Origin of the phrase:
The phrase originates from the word "odds," which in this context refers to a state of disagreement or opposition. The word "odds" itself has a complex history:
* Old English: "Odd" originally meant "pointed" or "sharp," likely referring to the unevenness or sharpness of an angle.
* Medieval English: Over time, "odd" evolved to mean "unpaired" or "uneven," and "odds" became used to describe a situation where there was an imbalance or inequality.
* Early Modern English: The meaning of "odds" shifted further, to encompass a state of disagreement or conflict. This is likely due to the association of unevenness with a lack of agreement.
Therefore, "puts them at odds" signifies the creation of an uneven and conflicting situation, where the parties involved are no longer aligned in their thoughts or goals.
Examples:
* "Their differing opinions on the project put them at odds with each other."
* "The new policy put the government at odds with the public."
* "The economic crisis put the two countries at odds."