But many of those brilliantly colourful and inventive expressions are ones you rarely hear uttered today, with some at risk of dying out completely.
In some cases that’s because parenting methods have changed, in others it’s because language has evolved.
You may not have enjoyed hearing these sayings as a child, but you probably appreciate why your parents were occasionally driven to say such things.
And even if you don’t use these euphemisms yourself, it’s fair to say the English language would be poorer without them.
How many of these sayings do you remember your parents or grandparents using when you were growing up, and are there any you use today? Let us know in the comments section.
13. You'd make a better door than a window
If your parents were watching TV and you stood in their way, you might have heard them say 'you'd make a better door than a window'. The phrase is a great way of lightly chiding someone for blocking your view but it's not one you hear a great deal nowadays. | Getty Images Photo: Wilfred Frederick