What is the origin of neither fish nor fowl?

Answer 1

The phrase "neither fish nor fowl" dates back to the 16th century and is believed to have originated in England. It is a metaphorical expression used to describe something or someone that does not fit into any specific category or group. The phrase suggests a sense of ambiguity or uncertainty, highlighting the idea of being neither one thing nor another.

Answer 2

Oh, dude, so like, "neither fish nor fowl" is an old saying that means something or someone doesn't fit into a specific category. It's like saying, "You're not a fish, but you're not a bird either." People have been using this phrase for ages to describe stuff that's just kind of... in between, you know?

Answer 3

Ah, "neither fish nor fowl" is a lovely phrase that means something doesn't quite fit into one category or another. It's like a happy little bird that enjoys swimming with the fish, but also likes to fly with its feathered friends. Just remember, in the world of language and expression, there's always room for unique and special phrases like this one.

Answer 4

Also, neither fish nor flesh; neither fish, flesh, nor fowl. Not one or the other, not something fitting any category under discussion. For example, They felt he was neither fish nor fowl--not qualified to lead the department, yet not appropriate to work as a staff member either. This expression appeared in slightly different form in John Heywood's 1546 proverb collection ("Neither fish, nor flesh, nor good red herring") and is thought to allude to food for monks ( fish, because they abstained from meat), for the people (flesh, or meat), and for the poor (red herring, a very cheap fish). From Answers.com