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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.
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.
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The origins of this expression are unclear. It may have originated sometime between the years 1850 and 1914. Heavens to Betsy is another variation of the phrase for Heaven’s sake, which began as a euphemism for what some considered the blasphemous for God’s sake and for Christ’s sake. Nowadays, most people consider heavens to Betsyto be old fashion...
Here is an example of a math professor using the expression because of something surprising her student did. Student: Here you go. Teacher: What’s this? Student: This is the test. I’m handing it back to you. Teacher: Why are you handing it back? I just gave it to you a few minutes ago. There’s no way you had time to finish it yet. Student: Why do y...
This excerpt is about a governor and an early education bill. 1. During Thursday’s hearing he described some of the aspersions against his bill as “poppycock.” And at another point he exclaimed “Heavens to Betsy.” I wanted to leap to my feet and holler “Balderdash!” but fought the urge. –Great Falls Tribune The second excerpt is from an article abo...
Heavens to Betsy is an old-fashioned expression of surprise or shock, similar to Heaven's sake. Learn how to use it in different contexts and see examples from literature and media.
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.
Feb 22, 2022 · Learn the meaning and origin of the idiomatic expression "heavens to Betsy", which is an alternative to blasphemy. Find out how to use it correctly and see examples of similar and opposite phrases.
Learn the meaning and usage of the interjection "heavens to Betsy!", which expresses shock, distress, or surprise. Find out the origin and variations of this phrase, and see examples and related idioms.
Learn the meaning and origin of the interjection heavens to Betsy, which expresses shock, distress, or surprise. Find out how it differs from heaven to and see examples of its usage.
