So, why is this time of year called that and what exactly does it mean?
Today’s blog is by Margaret Stewart, Executive Assistant at SafeSourcing.
So, why is this time of year called that and what exactly does it mean? Since the dog days of summer are fast approaching, now is a good time to look at that phrase and those other “dog” idioms we all know.
Dog Days of Summer. According to several sources, the Romans associated the hot weather with Sirius because it is the brightest star in the constellation, Canis Major, meaning Large Dog. As for the timing of Dog Days in the Northern Hemisphere, it usually occurs from mid-July through August.
Can’t Teach an Old Dog New Tricks. For any Mythbusters fans out there, you probably already know that this is false. You can, in fact, teach an old dog new tricks. The same idea can be applied to people and businesses too. For example, the old dog could be your company and the new trick could mean new technology. New tricks help keep businesses going strong throughout the years.
It’s a Dog Eat Dog World. This saying refers to how competitive the world can be, ruthless and without constraint. This phrase can easily apply to business as well, more specifically how competitive an industry can be. When it’s a matter of eat or be eaten, learning a few new tricks could come in handy.
Every Dog has its Day. This means that everyone gets a chance, eventually. It is meant to motivate, especially if times are trying. This is especially true in business. If things aren’t going as planned, opportunities will arise, perhaps today.
Dog and Pony Show. This colloquialism refers to something highly promoted, hyped up, or overly-staged performance meant to sway the audience opinion, like in commercials or politics. This saying should regularly be kept in mind when referring to business. Recognizing a dog and pony show for what it is can help a business stay cautious of possibly poor or traumatic decisions.
It’s a Dog’s Life. This saying means that one’s life is hard, poverty-stricken, and poor. The saying shows its age because when first appearing in the 16th century, dogs did not have the life they often have now. For many of our K-9 companions, life is anything but hard. It may even be pampered as the pet care industry flourishes. In 2007, New York real estate tycoon Leona Helmsley infamously left a fortune to her pet Maltese. This has led to a new definition of “a dog’s life,” meaning to have a carefree, pampered lifestyle. You really can teach an old dog new tricks.
If you would like more information on how SafeSourcing can help your business learn new tricks or on our “Risk Free” trial program, please contact a SafeSourcing Customer Service representative. We have an entire team ready to assist you today.
We look forward to your comments.
