The idiom "keep someone or something at bay" has its origins in the world of hunting. Dating back to the 16th century, it originally referred to the practice of using hunting dogs to hold a dangerous animal, such as a bear or a boar, at a safe distance or at the bay, preventing it from approaching the hunters. Over time, the phrase evolved into a metaphorical expression, signifying the act of keeping something or someone, often a problem, threat, or danger, at a distance or under control, in order to maintain safety or avoid direct confrontation.

What is the origin of the idiom "keep someone or something at bay" and when to use it?

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to [keep|hold] {sb/sth} at bay

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The idiom "stand at bay" has its origins in hunting practices, It comes from the tradition of hunters who, when facing a dangerous animal, would use a pack of dogs to keep the animal at a safe distance, typically by forcing it to stand in a defensive posture with its back against a rock or tree, making it easier for the hunters to approach or dispatch the animal. Over time, this concept evolved into a figurative expression, where "standing at bay" signifies a defensive stance or holding one's ground in the face of a threat or danger.

Définition et signification de « keep somebody or something at bay » en anglais

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