by half
by half
An intensifier used to indicate that some quality is excessive or more than is necessary. Used in the form "too (something) by half." Primarily heard in UK. That child is too noisy by half! Liam is too clever by half, winning every debate he gets into.
See also: by, half
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
by half
Considerably, a great deal, as in He was too good a cook by half for this small restaurant. [c. a.d. 1000] Contrast by halves.
See also: by, half
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.
by half
1. By a considerable extent.
2. By an excessive amount: too clever by half.
See also: by, half
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition.
- Fanny's your aunt
- a little goes a long way
- 10-4
- come in
- come in a certain position
- come on in
- as one does
- be (flat) on (one's) back
- (Is) that everything?
- a (damn) sight too (something)