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to the bone
01
used to show the extent or intensity of something
Idiom
Informal
What is the origin of the idiom "to the bone" and when to use it?
The idiom "to the bone" likely draws from the idea that something has penetrated all the way to the innermost part, or "bone," of a person or thing. It is a versatile expression and is commonly used in both spoken and written English to imply that a particular action or situation affects someone or something deeply or completely, often leaving no room for further involvement or influence.
Example
After walking for hours in the snowstorm without proper protection, I was chilled to the bone and desperately sought warmth.
The icy wind cut through their clothing, leaving them frozen to the bone and longing for shelter.
He forgot his jacket and the cold wind chilled him to the bone.
As we walked through the forest, the rain started to teem down, soaking us to the bone within minutes.
We felt shocked to the bones to read about the things our neighbor had done.
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