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A mild exclamation of surprise. What's the origin of the phrase 'Heavens to Betsy'? This American phrase has been in circulation since, primarily restricted to America, the latter part of the 19th century, although its use faded throughout the 20th century and it is now something of an anachronism.
Heavens to Betsy Meaning. Definition: Oh my goodness! This is an interjection that shows surprise. Origin of Heavens to Betsy. The origins of this expression are unclear. It may have originated sometime between the years 1850 and 1914.
Feb 22, 2022 · Heavens to Betsy Meaning. "Heaven's to Betsy!" is an idiomatic expression referring to an exclamation of mild or severe surprise. For instance, if you look through your son's browser history and find nothing but porn, you could use the phrase as a mild expression of surprise at his behavior.
Jan 23, 2021 · heavens to Betsy! No one has been able to uncover the origins of this old exclamation of surprise, joy, or even annoyance. Etymologist Charles Earle Funk tried hardest, devoting several pages to the expression in his book of the same name.
Jan 8, 2021 · The phrase Heavens to Betsy is an exclamation expressing surprise or dismay. It is an extended form of the plural noun heavens, which has long been used in exclamations—frequently with an intensifying adjective, as in good heavens and great heavens.
Jan 13, 2021 · The idiomatic phrase heavens to Betsy is an exclamation of surprise. Use it in speaking and writing when you want to convey that you’re astonished or shocked. Unfortunately, language historians aren’t certain which Betsy inspired the phrase, or if it was even inspired by a real person at all.
heavens to Betsy. An expression of astonishment. This version of for heaven’s sake, which Charles E. Funk liked well enough to use as the title of one of his books, comes from nineteenth-century America and first appeared in print in 1892. It may be dying out. See also: Betsy, heaven, to.
An interjection denoting shock, distress, or surprise. The "Betsy" mentioned here is not definitively known. Heavens to Betsy, you don't look well at all! Is that James? Heavens to Betsy, I haven't seen him in at least 20 years!
"Heavens to Betsy" is a versatile idiom that can be used to express either surprise or astonishment, or to offer hope and encouragement for a positive outcome. It is often used in informal conversation to convey strong emotions in a lighthearted manner.
Explanation for the 'Heavens to Betsy' phrase in the Phrases.com dictionary. What does the 'Heavens to Betsy' phrase mean? Definitions, usage examples and translations inside.
