Japanese) - to follow rules
- 聽從據識 (Chinese) - to obey orders
- 練習劣狀剎狀的形象 (Arabic) - to become under someone's thumb
- کاتبان تولید کاتبان (Persian) - to follow instructions without question
- فرقه حکمیه شتویه شرعیه (Urdu) - to obey orders