as the crow flies In a straight line; by the most direct route. This expression stems from the widely held belief that a crow flies in a straight line from one point to another. Sporting Magazine used the phrase as early as 1810.

bolt upright Straight up; stiffly upright; on end. This expression derives from bolt meaning ‘projectile, arrow.’ It was used as early as 1386 in Chaucer’s Reeve’s Tale.

follow one’s nose See INTUITION.

from pillar to post Aimlessly or futilely from place to place; purposelessly from one thing to another; from predicament to predicament, often with the sense of being beleaguered or harassed. The expression is among the oldest in the language, first appearing as from post to pillar.

There is little agreement regarding its origin. One theory holds that it stems from tennis but fails to explain how. Other sources see its roots in manège: the pillar being the column at the center of the riding ground, the posts those that in pairs mark its circumference. Yet another hypothesizes that it derives from the custom of bloodthirsty crowds following convicted persons “from pillory to whipping-post.” Today the phrase most often describes a lack of direction or purpose or the futility of receiving the runaround, as with bureaucratic red tape. It also exists as an adjective.

go around Robin Hood’s barn To arrive at one’s destination by a circuitous route; to proceed in a very roundabout way. The origin of the expression is unknown. It has no logical association with the legendary Robin Hood, who, of course, had no barn, though it may have been formed by analogy with other possessives whose meanings are connected with that figure’s exploits: Robin Hood’s mile ‘one several times the recognized length’; Robin Hood’s bargain ‘a cheap purchase.’ The expression appeared in print at least as early as the 18th century.

make a beeline See PACE.