Where Did the Phrase "On the Level" Come From and What Does the Expression "Against the Grain" Mean?

Both “going against the grain” and being “on the level” are expressions from carpentry.

When a bladed instrument is used to smooth a wooden surface it only works when applied with, or in the same direction as, the grain, otherwise it’s a mess.

A level ensures the precision of a frame alignment.

where did the phrase on the level come from and what does the expression against the grain mean scaled

Someone that is going against the grain is usually doing things wrong, and so is probably not as trustworthy as someone on the level.

What does the phrase “to go against the grain” mean and Where does it come from? In wood, the fibers are arranged in parallel lines which run lengthwise along the line of growth of the original tree, and this we call the grain of the wood. The wood may…
What does the expression “with a grain of salt” mean and Where does it come from? Because the expression "with a grain of salt" for skepticism, doubt, or distrust is so familiar to us in its Latin form, "cum grano salis", we sometimes assume that it has great antiquity.…
Did Roman gladiators who fought against animals use the same weapons as those who fought against other gladiators? Actually, it was a matter of honor that the animal fighters, called bestiarii, were considered below true gladiators in rank. However, neither is to be confused with the condemned criminals, who were thrown…
Is quinoa a grain from the Andes high in calcium and what are other sources of calcium? Quinoa is a significant source of calcium, but you would have to eat a large amount of it to get a full daily supply. The National Academy of Sciences recommends 1,000 milligrams of…
Why is grain dust in elevators explosive? Just about any organic material will explode if it is fine enough, dry enough, in suspension in air, and confined. All it takes is the fuel, oxygen, and a spark. Sugar, coal dust,…
What does the phrase “on the level” mean and Where does it come from? The phrase "on the level" means in all sincerity, honesty, or truth; on the up-and-up; the real McCoy. Both of these expressions were taken from the ritual of Freemasonry and both are of…

Where Did the Phrase “On the Level” Come From and What Does the Expression “Against the Grain” Mean?

Related Posts

About Karen Hill