THE BAR Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "the bar" can have multiple meanings depending on the context in which it is used. When referring to a physical place, "the bar" typically denotes a social establishment where alcoholic beverages are served and consumed. It is commonly associated with a counter or a long table with stools, behind which a bartender prepares and serves drinks. Bars are often found in restaurants, hotels, lounges, or dedicated drinking venues, and they serve as meeting places for socializing, relaxation, or entertainment.
In a legal context, "the bar" refers to a professional body or association of licensed lawyers or attorneys, also known as a bar association. This organization regulates and maintains the standards and ethics of the legal profession by overseeing legal education, licensing, and disciplinary actions. Joining "the bar" generally requires earning a law degree, passing a bar exam, and fulfilling other jurisdiction-specific requirements.
Additionally, "the bar" can be used idiomatically to set a standard or criteria of achievement or expectation. When someone sets the bar high, they establish a demanding level of performance or excellence. Conversely, lowering the bar suggests reducing expectations or making something easier to achieve.
Overall, "the bar" encompasses social, legal, and idiomatic nuances, signifying a physical establishment, a legal profession, or a benchmark for excellence, depending on the intended meaning and context.
Common Misspellings for THE BAR
Etymology of THE BAR
The word "bar" has multiple origins and meanings, depending on its usage. Here are a few different etymologies related to different senses of the word:
1. Bar (noun) - a long, narrow piece of solid material:
The term "bar" in this sense originated from the Old English word "bearu" or "bearo", meaning "a beam, strip of wood" and can be traced back to Proto-Germanic. It is related to the Old High German word "bara" and the Old Norse word "barr".
2. Bar (noun) - an establishment where alcoholic beverages are served:
The usage of "bar" to refer to a drinking establishment can be traced back to the mid-16th century. Its origin is debated, but one theory suggests that it comes from the Old French word "barre" meaning "beam" or "gate".
Idioms with the word THE BAR
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raise the bar
The idiom "raise the bar" means to set a higher standard or expectation, often to improve performance, achievement, or quality. It implies pushing oneself or others to strive for greater success or excellence.
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cross the bar
The idiom "cross the bar" typically refers to the act of sailing a ship or boat across a sandbar or shallow area of water. Symbolically, it can mean overcoming obstacles or challenges and successfully reaching a destination or goal. It can also be used to describe the passage from life to death.
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raise (or lower) the bar
The idiom "raise (or lower) the bar" means to increase (or decrease) the standards or expectations for a specific task, performance, or achievement. It implies setting a higher (or lower) level of excellence or difficulty that needs to be met or surpassed.
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set the bar
The idiom "set the bar" means to establish a standard or expectation for others to meet or surpass. It refers to defining a level of achievement, quality, or performance that others are expected to reach or exceed.
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set the bar (high/low)
The idiom "set the bar (high/low)" means to establish an expectation or standard that is either very challenging or very easy to achieve. It refers to setting the level of difficulty or quality that others should strive to reach or surpass.
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called to the bar
The idiom "called to the bar" refers to the legal profession, specifically being admitted or qualified as a barrister in certain jurisdictions, such as the United Kingdom. It means that someone has successfully completed the necessary requirements and formalities to practice as a barrister, including passing the necessary exams and being officially permitted to argue cases in court.
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belly up to the bar
The idiom "belly up to the bar" means to approach or position oneself close to a bar counter or to gather with others at a bar to socialize, order drinks, or engage in conversation. It suggests a casual and informal gathering at a bar, often involving standing or leaning against the counter.
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lower the bar
The idiom "lower the bar" refers to the act of reducing expectations or standards, usually in a negative sense. It means to make something easier to accomplish, but in doing so, it diminishes the level of excellence or quality that was previously expected or set.
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call to the bar
The idiom "call to the bar" typically refers to the legal profession, specifically in common law jurisdictions. It is the process by which law graduates are admitted or "called" to become full-fledged barristers or advocates, allowing them to practice law independently and represent clients in court. This phrase is often used to describe the formal ceremony or event where aspiring lawyers are officially recognized and granted the right to practice law.
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prop up the bar
The idiom "prop up the bar" refers to spending a significant amount of time standing or sitting at a bar, often while leaning on it for support. It implies a prolonged and regular presence in bars, typically for socializing, drinking, or simply passing time.
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