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Shakespeare

More common phrases come from Shakespeare than most people realize. The plots underlie a startling share of modern drama, from teen romances to prestige TV.

16 entries

Level

Core

Common

All

phrase

Shakespeare

A Rose by Any Other Name

What something is called doesn't change what it is.

phrase

Shakespeare

Break the Ice

Ease initial social tension.

phrase

Shakespeare

Et tu, Brute?

An expression of shock at being betrayed by a close friend.

character

Shakespeare

Hamlet

The brooding Danish prince paralyzed by the question of how to avenge his father.

phrase

Shakespeare

Heart of Gold

A genuinely kind nature, often despite outward appearances.

character

Shakespeare

Lady Macbeth

The ambitious partner who pushes their reluctant other half into doing something terrible — and is the first to crack from the guilt.

phrase

Shakespeare

Love Is Blind

People in love overlook their partner's faults.

phrase

Shakespeare

Method in the Madness

Apparent craziness that is actually a deliberate strategy.

story

Shakespeare

Romeo and Juliet

The template for doomed young love.

character

Shakespeare

Shylock & the Pound of Flesh

A creditor who insists on the exact, brutal terms of a contract — and the phrase 'pound of flesh' for any debt extracted at unreasonable personal cost.

adjective

Shakespeare