get your goat
Have you ever heard someone say, “That really gets my goat!”? This phrase, often used in frustration or annoyance, may seem like a strange way to express one’s feelings. However, the origins of this phrase can be traced back to the world of horse racing and have a much deeper meaning than what meets the eye. In this article, we will dive into the history of “getting one’s goat” and explore its various uses and interpretations.
Origin of the Phrase
The first recorded use of the phrase “get your goat” can be traced back to the late 19th century in the United States. The term was used to describe the practice of placing a companion animal, such as a goat, in the stall of a racehorse to keep it calm. Racehorses are high-strung animals, and having a calm and steady companion in the stall next to them would help to keep them focused and relaxed before a race.
However, some unscrupulous trainers would remove the goat from the stall of a rival’s horse the night before a race, causing the horse to become agitated and unsettled. This would, in turn, affect their performance on the track, giving an unfair advantage to the trainer who had “got their goat.” This devious tactic was known as “stealing someone’s goat” and became a popular phrase among horse racing enthusiasts.
Other Interpretations
While the phrase’s origins can be traced to the world of horse racing, it has evolved over time and taken on various interpretations. One popular interpretation is that the phrase refers to the old practice of using a goat as a calming companion for nervous racehorses. In this context, “getting one’s goat” would mean to disrupt or annoy someone’s sense of calm and composure.
Another interpretation suggests that the phrase originated from the French phrase “prendre la chevre,” which translates to “take the goat.” This phrase was used to describe the frustration and anger a bullfighter would feel when a bull would attack and injure their horse, or “chevre.” Over time, this phrase may have evolved into “getting one’s goat” to describe a situation that causes frustration or anger.
Uses in Popular Culture
The phrase “get your goat” has become a popular idiom in both British and American English and is used in a variety of contexts. In the 1920s, American comedian and actor W.C. Fields famously used the phrase in his films, adding to its popularity. It has also been used in popular songs, such as the 1966 hit “Get Your Goat” by The Parliaments and the 1986 song “I Can’t Get Your Goat” by The Rainmakers.
In literature, the phrase has been used in various works, including Mark Twain’s “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” and William Faulkner’s “The Reivers.” It has also been used in plays, such as Tennessee Williams’ “A Streetcar Named Desire” and Eugene O’Neill’s “Long Day’s Journey Into Night.”
Modern-Day Usage
In modern-day usage, the phrase “get your goat” is used to describe a situation that causes frustration, annoyance, or anger. It can be used in a playful manner among friends or in a more serious context to describe a situation that has caused significant distress. For example, if someone is constantly interrupting you while you are trying to work, you may say, “They really know how to get my goat!”
It can also be used to describe a person who consistently annoys or frustrates you. For instance, if your coworker always takes credit for your ideas, you may say, “They really get my goat.” In this context, the phrase is used to describe a person’s actions rather than a specific situation.
“Get your goat” can also be used to describe a situation that has caused significant loss or damage. For example, if someone’s car is stolen, they may say, “That really got my goat!” In this context, the phrase is used to express a sense of helplessness and frustration caused by the unfortunate incident.
Alternative Phrases
While “get your goat” is a popular phrase, there are also other similar expressions that can be used in its place. For instance, “get on someone’s nerves” and “get under someone’s skin” are both idiomatic expressions used to describe a situation or person that causes irritation or annoyance. These phrases have a similar connotation to “get your goat” and can be used interchangeably in many contexts.
Another alternative is the phrase “get someone’s back up,” which is used to describe a situation that has caused someone to become angry or defensive. This phrase can also be used in place of “get your goat” when describing a person’s actions rather than a specific situation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the phrase “get your goat” may seem like a strange expression, but its origins can be traced back to the world of horse racing. Over time, it has evolved into a popular idiom used to describe a situation or person that causes frustration, annoyance, or anger. Its usage has expanded beyond the world of horse racing and can be found in various forms of popular culture.
Whether used in a lighthearted or serious context, “get your goat” has become a part of our everyday vocabulary. So the next time someone says, “That really gets my goat,” you’ll know the deeper meaning behind the phrase and its rich history.
canadian slang insults
Canada is a land known for its breathtaking landscapes, friendly people, and delicious maple syrup. But don’t be fooled by the politeness of Canadians, they have a unique slang language that can be both endearing and insulting. In this article, we will explore the world of Canadian slang insults, from the west coast to the east coast.
1. Hoser
Originating from the popular Canadian TV show “SCTV,” hoser is a term used to describe someone who is a bit of a goof or a loser. It is often used in a humorous way, but can also be used to insult someone’s intelligence or work ethic. For example, “Don’t be such a hoser, get back to work!”
2. Knob
This term is used to describe someone who is unpleasant or rude. It can also refer to someone who is not very bright or lacks common sense. For example, “Did you hear what he said? What a knob!”
3. Lumberjack
In Canada, lumberjacks are known for their strength and tough exterior. So, calling someone a lumberjack can be seen as a compliment. However, it can also be used as an insult to describe someone who is big and clumsy. For example, “Watch out, you lumberjack!”
4. Two-four
This slang term refers to a case of 24 beers, which is a popular size for buying beer in Canada. It is often used to describe someone who is a heavy drinker or someone who parties too much. For example, “He’s been drinking a two-four every weekend, he needs to slow down.”
5. Loonie
A loonie is the nickname for the Canadian one-dollar coin. This term is often used to describe someone who is crazy or eccentric. For example, “Did you see the way he was dancing? He’s a real loonie.”
6. Toque
A toque is a knit hat that is popular in Canada, especially during the cold winter months. This term can be used as an insult to describe someone who is not very bright or lacks common sense. For example, “He can’t even figure out how to put on a toque, he must be really stupid.”
7. Timbit
Timbits are bite-sized doughnuts sold at the popular Canadian coffee chain, Tim Hortons. This term can be used to describe someone who is small or insignificant, similar to the size of a Timbit. For example, “He’s just a Timbit, he doesn’t have any influence in the company.”
8. Canuck
Canuck is a term used to describe a Canadian. While it is not necessarily an insult, it can be used in a derogatory manner by non-Canadians. For example, “I can’t believe those Canucks beat us in hockey again.”
9. Hosier
Similar to hoser, hosier is another term used to describe someone who is a bit of a goof or a loser. It is often used in a more playful manner, but can still be used to insult someone. For example, “You’re such a hosier, always making silly jokes.”
10. Newfie
Newfie is a term used to describe someone from the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. While it is not necessarily an insult, it can be used in a derogatory manner by non-Newfoundlanders. It is often used to portray someone as being unintelligent or backward. For example, “Don’t mind him, he’s just a Newfie.”
11. Poutine
Poutine is a popular Canadian dish made of french fries, cheese curds, and gravy. This term can be used to describe someone who is messy or unorganized, similar to the ingredients of poutine. For example, “Look at your messy desk, it’s like a poutine.”
12. Chesterfield
Chesterfield is a Canadian term for a couch or sofa. It is often used to describe someone who is lazy or spends a lot of time lounging on the couch. For example, “He’s been on the chesterfield all day, he needs to get up and do something.”
13. Chinook
Chinook is a warm wind that blows from the Rocky Mountains into the Canadian prairies. This term can be used to describe someone who is full of hot air or talks a lot but says nothing of value. For example, “He’s just a chinook, always talking but never saying anything important.”
14. Puck bunny
In Canada, hockey is a popular sport, and a puck bunny is someone who is only interested in dating hockey players. This term can be used to describe someone who is shallow or only interested in a person’s status. For example, “She’s just a puck bunny, she doesn’t care about him, she just wants to date a hockey player.”
15. Back bacon
Back bacon is a type of bacon that is popular in Canada. This term can be used to describe someone who is fake or phony, similar to the fake bacon. For example, “I don’t trust him, he’s as fake as back bacon.”
16. Igloo
Igloos are traditional Inuit homes made of snow and ice. This term can be used to describe someone who is cold or emotionless. For example, “She never shows any emotions, she’s like an igloo.”
17. Snowbird
A snowbird is a Canadian who migrates to a warmer climate during the winter months. This term can be used to describe someone who is old or retired. For example, “He’s a snowbird now, he spends his winters in Florida.”
18. Beavertail
Beavertails are a popular Canadian pastry that is shaped like a beaver’s tail. This term can be used to describe someone who is lazy or slow-moving. For example, “Come on, don’t be such a beavertail, we’re going to be late.”
19. Soaker
In Canada, a soaker refers to a heavy rainstorm. This term can be used to describe someone who is in a bad mood or easily angered. For example, “Watch out, he’s in a real soaker mood today.”
20. Biffy
Biffy is a slang term for an outhouse or portable toilet. This term can be used to describe someone who is uncultured or unrefined. For example, “He’s never been outside of his small town, he’s a real biffy.”
In conclusion, Canadian slang insults may seem harmless, but they can still pack a punch. From hoser to biffy, these terms may be unique to Canada, but their impact is universal. So the next time you’re in Canada, make sure to watch your words, or you may just find yourself on the receiving end of a Canadian insult.
kids mode galaxy s5
The Samsung Galaxy S5 was first released in April 2014, and it quickly became one of the most popular smartphones on the market. With its sleek design, powerful performance, and innovative features, it’s no wonder that the Galaxy S5 has stood the test of time. One of the standout features of this device is its “Kids Mode,” which is designed specifically for parents and their children. In this article, we will take a closer look at Kids Mode on the Samsung Galaxy S5 and explore its various features and benefits.
What is Kids Mode?
Kids Mode is a feature on the Samsung Galaxy S5 that allows parents to create a safe and child-friendly environment for their children to use their smartphones. It essentially transforms the device into a kid-friendly device, with a simplified interface and curated content that is appropriate for young children. With Kids Mode, parents can let their children use their Galaxy S5 without worrying about them accessing inappropriate content or making unauthorized purchases.
How to Set Up Kids Mode on the Galaxy S5
Setting up Kids Mode on the Galaxy S5 is a quick and easy process. First, you need to open the Kids Mode app, which can be found in your app drawer or by swiping down from the top of your screen and searching for it. Once the app is open, you will be prompted to create a PIN code, which will be used to access Kids Mode. This PIN code is essential, as it will prevent your child from exiting Kids Mode and accessing the rest of your phone’s content.
After creating a PIN, you will be taken to the Kids Mode home screen, where you can add apps and content for your child to access. You can also customize the background and theme to make it more appealing to your child. Additionally, you can set a time limit for how long your child can use Kids Mode, making it easier to manage their screen time.
Features of Kids Mode
There are several features of Kids Mode that make it a valuable addition to the Galaxy S5. One of the most significant features is the ability to restrict access to certain apps and content. Parents can select which apps their child can use, ensuring that they are only accessing age-appropriate content. Additionally, there is a built-in browser that only allows access to a list of approved websites, giving parents peace of mind that their child is not browsing the internet unsupervised.
Another useful feature of Kids Mode is the ability to set a timer for how long your child can use the device. This feature is especially helpful for parents who want to limit their child’s screen time and prevent them from becoming too reliant on technology. Once the set time is up, Kids Mode will automatically lock, and your child will be unable to access it until the next day.
Curated Content
One of the most significant benefits of using Kids Mode on the Galaxy S5 is the curated content. Samsung has partnered with top brands to provide a wide range of content, including games, videos, and educational apps. This content is handpicked by experts and is specifically designed for children. It’s a great way to keep your child entertained while also providing them with educational and age-appropriate content.
Parental Controls
In addition to restricting access to apps and content, Kids Mode also has various parental controls that allow parents to monitor their child’s usage. Parents can view their child’s activity within Kids Mode, including which apps they have used and for how long. They can also set a daily playtime limit and adjust the content available to their child. Parents can also choose to receive a daily report of their child’s activity, giving them a better understanding of their child’s screen time habits.
Customization Options
Kids Mode on the Galaxy S5 offers a wide range of customization options, allowing parents to tailor the experience to their child’s preferences. Parents can choose from various themes and backgrounds, making the interface more visually appealing to their child. They can also add their child’s name to the home screen, making it feel more personalized.
Parental Lock
As mentioned earlier, Kids Mode requires a PIN code to exit, ensuring that your child cannot access the rest of your phone without your permission. This feature is essential as it prevents accidental purchases or your child accidentally deleting important files or apps on your device. It also adds an extra layer of security to your phone, giving you peace of mind that your child cannot access sensitive information.
Frequent Updates
Samsung is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for children using Kids Mode. As such, they regularly update the app with new features and content. This means that there will always be something new and exciting for your child to explore in Kids Mode.
In-App Purchases
While Kids Mode is free to use, there are some in-app purchases available for additional content. However, these purchases require a separate PIN code, so your child cannot make unauthorized purchases. This feature is especially beneficial for parents who want to avoid any surprise charges on their credit card.
Limitations of Kids Mode
While Kids Mode offers many benefits for parents and their children, there are some limitations to keep in mind. Firstly, Kids Mode is only available on the Samsung Galaxy S5 and a few other Samsung devices. This means that if you have a different smartphone, you won’t be able to access Kids Mode. Additionally, Kids Mode is only suitable for children up to the age of 10, as the content may not be challenging or engaging enough for older children.
Conclusion
Kids Mode on the Samsung Galaxy S5 is an excellent feature for parents who want to ensure their child’s safety while using a smartphone. With its parental controls, curated content, and customization options, Kids Mode offers a safe and enjoyable experience for children. While it does have some limitations, it remains a valuable addition to the Galaxy S5, making it a popular choice for parents looking for a child-friendly device.