I am trying to find the first use, and/or the number of subsequent occurences of a phrase. [more inside]
posted by CollectiveMind on Sep 11, 2009 - 2 answers

Is there a word or phrase in any language that describes a moment that is so perfect that it makes you sad, either because it will eventually end or because every moment can't be that perfect? How about a word for a moment that is so perfect that "words can't describe it"? Are there any other concepts that are difficult to describe in English, but easy in other languages? [more inside]
posted by aristan on Mar 14, 2009 - 40 answers

This is my question. There are many like it, but this one is mine. [more inside]
posted by als129 on Dec 17, 2008 - 18 answers

Help me speak and write two phrases in Farsi. [more inside]
posted by perissodactyl on Apr 29, 2007 - 2 answers

What is the origin of the phrase, "last, best hope" as used in pretty much every self-consciously significant but ultimately cliched film, book or TV episode I've indulged myself with over the last ten years?
posted by barbelith on Apr 8, 2007 - 18 answers

Is the phrase 'proof, if proof be need be' a Chris Morris coinage? [more inside]
posted by jack_mo on Nov 3, 2006 - 16 answers

Does anyone know where I can find a list online of 500-1000 most common spanish words or phrases, along with their meanings? I searched a bit and found quite a few that had 50 or a 100 approximately, but I want more. I have a Spanish to English dictionary, but I want to print out a quick reference sheet. The list can be words or phrases, it doesnt matter too much.
posted by JokingClown on Apr 24, 2006 - 3 answers

How do you communicate with non-english speakers when playing sports or gaming? [more inside]
posted by soma lkzx on Dec 12, 2005 - 8 answers

It seems that when we Westerners call an event a "kabuki dance," we mean that the event is elaborate but ultimately without substance. Examples: 1, 2. When did this usage arise, and is this unfair to the kabuki art form?
posted by profwhat on Sep 15, 2005 - 8 answers