Far cry from

Meaning

The idiom "far cry from" is an expression that means something is completely different or opposite from what it appears to be. The phrase implies a significant contrast between two things, often with a negative connotation.

The literal meaning of the idiom is that there is a significant difference between two things. For instance, one may say "this cake is far cry from what I expected." It suggests a gap or chasm between the two things being compared, with the implication that they are vastly different. The figurative meaning of the idiom is that something is not as good or desirable as it appears to be.

Usage

• "She promised me she would never cheat on our relationship again, but it's a far cry from how things used to be between us."
• "I had high hopes for this company, but they're not the shining star I thought they would be- it's a far cry from their promise."
• "His new job is far cry from his previous career, and he's struggling to adapt to the change."
• "She was always a partygoer, but since her husband passed away, she's become much more reserved- it's a far cry from how she used to be."
• "After weeks of training, I expected to excel at this task, but it's a far cry from what I was hoping for." The usage of the idiom can vary depending on the context. For example, it can be used in a negative or positive way, depending on the situation being discussed. Additionally, the degree of difference between two things being compared can also affect the use of the idiom.

Roots and History

The origin of this idiom is not entirely clear, but there are several theories. One theory suggests that the phrase comes from the Old English phrase "fair cry" which means a significant amount or a considerable distance. Another theory suggests that it originated from the medieval practice of calling out to others across long distances using a specific type of whistle known as a "far cry." Over time, the meaning and usage of this idiom have evolved. In contemporary language, it is used more commonly in everyday conversation and has become more informal. Additionally, the phrase has lost some of its original connotation of distance and instead focuses on contrast or difference between two things.

Synonyms in English

• Poles apart
• Like day and night
• Chalk and cheese
• Oil and water
• Night and day

Synonyms in other languages

• Spanish: "Como cielo y tierra" (like heaven and earth)
• French: "Comme chien et chat" (like dog and cat)
• German: "Kastengurken und Hirschknochen" (like turtles and elephants)
• Italian: "Cosa sia e sia non" (something is, something isn't)
• Japanese: "違いあり" (different)

Similar Idioms

• feel the pinch

• fall out

• free spirit