The idiom dates back to the early 19th century, where a hair that was out of place was seen as a sign of disorderliness or carelessness. In the Victorian era, when rigid social norms governed behavior and appearance, a hair out of place was a visible indication of someone's failure to conform to these standards. The idiom is still commonly used today to describe someone's appearance that is not perfect or as expected, implying a lack of attention to detail or a sense of disorderliness.

What is the origin of the idiom "a hair out of place" and when to use it?

英語での「a hair out of place」の定義と意味

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