It’s a Horse a Piece – What Does it Mean?
As you would have guessed, “a horse apiece” refers to “more or less equal” or “six of one, half a dozen of the other.” The expression “a horse apiece” was first encountered by field researchers for The Dictionary of American Regional English (DARE) in 1980, but it is unquestionably far older.Whenever we hear the phrase “It’s a Horse a Piece,” it doesn’t always mean buying one is a good idea. It might be a very bad idea!
Origin
‘It’s a horse apiece’ is an archaic colloquialism. It originated from an old dice game called “horse,” It is used to indicate two things are equally valued.
The first documented use of “A horse apiece” was 1779. It was recorded in the St. Paul Daily Globe newspaper. The phrase was also used in a song in the 1930s titled, ‘Don’t spare the horses.’
The most common places in America where the phrase is most commonly used are Wisconsin and Minnesota. In the midwest, the term is often used in Bar Dice games.
There are several theories as to the origin of this idiom. It is thought that it may have originated in the horse racing industry.
The racing industry was a source of betting tips for the public. People in the industry believed they knew which horses were the best, and they would tell the public about them.
The horse was an ancient symbol of hard work. Many horses had pedigrees that listed their color at birth. If a stallion was black, it was a dark horse.
Another theory is that it is derived from the habit of horse playing. The horse would chew at the bit when it was anxious or ready to go. This is similar to the figurative meaning of “champing at the bit.”
During the American Civil War, the phrase was used to refer to changing horses while crossing a river. However, it could also mean expecting a job from someone who has already been paid.
“A horse apiece” is the word most popular in the United States, but it is still used in various regions. It is mostly used in English-speaking countries. However, the expression is also used in various regions, including the upper Midwest and Minnesota.
It is also said to be based on a band album titled, ‘Yellow Jack.’ In addition, the slogan, ‘it’s a horse apiece,’ is often found on t-shirts.
The phrase is also a synonym for ‘going to the restroom.’ The reason for this is that the words have a similar etymology. As you would have guessed, “a horse apiece” refers to “more or less equal” or “six of one, half a dozen of the other.” The expression “a horse apiece” was first encountered by field researchers for The Dictionary of American Regional English (DARE) in 1980, but it is unquestionably far older. “Horse and horse” is a comparable expression that first appeared at least in 1846.
According to DARE, the phrase “a horse apiece” may have originated from the classic dice game “horse,” in which two players are referred to as “a horse apiece” if they have both lost a turn. Or it might just be a shortened form of “horse and horse,” which refers to two horses racing side by side down a racetrack.
Sense of the Phrase
‘It’s a horse a piece’ is a phrase that is said in many parts of the United States. It’s most commonly found in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and North Dakota.
‘Horse’ is an animal that is known for its strength and robustness. They normally eat between 1.5 and 2 percent of their body weight each day. The age of a horse is determined by its teeth. The younger the horse, the more accurate the estimate.
‘Horse a piece’ is a proverb that is used in midwest Bar Dice games. The logic is that if two players lose their turns, the player with the ‘horse’ is the winner. It is also a compliment. The person who has the ‘horse’ is not in a hurry. The expression is often found on t-shirts.
It is also believed that the saying came from Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night.” The saying can be traced back to the 16th century.
It is usually considered a compliment and is a remark on the ability of a person to make good decisions. However, it can also mean that a situation cannot be forced upon a person.
Another possible origin is the siege of Troy in Greek mythology. The siege took place in 1250 BC, and the Greeks wanted to take the city. The city had a strong wall and a horse that was built inside the wall. The horse was a gift to the people of Troy. The soldiers on the horse opened the gates for the army.
In the late 18th century, riding a horse that was too high became an insult. It was a common practice for hunters to hide behind horses that had been trained to stalk.
The phrase has also been used in the horse racing industry. The personnel in this industry believed they knew which horses were the best. As a result, they were able to provide the public with betting tips.
“Horse a piece” is also common in the United Kingdom. It is thought to be a metaphor for a healthy horse. It also suggests that something is worth more than it seems.
Similar Expressions
Originally a phrase meaning that two things are equal in every way, “it’s a horse a piece” has come to mean that there is no need to be worried. It is a slang expression that has gained widespread popularity across the United States.
There are several theories about how the phrase originated. One theory is that the phrase originated from gambling jargon. Another is that the phrase was invented to describe formulaic western movies. Still, another relates to the siege of Troy in Greek mythology.
The phrase is often used in the midwest, particularly in the areas where heavy drinking is prevalent. The expression is also often used in games such as Bar Dice, which is similar to poker. This is a game where each player rolls a die to determine their turn. They must make a new roll and pay for their drinks if they lose.
The most common locations to hear this expressions are Minnesota and Wisconsin. However, it is not uncommon to find people in North Dakota and other regions that say it, as well.
The original expression was recorded in the St. Paul Daily Globe newspaper in 1893. An article about the president of France accompanied it. It is said to be one of the first occurrences of the idiom.
While the origin of the phrase has not yet been confirmed, it is thought that the saying originated in the late 18th century. Maria’s statement may have inspired it in Act II, Scene 3 of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night: “my purpose is, indeed, a horse of that color.”
It is unclear whether “it’s a horse apiece” means something. Some believe it refers to a small town with a lot of complaints. Others believe it means that two things are equally important. The idiom is not only fun, and it can help you learn some new vocabulary and etymology.
Although many other idioms relate to horses, the most important is probably “hold your horses.” This slang expression is usually accompanied by the phrase “not to beat a dead horse.” Therefore, this etymology is probably the most likely.
Example sentences
Known mostly in the US, the phrase “it’s a horse apiece” is used to make two things equal in every aspect. The meaning can also be translated as “more or less equal.”
This idiom can be used in a variety of contexts. For example, it can be used to refer to a situation in which there are two players who are both losing turns. It can also be used to refer to situations where there are equal solutions to problems.
The earliest known documented use of the phrase was in 1779. It is believed that it was derived from a comment made by Maria in Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night. In that play, Maria tells the other characters, “my purpose is, indeed, a horse of that color.” The idiom is believed to have originated from this statement and to have evolved into its current form.
In the 16th century, the word “horse” was often used to describe something that was big, coarse, and strong. It was also used as a synonym for horseradish. Eventually, the word horse was adopted to refer to rough play.
The phrase “it’s a horse ‘apiece'” is also related to the game of Bar Dice, which is similar to poker. In this game, each player has the opportunity to make a bet on whether a specific outcome will occur. If a player wins, they get a dollar; if they lose, they are required to pay a dollar.
The phrase has been adapted to several regions and is still widely used. It is especially common in the United States, where Minnesota, Wisconsin, and North Dakota are located. However, it is also used in various regions of the United Kingdom and Ireland.
Although the phrase is not offensive, it does have a very informal tone. As a result, it can be used in a variety of contexts, and it can be used to demonstrate a character’s belief in their own information. It can also be used in a narrator’s description of a scene.
While the word horse can be used to indicate any animal, the term dark horse refers to a particular type of unexpected skill. It is also used in reference to a team.
FAQ’s
What does it mean to say I will be there with bells on?
I or we “will be there with bells on” denote enthusiastic attendance or an outward display of celebration.
What does the phrase talk to a man about a horse?
Verb. (idiomatic, euphemistic) (idiomatic, euphemistic) used in place of a genuine justification when requesting a brief leave of absence, especially to use the restroom. In two shakes of a lamb’s tail, I’ll be back. I simply need to go the restroom to watch a man talking to a horse.
Where did the expression talk to a man about a horse come from?
In the play Flying Scud by Dion Boucicault from 1866, a character purposefully walks past a challenging circumstance and says, “Excuse me Mr. Quail, I can’t stop; I’ve got to meet a man about a dog.”
What is the famous line of horse?
A horse can give its rider the speed and strength they need, but a good rider knows that it is only a loan. Your heart sings the song as his hooves pound the ground.
What does calling someone a horse mean?
a huge, strong, respected, and reliable person, typically a man; one who is large like a horse. (Southern US, slang) Pronunciation spelling of horse.
It’s a Horse a Piece – What Does it Mean?
As you would have guessed, “a horse apiece” refers to “more or less equal” or “six of one, half a dozen of the other.” The expression “a horse apiece” was first encountered by field researchers for The Dictionary of American Regional English (DARE) in 1980, but it is unquestionably far older.Whenever we hear the phrase “It’s a Horse a Piece,” it doesn’t always mean buying one is a good idea. It might be a very bad idea!
Origin
‘It’s a horse apiece’ is an archaic colloquialism. It originated from an old dice game called “horse,” It is used to indicate two things are equally valued.
The first documented use of “A horse apiece” was 1779. It was recorded in the St. Paul Daily Globe newspaper. The phrase was also used in a song in the 1930s titled, ‘Don’t spare the horses.’
The most common places in America where the phrase is most commonly used are Wisconsin and Minnesota. In the midwest, the term is often used in Bar Dice games.
There are several theories as to the origin of this idiom. It is thought that it may have originated in the horse racing industry.
The racing industry was a source of betting tips for the public. People in the industry believed they knew which horses were the best, and they would tell the public about them.
The horse was an ancient symbol of hard work. Many horses had pedigrees that listed their color at birth. If a stallion was black, it was a dark horse.
Another theory is that it is derived from the habit of horse playing. The horse would chew at the bit when it was anxious or ready to go. This is similar to the figurative meaning of “champing at the bit.”
During the American Civil War, the phrase was used to refer to changing horses while crossing a river. However, it could also mean expecting a job from someone who has already been paid.
“A horse apiece” is the word most popular in the United States, but it is still used in various regions. It is mostly used in English-speaking countries. However, the expression is also used in various regions, including the upper Midwest and Minnesota.
It is also said to be based on a band album titled, ‘Yellow Jack.’ In addition, the slogan, ‘it’s a horse apiece,’ is often found on t-shirts.
The phrase is also a synonym for ‘going to the restroom.’ The reason for this is that the words have a similar etymology. As you would have guessed, “a horse apiece” refers to “more or less equal” or “six of one, half a dozen of the other.” The expression “a horse apiece” was first encountered by field researchers for The Dictionary of American Regional English (DARE) in 1980, but it is unquestionably far older. “Horse and horse” is a comparable expression that first appeared at least in 1846.
According to DARE, the phrase “a horse apiece” may have originated from the classic dice game “horse,” in which two players are referred to as “a horse apiece” if they have both lost a turn. Or it might just be a shortened form of “horse and horse,” which refers to two horses racing side by side down a racetrack.
Sense of the Phrase
‘It’s a horse a piece’ is a phrase that is said in many parts of the United States. It’s most commonly found in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and North Dakota.
‘Horse’ is an animal that is known for its strength and robustness. They normally eat between 1.5 and 2 percent of their body weight each day. The age of a horse is determined by its teeth. The younger the horse, the more accurate the estimate.
‘Horse a piece’ is a proverb that is used in midwest Bar Dice games. The logic is that if two players lose their turns, the player with the ‘horse’ is the winner. It is also a compliment. The person who has the ‘horse’ is not in a hurry. The expression is often found on t-shirts.
It is also believed that the saying came from Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night.” The saying can be traced back to the 16th century.
It is usually considered a compliment and is a remark on the ability of a person to make good decisions. However, it can also mean that a situation cannot be forced upon a person.
Another possible origin is the siege of Troy in Greek mythology. The siege took place in 1250 BC, and the Greeks wanted to take the city. The city had a strong wall and a horse that was built inside the wall. The horse was a gift to the people of Troy. The soldiers on the horse opened the gates for the army.
In the late 18th century, riding a horse that was too high became an insult. It was a common practice for hunters to hide behind horses that had been trained to stalk.
The phrase has also been used in the horse racing industry. The personnel in this industry believed they knew which horses were the best. As a result, they were able to provide the public with betting tips.
“Horse a piece” is also common in the United Kingdom. It is thought to be a metaphor for a healthy horse. It also suggests that something is worth more than it seems.
Similar Expressions
Originally a phrase meaning that two things are equal in every way, “it’s a horse a piece” has come to mean that there is no need to be worried. It is a slang expression that has gained widespread popularity across the United States.
There are several theories about how the phrase originated. One theory is that the phrase originated from gambling jargon. Another is that the phrase was invented to describe formulaic western movies. Still, another relates to the siege of Troy in Greek mythology.
The phrase is often used in the midwest, particularly in the areas where heavy drinking is prevalent. The expression is also often used in games such as Bar Dice, which is similar to poker. This is a game where each player rolls a die to determine their turn. They must make a new roll and pay for their drinks if they lose.
The most common locations to hear this expressions are Minnesota and Wisconsin. However, it is not uncommon to find people in North Dakota and other regions that say it, as well.
The original expression was recorded in the St. Paul Daily Globe newspaper in 1893. An article about the president of France accompanied it. It is said to be one of the first occurrences of the idiom.
While the origin of the phrase has not yet been confirmed, it is thought that the saying originated in the late 18th century. Maria’s statement may have inspired it in Act II, Scene 3 of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night: “my purpose is, indeed, a horse of that color.”
It is unclear whether “it’s a horse apiece” means something. Some believe it refers to a small town with a lot of complaints. Others believe it means that two things are equally important. The idiom is not only fun, and it can help you learn some new vocabulary and etymology.
Although many other idioms relate to horses, the most important is probably “hold your horses.” This slang expression is usually accompanied by the phrase “not to beat a dead horse.” Therefore, this etymology is probably the most likely.
Example sentences
Known mostly in the US, the phrase “it’s a horse apiece” is used to make two things equal in every aspect. The meaning can also be translated as “more or less equal.”
This idiom can be used in a variety of contexts. For example, it can be used to refer to a situation in which there are two players who are both losing turns. It can also be used to refer to situations where there are equal solutions to problems.
The earliest known documented use of the phrase was in 1779. It is believed that it was derived from a comment made by Maria in Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night. In that play, Maria tells the other characters, “my purpose is, indeed, a horse of that color.” The idiom is believed to have originated from this statement and to have evolved into its current form.
In the 16th century, the word “horse” was often used to describe something that was big, coarse, and strong. It was also used as a synonym for horseradish. Eventually, the word horse was adopted to refer to rough play.
The phrase “it’s a horse ‘apiece'” is also related to the game of Bar Dice, which is similar to poker. In this game, each player has the opportunity to make a bet on whether a specific outcome will occur. If a player wins, they get a dollar; if they lose, they are required to pay a dollar.
The phrase has been adapted to several regions and is still widely used. It is especially common in the United States, where Minnesota, Wisconsin, and North Dakota are located. However, it is also used in various regions of the United Kingdom and Ireland.
Although the phrase is not offensive, it does have a very informal tone. As a result, it can be used in a variety of contexts, and it can be used to demonstrate a character’s belief in their own information. It can also be used in a narrator’s description of a scene.
While the word horse can be used to indicate any animal, the term dark horse refers to a particular type of unexpected skill. It is also used in reference to a team.
FAQ’s
What does it mean to say I will be there with bells on?
I or we “will be there with bells on” denote enthusiastic attendance or an outward display of celebration.
What does the phrase talk to a man about a horse?
Verb. (idiomatic, euphemistic) (idiomatic, euphemistic) used in place of a genuine justification when requesting a brief leave of absence, especially to use the restroom. In two shakes of a lamb’s tail, I’ll be back. I simply need to go the restroom to watch a man talking to a horse.
Where did the expression talk to a man about a horse come from?
In the play Flying Scud by Dion Boucicault from 1866, a character purposefully walks past a challenging circumstance and says, “Excuse me Mr. Quail, I can’t stop; I’ve got to meet a man about a dog.”
What is the famous line of horse?
A horse can give its rider the speed and strength they need, but a good rider knows that it is only a loan. Your heart sings the song as his hooves pound the ground.
What does calling someone a horse mean?
a huge, strong, respected, and reliable person, typically a man; one who is large like a horse. (Southern US, slang) Pronunciation spelling of horse.