Kamil Perry
The phrase like chalk and cheese is used to describe two people or things that are very different from each other. The phrase, which dates back to 1390, is believed to have been coined by Gower and was first cited in his Middle English text Confessio Amantis. The phrase is used to suggest that two people or things have nothing in common and are as different as apples and oranges.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Meaning | To describe two people or things as completely different from each other |
| Synonyms | Apples and oranges |
| Origin | Coined by Gower in 1390 in the Middle English text "Confessio Amantis" |
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What You'll Learn
- The phrase originates from John Gower's 1390 text, Confessio Amantis
- It is used to describe two people or things that are completely different
- It is similar to the expression 'as alike as two peas in a pod'
- The phrase is short and snappy, with alliteration, which makes it memorable
- It can be used to describe a relationship where two people are very different but accept each other's differences
The phrase originates from John Gower's 1390 text, Confessio Amantis
The phrase "like chalk and cheese" is attributed to John Gower in his 33,000-line Middle English poem, Confessio Amantis, which was completed in 1390. The poem is considered one of the great works of late 14th-century English literature, standing alongside the works of Chaucer, Langland, and the Pearl poet.
Gower's previous works were written in Anglo-Norman French and Latin, but Confessio Amantis is his third long poem written in English. The poem is divided into a prologue and eight books, which are divided thematically. The narrative structure is overlaid with three levels: the external matter, the narrative frame, and the individual tales that make up the bulk of the work.
The phrase "like chalk and cheese" is believed to relate to unscrupulous merchants who would substitute chalk for cheese to increase their profits. Today, the phrase is commonly used to highlight extreme differences between two people or things. For example, one might say, "Our relationship works because we accept that we are chalk and cheese," referring to accepting and embracing differences.
The phrase has endured through the centuries and remains a vivid way to describe contrasting people, things, or situations.
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It is used to describe two people or things that are completely different
The phrase "like chalk and cheese" is used to describe two people or things that are completely different from each other. It is an old expression, with the earliest citation in John Gower's Middle English text "Confessio Amantis", dating back to 1390. The phrase is used to suggest that two people or things have nothing in common and are as different as possible.
For example, in a relationship, a couple may describe themselves as "chalk and cheese" if they have very different personalities or interests, but they accept and embrace these differences. Similarly, the phrase can be used to compare two people who are opposites, such as in the case of comparing two potential partners for someone. In this case, one person may be described as "chalk" (bland and boring) and the other as "cheese" (exciting and interesting).
The phrase can also be used outside of a social context to compare two things that are completely dissimilar. For instance, it can be applied to two opponents or competitors who have contrasting characteristics or strategies. The expression is a way to emphasize the disparity between two entities, indicating that they differ in most, if not all, aspects.
The origin of the phrase is speculated to be rooted in the development of the English language, where a need arose to express the concept of dissimilarity between two things. The choice of "chalk" and "cheese" as the candidates for this phrase may be attributed to their short and snappy nature, as well as the alliteration they create.
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It is similar to the expression 'as alike as two peas in a pod'
The expression "like chalk and cheese" is used to describe two people or things that are very different from each other, indicating a stark contrast or disparity between the two subjects in question. This idiom, which has been around since at least the 14th century, conveys a similar meaning to the expression "as alike as two peas in a pod" but with an opposite implication. While the latter phrase highlights similarity, being "like chalk and cheese" emphasizes dissimilarity and a lack of common ground.
When comparing individuals, the expression "like chalk and cheese" suggests that they possess contrasting personalities, interests, or characteristics. For example, in a romantic context, one might say that a couple is "like chalk and cheese" to imply that their personalities clash or that they have vastly different tastes and preferences. Similarly, in a social context, describing two friends as "like chalk and cheese" could indicate that they have distinct personalities or interests that may surprisingly complement each other, forming an unlikely yet successful duo.
The phrase can also be applied to objects or concepts. For instance, one might compare two books, movies, or art styles as being "like chalk and cheese" to convey that they differ significantly in their themes, aesthetics, or overall execution. This idiom effectively communicates a sense of contrast, whether it's between tangible entities or abstract ideas.
The origin of the expression "like chalk and cheese" can be traced back to the Middle English text "Confessio Amantis," written by John Gower in 1390. The line "Lo, how they feignen chalk for chese" is believed to be the earliest citation of this phrase. Despite various regions in the UK attempting to attribute the phrase's origin to their local chalk and cheese connections, these claims are often considered marketing ploys rather than legitimate etymological explanations.
In summary, the expression "like chalk and cheese" is a well-known idiom that highlights the differences between two people or things, serving as a contrasting counterpart to the expression "as alike as two peas in a pod." Its enduring usage in the English language showcases our need to express the unique and diverse nature of relationships, objects, and ideas we encounter in our daily lives.
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The phrase is short and snappy, with alliteration, which makes it memorable
The phrase "like chalk and cheese" is a memorable idiom used to describe two people or things that are very different from each other. The expression, which dates back to at least 1390, when it appeared in John Gower's Middle English text "Confessio Amantis," has endured due to its concise and catchy nature.
The alliteration in "chalk and cheese" adds to its appeal. The repetition of the initial consonant sound creates a rhythmic flow, making the phrase easy to remember and fun to say. Alliteration is a common feature in idiomatic expressions, such as "hocus-pocus," "the bee's knees," and "riff-raff," where the pleasing sound of the words contributes to their popularity and longevity.
The phrase "like chalk and cheese" is a creative and vivid way to describe contrasting people or things. Its enduring usage over the centuries is a testament to its effectiveness and memorability, with its concise and alliterative nature making it a snappy addition to the English language.
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It can be used to describe a relationship where two people are very different but accept each other's differences
The phrase "like chalk and cheese" is used to describe two people or things that are very different from each other. The phrase, which dates back to at least 1390, implies that the two subjects being compared are as different as possible, like "apples and oranges".
Despite their differences, "chalk and cheese" couples or partnerships can work if both parties are aware of and accept their disparities. For example, in a romantic relationship, one partner might be outgoing and adventurous, while the other is more reserved and home-loving. While these traits are opposite, they can complement each other and create a balanced and harmonious relationship.
In a friendship, one friend might be creative and spontaneous, while the other is logical and structured. Despite their differences, they may share a deep understanding and respect for each other's perspectives, leading to a strong and supportive bond.
In a work setting, "chalk and cheese" colleagues might have contrasting work styles or personalities, but they can still collaborate effectively and even bring out the best in each other. For instance, one person might be highly organized and detail-oriented, while the other is more big-picture focused and creative. By embracing their differences, they can make a great team.
The key to making "chalk and cheese" relationships successful is acknowledging and valuing each other's unique qualities rather than trying to change or conform to one another. This acceptance fosters a sense of mutual respect and appreciation, allowing both individuals to thrive in their distinctiveness.
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Frequently asked questions
The phrase "like chalk and cheese" means that two people or things are very different and have nothing in common.
The phrase was first used in John Gower's Middle English text "Confessio Amantis" in 1390.
The phrase uses "chalk" and "cheese" because they are short and snappy words that alliterate. The English language has many phrases that pair rhyming or alliterating words.
"My brother and I are like chalk and cheese; we have completely different personalities."
