Why do we use the phrase oopsie-daisies when we make a mistake? Is it because a daisy chain of errors could ultimately lead to us pushing up daisies? We need more flowery language to express our blunders because what if someone is allergic to daisies? I will provide some alternatives for your consideration.
First, I would like you to consider: what in carnation? This particular expression is handy if you have a shaky hand while trying to pin a corsage on your prom date. Not that I would know from experience because I never went to prom. If I had gone, I probably would’ve needed this choice of words. However, my prom date probably would’ve had an entirely different choice of words.
Second, I suggest: chrysanthemum’s the word. This phrase is helpful, especially when you mess up and really don’t want your mum to find out about it. Yes, I will admit it’s a mouthful, but isn’t that inherently better than getting an earful from your mother? If all else fails, and your mom finds out about your failure, you can try giving her a bouquet of them because, in China, they are a symbol of long life and good luck in the home. However, depending on the severity of your misjudgment, I can’t speak for the longevity of your own life, in which case, chrysanthemums are used almost exclusively as memorial flowers in Austria and Belgium.
Next, I recommend: oh, how lily of me. It is perfect when you do something silly, embarrassing, or lily-liver. When you’re trembling from humiliation or fright, and your skin turns a pasty lily-white, that is the appropriate time to say it. To get a little color back in your face, after the fact, I highly insist on using a little makeup. But in some cases, that might just be gilding the lily.
Last but not least, I present to you: what the phlox? Talk about a great go-to saying literally anytime you are shocked, but people might be as shocked themselves when you say it. But who gives a phlox what they think? Speaking of giving: If you care about the person and feel you might have offended them inadvertently, you can give them a good phlox. They are symbolic of unity, goodnight kisses, and sweet dreams. So, you definitely want to go to bed right after you phlox.
Iriser, Irina. “Pink Carnations.” Pexels, 13 June 2018, www.pexels.com/photo/pink-carnations-1158961/.
Grabowska, Karolina. “Colorful Blooming Chrysanthemums.” Pexels, 29 September 2020, www.pexels.com/photo/colorful-blooming-chrysanthemums-5478198/.
Kaplan, Beyza. “Close-Up Shot of Lilies.” Pexels, 15 July 2022, www.pexels.com/photo/close-up-shot-of-lilies-12839824/.
Leatherman, Carrie. “Purple and White Phlox Flowers.” Pexels, 18 May 2022, www.pexels.com/photo/purple-and-white-phlox-flowers-12182932/.
