Dressed to kill

Meaning

This idiom means someone who is attired in an extremely fashionable or chic manner, often to impress others or attend a formal event. The figurative meaning is that the person is wearing something that makes them stand out and turn heads. They may be wearing the latest designer clothing or accessories that are considered trendy and stylish.

Usage

• She was dressed to kill at her friend's wedding, wearing a stunning gown and sparkling jewels.
• The fashion blogger always dressed to impress, showcasing the latest trends in her Instagram posts.
• He walked into the room with confidence, knowing that he was dressed to kill in his sharp suit and tie.
• The ballroom was filled with people dressed to the nines, making it seem like a scene straight out of a fairy tale.
• The fashion show featured models dressed to kill, with their stunning looks and designer clothing on full display.

Roots and History

The idiom "dressed to kill" dates back to the early 1900s and is believed to have originated in Hollywood. In those days, actors and actresses would often wear elaborate costumes and accessories to impress their fans and stand out on the red carpet. Over time, the phrase became associated with wearing something that was both fashionable and eye-catching, and it has since been used to describe anyone who is dressed in a way that makes them stand out from the crowd.

Synonyms in English

Some synonyms for "dressed to kill" include "looking fabulous," "dressed to impress," and "dressed to the nines."

Synonyms in other languages

• French: "habillé(e) pour tuer" - This phrase is similar to "dressed to kill" and means someone who is dressed in an extremely fashionable or chic manner.
• German: "gekleidet, um alles aufzurießen" - This phrase translates to "dressed so beautifully that everything is drawn out" and conveys a similar meaning of being dressed in something that stands out and turns heads.
• Italian: "vestita da uccidere" - This phrase means someone who is dressed in an extremely fashionable or chic manner, often to impress others or attend a formal event.
• Spanish: "vestida para matar" - This phrase translates to "dressed to kill" and conveys the same meaning as the English idiom.
• Mandarin Chinese: "着一身震人" - This phrase means someone who is dressed in a way that captivates or impresses others, often through their sense of style and fashion.

Similar Idioms

• off the cuff

• goose egg

• deja vu