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Carry, take, etc. coals to Newcastle

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Cultural OriginPlay
The phrase originates from Newcastle, England, known for its coal production. SlideExplaining snow to an Eskimo is like carrying coals to Newcastle.
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Idiomatic UsagePlay
Use this phrase to express that an action is redundant. SlideDonating ice in the Arctic is like taking coals to Newcastle.
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Cultural UnderstandingPlay
Understand the irony by knowing Newcastle doesn't need more coal. SlideA solar panel salesman in the Sahara is like taking coals to Newcastle.