"Canterbury tale"Meghatározása és Jelentése

Canterbury tale

FŐNÉV

Canterbury mese, hosszú és unalmas történet

a story marked by being too long or dull

Idiom

Informal

What is the origin of the idiom "Canterbury tale" and when to use it?

The idiom "Canterbury tale" originates from Geoffrey Chaucer's literary work, "The Canterbury Tales," written in the late 14th century. Chaucer's collection of stories features a diverse group of pilgrims traveling to Canterbury, each sharing their own tale during the journey. Over time, the expression has come to symbolize an elaborate or fanciful story, often involving a group of characters with distinct narratives or perspectives.

Example

At the family reunion, Uncle Joe entertained everyone with his Canterbury tale of adventures during his youth.

The novelist weaved a Canterbury tale of intrigue, incorporating multiple plotlines that converged in a surprising climax.

The team meeting turned into a Canterbury tale as each member shared their unique experiences and insights on the project.

canterburyi mese, nehezen hihető történet

a story, explanation, or excuse that is hard to believe

Idiom

Informal

What is the origin of the idiom "Canterbury tale" and when to use it?

The idiom "Canterbury tale" is derived from Geoffrey Chaucer's work "The Canterbury Tales," where pilgrims tell diverse and sometimes dubious stories during their journey. In contemporary usage, the phrase has evolved to describe a story, explanation, or excuse that is hard to believe or is fanciful in nature.

Example

The politician 's promises sounded more like a Canterbury tale than a concrete plan for economic reform.

When asked about the missing cookies, the child spun a Canterbury tale involving a mischievous imaginary friend.

The defendant 's alibi seemed like a Canterbury tale, with each detail more improbable than the last.

Canterburyi mese, Canterburyi történet

an uncompleted series of tales written after 1387 by Geoffrey Chaucer