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UKat the drop of a hat / dime
/at ðə dɹˈɒp əvə hˈat/
/æt ðə dɹˈɑːp əvə hˈæt/at the drop of a hat / dime
[PHRASE]
What is the origin of the idiom "at the drop of a hat" and when to use it?
The idiom "at the drop of a hat" is believed to have emerged in the mid-19th century. The phrase is often associated with Western cowboy culture, where dropping a hat was used as a signal to start a horse race or a fight. The action of dropping the hat was meant to initiate an immediate response or action from the participants.
Examples
1. He would start an argument at the drop of a hat.
2. He's always ready to help at the drop of a dime.
3. I'm always ready to help you at the drop of a hat.
4. If you ever need me, I'll be there at the drop of a dime.
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