sixes

The Oxford Dictionary of Phrase and Fable | 2006 | 521 words | Copyright

sixes at sixes and sevens a state of confusion or disorder; originally denoting the hazard of one's whole fortune, or carelessness as to the consequences of one's actions; in later use, meaning the creation or existence of, or neglect to remove, confusion, disorder, or disagreement.

The original form of the phrase, to set on six and seven (from Chaucer's Troylus and Criseyde), is based on the language of dicing, and is probably a fanciful alteration of to set on cinque and sice, these being the two highest numbers.

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ELIZABETH KNOWLES. "sixes." The Oxford Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 2006. Encyclopedia.com. 28 May. 2012 <http://www.encyclopedia.com>.

ELIZABETH KNOWLES. "sixes." The Oxford Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 2006. Encyclopedia.com. (May 28, 2012). http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O214-sixes.html

ELIZABETH KNOWLES. "sixes." The Oxford Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 2006. Retrieved May 28, 2012 from Encyclopedia.com: http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O214-sixes.html

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