You can argue about this until the cows come home.
until the cows come home
idiomFor a very long period of time.
Origin
disputed originPossibly from the fact that cattle let out to pasture may be only expected to return for milking the next morning; thus, for example, a party that goes on “until the cows come home” is a very long one. Alternatively, the phrase may have a Scottish origin, and may derive from the fact that cattle in the Highlands are put out to graze on the common where grass is plentiful. They stay out for months before scarcity of food causes them to find their way home in the autumn for feeding (a pattern of seasonal grazing called transhumance).
We can talk about our travel plans until the cows come home, but we still need to book the tickets.
The committee debated the new policy until the cows come home, yet they failed to reach a consensus before the midnight deadline.
- 01
as they come
As it is possible to be.
- 02
blow to kingdom come
To totally destroy (something); to annihilate or wipe out (something).
- 03
bring home
To earn (money).
- 04
bring home the bacon
To have employment which provides remuneration to satisfy the basic needs of oneself and one's family.
- 05
broken home
A home in which the parents have separated or divorced.
- 06
charity begins at home
One should help the people closest to oneself before thinking of helping others.
- 07
Christmas come early
Something very delightful or fortunate that is happening or has happened, especially earlier than expected.
- 08
close to home
Affecting people close to, or within, one's family circle.