* "A chip off the old block": While not explicitly stated, the Baudelaire orphans are often described as sharing traits with their parents, hinting at this idiom.
* "Pull the wool over someone's eyes": Count Olaf often attempts to deceive others, creating illusions and hiding his true intentions, which aligns with this idiom.
* "A storm in a teacup": The series features many dramatic and seemingly perilous situations, but they are often overblown and resolved rather easily, suggesting a sense of exaggeration.
* "A wolf in sheep's clothing": Count Olaf, of course, embodies this idiom. He appears harmless but is ultimately predatory and dangerous.
* "Burning bridges": The Baudelaire orphans often find themselves in situations where they are forced to flee or make choices that leave them with little choice but to move on, suggesting a sense of "burning bridges" behind them.
* "A stitch in time saves nine": The Baudelaire orphans often face consequences due to their lack of preparation or foresight, suggesting a lesson about addressing issues promptly.
However, Lemony Snicket often uses figurative language and wordplay rather than common idioms:
* Metaphors: "The world is a stage," "Life is a journey," "The truth is a slippery fish."
* Similes: "He's as sly as a fox," "She's as stubborn as a mule," "Their luck was as bad as a rainstorm in a desert."
Ultimately, the series focuses on a distinct literary voice and style, making it more about clever turns of phrase and playful wordplay than conventional idioms.