Whistle past the graveyard meaning

Whistle past the graveyard means to ignore or dismiss a situation or danger in order to avoid acknowledging its seriousness.


Whistle past the graveyard definitions

Word backwards eltsihw tsap eht drayevarg
Part of speech The phrase "whistle past the graveyard" is a verb phrase.
Syllabic division whis-tle past the grave-yard
Plural "Whistle past the graveyards"
Total letters 23
Vogais (3) i,e,a
Consonants (11) w,h,s,t,l,p,g,r,v,y,d

When someone says "whistle past the graveyard," they are referring to the act of trying to remain cheerful or act as if everything is fine in a difficult or threatening situation. This phrase is often used to describe someone who is trying to ignore or downplay a serious issue or danger.

Origin of the Phrase

The phrase "whistle past the graveyard" is thought to have originated in the Southern United States, where it is believed that whistling in a graveyard can keep away evil spirits. By whistling, individuals may be trying to show bravery or distract themselves from the somber surroundings of a graveyard.

Meaning

When someone whistles past the graveyard, they are essentially trying to stay positive or act as if everything is normal, even though they may be facing a serious threat or danger. It is a way of coping with fear or anxiety by pretending that everything is okay.

Usage

This phrase is commonly used in situations where someone is in denial about a serious issue or is ignoring a potential danger. It can also be used to describe someone who is putting on a brave face in the face of adversity, even if they are scared or unsure of what to do.

Overall, "whistle past the graveyard" is a colorful idiom that captures the idea of trying to maintain composure in the face of fear or uncertainty. It reminds us that sometimes, it is easier to pretend that everything is fine than to confront the harsh realities of life.


Whistle past the graveyard Examples

  1. She tried to whistle past the graveyard when asked about her involvement in the scandal.
  2. Despite feeling anxious, he decided to whistle past the graveyard and act like everything was fine.
  3. The politician attempted to whistle past the graveyard when questioned about his conflicting statements.
  4. I could tell she was trying to whistle past the graveyard, but I knew something was bothering her.
  5. He always tries to whistle past the graveyard whenever someone brings up his past mistakes.
  6. Even though she was scared, she put on a brave face and whistled past the graveyard.
  7. The company CEO seemed to be whistling past the graveyard when discussing the financial difficulties.
  8. She tried to whistle past the graveyard by making jokes instead of addressing the serious issue.
  9. Despite the evidence against him, he continued to whistle past the graveyard and deny any wrongdoing.
  10. His attempt to whistle past the graveyard only made the situation more awkward and uncomfortable.


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  • Updated 17/04/2024 - 22:27:15