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It is fishing slang. If you are on the hook you are caught, trapped, obligated but if you get out of something, a commitment, or obligation you have been let off the hook.

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Q: What is the origin of the expression off the hook?
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Where did the expression off the hook come from?

Off the hook probably came from fishing, where you release fish that you aren't keeping--take them off the hook and let them go back into the water. There is also "ringing off the hook," referring to a lengthily unanswered telephone. The receivers of early telephones hung from a hook.


Where did off the hook come from?

To be released from blame, obligation, or danger. The expression alludes to the fish that got off the fisherman's hook and got away. It started in the mid 1800s.


What is the origin of the expression great day in the morning?

It is an expression that comes from my coworker.


Where did the expression 'off-kilter' originate?

The expression "off-kilter" uses the word kilter, which means "good condition". To be off-kilter is to be out of good condition, or faulty. The word is first seen in the 1630's and 40's, as the English word "kelter". Other than this, the origin is unknown.


Why do people say off the hook?

Off the hook means - freed from danger or blame or obligation; "I let him off the hook with a severe reprimand"


Where does the expression screwed the pooch come from and what does it mean?

The origin of the expression is obscure. It means "ruined everything".


What is the origin and meaning of the idiomatic expression 'going commando'?

In order to ward off Nazis wanting to strip US officers to their underwear, they "went commando."


What is the origin of the expression 'in a nutshel'?

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What is the origin of the expression In your face?

The 1970s is the origin of "in your face", most likely first coming from sports.


Where did the expression 'off kilter' originate?

it derives from a 15th Century word 'Kilter or Kelter' meaning 'good condition' Further to that origin unknown. Off kilter thus meaning not functioning properly.


What is the duration of Guy Off the Hook?

The duration of Guy Off the Hook is 1800.0 seconds.