give chapter and verse

Are you using the idiom give chapter and verse but not sure about its meaning? Using idioms, which are important elements of spoken and written language, in the right place strengthens your language skills. Examine the meaning of the give chapter and verse idiom and the situations in which it is used.

Meaning of "give chapter and verse"

Meaning

The idiom "give chapter and verse" is often used as a means of calling someone out for a lack of evidence or proof of a statement or claim. It functions as a way of asking for specifics, usually details that can be documented or cited. It is often used when the speaker feels that the other person is making a dubious or unfounded statement without any evidence or proof.

Etymology

The origin of the phrase "give chapter and verse" has its roots in biblical scripture, specifically the Christian Bible. This is evident in the use of the words "chapter" and "verse", which refer to the different divisions of the Bible into books, chapters and verses. The idiom was originally used to draw attention to a particular passage of scripture that could be used to corroborate or prove a statement or point. The phrase has since evolved to be used more broadly, outside of its original context.

Usage

The phrase "give chapter and verse" can be used either as a rhetorical question or a direct demand for evidence. It is frequently used in a less-than-friendly manner, often to challenge someone's credibility or the veracity of their statements. When used in this way, it implies that the speaker is asking for proof that can be objectively verified. It can also be used in a more casual manner as a way of making a polite request for more information or clarification.

Example Sentences

• I don't believe that claim - can you give chapter and verse?
• If you're going to make that kind of statement, you'd better give chapter and verse.
• Could you give chapter and verse on why you think that?
• I'd love to hear more about that - can you give chapter and verse?

The universal role of idioms

"Kill two birds with one stone" is an English idiom that means to accomplish two things with a single action. In French, the similar idiom is "Faire d'une pierre deux coups," which translates to "To kill two birds with one stone." This idiom highlights the efficiency of completing two tasks with one action.