What does the expression every dog knows mean? - briefly
The phrase "every dog knows" is an idiomatic expression used to indicate that something is widely known or obvious. It suggests that even someone with minimal intelligence or awareness would be familiar with the information.
The origin of this expression is rooted in the idea that dogs, despite their limited cognitive abilities, can recognize certain basic facts or truths. Therefore, if "every dog knows" something, it implies that the information is so commonplace that it should be known by virtually everyone.
What does the expression every dog knows mean? - in detail
The phrase "every dog knows" is an idiomatic expression that conveys a sense of widespread, almost intuitive knowledge or awareness. It suggests that a particular piece of information or understanding is so common or obvious that even a dog, an animal not typically associated with high intelligence, would be aware of it. This expression is often used to emphasize the simplicity or ubiquity of a fact, implying that it is so well-known that it hardly needs explanation.
The origin of this phrase is rooted in the idea that certain truths are so fundamental that they are recognized by almost everyone. The use of "dog" in this expression is a metaphorical device, highlighting the simplicity and accessibility of the knowledge in question. It is akin to saying that the information is so basic that it is known even by those who are not typically expected to possess such knowledge.
In practical usage, "every dog knows" can be applied to various situations where the speaker wants to underscore the obviousness of a fact. For example, in a discussion about the benefits of exercise, one might say, "Every dog knows that regular physical activity is good for health." This statement implies that the benefits of exercise are so well-established and widely recognized that they are almost self-evident.
Moreover, the phrase can also be used to express a sense of exasperation or frustration when someone seems to be unaware of something that is generally known. For instance, if someone is surprised by a well-known fact, another person might respond with, "Every dog knows that," indicating that the information should have been obvious to the first person.
In summary, "every dog knows" is a versatile idiom that underscores the simplicity and widespread recognition of certain facts. It serves to highlight the obviousness of information, making it a useful tool in communication when one wants to emphasize the common knowledge of a particular subject.