on the block
on the block :
a chip off the old block
someone who resembles their parent especially in character
A CHIP in this expression means something which forms a portion of or is derived from a larger or more important thing and which retains the characteristic qualities of that superior thing. In 1781 Edmund Burke commented on Pitt the Younger's maiden speech in Parliament by saying he was….Not merely a chip of the old block…but the old block itself.
a new kid on the block
a newcomer to a particular place or sphere of activity
This phrase was originally American. The block referred to is a block of buildings between streets.
1998 - Times - Andrew Flintoff has displaced Ben Hollioake as the new kid on the block.
have been around the block a few times
(of a person) have a lot of experience – North American
on the block
for sale at auction, chiefly North American
The block in this phrase was the platform on which, in former times, a slave stood to be auctioned.
put the blocks on
prevent from proceeding
A block of wood or other material placed in front of a wheel prevents forward movement.
put your head on the block = put your neck on the block
put your position or reputation at risk by proceeding with a particular course of action – informal
This phrase alludes to the block of wood on which a condemned person was formerly beheaded.
on the block :
Idioms Index – Previous Page
