speak volumes

You are wondering about the meaning of the phrase speak volumes, 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 speak volumes used and what is its meaning?

Meaning of "speak volumes"

Meaning

The phrase 'speak volumes' is a phrase used to describe something that conveys a large amount of meaning or significance in a subtle or indirect way. It is often used to refer to actions or expressions that have a greater meaning than words can express. It can also refer to a situation in which the magnitude of a person's thoughts or feelings is obvious without any need for words.

Etymology

The phrase 'speak volumes' first appeared in English writing in the 16th century, although its exact origin is unknown. The phrase has been used in various forms in different languages since the 16th century. For example, in Italian it has been used as 'parlare volumi', and in Spanish it has been used as 'hablar volumenes'. It is likely that the phrase was derived from the idea that a single action or expression can contain the same amount of meaning as an entire volume of words.

Usage

The phrase 'speak volumes' can be used in a variety of ways. It can be used to describe an action or expression that conveys a large amount of meaning or significance without the need for words. It can also be used to refer to a situation in which the magnitude of a person's thoughts or feelings is obvious to everyone present. In addition, it can be used to describe a situation in which a certain type of behaviour or attitude has significant implications for a situation or for the relationships between people.

Example Sentences

• His silence spoke volumes about the gravity of the situation.
• The way he looked at her spoke volumes about how he felt.
• Her absolute refusal to compromise spoke volumes about how she felt.
• The way they ignored each other spoke volumes about their true feelings.
• The way they interacted spoke volumes about the state of their relationship.

The Surprising Origins of Everyday English Idioms

Many English idioms have surprisingly dark origins, often rooted in violence, death, and superstition. For instance, the phrase "raining cats and dogs" is said to have originated in the 17th century, when heavy rain would often cause dead animals to wash up on the streets. Meanwhile, the idiom "rule of thumb" is believed to have originated from a law that allowed men to beat their wives with a stick no thicker than their thumb.