Safe and Sound
“Safe and sound” describes a state of being free from danger and in good health. Dating back to the mid-1600s, this expression has been a linguistic shield against life’s many hazards. Richard Steele reinforced its endurance in “The Spectator” (1711) with perhaps a touch of hyperbole: “People send Children to school to keep them out of harm’s way.”
Related Terms, Proverbs, and Expressions:
- Out of harm’s way: Safeguarded from danger or trouble.
- Safe as houses: Extremely safe or secure.
- Safety first: Prioritizing safety above all other concerns.
- Safe haven: A place of refuge or security.
- In a pickle: In trouble—a classic opposite of being safe!
Definitions and Synonyms:
- Secure: Free from danger or threat.
- Protected: Kept safe from harm.
- Guarded: Watched over or defended from harm.
- Sheltered: Provided with protection, typically from bad weather or attack.
Antonyms:
- Endangered: At risk of harm or failure.
- Vulnerable: Susceptible to physical or emotional attack or harm.
- Unprotected: Without protection or defense.
Humor-Filled Quotes and Proverbs:
- “Be like a postage stamp. Stick to one thing until you get there.” —Josh Billings
- “Safety is cheap at any price.” —Unknown
- “There’s no harm in hoping for the best as long as you’re prepared for the worst.” —Stephen King
References and Suggestions:
- Books:
- The Spectator by Richard Steele and Joseph Addison
- Safe Haven by Nicholas Sparks
- To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee — Atticus Finch’s quest to keep his children out of harm’s way.
- Movies:
- Safe House directed by Daniel Espinosa
- The Pursuit of Happyness directed by Gabriele Muccino — A story of keeping one’s child safe amid life’s adversities.
- Songs:
- “Safe and Sound” by Capital Cities
- “Shelter” by Ray LaMontagne
- Poetry:
- “Fire and Ice” by Robert Frost — A metaphorical play on the dangers of emotion.
### What does "Safe and Sound" mean?
- [x] Free from danger and in good health.
- [ ] Being exceptionally loud.
- [ ] Completely baffled.
- [ ] Full of intricate sounds.
> **Explanation:** "Safe and Sound" means being safe and in good health. A person in this state is shielded from danger and harm.
### Which phrase means the opposite of "Safe and Sound"?
- [ ] Out of harm’s way
- [x] In a pickle
- [ ] Safe as houses
- [ ] Safe haven
> **Explanation:** "In a pickle" means being in trouble, a dire situation—which is the opposite of being safe and sound.
### True or False: "Safety first" is a cliché about prioritizing safety.
- [x] True
- [ ] False
> **Explanation:** True! "Safety first" is indeed a cliché that emphasizes prioritizing safety above all else.
Signing off with a Spark of Safety
As P. Safehaven Stonewell has it, remember to stay “safe and sound” while sailing through life’s waves. When storms threaten, aim for your safe haven and wrap yourself in shelter. The path of clichés may be well-trodden, but troglodytes beware: a well-worn phrase can still illuminate the journey. 🌟
Amen and stay secure!
