Give someone the once-over meaning

Give someone the once-over definitions

When you "give someone the once-over," you are taking a quick look at them, usually in a critical or evaluative manner. This expression implies a thorough and critical examination of the person's appearance or behavior in a short amount of time.

Origin of the Phrase

The term "give someone the once-over" is believed to have originated in the early 20th century, with the word "once" meaning a single glance or comprehensive inspection. It is often used colloquially to describe a quick and judicious assessment of someone or something.

Meaning and Usage

When you give someone the once-over, you are sizing them up, forming an opinion about them based on your initial impressions. This could refer to their physical appearance, demeanor, mannerisms, or any other observable traits. It is a casual but meaningful observation that can influence your perception of that person.

Body Language and Nonverbal Cues

While giving someone the once-over, you may pay attention to their body language, such as posture, gestures, eye contact, and facial expressions. These nonverbal cues can often reveal a lot about a person, providing insights into their personality, emotions, and intentions.

It's essential to remember that giving someone the once-over is not just about superficial judgments but can also include a more insightful assessment of their character, integrity, and authenticity. This expression reflects the natural tendency of humans to make snap judgments based on limited information.

In conclusion, giving someone the once-over is a common social phenomenon that occurs in various settings, from casual encounters to formal interviews. While it may seem like a quick and superficial judgment, it can sometimes provide valuable insights into a person's true self, making it a nuanced and multifaceted aspect of human interaction.

Give someone the once-over Examples

1. She gave the suspicious man standing at the corner the once-over before deciding to walk home.
2. The security guard gave each person entering the building the once-over to ensure they weren't carrying any prohibited items.
3. The fashion designer gave the model a once-over to see how the dress fit her before sending her out on the runway.
4. Upon arriving at the job interview, the hiring manager gave the candidate a once-over to evaluate their professionalism.
5. The detective gave the crime scene a thorough once-over looking for any clues that could help solve the case.
6. Before making a purchase, the customer gave the product a once-over to check for any defects or damages.
7. The teacher gave the students' assignments a once-over to ensure they followed the instructions correctly.
8. The mechanic gave the car a once-over to diagnose the source of the strange noise coming from the engine.
9. The doctor gave the patient a once-over to determine the severity of their illness before prescribing medication.
10. The chef gave the ingredients a once-over to make sure everything was fresh before starting to cook the meal.

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