Get off Your Duff: ⚡
Definition: To get moving; to become active.
Origins: This slangy idiom utilizes “duff” to refer to buttocks—a term dating from around 1840 which was once considered impolite. Nowadays, in American slang, it’s a more euphemistic phrase compared to its ruder cousins, like “get off one’s butt” or “get off one’s ass.”
Related Terms:
- Get moving
- Liven up
- Put some pep in your step
- Shake a leg
- Get in gear
Synonyms:
- Activate
- Energize
- Awaken
- Motivate
Antonyms:
- Laze around
- Vegetate
- Idle
- Lounge
Humor-Filled Quotes:
- “When life gives you a comfy chair, sometimes you still have to get off your duff and chase your dreams!” — W.T. Wittywords
- “The early bird gets the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese. So get off your duff, but not too early!” — L. M. Laughalot
Proverbs:
- “A rolling stone gathers no moss.”
- “Actions speak louder than words.”
Literature & Books:
- The Complete Idioms and Phrases Dictionary by Linda and Roger Flavell
- Allegory of the Cave from The Republic by Plato — Because truly, don’t sit in the dark, get off your duff and reach enlightenment!
Songs & Poetry:
- “Move Along” by The All-American Rejects
- “Get Up Stand Up” by Bob Marley and the Wailers
Movies:
- The Pursuit of Happyness — Inspirational in showcasing the essence of getting off your duff!
- Forrest Gump — Sometimes life’s a marathon where you have to keep on moving!
### Which of these phrases has a similar meaning to "Get off your duff"?
- [x] Shake a leg
- [ ] Take a nap
- [ ] Eat your vegetables
- [ ] Read a book
> **Explanation:** "Shake a leg" means to hurry up or get moving, much like "Get off your duff."
### True or False: "Get off your duff" means to relax and enjoy your day.
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** False. "Get off your duff" means to become active, not to relax.
### Which of these is appropriate in a professional setting?
- [ ] Get off your duff
- [ ] Get off your butt
- [x] Increase productivity
- [ ] Get cracking
> **Explanation:** "Increase productivity" is more formal and suitable for a professional setting compared to slangy phrases like "get off your duff."
Dare to rise, shake off the dust, and let words combust into action! Remember, a bit of movement begins with a few words. 😄🚀
L. M. Laughalot
Published on 2023-10-01.
