2007-11-09 08:52:48 · 3 answers · asked by lotusflower_ph 1 in Education & Reference ➔ Words & Wordplay
The link offers several etymologies for the phrase
2007-11-09 08:58:10 · answer #1 · answered by Stephen H 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
In 1644, Charles II, King of England was told a story about "Fish that fly like birds" by a returning ship's master. The king replied, "I have my doubts!" Sir William Killigren, colonel of the new British Marine regiment that was just raised that year said, "Nay, Sire, it is true. I have myself seen flying fish many a time in southern waters. I vouch for the truth of this strange tale, your Majesty." The monarch then told his Secretary of Admiralty, "Mr. Pepys, no class of our subjects hath such knowledge of odd things on land and sea as our Marines. Hereafter, when we hear a yarn that lacketh likelihood, we will tell it to the Marines. If they believe it, then we shall know it is true."
2007-11-09 16:58:56 · answer #2 · answered by Frosty 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
http://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/tell-it-to-the-marines.html
This website has some good information on sayings. This particular article has everything you need to know.
2007-11-09 16:59:24 · answer #3 · answered by Deutempestic 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋