🌟 Take a Shine to, to
To “take a shine to” someone or something is to develop a liking or fondness for them, as effortlessly as a penguin sliding on ice. Despite its mysterious 1839 origins, this American colloquialism has made quite a name for itself—especially in conversations sprinkled with charm and delight.
Whether it’s your grandma taking a shine to a new recipe or a dog wagging its tail like it’s auditioning for a shampoo commercial, this idiom captures the essence of spontaneous affection. L. Meynell painted this beautifully in Papersnake (1978): “He took a shine to you.”
Related and Similar Terms
- Hit it off: Form a good relationship from the beginning.
- Warm up to: Gradually start liking someone or something.
- Get along like a house on fire: Get on very well with someone very quickly.
Proverbs
- “A friend to all is a friend to none.” (Someone who likes everybody might not be genuinely close to anyone.)
- “Birds of a feather flock together.” (People tend to associate with those who are like them.)
Quotes
- “Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another: ‘What! You too? I thought I was the only one.’” - C.S. Lewis
- “To shine your brightest light is to be who you truly are.” - Roy T. Bennett
Suggested Literature, Books, Songs, Poetry, and Movies
- Book: The Comfort of Strangers by Ian McEwan – an eerie reflection on relationships.
- Poetry: Friendship by Henry David Thoreau – a classic musing on the nature of friendship.
- Song: “You’ve Got a Friend” by Carole King – a musical embrace celebrating friendship.
- Movie: The Intouchables (2011) – a heartwarming film about an unlikely friendship.
Synonyms
- Fancy
- Adore
- Favor
Antonyms
- Dislike
- Detest
- Abhor
Until next time, take a shine to the little moments and people in life—they often bring the brightest joys. Keep your language colorful and your friendships even more so.
Warmly, Phil Owe Sofie
