English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Tasted blood
Meaning
The idiom "tasted blood" means to feel a sense of satisfaction or triumph after achieving something, often at the expense of someone else. It implies a desire for revenge or retribution.
Usage
- The team tasted blood after winning the championship, knowing they had defeated their long-time rivals.
- She tasted blood when she got accepted into her dream school.
- The politician tasted blood after winning the primary election.
- He tasted blood after finding out that his boss had been fired.
- She tasted blood when she heard the news of her friend's breakup. The usage of this idiom can vary depending on the context. It can be used to describe a feeling of satisfaction or triumph in any situation, but it often implies a desire for revenge or retribution.
Roots and History
The origin of the idiom is unclear, but it may have originated from the idea of bloodthirsty animals attacking and killing their prey. In this context, "tasting blood" would refer to the feeling of satisfaction that comes from achieving a goal or winning a battle. Over time, the meaning of the idiom has evolved to include a more metaphorical sense of triumph at the expense of someone else. The idiom may also have been influenced by the idea of blood feuds and vengeance in medieval times.
Synonyms in English
- Tasted victory
- Had a sweet taste in one's mouth
- Had a glow in one's chest
- Felt a thrill up one's spine
- Was elated
Synonyms in other languages
- Spanish: Sentirse orgulloso/a Translation: To feel proud Description: This idiom is often used to describe feeling a sense of triumph or accomplishment, and can be used in a variety of contexts.
- French: Avoir le cœur battant d'orgueil Translation: To have one's heart beating with pride Description: This idiom is similar to "sentirse orgulloso/a" in Spanish and means to feel a sense of pride or accomplishment.
- German: Fühlen wie ein Stier bei der Schlacht gezogen sein Translation: To feel like a bull at the slaughter Description: This idiom is used to describe feeling victorious or triumphant, often in a competitive context.
- Italian: Avere la testa fra i nuvole Translation: To have one's head in the clouds Description: This idiom is often used to describe being lost in thought or daydreaming, but it can also be used to describe feeling elated or triumphant in a situation.
- Portuguese: Sentir-se vencedor/a Translation: To feel like a winner Description: This idiom is similar to "tasted victory" in English and means to feel a sense of accomplishment or success, often in a competitive context.