MF Explains It All

The in-person shopping experience is part of the Trader Joe's brand.

As with regular toasts, it’s not clear exactly when, where, or why this custom began. But these days, most drinkers will cite one of two common reasons behind it.

Where does this literary device come from, and why is it named after a fish?

The figurative phrase is more than 200 years old, but the obscure etymology of a 'red herring' is a fishy story that is itself a red herring.

Unpacking the reason hyperlinks are blue requires dipping into early internet history.

Ever wonder what your dog finds so tasty about grass?

A dog that eats grass frantically may be trying to vomit—but the behavior doesn't automatically warrant a trip to the vet.

A grocery store’s layout strategy is very calculated—and rearranging inventory is meant to confuse you.

And how does a range fit into all this?

The baton has been a law enforcement tool for close to two centuries. But did anyone named Billy actually have anything to do with it?

If your dog follows everywhere you go, don’t be too worried about it. The behavior indicates they see you in a positive light.

Stick to listening to your pre-downloaded podcasts.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) bars the use of all transmitting devices in the off chance that transmissions could interfere with a plane’s navigation and communications equipment and cause system malfunctions.

The tendency for dogs to steal, chew, and snuggle your shoe while dozing off is common across breeds, ages, and temperaments.

This dachshund wants you to know you're probably mispronouncing the name of his breed.

Dachshund is actually made up of two smaller German words (dachs, which means “badger,” and hund, which means “dog”) and it's not pronounced “dash-hound.”

Know the difference between the bubble waters.

They all sparkle. They all bubble. And they’re all water. But they're not interchangeable.

Don’t forget to empty your water bottle before you get to the airport security line.

A CIA official explains the 3-1-1 rule and the lasting influence of Operation Overt.

Social media has been buzzing about "main character energy" for years, but what does it actually mean?

You should preheat the oven to whatever temperature the recipe says—but here’s what’ll happen (or won’t happen) if you don’t.

The dime-sized insects require careful disposal in your home.

Some varieties spoil faster than others.

The St. Edward's Crown (left) and the Imperial State Crown.

King Charles III will only get to don the iconic St. Edward’s Crown for a moment—here’s why.

She's wishing she had a towel right about now.

It's a regional thing.

Dogs don’t just curl up because it’s cute.

“Because it's adorable” is just an unintended side effect. There’s actually an evolutionary reason behind why dogs curl up to sleep.

“Ripping off the Band-Aid” is a well-worn idiom. When you want to break bad news, it’s better to just do it quickly; the same goes for anything prompting any ki

You just went to an art exhibit. Or was it an exhibition?

They have one, but don't often use it.

The Real Reason Trader Joe’s Doesn’t Allow Online Orders

The Slightly Morbid Reason We Tap Our Glasses on the Bar Before Doing a Shot

Where Did the Phrase 'Red Herring' Come From?

Why Are Hyperlinks Blue?

Why Do Dogs Eat Grass?

The Clever Reason Why Grocery Stores Change Their Layouts So Often

Oven vs. Stove: What's the Difference?

Why Is A Police Officer’s Baton Called a Billy Club?

The Reason Your Dog Follows You Everywhere

Why Can’t I Use My Cell Phone on an Airplane?

The Reason Your Dog Loves Stealing Your Shoes

The Right Way to Pronounce 'Dachshund'

What’s the Difference Between Club Soda, Seltzer, and Sparkling Water?

The Real Reason You Can’t Bring Water Bottles Through Airport Security

Is ‘Main Character Energy’ a Real Thing? Here’s What It Is—and How To Tell if You Have It

Do You Really Have to Preheat the Oven?

Why You Should Never Squish a Stink Bug

How Long It Takes Those Oats in Your Pantry to Go Bad

Why Do British Monarchs Wear Two Crowns During Their Coronation?

The Reason People Hang White Towels or Bags on Broken-Down Cars

The Surprising Reasons Your Dog Curls Up in a Ball Before Going to Sleep

Does Ripping Off a Bandage Quickly Really Hurt Less?

Exhibit vs. Exhibition: What’s the Difference?

The Reason British Royals Don’t Use a Last Name