Meaning of the Idiom and its use
The idiom pop the question has been in use since the 1700s.
Back then, pop the question meant to ask an important question. This question may have been a proposal of marriage, an inquiry into the possibility of purchasing land, or anything else considered important 300 years ago.
By the 1820s, the expression pop the question came to mean asking for someone’s hand in marriage.
Popping the question varies between cultures and while western marriages usually begin with the proposal and a betrothal (a waiting period), Jewish tradition begins with the betrothal and the proposal is done on the wedding day. Being Jewish, Hyam popped the question on the day of his wedding.
Traditionally, the person who popped the question was the groom, the male, although changing etiquette (that which is considered the right thing to do) has changed over the years and now women can pop the question too.
Examples of the Idiom Pop the Question
- Sophia was deeply in love with Harry when he popped the question, she immediately said yes.
2. Oscar spoke to his girlfriend’s parents and asked permission before he popped the question.
3. He is busy preparing a romantic dinner because he will pop the question this evening.
Let’s practice
Q1: Try making your own sentence.
Q2: In your opinion, when is the best time to pop the question? Explain.
Q3: Do you prefer to pop the question with or without a crowd? Why?
Eigooo, the English Training Chat Application
To improve your English, the best way is to practice every day.
Eigooo supports you with a 24/7 chat service with real teachers.
- You can chat with the teacher one-on-one.
- The teacher will make immediate corrections to your messages.
- No need to make a reservation. You can start whenever you want.
- The free trial is ready.
Sign up now and get free messages to try it out
