English Idioms

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Stone’s throw

stone’s throw

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"Stone's Throw" Idiom

The idiom "stone's throw" refers to a short distance or close proximity. It is derived from the literal meaning of throwing a stone and hitting something within reach. The term suggests that someone is within shouting range or can easily catch something if thrown. The figurative meaning of the phrase is used in conversations when referring to a specific location, event, or time frame that is easily accessible or close by.

Usage

  • "I'm just around the corner from the store, it's only a stone's throw away." - This sentence suggests that the person is very close to the store and can easily walk there.
  • "The concert was last night, it was just a stone's throw away from my home." - This sentence means that the concert was located nearby and within reach.
  • "I need to run to the bank before they close. It's only a stone's throw away." - In this context, the person is saying that they are very close to the bank and can easily walk there.
  • "The park is just a stone's throw away from my apartment complex." - This sentence means that the park is located near the apartment complex.
  • "I need to file my taxes by tomorrow. It's only a stone's throw away in time." - The person is saying that the deadline for filing taxes is very close and they need to get started on it soon.

Roots and History

The idiom "stone's throw" dates back to ancient times when people used stones for various purposes, including throwing them as projectiles. In literature, the phrase has been used since the 16th century in poems and stories to describe a short distance or proximity. The idiom's usage has remained relatively consistent throughout history, but its contextual meaning may vary depending on the era and cultural background of the speaker.

Synonyms in English

  • Close by
  • Within reach
  • Nearby
  • Easy to get to
  • Simple access

Synonyms in other languages

  • Spanish: "A corta distancia" - Meaning "short distance" or "within reach".
  • French: "À portée de main" - Meaning "within reach" or "close by".
  • German: "Innerhalb der Entfernung" - Meaning "within range" or "close proximity".
  • Italian: "A poca distanza" - Meaning "short distance" or "within reach".
  • Dutch: "Binnen bereik" - Meaning "within reach" or "close by".

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