Hear something straight from the horse\'s mouth

You are wondering about the meaning of the phrase Hear something straight from the horse\'s mouth, maybe you heard it in a TV show, movie or theater play. Although this idiom is not used very often, it enriches your capacity of expression and strengthens communication. In which case is the expression Hear something straight from the horse\'s mouth used and what is its meaning?

Meaning of "Hear something straight from the horse\'s mouth"

Meaning

The idiom “hear something straight from the horse’s mouth” is used to describe when someone receives information directly from its source and not through anyone else. This idiom implies that what the source says is true because it comes from them and has not been altered by a third party. Additionally, since the phrase references a horse, it suggests that the source is powerful and in this case, can be trusted.

Etymology

The origin of this phrase dates back to at least 1663. The phrase was first used by mathematician and philosopher, John Wilkins, in his book, “Essay Towards a Real Character and a Philosophical Language”. The phrase has also been attributed to British author, Lady Mary Wortley Montagu, who wrote a letter in 1717 in which she said “the proverb says that you can’t believe anything until you hear it from the horse’s mouth.” The phrase “straight from the horse’s mouth” was first recorded in 1738 when it appeared in a poem by John Gay.

Usage

This idiom is often used to describe when someone has received reliable information directly from its source and can trust that the information is true and not altered by anyone else. It can also be used to refer to someone who has spoken to another person who is directly involved in a situation and has the most reliable and trusted information about it. This phrase is usually used in informal settings such as conversations between friends.

Example Sentences

• I heard the news straight from the horse’s mouth, so I know it is true.
• I don’t want to just take your word for it, I want to hear it straight from the horse’s mouth.
• I trust what she told me because I heard it straight from the horse’s mouth.

Idioms with similar meanings in different languages

"Barking up the wrong tree" is an English idiom that means to pursue a mistaken or misguided course of action. In German, the similar idiom is "Auf dem Holzweg sein," which translates to "To be on the wrong track." This idiom emphasizes the idea that when you are pursuing the wrong course of action, you are not going to achieve your desired outcome.