SPITTING DISTANCE Meaning and
Definition
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Spitting distance refers to a very short distance, typically the maximum distance that one can accurately spit. The phrase is often used idiomatically to emphasize the close proximity of two objects or locations. It implies that the distance between them is so minimal that one can easily spit from one point to the other.
In a literal sense, spitting distance can refer to the approximate range or reach of a person's saliva when they forcefully expel it from their mouth. However, when used figuratively, it denotes a distance that is extremely close or nearby.
The expression "spitting distance" is commonly utilized to describe physical distances in relation to spatial separation. For instance, it may be used to convey the idea that two houses are so close that someone standing outside one could easily spit and hit the other. Similarly, it can be used metaphorically to indicate how near two buildings, objects, or places are to each other.
The term is often employed in discussions or descriptions to emphasize the immediate vicinity or the close proximity of two entities. It implies that they are located a very short distance apart, suggesting that they are practically adjacent or almost touching. The phrase "spitting distance" helps to paint a vivid image of the nearness, emphasizing the minimal space or divide between the objects or locations being referred to.
Common Misspellings for SPITTING DISTANCE
- apitting distance
- zpitting distance
- xpitting distance
- dpitting distance
- epitting distance
- wpitting distance
- soitting distance
- slitting distance
- s-itting distance
- s0itting distance
- sputting distance
- spjtting distance
- spktting distance
- spotting distance
- sp9tting distance
- sp8tting distance
- spirting distance
- spifting distance
- spigting distance
- spiyting distance
Etymology of SPITTING DISTANCE
The phrase "spitting distance" is an idiomatic expression used to describe a very close proximity or a short distance separating two objects or locations. Its etymology is quite straightforward.
The word "spitting" refers to the act of expelling saliva forcefully from one's mouth. It is derived from the verb "spit", which has Old English and Middle English roots. "Spit" comes from the Proto-Germanic word "spittan" and is related to Old Norse "spita" and Dutch "spijt".
The word "distance" comes from the Latin word "distancia", which means "a standing apart". It entered English via Old French, and its usage as a noun to describe the measure of space between two points has remained consistent over time.
Idioms with the word SPITTING DISTANCE
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in spitting distance (of someone or something)
The idiom "in spitting distance (of someone or something)" means to be very close to someone or something, often referring to physical proximity. It implies that the distance between two objects or individuals is so minimal that one could easily spit and hit the other.
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in/within spitting distance
The idiom "in/within spitting distance" means to be very close proximity to something or someone. It implies that the distance between two objects or individuals is so short that spitting, an action involving projecting saliva from one's mouth, could easily reach the target.
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within spitting distance
The idiom "within spitting distance" means to be very close to something or someone, typically referring to a short physical distance. It implies that the object or person is close enough to be reached or interacted with easily. The term "spitting distance" is used metaphorically to emphasize proximity, suggesting that one is so near that they could spit on the target.
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in spitting distance
The idiom "in spitting distance" is used to describe something, usually a location or a distance, that is very near or really close. It implies that the specified object or place is just a short distance away, similar to the distance a person can spit.
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within spitting distance (of someone or something)
The idiom "within spitting distance (of someone or something)" means to be very close to someone or something, usually in terms of physical proximity. It implies that the distance between two entities is so short that one could easily spit and hit the other. Note that it is a figurative expression and not meant to be taken literally.
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within spitting distance (of something)
The idiom "within spitting distance (of something)" refers to being very close to or within a short distance of something, typically used figuratively rather than literally.
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spitting distance
The idiom "spitting distance" means to be very close or within a short distance of something or someone.
