Meaning
To kick the bucket / To die
Example
Se o Ricardo não cuidar da saúde, vai bater as botas em breve!
If Ricardo doesn't take care of his health, he'll kick the bucket soon!
Origin
One theory links it to soldiers who died with their boots on — buried quickly, still dressed. Another, older theory points to medieval executioners removing the boots from the condemned before death.
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More idioms
Acertar na moscaTo guess correctly / To hit the nail on the headAmigo da onçaA fake/false friendAndar na linhaTo toe the line / To behave properlyArmar um barracoTo cause a public sceneRodar a baianaTo cause a public scene / To go ballisticArrumar sarna pra se coçarTo ask for troubleArrastar as asasTo hit on someone / To flirtAbrir o jogoTo come clean / To open upArregaçar as mangasTo roll up one's sleeves / To get to workAgarrar com unhas e dentesTo hold on for dear life / To seize an opportunity