What is the idiom every dog knows? - briefly
The idiom "every dog knows" is used to express that something is common knowledge or widely understood. It implies that the information is so obvious that even a dog would be aware of it.
What is the idiom every dog knows? - in detail
The idiomatic expression "every dog knows" is an English phrase used to indicate that something is obvious or widely known, often to the point of being common sense. This expression suggests that even the most uninformed or naive individual—metaphorically represented by a dog—would be aware of this particular fact or situation.
The origin of "every dog knows" can be traced back to the idea that dogs, being observant and perceptive creatures, are often used as a metaphor for basic understanding or awareness. The phrase implies that the information in question is so fundamental and self-evident that it transcends any specific context or expertise.
In practical usage, "every dog knows" might be employed to emphasize the simplicity of an idea or to gently criticize someone for not recognizing something that should be apparent. For example, if someone fails to notice a clear sign of deception, another person might say, "Every dog knows that he's lying," implying that the deception is blatantly obvious.
Overall, this idiom serves as a rhetorical device to underscore the universal nature of certain knowledge or truths. Its usage is not limited to any particular domain and can be found in everyday conversations, literature, and even formal discourse, always conveying a sense of the obviousness of the subject at hand.