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Odds and Ends

What Does "Odds and Ends" Mean?

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"Odds and ends" is an English idiom. It means "miscellaneous or small, unimportant items; various things that don't fit into a specific category."

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "odds and ends" used in a sentence:
  • The attic was filled with odds and ends from generations past, including old toys and furniture.
  • She had a drawer full of odds and ends like buttons, keys, and paperclips.
  • We spent the weekend cleaning out the garage and getting rid of all the odds and ends.
meaning for odds and ends

What Is an Idiom?

An idiom is a commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words, if you were to translate "Odds and Ends" word for word, there is no guarantee the translation would help you to understand the meaning.

An idiom often includes a cultural or historical context that makes it difficult for non-native English speakers to understand. A phrase is classified as an idiom when a direct translation of the words does not reveal the meaning. Most idioms rely on shared knowledge or experiences known only to a specific community.

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