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Idioms (A-Z)
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About to do something - On the point of doing something She was about to leave when the phone rang. About time - Something that should have happened earlier It is about time that you returned that book to me. Absent-minded - Forgetful My grandfather is very absent-minded and often forgets his key. According to Hoyle - Strictly by the rules, the usual and correct way to do something According to Hoyle you are not allowed to enter this room but if nobody is here I think it will be okay. Add up - seem consistent or reasonable The things that he said about his boss don’t really add up. Ahead of time - Early We started the meeting ahead of time so we could go home early. air one’s dirty laundry (linen) in public - make public something embarrassing that should be kept secret The dinner party became uncomfortable when the host began to air his colleagues' dirty laundry in public. All along - all the time I knew all along that he would not get the promotion. all at once - suddenly, without warning All at once the fire alarm rang so we had to leave the building. all day long - the whole day She has been sitting and waiting for the mail to arrive all day long. all ears - eager to listen to someone Okay, I`m all ears, please tell me about the party. all in all - in summary, after considering everything We had a few problems but all in all the meeting was successful. all of a sudden - suddenly, without advance warning All of a sudden it became cloudy and began to rain. all right - okay, satisfactory She said that it would be all right for me to bring my friend to the party. all the time - continually She asks for money all the time but I don’t like to give it to her. all thumbs - have difficulty fixing things or working with one’s hands, clumsy He is all thumbs when it comes to fixing things around the house. an arm and a leg - (cost) a large amount of money His new car must have cost him an arm and a leg. Apple of one’s eye - One’s favorite His youngest daughter is the apple of his eye. As a rule - Usually, as a habit As a rule I usually get up at 7:00 AM every morning. As far as - To the extent or degree that As far as I know he will be here in a few minutes. ask for trouble - behave in a way that trouble is likely He is asking for trouble if he misses another class. Asleep at the switch - Not alert to an opportunity I think he was asleep at the switch. He didn’t even know that the job was available so he never applied for it. As long as - Provided that, on condition that As long as you promise to be careful you can borrow my car. As the crow flies - By the most direct way, along a straight line between two places As the crow flies it is about 6 kilometers between my house and my company. As usual - Most of the time, as is the custom As usual, she forgot to bring her book to class. As well as - In addition to Please bring your swimming suit as well as your towel. As yet - Until now, up to the present As yet, she has not told me about her plans to leave the company. At cross purposes - have opposite ways to do something, opposing goals They are at cross purposes and are always arguing about what to do. At fault - be responsible or to blame for something The truck driver was at fault in the terrible accident. at first - At the beginning At first she didn`t want to go to a movie but later she changed her mind. At first blush - When first seen, without careful study At first blush he seemed like a good worker but later we had many problems with him. At heart - Basically, fundamentally She is a very nice person at heart although many people dislike her. at home - in one’s house I’m sorry but I left my money at home. Can you lend me some money? At last - Finally, after a long time I was waiting all morning for her call but at last it came. at loggerheads - having a quarrel, opposing each other We have been at loggerheads over their plans to build a new office complex. at odds - in disagreement He has been at odds with his boss over the new sales territory. at someone’s beck and call - Always ready to serve somebody His eldest daughter is always at his beck and call when he spends an evening at home. at the end of one’s rope - at the limit of one’s ability to cope I am at the end of my rope about what to do about my current situation at work. Attend to someone - take care or deal with someone The doctor attended to the other patient before he got to my mother B...................................................................... back on one’s feet - Return to good financial or physical health He is finally backed on his feet after his company went out of business. Back out - withdraw from an agreement or promise The company backed out of the deal with the foreign firm. Back to the drawing board - go back to start a project or idea from the beginning The boss doesn’t like our idea so I guess we must go back to the drawing board. Bail someone or something out - Help or rescue The government has decided to bail out the troubled bank. Bank on - be sure of, count on You can bank on them to come and help the company. bark is worse than one’s bite - Someone isn’t as bad as they sound Don’t worry if he gets angry - his bark is worse than his bite. Bark up the wrong tree - make a wrong assumption about something The police are barking up the wrong tree in their investigation of that person. Beat around the bush - speak indirectly or evasively Stop beating around the bush and give us your final decision. beat someone to the punch (draw) - do something before others He beat me to the punch and arrived at the interview first. (have a) bee in one’s bonnet - have an idea that continually occupies one’s thoughts. He has a bee in his bonnet over whether or not to build a new house or not. (Do something) behind someone’s back - Without someone’s knowledge He is very angry because they borrowed the car behind his back. Behind the times - Old fashioned My aunt is a little behind the times. be to blame - be responsible for something bad or unfortunate He’s not to blame for breaking the computer. Bend over backwards to do something - try very hard If I can, I will bend over backwards to help you get a promotion in the company. Beside one’s self - Very upset or excited about something He was beside himself with joy at winning the contest. Beside the point - Not relevant to the subject that you are considering or discussing "What you are saying is beside the point. We are not talking about salary now." Bet on the wrong horse - misjudge a coming event, misread the future I think that he bet on the wrong horse by putting all of his money into that new stock. Better off - be in a better situation than before He would be better off if he sold his old car and bought a new one. beyond the pale - Outside the bounds of acceptable behavior What they are doing is totally unacceptable and beyond the pale. bide one’s time - Patiently wait for an opportunity to occur. He is biding his time as he waits to become president of the company. Big shot - An important and powerful person He is a big shot in the oil and gas industry. Birthday suit - Completely naked, no clothes on The little boy was running down the street in his birthday suit. Bite off more than one can chew - try to do more than one is able to do I think I bit off more than I can chew by taking on the new assignment. Bite the bullet - endure in a difficult situation, face a difficult situation bravely I have decided to bite the bullet and begin studying for my Master’s degree. bite the dust - be killed, break down, be defeated I think that my car has finally bitten the dust. Bite the hand that feeds you - turn against a friend or supporter, repay kindness with wrong He is biting the hand that feeds him if he continues to criticize and fight against his boss. Blind leading the blind - someone who doesn’t understand something trying to explain it to others It is like the blind leading the blind watching him try and explain how to operate the new computer. Blow it (something) - fail at something I tried hard but I am sure that I blew the final math exam last week. Blow one’s own horn - praise one self He is always blowing his own horn and is very annoying at times. Blow over - die down or calm down The problem with the lost invoices has finally blown over and everyone is working hard again. Blue in the face - Endlessly, fruitlessly You can argue with him until you are blue in the face but you will never change his mind. Bone of contention - A reason for quarrels, the subject of a fight The family cottage was a major bone of contention when their father died. Boot out - make someone go or leave, get rid of someone, dismiss He was booted out of high school for smoking on the school grounds. born with a silver spoon in one’s mouth - Born rich, provided from birth with everything you need He was born with a silver spoon in his mouth and has never worked in his life. Brand new - Absolutely new He was finally able to buy a brand-new car. Break down - stop working because of mechanical failure The car broke down on the lonely road so nobody knew about it. Break down - analyze We must break down these figures for further study. Break fresh ground - Deal with something in a new way The researchers were able to break fresh ground in their search for a cancer cure. Break the bank - win all the money at a casino gambling table He didn’t really break the bank but he did win a lot of money. Break the ice - relax and start a conversation in a formal situation Nobody was enjoying the party until the host finally was able to break the ice. Break the news - tell some information first He is planning to break the news to her about his transfer tomorrow. Break up (with someone) - stop a relationship She broke up with her boyfriend last June. bring home the bacon - work and earn money for your family He is out bringing home the bacon and is very busy. Bring home the importance of something to someone - make someone fully realize something He was unable to bring home the importance of arriving early for the meeting. Bring some new facts to light - discover some new facts, make some new facts known The lawyers were able to bring some new facts to light in the trial of the killer. Bring someone into line - persuade someone to agree with you He was finally able to bring the other members of the committee into line. Bring something on - cause to develop rapidly I don’t know what brought on his anger but you should avoid him until he calms down. Bring the house down - cause much laughter in the audience The comedian brought the house down with his jokes about the lost dog. Bring to mind - recall something Her perfect acting brought to mind some of the great actresses of the past. Bring up - introduce a subject into a discussion They brought up the subject at the meeting but nobody wanted to talk about it. Bring up - raise or care for a child My grandmother brought up ten children. Bring up the rear - be at the end of the line or in the last position The runner from the other school was bringing up the rear in the school relay race. Broke - have no money I spent all of my money on my holiday and I am now broke. Brush up on something - review something one has already learned I’m going to brush up on my English before my trip to New York. Brush with the law - A brief encounter or experience with the police because of a crime He had a brush with the law when he was young but now he is totally honest. Bull in a china shop - Someone who is clumsy and upsets other people or plans He was like a bull in a china shop when I saw him at the meeting last week. Bundle up - put on warm clothes, dress warmly We bundled up and went for a walk in the park. burn a hole in one’s pocket - Money that you want to spend quickly I just got paid today and this money is burning a hole in my pocket. Burn down - burn completely (usually used for buildings) The neighbor’s house burnt down completely during the night. burn one’s bridges behind one - do something that makes going back impossible He burned his bridges behind him and is unable to work in the same industry again. Burn the candle at both ends - work or play too hard without enough rest He has been burning the candle at both ends with his work and his studies. That is why he became sick. burn the midnight oil - study until very late at night We burned the midnight oil for three nights in a row in order to study for the exam. Burn up - burn completely (usually things not buildings) The uniforms burned up in the fire. Bury (hide) one’s head in the sand - refuse to see or face something; keep from seeing or knowing something unpleasant He always buries his head in the sand and never wants to deal with his family problems at all. Bury the hatchet - stop quarreling and become friendly with someone He decided to bury the hatchet with his brother and they are now on friendly terms again. Butter someone up - flatter someone He is trying to butter up his boss so that he can leave early on Friday. Buy a pig in a poke - buy something without seeing it or knowing if it will be satisfactory You shouldn’t buy that car without first inspecting it. It is like buying a pig in a poke. By and large - On the whole, considering everything By and large we had a good meeting even though it was a little short. By and by - Before long By and by they will come and we can go out for dinner. By far - Greatly, by a great margin He is by far the smartest person in the company. By fits and starts - Irregularly, with many stops and starts By fits and starts the company was finally able to begin business. By hook or by crook - In any way necessary She says that she will go to Italy this year by hook or by crook. By the way - Incidentally By the way, could you please bring your computer tomorrow? by the skin of one’s teeth - by a very small margin, barely I made the application date for the job by the skin of my teeth. by the sweat of one’s brow - By hard work He managed to make enough money to buy the farm by the sweat of his brow. C...................................................................... Calculated risk - An action that may fail but has a good chance to succeed They took a calculated risk when they opened the new store but it has been very successful. Call a spade a spade - speak bluntly He was calling a spade a spade when he began to criticize his employee for being lazy. Call for someone - come and get someone Could you please come and call on me before you go to the game. Call it quits - Stop, finish He called it quits and went home for the day. Call of nature - The need to go to the toilet He is answering the call of nature and can’t talk to you for a few minutes. Call off - cancel The game was called off because of the rain. Call on - visit someone I plan to call on my brother when I am on my holidays. Call on - ask someone to participate or contribute something The teacher called on me three times to answer questions in the class. Call on to the carpet - call someone before an authority to be scolded or reprimanded He was called on to the carpet by his boss for losing the major sale. call someone’s bluff - Challenge someone to prove what they say is true I decided to call his bluff and asked him to show me the evidence. Call the shots - be in charge, give orders He is now calling the shots and is in control of the company. Call up - Telephone He said that he would call up his parent’s tomorrow night. Calm down - relax She finally calmed down after the accident. Cancel out - destroy the effect of something The benefits of her exercise were cancelled out by her always overeating. Can of worms - a complicated situation or problem The lawsuit opened up a can of worms for the company. Can’t see the forest for the trees - Unable to judge or understand the whole picture because you are looking at the small parts of it He has no real understanding of most problems as he always fails to see the forest for the trees. Card up one’s sleeve - a plan or argument kept back to be produced if needed I think that he has a card up his sleeve and will be able to help us later. (In) care of someone - send something to one person at the address of another person I sent the parcel to her in care of her friend at the university. Carrot and stick - The promise of reward and threat of punishment at the same time The trade negotiators took a carrot and stick approach to the automobile talks. (Get) carried away - lose control or judgment due to strong feelings I got a carried away and began to yell at her for losing my textbook. Carry on - continue, keep doing as before We were permitted to carry on with the party after we had talked to the landlord. Carry (something) out - put into action, accomplish The move to the new headquarters was carried out with a minimum of problems. Carry over - save for another time We plan to carry over the summer swimwear until next year. Carry the ball - take the most important or difficult part in an action or business The vice-president was forced to carry the ball while the president was away. Carry the day - win or be successful His fine performance in our company carried the day for us. Carry the torch - show loyalty to a cause or a person He has been carrying the torch for the candidate for a long time. Carry through - put a plan into action The company carried through with their plan to layoff 300 workers. (a) Case in point - An example that proves something or helps to make something clear What he just said was a case in point about what I have been saying all year. Cash cow - A good source of money His new business is a great cash cow. I think that he is really making a lot of money. Cash in - exchange something for money We decided to cash in the coupons because we needed some money. Cash in on - see and profit by a chance The small town cashed in on their success with the winter Olympics. Cash on the barrelhead - Money paid when something is bought It was a cash deal and we were forced to pay cash on the barrelhead. Cast pearls before swine - waste something valuable on someone who doesn’t appreciate it Giving her the gold earrings was casting pearls before swine. Cast the first stone - be the first to blame someone He was the one to cast the first stone and now he is having a major fight with his neighbor. Castles in the air - Daydreams She is always building castles in the air and is very unrealistic. Cat burglar - A burglar who enters a building by climbing a wall etc. We lost our stereo when a cat burglar entered our apartment. Cat gets one’s tongue - can’t talk I think that the cat has got her tongue. She hasn’t said anything at all since the meeting started. Catch-22 - a situation where whatever you do the outcome will be bad, a no-win situation It was a catch-22 situation where if I went to work there would be problems but if I didn’t go to work there would be more problems. Catch a cold - become sick with a cold I caught a cold because of the rain and the cold weather. Catch-as-catch-can - In any way possible We are in the middle of moving house so the meals when you visit will be catch-as-catch-can. Catch on - understand, learn about It was difficult to catch on at first but finally I was able to understand the math problem. Catch on - become popular Recently ballroom dancing has begun to catch on among many people. Catch one’s breath - stop to rest and regain one’s normal breathing After running from the station it took a moment to catch my breath. Catch one’s eye - attract one’s attention I tried to catch her eye but she didn’t notice me. Catch (someone) red-handed - find someone in the middle of doing something wrong He caught the boy red-handed when he was stealing the candy. Catch up with (someone or something) - become even with someone (in a race or in schoolwork etc.) I think it’s too late to catch up with the rest of the class now. Caught short - Not having enough of something when you need it (usually money) I was caught short last week and couldn’t pay the weekly food bill. Cave in - To weaken and be forced to give up The company finally caved in to the union’s demand for more money. Chalk up - Record The stock prices of the company chalked up a big gain last week. Change horses in midstream - make new plans or choose a new leader in the middle of an important activity They decided to change horses in midstream and that is probably why they lost the election. Change of heart - change the way one feels about something She had a change of heart and decided to let her child go to the circus. change (one’s) mind - change one’s decision He changed his mind and said that he would not go to the movie tonight. Change (one’s) tune - make a change in one’s story, statement or opinions He has begun to change his tune recently and is beginning to agree that we need to do things a little differently. (In) charge of something - be responsible for an activity or group of people He is in charge of selling tickets for the school dance. Cheat on (someone) - be unfaithful to someone He recently began cheating on his wife which was the main cause of their divorce. (Have the) cheek to do something - Rudeness, impudence She had the cheek to tell me that she was sick and couldn’t come to work today. Cheek by jowl - Side by side, in close intimacy They were walking down the stairs cheek by jowl when the alarm sounded. Chew the fat - chat The two men were chewing the fat on the porch of the house. Chew out (someone) - scold roughly The teacher chewed out the student for talking in class. Chicken feed - A small amount of money What he sold his car for was chicken feed compared to the amount of money that he has in the bank. Chicken out - stop doing something because of fear He chickened out of jumping into the lake from the high diving board. Chickens come home to roost - Words or acts come back to cause trouble for a person Her chickens have finally come home to roost and she must now take responsibility for what she has done. Chime in - join in (a song or conversation) We were having a nice conversation until she chimed in and started complaining about everything. Chip in - contribute or pay jointly We all chipped in and bought our father a present. Chip off the old block - Person who looks or acts like one of his parents His son is a chip off the old block and acts exactly like his father. (When the) chips are down - The time when one faces the greatest obstacles When the chips were down he went to his father for advice and received his encouragement. Clam up - stop talking She clammed up as soon as her boyfriend entered the room. Clean bill of health - The assurance that an animal or person is healthy The astronaut was given a clean bill of health before he began training. Clean slate - having no errors, past acts that are all good He started off with a clean slate and has never caused any problems for the company. Clear the air - calm down and remove a misunderstanding We had a big argument so I think it is time to clear the air. Clear the decks - clear away things and prepare for action Let’s clear the decks and get everyone out of the house so we can begin work. Clear up - solve or explain (a problem etc.) They finally cleared up the problem that I was having with my salary at work. Cliffhanger - Sports event or movie where the outcome is uncertain until the very end The playoff game was a cliffhanger and one of the most enjoyable games of the year. Climb the wall - be so bored that you become anxious and frustrated She began to climb the wall after only a few days at her new job. Clip joint - A low-class business where people are cheated They went into a clip joint near the bus station and had to pay a lot of money. - limit one’s activities or possibilities They decided to clip his wings and took away his expense account. Close call/shave - An accident almost happens (but doesn’t happen) I had a close call this morning when the truck almost hit me. Close ranks - come together for fighting, unite and work together They decided to close ranks and stop arguing among themselves Close to home - Near to someone’s personal feelings, wishes or interests What I said about her work habits must have hit close to home as she seemed to become very quiet suddenly. Coast is clear - No danger is in sight, no one can see you When the coast was clear we decided to enter the building. (Bring) coals to Newcastle - bring something of which there is plenty Bringing extra food to the farmer’s picnic was like bringing coals to Newcastle. Cog in the machine - You are not important but only a small part of a large organization The employees felt like they were only cogs in a machine so the atmosphere at the company was not very good. Cold spell or cold snap - A sudden short period of cold weather (usually in winter) The cold snap lasted for five days. Cold turkey - stop using drugs (heroin etc.) abruptly and without medical aid Although she was able to stop using drugs cold turkey she was very sick for awhile. Come a cropper - fail I think that he has come a cropper in the horse competition and that is why he is sad. Come across - find something or meet someone by chance I came across an interesting story in the newspaper the other day. Come again. - Please repeat, please say that again Come again. I didn’t hear you the first time. Come alive - brighten up and become active She finally came alive and began to enjoy the party. Come along - make progress, thrive The work on our new house is coming along very well at the moment. Come a long way - make great progress He has come a long way and has learned many things about his new company. Come back - Return to the place you are now She came back from her holidays last week. Come back - Return to one’s memory I can’t remember clearly the events of last year but slowly everything is coming back to me. Come back - become popular again Recently bell-bottom pants have come back into fashion. Come between disrupt the relationship between (two people) His constant interfering finally came between his brother and his wife. Come by - get, obtain, acquire She came by a lot of money recently and is now enjoying her life. Come clean - tell the truth The president of the company was forced to come clean and tell what really happened to the business. (a) come-down - A lowering in status, income, influence or energy Her new job was a real come-down from her last one so she was not very happy. Come down hard on - scold or punish severely The police have been coming down very hard on drunk drivers recently. Come down to earth - stop imagining or dreaming, think and behave as usual He has finally come down to earth and is preparing seriously to look for a job. Come down with - become sick with or catch a cold etc. Her mother came down with a cold so was unable to attend the dinner. Come from - be a native of a place Several of the students in the class come from Mexico. Come full circle - Completely opposite from one’s starting point They have come full circle since the new president started at the university. Come hell or high water - No matter what happens Come hell or high water I plan to go to the concert next week. Come in handy - prove to be useful I think that the small hammer will come in handy to fix the desk. Come into - receive, get possession of They came into a lot of money which they donated to charity. Come into fashion - become fashionable She says that although bell-bottom pants have come into fashion again she will never wear them. Come into one’s own - become to perform or work well because of good circumstances He has really come into his own as a basketball player since he changed positions. Come off - be successful The party came off without any problems so everyone was very happy. come on strong - overwhelm with excessively strong language or personality He came on too strong during the job interview and was unable to get the job. come out with - say, make known The child has recently come out with many strange and funny expressions. come to - begin or learn to do or feel something At first I disliked her a lot but recently I have come to accept her. come to - regain consciousness She came to a couple of hours after the accident. Come to blows - begin to fight They almost came to blows when they were trying to fix the car. Come to grief - have a bad accident or disappointment He has recently come to much grief because of his son’s problems with the police. Come to grips with - struggle (successfully) with an idea or problem She has finally been able to come to grips with her husband’s drinking. Come to light - be discovered, become known It has recently come to light that the company has lost millions of dollars. Come to nothing - End in failure All his efforts to help his sister find a job came to nothing. come to one’s senses - begin to think clearly or act sensibly He finally came to his senses and decided to buy a cheaper car rather than borrow a lot of money for an expensive one. Come to pass - To happen, occur It came to pass that the company was never able to recover from their financial problems. Come to terms - reach an agreement We came to terms with the bank and were able to buy the house. come to the point - be direct His speech was interesting but he never really came to the point. Come up with - produce or find a thought, idea or answer Please try to come up with a name for the new magazine. Common touch - a friendly manner with everyone He has a nice common touch and everyone likes him a lot. Conk out - fall asleep quickly with great fatigue As soon as we returned from the hike I conked out in front of the TV. cook one’s goose - ruin one’s chances She really cooked her own goose and has no chance of getting the new job. Cook up - invent, plan and put something together I don’t know what kind of plan she is cooking up now but it should be quite interesting. Cool as a cucumber - Very calm and brave, not worried or anxious She was as cool as a cucumber when her canoe turned over in the river. cool one’s heels - be kept waiting because of another’s rudeness He was forced to cool his heels for an hour in the waiting room before his boss would talk to him. Cop a plea - plead guilty to a crime in order to get a lesser penalty He was forced to cop a plea when the evidence against him became too strong to dispute. Cop out - avoid doing something that you were planning to do He copped out from our plan to go to the beach for the day. Copycat - Someone who copies another person’s work or their actions The little boy was accused of being a copycat by the other children. Cough up - give unwillingly He finally coughed up enough money to pay for the accident. Count on - depend on You can never count on him to do anything right. count one’s chickens before they’re hatched - assume that something will be successful before it is certain Don’t count your chickens before they’re hatched. You’re spending your money and you don’t even have a job yet. Count out - leave something out of a plan, exclude Please count me out of your plans to go skiing for the weekend. cover one’s tracks - hide or not say where one has been or what one has done He was trying to cover his tracks but it was easy to see where he had recently been. Cover up - hide something wrong or bad They tried to cover up the facts regarding the illegal election campaign funds. Cozy up to (someone) - try to be friendly to someone I don’t know what he wants but recently he has been trying to cozy up to me. Crack a joke - tell a joke He was a lot of fun at the party because he was always cracking jokes. crack a smile - let a smile show on one’s face He never cracked a smile during the whole meeting. crack down on - enforce laws or rules strictly The school principal decided to crack down on people running in the halls. Crack of dawn - Daybreak, early in the morning We got up at the crack of dawn to go fishing. Crackpot - an eccentric person with ideas that don’t make sense to others He is a total crackpot and you never know what he will do next. Crack the whip - try to make someone work hard or obey you by threatening them We had to crack the whip in order to get the job finished by the weekend. (Buy something) on credit - pay for something not in cash He decided to buy the stereo on credit Crack up - burst into laughter I cracked up when he started talking about the incident with the taxi driver. Cramp one’s style - limit one’s talk or action Working in the new section is beginning to cramp my style a little. Crash the gate - enter without a ticket or without paying or with no invitation Many people didn’t have a ticket for the concert so they decided to crash the gate. Cream of the crop - The top choice When they hire new employees they always look for the cream of the crop. (The) creeps - A strong feeling of fear or disgust I get the creeps every time that I see a dead animal. Creep up on - crawl quietly towards The thief crept up on the elderly women at the supermarket. Crocodile tears - a show of sorrow that is not really felt He said that he was very sorry but his tears were just crocodile tears. Crop up - appear or happen unexpectedly I will meet you early next week unless something crops up that keeps me busy. Cross a bridge before one comes to it - think and worry about future events or problems before they happen We shouldn’t worry about that problem now. We can cross that bridge when we come to it. cross one’s heart and hope to die - promise that what you are saying is true I promise that I will pay you back the money next week. Cross my heart and hope to die. cross ones mind - think of, occur to someone It just crossed my mind that I would probably see him in the evening so I didn’t phone him. Cross (something) out - eliminate by drawing a line through something Please cross out that amount and put in the correct amount. Cross to bear/carry - Something you must do or continue with even though you are suffering Looking after my sister’s children every day is my cross to bear. Cry out for - need something badly, be lacking The new room that he built cries out for a new set of furniture. cry over spilt milk - cry or complain about something that has already happened Don`t cry over spilt milk. You can never change the past. cry uncle - admit defeat or that one has lost He finally had to cry uncle when the other wrestler pinned him to the mat. Cry wolf - warn of danger that is not there He has been crying wolf for years about various things and now nobody believes him. (not one’s) cup of tea - something one enjoys, special interest It`s not really my cup of tea so I think I will stay home and not go to the art gallery. curiosity killed the cat - being too nosy and interested in other peoples business may lead a person into trouble Don`t keep asking so many questions. Remember curiosity killed the cat. curry favor - flatter someone to get his help or friendship He has been working hard to curry favor with the other members of the committee. cut across - cross or go through something instead of going around We decided to cut across the field because we were in a hurry to get to school. cut and dried - completely decided, prearranged The decision was cut and dried and nobody asked for our opinion. cut back - use fewer or use less We were forced to cut back on the number of people who were invited to the party. cut both ways - serve both sides of an argument What he said cuts both ways and we should carefully think about it. cut corners - economize We will have to cut corners in order to save some money for our holiday. cut down on - use less of something Recently he has cut down on his drinking in order to start his new health program. cut down to size - prove that someone is not as good as he thinks I was able to cut him down to size when I criticized what he said at the meeting. cut (someone) off - stop someone from saying something, disconnect someone on the phone I tried to tell him about the accident but he cut me off before I had a chance. cut off one’s nose to spite one’s face - make things worse for oneself because one is angry at someone else He is cutting off his nose to spite his face. Taking revenge on his neighbor will only cause more problems for himself. cut out - eliminate She decided to cut out chocolate in order to lose weight. cut the mustard - reach the required standard He doesn`t cut the mustard and will never be able to work here. |
Idioms(D-E-F)
[B]D..................................................................................[/B]
[B]dance to a different tune[/B] [B]- talk or act differently (usually better) because things have changed[/B] [B]He has begun dancing to a different tune now that he knows that his head salesman is thinking of quitting. [/B] [B]dark horse[/B] [B]- a candidate little known to the general public[/B] [B]At first he was a dark horse candidate but he later won the election. [/B] [B]dash off[/B] [B]- do or finish quickly, leave quickly[/B] [B]I will dash off a letter now but then I must go to work.[/B] [B]Dawn on[/B] [B]- become clear[/B] [B]It finally dawned on me as to why he was angry. [/B] [B]Day and night[/B] [B]- Continually[/B] [B]We worked day and night to finish the project before the end of the month. [/B] [B]Day in and day out[/B] [B]- Regularly, all the time[/B] [B]He goes to that restaurant day in and day out and never gets tired of it. [/B] [B]Dead ahead[/B] [B]- Exactly in front, before[/B] [B]There was a truck dead ahead so we put on the car brakes suddenly. [/B] [B]Dead as a doornail[/B] [B]- Very dead[/B] [B]The man was dead as a doornail as we could see after the accident.[/B] [B]Deadbeat[/B] [B]- A person who never pays his debts[/B] [B]There is a policy to penalize deadbeat fathers by the local government.[/B] [B]Dead center[/B] [B]- Exact middle[/B] [B]He was able to hit the target dead center.[/B] [B]Dead duck[/B] [B]- Person or thing in a hopeless situation or condition[/B] [B]He is a dead duck and has no hope of recovering his former position.[/B] [B]Dead end[/B] [B]- The closed end of a road or an impasse[/B] [B]The negotiations between the team and the owners have come to a dead end.[/B] [B]Deadpan[/B] [B]- With an expressionless or emotionless face[/B] [B]He had a deadpan expression when he told us the story.[/B] [B]Dead set against something[/B] [B]- determined not to do something[/B] [B]They are dead set against their son going to Europe for a year.[/B] [B]Dead tired[/B] [B]- Very tired, exhausted[/B] [B]I was dead tired so I went to bed as soon as I got home.[/B] [B]Dead to the world[/B] [B]- Fast asleep[/B] [B]The little boy was dead to the world when his father took him out of the car. [/B] [B]Decked out[/B] [B]- dressed in fancy clothes[/B] [B]She was all decked out in her best clothes for the party.[/B] [B]Deep-six[/B] [B]- throw away, dispose of[/B] [B]I decided to deep-six the videos as I didn’t want them any longer. [/B] [B]Deep water[/B] [B]- Serious trouble or difficulty[/B] [B]He will be in deep water if he doesn’t tell us where he spent the money.[/B] [B]Deliver the goods[/B] [B]- succeed in doing what is expected well[/B] [B]He is the best manager that we have ever had. He knows how to deliver the goods.[/B] [B]- Unworried, not caring what happens[/B] [B]He has a devil-may-care attitude to his job and nothing ever bothers him. [/B] [B]Die down[/B] [B]- come slowly to an end, grow weaker[/B] [B]When the sound of the music finally died down we were able to get to sleep.[/B] [B]Die off[/B] [B]- die one after another until the number is small[/B] [B]The house plants began to die off as soon as he moved to a new apartment. [/B] [B]Die out[/B] [B]- die or disappear slowly until all gone[/B] [B]Dinosaurs died out millions of years ago.[/B] [B]Dig in[/B] [B]- begin eating[/B] [B]Let’s dig in and eat before everything is cold! [/B] [B]Dime a dozen[/B] [B]- Common, easy to get and of little value[/B] [B]Used books are a dime a dozen so don’t worry if you can’t sell them.[/B] [B]Dirty look[/B] [B]- A look that shows dislike or disapproval[/B] [B]His mother gave him a dirty look when he smoked the cigarette. [/B] [B]Dish out[/B] [B]- serve food from a large bowl or plate[/B] [B]He began to dish out the food as soon as the guests arrived.[/B] [B]Dish out[/B] [B]- treat or criticize roughly[/B] [B]He likes to dish out criticism to others but he doesn’t like to hear criticism about himself. [/B] [B]Do a double take[/B] [B]- look again in surprise at someone or something[/B] [B]She did a double take when she saw her old boyfriend with another woman.[/B] [B]Do a job on[/B] [B]- do harm to, make ugly or useless[/B] [B]He really did a job on the plans for the new house that he was working on.[/B] [B]Do away with[/B] [B]- put an end to, stop, and get rid of[/B] [B]The company has decided to do away with having fixed holidays every year. [/B] [B]Dog-eat-dog[/B] [B]- Ready or willing to fight and hurt others to get what you want[/B] [B]It is a dog-eat-dog world out in the world of advertising and public relations. [/B] [B]Do in[/B] [B]- To ruin, destroy[/B] [B]He quickly did in the new shoes that he received for his birthday.[/B] [B]Do in[/B] [B]- To make tired, exhaust[/B] [B]He was really done in by the time that he finished the marathon.[/B] [B]Doll up[/B] [B]- Dress in fancy clothes[/B] [B]She was all dolled up for the party at the downtown hotel.[/B] [B]Done for[/B] [B]- Ruined, defeated, dying[/B] [B]I think that the team is done for as far as this season is concerned. [/B] [B]Done with[/B] [B]- be finished using something[/B] [B]He was finally done with the computer and so he let his sister use it. [/B] [B]Do one’s best[/B] [B]- try to do something as well as you can[/B] [B]I tried to do my best on the exam.[/B] [B]Do one’s bit (part)[/B] [B]- Share in a group project by contributing one’s time and effort[/B] [B]He did his bit for the planning of the party. [/B] [B]Do one’s thing[/B] [B]- do what one wants to do and enjoys[/B] [B]He is an individualist and enjoys doing his thing when and where he chooses. [/B] [B]Do-or-die[/B] [B]- make a great effort while disregarding danger[/B] [B]He was in a position of do-or-die when he finally found another job.[/B] [B]Do out of[/B] [B]- cause to lose by trickery or cheating[/B] [B]He was worried that the company would do him out of the large bonus that he was expecting. [/B] [B]Do someone good[/B] [B]- be good or beneficial for someone[/B] [B]It will do you good to go on a holiday. [/B] [B]Do something rash[/B] [B]- take drastic action (usually without thinking)[/B] [B]She is extremely angry so I hope that she doesn’t do anything rash.[/B] [B]Do the honors[/B] [B]- perform the duty of a host (when serving a drink etc.)[/B] [B]Would you like to do the honors and pour everyone a glass of wine? [/B] [B]Do the trick[/B] [B]- work well, achieve a good result[/B] [B]I think the new piece of equipment should do the trick and solve the problem.[/B] [B]Do time[/B] [B]- spend time in prison[/B] [B]He was doing time when I first heard about him.[/B] [B]Do with[/B] [B]- benefit from[/B] [B]I have been working hard all day so now I could do with a cold drink. [/B] [B]Do with[/B] [B]- be acquainted, involved or associated with[/B] [B]I don’t have anything to do with the party this year.[/B] [B]Do without[/B] [B]- manage without something[/B] [B]If there is no sugar, we’ll have to do without. [/B] [B]Double back[/B] [B]- turn back from where you are going or have been[/B] [B]We decided to double back from the arena to get some money to go to a movie. [/B] [B]Double-check[/B] [B]- check again to be sure something is correct[/B] [B]He double-checked the price of the airplane ticket.[/B] [B]Double-cross[/B] [B]- deceive, promise one thing and do another[/B] [B]He tried to double-cross his partner but was caught and sent to jail.[/B] [B]Double-talk[/B] [B]- Talk that appears to have meaning but does not[/B] [B]He gave the audience a lot of double-talk so nobody knew what he wanted to say.[/B] [B]Double up[/B] [B]- share a room or home with someone[/B] [B]The passengers had to double up in hotel rooms when the plane was delayed because of the weather.[/B] [B]Down and out[/B] [B]- have no money[/B] [B]He has been down and out before but he has always been able to find a job eventually. [/B] [B]Down in the dumps[/B] [B]- Unhappy[/B] [B]She has been really down in the dumps since her boyfriend moved away. [/B] [B]Down on (someone)[/B] [B]- be critical of someone, angry at[/B] [B]She is really down on her friend but I don’t really know the reason. [/B] [B]Down one’s alley[/B] [B]- suited to one’s tastes and abilities[/B] [B]Computers are down his alley so I am sure that he will be interested in taking the job. [/B] [B]Down the line[/B] [B]- Straight ahead, in future[/B] [B]There will be many changes at this company down the line but for now your job is safe. [/B] [B]Down the drain[/B] [B]- wasted or lost[/B] [B]He is just throwing money down the drain when he goes to the horse races. [/B] [B]Down-to-earth[/B] [B]- Sensible and practical[/B] [B]Her mother is a very down-to-earth person.[/B] [B]Down to the wire[/B] [B]- nearing a deadline, running out of time[/B] [B]We went right down to the wire but we were able to finish the job on time. [/B] [B]Do wonders[/B] [B]- produce excellent results[/B] [B]If you begin to do some exercise it will do wonders for your health.[/B] [B]Drag in[/B] [B]- insist on bringing another subject into a discussion[/B] [B]He always drags in his personal problems when we are talking about his performance on the job. [/B] [B]Drag on[/B] [B]- pass very slowly, make longer[/B] [B]The speech seemed to drag on and on so finally we decided to leave early.[/B] [B]Drag one’s feet/heels[/B] [B]- act slowly or reluctantly[/B] [B]He has been dragging his feet about whether or not to take the job. [/B] [B]Draw a blank[/B] [B]- obtain nothing in return for an effort made, get a negative result[/B] [B]He drew a blank when he went to the head office to try and receive some information about the merger.[/B] [B]Draw fire[/B] [B]- receive criticism or argument[/B] [B]He has been drawing a lot of fire since he announced that he would not play basketball another year. [/B] [B]Draw fire[/B] [B]- be a target, attract or provoke shooting[/B] [B]The soldiers drew fire when they entered the small village.[/B] [B]Draw in one’s horns[/B] [B]- spend less money[/B] [B]Their company is not doing well so they will have to draw in their horns for awhile. [/B] [B]Draw (someone) out[/B] [B]- make a person talk or tell something[/B] [B]She was very quiet but we finally were able to draw her out so that she would join the party. [/B] [B]Draw the line[/B] [B]- set a limit[/B] [B]We have to draw the line somewhere in regards to the costs of the party.[/B] [B]Draw up[/B] [B]- put in writing[/B] [B]They were able to draw up the new contract while we were waiting. [/B] [B]Dressed to kill[/B] [B]- wear one’s finest clothes[/B] [B]She was dressed to kill when I saw her at the concert last week. [/B] [B]Dressed to the nines (teeth)[/B] [B]- dressed elegantly[/B] [B]The stars were all dressed to the nines during the Academy Awards ceremony.[/B] [B]Dress up[/B] [B]- put on one’s best clothes[/B] [B]He decided to dress up for dinner at the restaurant. [/B] [B]Drive a hard bargain[/B] [B]- conclude a bargain without making any concessions[/B] [B]Although he drives a hard bargain I like doing business with him. [/B] [B]Drive at[/B] [B]- try or want to say something[/B] [B]I don’t know what he was driving at in his speech. [/B] [B]Drive someone up a wall[/B] [B]- irritate or annoy someone greatly[/B] [B]His constant complaining is driving me up a wall. [/B] [B]Drop a hint[/B] [B]- Casually utter a hint or suggestion[/B] [B]He dropped a hint that he wanted to transfer to a new department. [/B] [B]Drop (someone) a line[/B] [B]- write or mail a note or letter to someone[/B] [B]She promised that she would drop me a line when she gets to Singapore. [/B] [B]Drop back[/B] [B]- Move or step backwards, retreat[/B] [B]During the hike his foot began to get sore so he decided to drop back and rest for awhile.[/B] [B]Drop by[/B] [B]- To visit someone or somewhere[/B] [B]He dropped by after work for a drink. [/B] [B]Drop by the wayside[/B] [B]- give up or fail before the finish[/B] [B]Many runners dropped by the wayside as the marathon continued. [/B] [B]Drop dead![/B] [B]- go away and be quiet, stop bothering someone[/B] [B]I told him to drop dead when he came into my room and now he is angry at me. [/B] [B]Drop in[/B] [B]- make a short or unplanned visit[/B] [B]I decided to drop in and visit my friend after I finished work for the day. [/B] [B]Drop in the bucket[/B] [B]- Small amount[/B] [B]The money he paid back was only a drop in the bucket compared to what he owes. [/B] [B]Drop out (of school)[/B] [B]- quit school or a course of some kind[/B] [B]She dropped out of the class after three months.[/B] [B]Drown one’s sorrows[/B] [B]- drink alcohol to forget one’s problems[/B] [B]He’s in the bar drowning his sorrows with a beer.[/B] [B]Drown out[/B] [B]- make so much noise that it is impossible to hear[/B] [B]The team captain was drowned out by the cheering fans. [/B] [B]Drum up[/B] [B]- invent, encourage by making an effort[/B] [B]They were able to drum up a lot of business during the summer. [/B] [B]Duck soup[/B] [B]- Easy, effortless[/B] [B]How was the test last week? It was duck soup - no problem at all.[/B] [B]Dumb bunny[/B] [B]- A stupid gullible person[/B] [B]He is a dumb bunny and you never know what he will do next. [/B] [B]Dutch treat[/B] [B]- Meal/movie etc. where each person pays their own way, contribute equally to something[/B] [B]When he goes out with his girlfriend it is always a Dutch treat as he doesn’t have much money. [/B] [B]Dwell on[/B] [B]- think about or talk about something all the time[/B] [B]I wish he wouldn’t always dwell on his personal problems. [/B] [B]E...............................................................................................[/B] [B]Each and every[/B] [B]- Every (used for emphasis)[/B] [B]I would like each and every one of you to bring your textbooks tomorrow.[/B] [B]Eager beaver[/B] [B]- Person who is always eager to work or do extra work[/B] [B]He is a real eager beaver and is always available to work when we need him.[/B] [B]Earful[/B] [B]- Scolding, a lot of information (often critical)[/B] [B]He really gave his daughter an earful when she came home late.[/B] [B]Early bird catches the worm[/B] [B]- A person who gets up early in the morning has the best chance of success[/B] [B]He always goes to work before his colleagues because he knows that the early bird catches the worm.[/B] [B](keep/have one’s) ear to the ground[/B] [B]- pay attention to the way things are going or the way people feel and think[/B] [B]He always has his ear to the ground and knows everything that is going on in our company. [/B] [B]Ease off[/B] [B]- reduce in severity or pressure, relax[/B] [B]The president was asked to ease off on his efforts to save money in the company. [/B] [B]Easy come, easy go[/B] [B]- Something that you get easily can be lost easily[/B] [B]He doesn’t care if he loses his job or not. For him everything is easy come, easy go. [/B] [B]Easy does it[/B] [B]- do something without sudden movements or too fast[/B] [B]"Easy does it" he said as he helped to move the large piano. [/B] [B]Easy-going[/B] [B]- Tolerant and relaxed[/B] [B]He has a very easy-going management style. [/B] [B]Eat away[/B] [B]- Rot, erode, destroy[/B] [B]The mildew has been eating away at the window frame all summer. [/B] [B]Eat crow[/B] [B]- admit one is mistaken or defeated[/B] [B]He was forced to eat crow when the figures that he gave us at the meeting were all wrong. [/B] [B]Eat dirt[/B] [B]- accept another’s insult or bad treatment, act humble[/B] [B]He made the senior manager eat dirt as revenge for his bad treatment in the past.[/B] [B]Eat one’s heart out[/B] [B]- suffer greatly from longing[/B] [B]You can eat your heart out. I’m going to Hawaii for three weeks! [/B] [B]Eat humble pie[/B] [B]- admit one’s error and apologize[/B] [B]He had to eat humble pie in front of his friends when they discovered his mistake. [/B] [B](Be) eating someone[/B] [B]- bothering or worrying someone[/B] [B]I don’t know what is eating her but she doesn’t seem to be in a good mood today. [/B] [B]Eat like a bird[/B] [B]- eat very little[/B] [B]He eats like a bird. That’s why he can’t put on enough weight to join the football team. [/B] [B]Eat like a horse[/B] [B]- eat a lot[/B] [B]He eats like a horse but he never puts on any weight.[/B] [B]Eat one’s cake and have it too[/B] [B]- use or spend something and still keep it[/B] [B]He always wants to eat his cake and have it too and is never prepared to sacrifice anything.[/B] [B]Eat one’s words[/B] [B]- admit being wrong in something one has said, retract one’s statement[/B] [B]He was forced to eat his words after his boss proved that he was wrong.[/B] [B]Eat out[/B] [B]- eat in a restaurant[/B] [B]He eats out three or four times a week.[/B] [B]Egg (someone) on[/B] [B]- urge or push someone to do something[/B] [B]He is always egging his friend on when he is angry which makes him even angrier. [/B] [B]Eke out[/B] [B]- earn with difficulty[/B] [B]He was unable to eke out a living on the farm so he sold it.[/B] [B]- Effort and strength to clean something[/B] [B]We’ll have to use a lot of elbow grease to get the kitchen cleaned. [/B] [B]Elbow room[/B] [B]- space (enough to be comfortable)[/B] [B]They moved to the country in order to have a little more elbow room. [/B] [B]End in it[/B] [B]- A purpose or goal one wants for itself alone and not as a way to something else[/B] [B]For some people traveling is an end in itself and the destination is not important. [/B] [B](At the) end of one’s rope[/B] [B]- The last of one’s ability or ideas about how to proceed or do something[/B] [B]He is at the end of his rope regarding what to do about his job. [/B] [B]End up[/B] [B]- finish, finally do something[/B] [B]We ended up going to the restaurant after the movie last night. [/B] [B]Even so[/B] [B]- Nevertheless, however[/B] [B]He always works hard but even so he has no money saved. [/B] [B]Every dog has his day[/B] [B]- Everyone will have his chance or turn; everyone will get what he deserves[/B] [B]You should be patient and wait until you get a chance. Remember every dog has his day.[/B] [B]Every other[/B] [B]- alternate, every second one[/B] [B]She has to work every other Saturday evening.[/B] [B]Every so often[/B] [B]- Occasionally[/B] [B]You should walk around every so often when you are on a long plane trip. [/B] [B]Every Tom, Dick and Harry[/B] [B]- The average person[/B] [B]He said he is not the same as every Tom, Dick and Harry. [/B] [B]Eyes are bigger than one’s stomach[/B] [B]- One wants more food than one can eat[/B] [B]His eyes are bigger than his stomach. He will never finish all of the food that he took.[/B] [B]Eyes in the back of one’s head[/B] [B]- Ability to know what is happening behind one’s back[/B] [B]He has eyes in the back of his head and you can never borrow anything without him knowing about it. [/B] [B]Eyes pop out[/B] [B]- Much surprised[/B] [B]Her eyes popped out when she saw her name in the newspaper. [/B] [B]F................................................................................................[/B] [B]Face down[/B] [B]- confront boldly and win, defy[/B] [B]They decided to face down their competitors and were able to easily stay in business.[/B] [B]Face the music[/B] [B]- accept the consequences of something[/B] [B]He is going to have to face the music sooner or later.[/B] [B]- accept something that is not easy to accept[/B] [B]You must face up to the fact that you are never going to have enough money to buy that car.[/B] [B]Face value[/B] [B]- Value or price printed on a stamp/bond/paper money etc.[/B] [B]He gave me the face value that was printed on the used stamps.[/B] [B]Face value[/B] [B]- Seeming value or truth of something[/B] [B]He is a nice person but you must always take at face value what he says.[/B] [B]Facts of life[/B] [B]- What one should know about sex, marriage and birth?[/B] [B]He seems to be a little too young to know about the facts of life. [/B] [B]Fair and square[/B] [B]- Honestly, just, straightforward[/B] [B]The British team won the game fair and square but still the other team complained.[/B] [B]Fair game[/B] [B]- A likely object of aggressive interest[/B] [B]The company is fair game as a takeover target by other international companies. [/B] [B]Fair play[/B] [B]- Justice, equal and right action[/B] [B]He believes in fair play and is a wonderful person to have on our team. [/B] [B]Fair shake[/B] [B]- Honest treatment[/B] [B]She was not given a fair shake at the inquiry into her behavior. [/B] [B]Fair-weather friend[/B] [B]- A person who is a friend only when one is successful[/B] [B]He is a fair-weather friend only and you can’t rely on him if you have a problem. [/B] [B]Fall apart[/B] [B]- become to not work properly[/B] [B]The equipment fell apart about six months after I bought it. [/B] [B]Fall back[/B] [B]- move back, go back[/B] [B]The runner fell back from the rest of the runners when the race was half over. [/B] [B]Fall back on something/someone[/B] [B]- turn to for help when something else has failed[/B] [B]She had to fall back on her father’s money when her business had problems. [/B] [B]Fall behind[/B] [B]- fail to keep up with work or studies or payments etc.[/B] [B]He fell behind with his homework at the beginning of the term and had problems throughout the year. [/B] [B]Fall by the wayside[/B] [B]- give up or fail before the finish[/B] [B]He had a good chance of winning the competition but he fell by the wayside near the end.[/B] [B]Fall flat[/B] [B]- be unsuccessful, fail[/B] [B]I think that my attempt at humor fell flat and now she doesn’t like me. [/B] [B]Fall for[/B] [B]- begin to like very much, begin to love[/B] [B]He fell for the woman at the bank but he is afraid to ask her for a date. [/B] [B]Fall from grace[/B] [B]- lose approval[/B] [B]The politician fell from grace with the public over the money scandal.[/B] [B]Falling-out[/B] [B]- Argument, disagreement, quarrel[/B] [B]We had a falling-out during our holiday and we haven’t spoken since. [/B] [B]Fall in love with[/B] [B]- begin to love someone[/B] [B]I fell in love with her the first time that I saw her at the restaurant. [/B] [B]Fall into line[/B] [B]- go and stand properly in a row (like soldiers)[/B] [B]The students were forced to fall into line as they waited for the doors to open.[/B] [B]Fall in with[/B] [B]- become associated with a bad group of people [/B] [B]He fell in with a bad group of friends and began to get lower marks.[/B] [B]Fall off[/B] [B]- Decrease[/B] [B]The number of tourists to visit the island has fallen off recently. [/B] [B]Fall off the wagon[/B] [B]- Return to the consumption of alcohol or drugs after stopping for awhile[/B] [B]He fell off the wagon after he stopped drinking for three years. [/B] [B]Fall on[/B] [B]- meet (troubles)[/B] [B]The town had fallen on hard times before the new computer company moved to town and created many jobs. [/B] [B]Fall out of use[/B] [B]- be no longer used[/B] [B]That kind of stereo system has fallen out of use over the last 20 years.[/B] [B]Fall over one[/B] [B]- be extremely eager to do something or please someone[/B] [B]They fell over themselves in their effort to please their host.[/B] [B]Fall short (of one’s expectations)[/B] [B]- Not be as good as you expected, not succeed[/B] [B]The new movie fell short of everyone’s expectations and attendance is very low.[/B] [B]Fall through[/B] [B]- fail, not happen[/B] [B]My plan to go abroad fell through when my father refused to lend me some money. [/B] [B]Far and wide[/B] [B]- Everywhere, in all directions[/B] [B]We looked far and wide for the book but could not find it.[/B] [B]Far cry[/B] [B]- Something very different[/B] [B]What he said to my friend is a far cry from what he told me over the telephone. [/B] [B]Farm out[/B] [B]- have someone else do something, send away[/B] [B]We farmed out all of the printing to another company in order to save money.[/B] [B]Fast buck[/B] [B]- Money earned quickly and easily[/B] [B]He is always trying to make a fast buck without really trying to work very hard.[/B] [B]Fast talker[/B] [B]- Con artist, clever talker who convinces others easily[/B] [B]He is a fast talker so you should be careful not to believe everything that he says.[/B] [B]Fat chance[/B] [B]- Little or no possibility, almost no chance[/B] [B]Fat chance that he will let me use his car. He never lets me borrow anything. [/B] [B](Live off the) fat of the land[/B] [B]- have the best of everything, especially without having to work for it[/B] [B]He plans to move to the mountains and try and live off the fat of the land. [/B] [B]Favorite son[/B] [B]- A candidate supported by his home state for President etc.[/B] [B]We voted for him because he is the favorite son of our state. [/B] [B]Feather in one’s cap[/B] [B]- Something you achieve and are proud of[/B] [B]Winning the new contract was a real feather in his cap. [/B] [B]Feather one’s nest[/B] [B]- look after one’s own interest (while holding public office or a trusted job etc.)[/B] [B]The mayor has been feathering his nest for many years and is now very rich. [/B] [B]Fed up with [/B] [B]- disgusted or bored with someone or something[/B] [B]I think that he is getting fed up with the constant demands of his boss.[/B] [B]Feed someone a line[/B] [B]- deceive[/B] [B]He was feeding me a line about his plans to open a new restaurant downtown.[/B] [B]Feel like a million dollars[/B] [B]- feel wonderful[/B] [B]I feel like a million dollars today so I think that I will go for a walk. [/B] [B]Feel out[/B] [B]- talk or act carefully with someone and find out what he thinks[/B] [B]I will try and feel out my boss this weekend and see what he thinks of my chance of promotion. [/B] [B]Feel sorry for[/B] [B]- Pity[/B] [B]I feel sorry for him after losing his job. [/B] [B]Feel up to (do something)[/B] [B]- feel able (healthy enough or rested enough) to do something[/B] [B]I don’t feel up to going to the game. [/B] [B]Feet on the ground[/B] [B]- Sensible ideas[/B] [B]He is a good family man and always has his feet on the ground. [/B] [B]Few and far between[/B] [B]- Not many, rare, few and scattered[/B] [B]The gas stations were few and far between on the highway through the mountains. [/B] [B]Fiddle around[/B] [B]- Tinker, does something in an unplanned way[/B] [B]I tried fiddling around with the computer printer for awhile but it still won’t work. [/B] [B]Fifty-fifty[/B] [B]- Equally, evenly[/B] [B]We divided the cost of the trip fifty-fifty. [/B] [B]Fight tooth and nail[/B] [B]- fight fiercely or with all one’s might[/B] [B]He is fighting tooth and nail to get a transfer to another department. [/B] [B]Figure on[/B] [B]- depend on, be sure about[/B] [B]You can figure on about 30 people coming to the party next week. [/B] [B]Figure out[/B] [B]- try to understand or solve[/B] [B]He finally figured out how to use the new video recorder. [/B] [B]Fill (someone) in[/B] [B]- tell someone the details[/B] [B]I will fill you in later about our plans for the weekend.[/B] [B]Fill (something) in[/B] [B]- write words needed in blanks[/B] [B]Please fill in this form and give it to the receptionist. [/B] [B]Fill one’s shoes[/B] [B]- Substitute satisfactorily for[/B] [B]Although he is a good supervisor he is unable to fill the shoes of those who came before him. [/B] [B]Fill out[/B] [B]- write down the facts that are asked for (in a report etc.)[/B] [B]We were asked to fill out the forms before we could have an interview for the job.[/B] [B]Fill the bill[/B] [B]- be suitable for what is required[/B] [B]I think that the new equipment should fill the bill for us. [/B] [B]Find fault with[/B] [B]- criticize[/B] [B]He is always finding fault with everything that I do.[/B] [B]- learn, discover[/B] [B]She is angry at me because she found out that I quit the night class. [/B] [B](Go over with a) fine-toothed comb[/B] [B]- Very carefully[/B] [B]We went over the apartment with a fine-toothed comb but couldn’t find her watch. [/B] [B]Finger in the pie[/B] [B]- Part ownership or responsibility[/B] [B]He has his finger in the pie of all the small companies in the area.[/B] [B]First come, first served[/B] [B]- The person who comes will have his turn first[/B] [B]"First come, first served" she called as she put the food on the table. [/B] [B]Firsthand[/B] [B]- Directly[/B] [B]I learned the news from him firsthand. [/B] [B]First-run[/B] [B]- New, shown for the first time[/B] [B]There are a lot of first-run movies that I haven’t had time to see yet.[/B] [B]- try to get or to find out (something) by hinting at it[/B] [B]She is always fishing for compliments when I see her at work.[/B] [B]Fish out of water[/B] [B]- Someone who does not fit in[/B] [B]He was like a fish out of water at the expensive restaurant.[/B] [B](Be) fishy[/B] [B]- Strange and suspicious[/B] [B]Something is fishy with his excuse. Why did he take the day before the holiday off work? [/B] [B]Fit as a fiddle[/B] [B]- In good athletic condition or health[/B] [B]Her grandfather is 92 years old but he is as fit as a fiddle. [/B] [B]Fit like a glove[/B] [B]- fit perfectly[/B] [B]The new pair of jeans that he bought fit like a glove. [/B] [B]Fit to be tied[/B] [B]- Very angry or upset[/B] [B]He was fit to be tied when he heard that I was going to take a month off work in the summer. [/B] [B]Fix someone up with someone[/B] [B]- help someone get a date by arranging a meeting for the two[/B] [B]I tried to fix my sister up with a date with my friend but she refused me. [/B] [B]Fizzle out[/B] [B]- Fail after a good start, end in failure[/B] [B]The party began to fizzle out about midnight when many people went home. [/B] [B]Flare up[/B] [B]- become suddenly angry, begin again suddenly[/B] [B]The fighting flared up again after the United Nations soldiers left the town. [/B] [B]Flash in the pan[/B] [B]- Something that makes a showy start and then fails[/B] [B]His sports career was a flash in the pan. Recently I haven’t heard of him at all. [/B] [B]Flat broke[/B] [B]- have no money[/B] [B]I have been flat broke since I stopped working last month.[/B] [B]Flat-out[/B] [B]- Without hiding anything, plainly, openly[/B] [B]I told her flat-out that I would not go with her to the party. [/B] [B]Flea in one’s ear[/B] [B]- An annoying hint, an idea or answer that is not welcome[/B] [B]I put a flea in his ear regarding the proposal deadline that he had missed. [/B] [B]Flea market[/B] [B]- A place where antiques or secondhand things are sold[/B] [B]We went to a flea market last Saturday to try and buy some dishes.[/B] [B]Flesh and blood[/B] [B]- A close relative[/B] [B]She is my own flesh and blood so of course I felt terrible when she got into trouble.[/B] [B]Flip one’s lid[/B] [B]- become very excited, lose one’s temper[/B] [B]He really flipped his lid when I told him about the huge telephone bill.[/B] [B]Flip out[/B] [B]- go insane, go out of one’s mind, and become very angry[/B] [B]She flipped out when she heard that I had sold her car.[/B] [B]Fly by the seat of one’s pants[/B] [B]- do a job instinctively rather than by using concrete information[/B] [B]I had to fly by the seat of my pants when the supervisor left me alone for a week. [/B] [B]Flying high[/B] [B]- Very happy, joyful[/B] [B]She has been flying high since she heard that she had won a new car. [/B] [B]Fly in the ointment[/B] [B]- A small thing that spoils enjoyment[/B] [B]The problem with the music was a fly in the ointment at the party. [/B] [B]Fly off the handle[/B] [B]- become angry[/B] [B]He really flew off the handle when he saw the bill for the meal. [/B] [B]Fly-by-night[/B] [B]- Unreliable (business)[/B] [B]That new company is a real fly-by-night operation. [/B] [B]Foam at the mouth[/B] [B]- be very angry (like a mad dog)[/B] [B]He was foaming at the mouth when I told him that I had had an accident with his car.[/B] [B]Follow in one’s footsteps (tracks)[/B] [B]- follow someone’s example, follow someone exactly[/B] [B]He is following in his father’s footsteps and has decided to work for a bank.[/B] [B]Follow suit[/B] [B]- do as someone else has done, follow someone’s example, play a card of the same color and kind that another has put down[/B] [B]He followed suit and began to leave work early on Friday just as his boss was doing. [/B] [B]Follow through[/B] [B]- continue or finish an action that one has started[/B] [B]He said that he would help me paint my house but he has never followed through with his offer. [/B] [B]Follow up[/B] [B]- Make (one action) more successful by doing something more[/B] [B]He followed up his phone call in the morning with a visit in the afternoon. [/B] [B]Foot in the door[/B] [B]- An opening or opportunity[/B] [B]I finally got a foot in the door when they accepted my application. [/B] [B]Food for thought[/B] [B]- Something worth thinking about[/B] [B]I don’t really agree with his proposal but at least it is food for thought. [/B] [B]Fool around[/B] [B]- spend time playing rather than working, waste time[/B] [B]If he would spend less time fooling around he would be able to get some work done. [/B] [B]Foot the bill[/B] [B]- pay[/B] [B]The company will foot the bill for his move to Chicago. [/B] [B]For all[/B] [B]- In spite of, even with[/B] [B]For all the time that he spends studying his marks are still very low. [/B] [B]For all one is worth[/B] [B]- As hard as one can[/B] [B]I will try for all I am worth to help you get the job at the supermarket. [/B] [B]For all the world[/B] [B]- For anything, for any price[/B] [B]For the entire world I do not know what he is trying to tell me with the notes that he writes. [/B] [B]For a song[/B] [B]- For very little money[/B] [B]He was able to buy his new car for a song. [/B] [B]For better or worse[/B] [B]- Depending on how one looks at the matter, with good or bad effects[/B] [B]For better or worse he has decided to quit his job and go to live in Brazil.[/B] [B]Force one’s hand[/B] [B]- make someone do something sooner than planned[/B] [B]I forced his hand and he told me what he planned to do about the new contract for our company. [/B] [B]For certain[/B] [B]- Without doubt, certainly, surely[/B] [B]It is for certain that he will not be playing in the game tonight. [/B] [B]For crying out loud[/B] [B]- used to show that you are surprised or angry[/B] [B]For crying out loud please turn your radio down a little. [/B] [B]For dear life[/B] [B]- As though afraid of losing one’s life[/B] [B]The mountain climber held on to the rock for dear life as he waited for someone to rescue him. [/B] [B]Forever and a day[/B] [B]- Forever, always[/B] [B]It took forever and a day to get the book that we ordered from the bookstore. [/B] [B]For good[/B] [B]- Permanently[/B] [B]He has decided to move to Los Angeles for good. [/B] [B]For keeps[/B] [B]- For always, forever[/B] [B]He told the boy that he could have the baseball bat for keeps. [/B] [B]Fork out[/B] [B]- pay, pay out[/B] [B]I had to fork out a lot of money to fix my car. [/B] [B]Fork over[/B] [B]- Hand over, give[/B] [B]The robber told me to fork over my money or he was going to shoot me. [/B] [B]For love or money[/B] [B]- By any means[/B] [B]We were unable to get him to agree to the proposal for love or money. [/B] [B]For once[/B] [B]- One time[/B] [B]For once he listened to what I said. Usually he ignores me. [/B] [B]For sure[/B] [B]- Without doubt, certainly, surely[/B] [B]I will go to the movie with you for sure next week. [/B] [B]For that matter[/B] [B]- About that, with regard to that[/B] [B]I don’t want to go shopping with you and for that matter I don’t want to go anywhere with you. [/B] [B]For the asking[/B] [B]- By asking, on request[/B] [B]You can get a free ticket to the concert for the asking from the front office. [/B] [B]For the birds[/B] [B]- Uninteresting, something you don’t like[/B] [B]Doing the cleaning all day is really for the birds. [/B] [B]For the time being[/B] [B]- For now, for awhile[/B] [B]We really need a new car but for the time being we’ll have to continue using the old one.[/B] [B]For the world[/B] [B]- Under any conditions[/B] [B]I would not want to sell my car for the world. [/B] [B]Foul up[/B] [B]- ruin or spoil by stupid mistake, go wrong[/B] [B]There was a problem with our tickets so our plans were all fouled up. [/B] [B]Frame of mind (good or bad)[/B] [B]- One’s mental state[/B] [B]He made sure his boss was in a good frame of mind before he asked him for the time off. [/B] [B]Freak/freak out[/B] [B]- become angry or lose control of one[/B] [B]I freaked out when I discovered that my reservations had not been made.[/B] [B]Free and easy[/B] [B]- Informal[/B] [B]He has a free and easy attitude about his work. [/B] [B]Free hand[/B] [B]- Great freedom to do something[/B] [B]We had a free hand in designing the new sport’s program for the university. [/B] [B]Freeload[/B] [B]- accept food and housing at someone else’s expense[/B] [B]He was angry at his brother because he was always freeloading and never[/B] [B]worried about finding a job. [/B] [B]Freeze out[/B] [B]- keep from a share in something by unfriendly or dishonest treatment[/B] [B]They froze him out of the profits that they made on the sale of land. [/B] [B]From hand to hand[/B] [B]- From one person to another and another[/B] [B]The plate of food went from hand to hand until finally it was all finished.[/B] [B]From A to Z[/B] [B]- know everything about something[/B] [B]He knows about cars from A to Z. [/B] [B]From the bottom of one’s heart[/B] [B]- With great feeling, sincerely[/B] [B]I thanked him from the bottom of my heart for helping my daughter when she was sick. [/B] [B]From the heart[/B] [B]- Sincerely, honestly[/B] [B]He gave her some flowers with a message straight from his heart. [/B] [B]From now on[/B] [B]- From this moment forward[/B] [B]From now on I will study Italian every day.[/B] [B]From scratch[/B] [B]- From the very beginning[/B] [B]He decided to build the house from scratch.[/B] [B]From time to time[/B] [B]- Occasionally[/B] [B]We go to that restaurant from time to time. [/B] [B]From way back[/B] [B]- Since a long time ago, for a long time[/B] [B]I know him from way back. In fact we went to elementary school together. [/B] [B]Full-fledged[/B] [B]- complete, having everything that is needed to be something[/B] [B]She became a full-fledged nurse before she went to Saudi Arabia to work for a year.[/B] [B]Full of beans[/B] [B]- In high spirits, energetic[/B] [B]She seems to be full of beans today. She must be excited about something. [/B] [B]Fun and games[/B] [B]- A very difficult task (used ironically)[/B] [B]It was all fun and games today when I wrote my two final exams.[/B] [B]Funny bone[/B] [B]- The place at the back of the elbow that tingles when hit[/B] [B]I hit my funny bone and it still hurts a little. [/B] |
Idioms(G-H)
[B]G................................................................................................[/B]
[B]Gain ground[/B] [B]- go forward, make progress[/B] [B]The toy company has been gaining ground in their effort to sell more products.[/B] [B]Gang up on someone[/B] [B]- Attack in a group, get together to hurt someone[/B] [B]The school children tried to gang up on the boy but he ran away.[/B] [B]Gas up[/B] [B]- fill up a gas tank[/B] [B]We should gas up tonight before we leave on our holiday tomorrow.[/B] [B]Gee whiz[/B] [B]- used as an exclamation to show surprise or other strong feelings[/B] [B]Gee whiz! Are we really going to go to go to Disneyland for our holiday? [/B] [B]Get a break[/B] [B]- get an opportunity or good deal[/B] [B]I got a break when he sold the car for less than it was worth.[/B] [B]Get across[/B] [B]- explain, make something understood[/B] [B]I had a hard time trying to get across to him the importance of taking care of his computer discs.[/B] [B]Get a fix on something[/B] [B]- receive a reading of a distant object by electronic means[/B] [B]We were able to get a fix on the island and got the boat safely to the harbor.[/B] [B]Get a grip of oneself[/B] [B]- take control of one’s feelings[/B] [B]He finally got a grip of himself and calmed down. [/B] [B]Get after someone[/B] [B]- urge or make someone do something he should do but has neglected[/B] [B]I’ll get after him to fix the computer as soon as he returns. [/B] [B]Get ahead[/B] [B]- advance or be successful[/B] [B]She really works hard at her job in order to get ahead.[/B] [B]Get a kick out of[/B] [B]- enjoy[/B] [B]I think that my father got a kick out of seeing his old school friend. [/B] [B]Get a load of [/B] [B]- take a good look at, see something[/B] [B]Get a load of that man over there with the four big dogs.[/B] [B]Get along[/B] [B]- manage[/B] [B]He is able to get along on very little money. [/B] [B]Get along[/B] [B]- leave[/B] [B]It’s late so I must be getting along now. [/B] [B]Get along with someone[/B] [B]- have a good relationship with someone[/B] [B]I don’t get along very well with the new woman I work with.[/B] [B]Get a move on[/B] [B]- hurry up[/B] [B]Please get a move on. We are already over three hours late. [/B] [B]Get a rise out of someone [/B] [B]- tease, have fun with someone by making him or her angry[/B] [B]We really got a rise out of the teacher when we left the windows open while it was raining. [/B] [B]Get around [/B] [B]- go to different places, move about[/B] [B]He really gets around. He has been to almost every state in the United States. [/B] [B]Get around to[/B] [B]- Finally find time to do something[/B] [B]The apartment manager finally got around to fixing the bath. [/B] [B]Get at[/B] [B]- mean[/B] [B]I really don’t know what he was trying to get at during the meeting. [/B] [B]Get away[/B] [B]- succeed in leaving, escape[/B] [B]I was able to get away early from work today so I went shopping for awhile. [/B] [B]Get away from it all[/B] [B]- go on a holiday[/B] [B]We want to get away from it all this summer and go and relax somewhere. [/B] [B]Get away with murder[/B] [B]- do something very bad without being caught or punished[/B] [B]The child was able to get away with murder while the substitute teacher was at the school.[/B] [B]Get away with something[/B] [B]- do something one shouldn’t and not get caught at it[/B] [B]The criminal got away with the robbery and was never caught. [/B] [B]Get a wiggle on [/B] [B]- hurry up, get going[/B] [B]Get a wiggle on. We have to arrive at the party before the other guests arrive. [/B] [B]Get a word in[/B] [B]- find a chance to say something when others are talking[/B] [B]The customer couldn’t get a word in while talking to the salesman so he decided to go to another company. [/B] [B]Get a word in edgewise[/B] [B]- manage to break into a conversation[/B] [B]I couldn’t get a word in edgewise so I left the meeting. [/B] [B]Get back [/B] [B]- return[/B] [B]We got back from London early yesterday afternoon. [/B] [B]Get back at[/B] [B]- do something bad to someone who has done something bad to you, hurt someone in return for something[/B] [B]She is very angry at her boyfriend and is getting back at him by not answering the telephone.[/B] [B]Get behind[/B] [B]- go slow while doing something is late[/B] [B]If you get behind in the homework you will never be able to pass the course.[/B] [B]Get behind (a person or idea)[/B] [B]- Support, help[/B] [B]They decided to get behind the main candidate when he promised to cut taxes.[/B] [B]Get by[/B] [B]- satisfy your needs or demands (usually related to money)[/B] [B]He is able to easily get by on his salary because he doesn’t spend a lot of money. [/B] [B]Get cold feet[/B] [B]- become afraid at the last minute[/B] [B]He got cold feet and cancelled his plan to go to China.[/B] [B]Get cracking[/B] [B]- hurry up, start moving fast, and get started[/B] [B]We will have to get cracking on this work if we want to finish it before dinner.[/B] [B]Get (someone) down[/B] [B]- Make (someone) unhappy, cause discouragement[/B] [B]The long commuting time has begun to get her down so she wants to quit her job. [/B] [B]Get down to[/B] [B]- get started on[/B] [B]Let’s get down to work so we can go home early.[/B] [B]Get down to brass tacks[/B] [B]- begin discussing the essential matters immediately[/B] [B]Let’s get down to brass tacks and begin to deal with the business at hand. [/B] [B]Get even[/B] [B]- get revenge[/B] [B]He seems to want to get even with him for their past problems. [/B] [B]Get-go[/B] [B]- The beginning[/B] [B]Right from the get-go I never liked the way that the new manager acted. [/B] [B]Get (someone’s) goat[/B] [B]- annoy someone[/B] [B]He has been getting my goat recently and I am tired of him.[/B] [B]Get going[/B] [B]- excite, stir up and make angry[/B] [B]Once he gets going he will never stop complaining. [/B] [B]Get hold of (something)[/B] [B]- get possession of[/B] [B]When you get hold of a dictionary could you please let me see it for a few minutes? [/B] [B]Get hold of (someone)[/B] [B]- find a person so you can speak with him or her[/B] [B]I tried to get hold of him last week but he was out of town.[/B] [B]Get in on the ground floor[/B] [B]- start at the beginning (in hopes of future gain)[/B] [B]He managed to get in on the ground floor of the new company.[/B] [B]Get in touch with someone[/B] [B]- contact someone[/B] [B]I’ll get in touch with him when I arrive in New York in August.[/B] [B]Get in the swing of things[/B] [B]- adapt to a new environment or situation[/B] [B]He got into the swing of things after the party started.[/B] [B]Get it all together[/B] [B]- be in full control and possession of one’s mental faculties[/B] [B]He finally got it all together and applied for the job at the supermarket. [/B] [B]Get it through one’s head[/B] [B]- understand, believe[/B] [B]He has got it through his head that he will get a job easily without really making an effort. [/B] [B]Get lost![/B] [B]- go away[/B] [B]She told her younger brother to get lost so she could finish her homework.[/B] [B]Get mixed up[/B] [B]- become confused[/B] [B]I’m sorry but I got mixed up with the dates. That’s why I came today. [/B] [B]Get off[/B] [B]- come down from or out of (a bus or train etc.)[/B] [B]We decided to get off the train at the station next to our regular station. [/B] [B]Get off easy[/B] [B]- escape a worse punishment[/B] [B]The criminals got off easy even though they robbed the bank. [/B] [B]Get off one’s back[/B] [B]- leave someone alone and not bother them[/B] [B]I wish that the supervisor would get off my back. [/B] [B]Get off one’s butt[/B] [B]- get busy, start working[/B] [B]He should get off his butt and try and get a job so he will have some money. [/B] [B]Get off on the wrong foot[/B] [B]- make a bad start[/B] [B]I got off on the wrong foot with him and our relationship never really recovered. [/B] [B]Get off the ground[/B] [B]- make a successful beginning, go ahead[/B] [B]His new business never really got off the ground so he must look for another job. [/B] [B]Get one’s dander up[/B] [B]- become or make angry[/B] [B]You shouldn’t talk to him early in the morning or you will get his dander up. [/B] [B]Get one’s feet wet[/B] [B]- begin, do something for the first time[/B] [B]He has managed to get his feet wet in the publishing business and is ready to start his own business now. [/B] [B]Get one’s own way[/B] [B]- cause people to do what you want[/B] [B]He always gets his own way with his younger brothers.[/B] [B]Get one’s rear in gear[/B] [B]- hurry up, get going[/B] [B]Let’s hurry up and get our rear in gear before it is too late to go to a movie.[/B] [B]Get on in years[/B] [B]- To advance in age[/B] [B]He is getting on in years and is not very healthy.[/B] [B]Get on one’s high horse[/B] [B]- behave with arrogance[/B] [B]He is back on his high horse and has started giving orders to everyone.[/B] [B]Get on one’s nerves[/B] [B]- irritate someone[/B] [B]His constant complaining is beginning to get on my nerves.[/B] [B]Get out of bed on the wrong side[/B] [B]- be in a bad mood[/B] [B]I think that she got out of bed on the wrong side this morning as she hasn’t said a word to anyone yet. [/B] [B]Get out from under[/B] [B]- escape a situation that one doesn’t like[/B] [B]I would like to get out from under my boss always watching my work. [/B] [B]Get out of hand[/B] [B]- lose control[/B] [B]The going away party was beginning to get out of hand so they asked everyone to leave.[/B] [B]Get out of the way[/B] [B]- be no longer an obstacle[/B] [B]He was unable to get out of the way of the truck and was injured.[/B] [B]Get over something[/B] [B]- overcome a difficulty; recover from an illness or shock[/B] [B]She has been having a lot of trouble getting over her father’s death. [/B] [B]Get (something) over with[/B] [B]- Finish, end[/B] [B]He wants to get his exams over with so that he can begin to relax again. [/B] [B]Get ready[/B] [B]- prepare yourself[/B] [B]First I must get ready for work, and then I will help you.[/B] [B]Get rid of something[/B] [B]- give or throw something away, sell or destroy something, make a cold or fever disappear[/B] [B]I bought a new television set so I had to get rid of the old one. [/B] [B]Get set[/B] [B]- get ready to start[/B] [B]We are working hard to get set for her wedding ceremony. [/B] [B]Get the ax[/B] [B]- be fired[/B] [B]He got the ax last week and now has no job.[/B] [B]Gets the ball rolling?[/B] [B]- start something[/B] [B]Let’s get the ball rolling and start working.[/B] [B]Get the better of (someone)[/B] [B]- win against, beat, defeat[/B] [B]He got the better of me and won the tennis match. [/B] [B]Get the feel of[/B] [B]- become used to or learn about something[/B] [B]After you get the feel of the new computer it will be very easy to use. [/B] [B]Get the goods on someone[/B] [B]- find out true and often bad information about someone[/B] [B]I think that I have finally got the goods on him and will have to talk to the police as soon as possible. [/B] [B]Get the message[/B] [B]- understand clearly what is meant[/B] [B]I told him three times but I don’t think that he really gets the message. [/B] [B]Get the sack[/B] [B]- be fired or dismissed from work[/B] [B]I told him that if he doesn’t change his work habits he will get the sack from his job.[/B] [B]Get the show on the road[/B] [B]- start working on something[/B] [B]Let’s get the show on the road and begin work for the day.[/B] [B]Get the worst of[/B] [B]- be defeated or beaten, suffer most[/B] [B]He got the worst of the deal when the salesman sold him the used car. [/B] [B]Get through[/B] [B]- succeed in passing an exam or ordeal[/B] [B]She has been having trouble getting through her final exams.[/B] [B]Get through to[/B] [B]- be understood by, make (someone) understand[/B] [B]I tried talking to her but I couldn’t really get through to her. [/B] [B]Get to[/B] [B]- have a chance to, be able to[/B] [B]I didn’t get to see her last year but maybe I will have a chance this year. [/B] [B]Get to first base[/B] [B]- make a good start, succeed[/B] [B]I tried to meet the sales manager of the company but I couldn’t get to first base. [/B] [B]Get to the bottom of[/B] [B]- find out the real cause[/B] [B]The government is trying to get to the bottom of the financial problems in the company. [/B] [B]Get to the heart of[/B] [B]- understand the most important thing about something[/B] [B]We were in the meeting for three hours trying to get to the heart of the matter. [/B] [B]Get under one’s skin[/B] [B]- bother someone, upset someone[/B] [B]She always gets under my skin although I don’t really know why I don’t like her. [/B] [B]Get up[/B] [B]- get out of bed, get to one’s feet[/B] [B]I decided to get up early today so that I would be able to go fishing with my friend. [/B] [B]Getup[/B] [B]- Fancy dress or costume[/B] [B]What was that strange getup that she was wearing the other day? [/B] [B]Get-up-and-go[/B] [B]- Energy, enthusiasm, drive[/B] [B]He has lots of get-up-and-go and it is difficult to follow him around.[/B] [B]Get up on the wrong side of the bed[/B] [B]- be in a bad mood[/B] [B]He got up on the wrong side of the bed this morning and won’t talk to anyone. [/B] [B]Get up the nerve[/B] [B]- become brave enough[/B] [B]I tried to get up the nerve to ask him about the new job. [/B] [B]Get what’s coming to one[/B] [B]- receive the good or bad that one deserves[/B] [B]He got what was coming to him when he was sent to jail for two years. [/B] [B]Get wind of[/B] [B]- hear about something[/B] [B]I got wind of the company expansion from my friend.[/B] [B]Get wise to something/somebody[/B] [B]- learn about something kept secret[/B] [B]He finally got wise to the fact that they were stealing his money. [/B] [B]Get with it[/B] [B]- pay attention, get busy[/B] [B]I told him to get with it or he would get in trouble with the boss. [/B] [B](Not a) ghost of a chance[/B] [B]- Very little, (not even) the smallest chance[/B] [B]He doesn’t have a ghost of a chance to finish the book in time for his class. [/B] [B]Gift of the gab[/B] [B]- be good at talking[/B] [B]He has a real gift of the gab and is great at parties.[/B] [B]Give (someone) a hard time[/B] [B]- make trouble for someone, tease[/B] [B]She was giving her boyfriend a hard time about his new haircut. [/B] [B]Give-and-take[/B] [B]- sharing, giving and receiving back and forth between people[/B] [B]You must be willing to give-and-take if you want to have a good marriage.[/B] [B]Giveaway[/B] [B]- An open secret, a sale where items are sold very cheap[/B] [B]His speech was a giveaway. Now I know that he is planning to retire. [/B] [B]Give away[/B] [B]- give something to someone[/B] [B]I decided to give away my bicycle because I didn’t need it anymore.[/B] [B]Give away[/B] [B]- let (a secret) become known[/B] [B]I tried to stop her before she gave away my plans to go to Mexico for a holiday.[/B] [B]Give a wide birth to[/B] [B]- keep away from, keep a safe distance from[/B] [B]I usually give a wide birth to my boss when he is angry.[/B] [B]Give chase[/B] [B]- chase or run after someone or something[/B] [B]The police gave chase to the man who robbed the store. [/B] [B]Give free rein to[/B] [B]- allow to move about or to do something with freedom[/B] [B]He was given free rein in his new job to do what he wanted. [/B] [B]Give ground[/B] [B]- move back, retreat, stop opposing someone[/B] [B]He refused to give ground on his plans to change the system of office management. [/B] [B]Give in[/B] [B]- give someone his own way, stop opposing someone[/B] [B]The company gave in to the union’s demand for more money. [/B] [B]Give it to[/B] [B]- punish, scold[/B] [B]He really gave it to his son when he came back late with the car. [/B] [B]Give off[/B] [B]- send out, let out, put forth[/B] [B]The garbage was beginning to give off a bad smell because of the hot weather. [/B] [B]Give one away[/B] [B]- Show guilt, show one has done wrong[/B] [B]She gave herself away when she said that she hadn’t seen her boyfriend but he had already said that he had met her earlier.[/B] [B]Give one up[/B] [B]- Surrender, stop hiding or running away[/B] [B]The robbers gave themselves up when the police surrounded the house. [/B] [B]Give one up to[/B] [B]- let oneself enjoy, not hold one back from[/B] [B]He gave himself up to enjoy the party although he was feeling sick.[/B] [B]Give one’s right arm[/B] [B]- give something of great value[/B] [B]I would give my right arm to be able to go to Italy with the rest of the group. [/B] [B]Give or take[/B] [B]- Plus or minus a small amount[/B] [B]I think that he is about 45 years old give or take 5 years. [/B] [B]Give out[/B] [B]- give to people, distribute[/B] [B]We gave out more than 600 free baseball caps at the shopping center. [/B] [B]Give out[/B] [B]- fail[/B] [B]We went hiking last week but my legs gave out so we had to return early. [/B] [B]Give out[/B] [B]- be finished, be gone[/B] [B]We went on a week-long backpacking trip but our food gave out after only three days. [/B] [B]Give out[/B] [B]- Let escape[/B] [B]She gave out a loud yell when she saw the big spider. [/B] [B]Give pause to[/B] [B]- cause one to stop and think[/B] [B]His problems should give you pause to think a little more carefully about what you do.[/B] [B]Give rise to[/B] [B]- be the cause of something[/B] [B]The problems with the heating system gave rise to a lot of other problems that we had to solve.[/B] [B]Give someone a hand[/B] [B]- help someone with something[/B] [B]Please give me a hand to move this piano. [/B] [B]Give someone an inch and they will take a mile[/B] [B]- If you give someone a little they will want more and more, some people are never satisfied[/B] [B]If you give him an inch he will take a mile so you shouldn’t give him any more money. [/B] [B]Give someone a piece of your mind[/B] [B]- scold or become angry with someone[/B] [B]When I met her yesterday I really gave her a piece of my mind. [/B] [B]Give someone enough rope and they will hang themselves[/B] [B]- give someone enough time and freedom to do what they want and they will make a mistake or get into trouble and be caught[/B] [B]Don’t worry about trying to control him. If you give him enough rope he will hang himself.[/B] [B]Give someone one’s word[/B] [B]- make a promise or assurance[/B] [B]He gave me his word that he would meet me at the library. [/B] [B]Give someone the ax[/B] [B]- fire an employee (usually abruptly)[/B] [B]He gave the new employee the ax because he was always late. [/B] [B]Give someone the benefit of the doubt[/B] [B]- believe someone is innocent rather than guilty when you are not sure[/B] [B]I gave him the benefit of the doubt but I still think that he is a liar. [/B] [B]Give someone the cold shoulder[/B] [B]- be unfriendly to someone[/B] [B]He gave her the cold shoulder at the party.[/B] [B]Give someone the eye[/B] [B]- look or stare at someone (especially in a cold or unfriendly way)[/B] [B]The man in the store began to give me the eye so I left. [/B] [B]Give someone the green light[/B] [B]- give permission to go ahead with a project[/B] [B]He has been given the green light to begin work on the new housing plan. [/B] [B]Give someone their due[/B] [B]- give someone the credit that they deserve[/B] [B]You have to give him his due. He has successfully saved the company from bankruptcy. [/B] [B]Give someone the slip[/B] [B]- escape from someone[/B] [B]The bank robbers were able to give the police the slip at first but they were soon caught. [/B] [B]Give the devil his due[/B] [B]- be fair (even to someone who is bad and who you dislike)[/B] [B]I don’t like to work with him at all as I think he is lazy. Still you have to give the devil his due because he always gets the job done. [/B] [B]Give it your best shot[/B] [B]- try very hard[/B] [B]Although he didn’t have enough experience he decided to apply for the job and give it his best shot. [/B] [B]Give to understand[/B] [B]- make a person understand by telling him very plainly or boldly[/B] [B]I was given to understand that I could rent an apartment very easily here. [/B] [B]Give up[/B] [B]- Abandon, stop[/B] [B]He has decided to give up his plan to work in Hong Kong for a year. [/B] [B]Give up the ghost[/B] [B]- Stop working, die[/B] [B]My old car finally gave up the ghost so I must buy another one.[/B] [B](Don’t) give up the ship[/B] [B]- (don’t) stop fighting and surrender, (don’t) stop trying or hoping to do something[/B] [B]Please don’t give up the ship and quit this company. I am sure you still have a useful role to play.[/B] [B]Give voice to[/B] [B]- tell what one feels or thinks[/B] [B]He has begun to give voice to his feelings about the new office building.[/B] [B]Give way[/B] [B]- Collapse, fail[/B] [B]The dam gave way and the water flooded the farmland below.[/B] [B]Glad hand[/B] [B]- A friendly handshake, a warm greeting[/B] [B]The politician spent the morning glad handing the people at the shopping center.[/B] [B]Gloss over[/B] [B]- try to make what is wrong or bad seem right or not important, hide[/B] [B]The accountant tried to gloss over the money that they lost last year.[/B] [B]Go about[/B] [B]- be busy with, start working on[/B] [B]He has been going about his business all morning although he is feeling sick. [/B] [B]Go after[/B] [B]- try to get[/B] [B]The police decided to go after the people who were speeding near the school. [/B] [B]Go ahead[/B] [B]- begin to do something, not wait[/B] [B]Let’s go ahead and start now. We can’t wait for him any longer. [/B] [B]Go along[/B] [B]- move along, continue[/B] [B]He invented the story as he went along. [/B] [B]Go along[/B] [B]- agree, co-operate[/B] [B]They went along with his idea about having a party on the weekend. [/B] [B]Go ape[/B] [B]- become very excited or behave in a crazy way[/B] [B]He went ape when he heard about the money that I had spent. [/B] [B]Go around[/B] [B]go from one place or person to another[/B] [B]We decided to go around from one shop to another until we found a good present. [/B] [B]Go around in circles[/B] [B]- Without getting anywhere, uselessly[/B] [B]He has been going around in circles for weeks now and still hasn’t made any progress with his essay. [/B] [B]Go at[/B] [B]- fight with, attack, and argue[/B] [B]When I entered the room they were going at it loudly. [/B] [B]Go at it hammer and tongs[/B] [B]- fight with great strength or energy, have a bad argument[/B] [B]They were going at it hammer and tongs when the police came to their house.[/B] [B]Go back on[/B] [B]- turn against, not be faithful to[/B] [B]He promised not to go back on his word about the discount tickets. [/B] [B]Go broke[/B] [B]- lose all of one’s money[/B] [B]His company went broke so he quickly lost his job.[/B] [B]Go Dutch[/B] [B]- Two people each pay for themselves[/B] [B]We always go Dutch when we go on a date. [/B] [B]Go for[/B] [B]- try to get, try for[/B] [B]I have decided to go for the new job at the computer center.[/B] [B]Go for broke[/B] [B]- risk everything on one big effort, try as hard as possible[/B] [B]They are going for broke trying to win the new contract.[/B] [B]Go from bad to worse[/B] [B]- get worse, deteriorate[/B] [B]Things are going from bad to worse in the company.[/B] [B]Go-getter[/B] [B]- A person who works hard to become successful, an ambitious person[/B] [B]He is a go-getter. He always works hard and has lots of money because of that. [/B] [B]Go great guns[/B] [B]- do something very fast or very hard, successfully[/B] [B]The workers were going great guns fixing the building when I saw them this morning. [/B] [B]Go halves[/B] [B]- share equally[/B] [B]We have decided to go halves on buying a new computer. [/B] [B]Go haywire[/B] [B]- become damaged, stop working properly[/B] [B]At first everything was going well but later all the plans began to go haywire.[/B] [B]Go in for[/B] [B]- decide to do (something), take part in[/B] [B]He is going to university and has decided to go in for medicine. [/B] [B]Going for (someone)[/B] [B]- In one’s favor[/B] [B]She should do very well as she has many good things going for her. [/B] [B]Go into orbit[/B] [B]- lose one’s temper, become very angry[/B] [B]He went into orbit when he heard about the missing money. [/B] [B]Go jump in a lake[/B] [B]- go away and quit bothering someone[/B] [B]She asked me to borrow some money but I told her to go jump in a lake because she never paid me back before. [/B] [B]Golden opportunity[/B] [B]- Excellent and rare opportunity[/B] [B]The heat wave was a golden opportunity for the ice cream seller to make money.[/B] [B]Good deal[/B] [B]- Good quality and a cheap price[/B] [B]You can usually get a good deal on stereos at that discount store. [/B] [B]Good grief![/B] [B]- used to show surprise (good or bad)[/B] [B]Good grief! It’s 6:00 and I have not finished this job yet.[/B] [B]good riddance[/B] [B]- used when you lose something and you are happy about it[/B] [B]Good riddance he said when the computer broke down and he had to buy another one.[/B] [B]good riddance to bad rubbish[/B] [B]- used to show you are glad that someone or something has been taken or sent away[/B] [B]Good riddance to bad rubbish! I never liked him and I am glad that he has finally left. [/B] [B]good sport[/B] [B]- Person who loses well[/B] [B]He is a very good sport and never complains about losing. [/B] [B]Go off[/B] [B]- leave, depart[/B] [B]He went off on a trip and he never even bothered to phone and say good-bye.[/B] [B]Go off[/B] [B]- explode, be ignited[/B] [B]The firecracker went off in his hand before he had a chance to put it down. [/B] [B]Go off[/B] [B]- begin to ring or buzz[/B] [B]The fire alarm started to go off just as we entered the building.[/B] [B]Go off half-cocked[/B] [B]- act or speak before being ready[/B] [B]He always goes off half-cocked when he is at a meeting. [/B] [B]Go off the deep end[/B] [B]- give way to emotion[/B] [B]He went off the deep end when he saw the picture in the paper. [/B] [B]Goof off[/B] [B]- fool around, not work or be serious[/B] [B]He has been goofing off all afternoon and has not got any work done.[/B] [B]Go on[/B] [B]- continue[/B] [B]The game went on for about an hour after I left. [/B] [B]Go on[/B] [B]- talk for too long[/B] [B]He started to go on about his problems so I finally left. [/B] [B]Go on[/B] [B]- put on, fit on[/B] [B]The top of the jar wouldn’t go on so I threw it away. [/B] [B]Go (someone) one better[/B] [B]- does something better than someone else, do more or be better than someone[/B] [B]I decided to go him one better and buy a bigger present for my girlfriend. [/B] [B]Go one’s own way[/B] [B]- go or act the way one wants[/B] [B]He has decided to go his own way and will start his own business next year. [/B] [B]Go out of one’s way[/B] [B]- make an extra effort[/B] [B]She went out of her way to help me when I visited her in October. [/B] [B]Go out the window[/B] [B]- be abandoned, go out of effect[/B] [B]The school dress code went out the window when the new principal took over[/B] [B]Go out with (someone)[/B] [B]- date or be dating someone[/B] [B]She went out with him for two years before they got married. [/B] [B]Go over[/B] [B]- examine[/B] [B]The accountant will come to go over the books tomorrow.[/B] [B]Go over well[/B] [B]- be liked, be successful[/B] [B]I am sure that the party will go over well. You have done a lot of preparation for it. [/B] [B]Go overboard[/B] [B]- do something in excess[/B] [B]He really went overboard with the birthday party. [/B] [B]Go steady[/B] [B]- go on dates with the same person all the time, date just one person[/B] [B]My sister has been going steady with the same person for two years. [/B] [B]Go straight[/B] [B]- become an honest person, lead an honest life[/B] [B]He was in prison for awhile but has recently decided to go straight. [/B] [B]Got a thing going[/B] [B]- be engaged in a pleasurable activity with someone else as a partner (in romance or business)[/B] [B]He has a thing going with computer repairs and is making a lot of extra money.[/B] [B]Go the whole hog[/B] [B]- make a thorough job of something[/B] [B]They really went the whole hog in their efforts to welcome the foreign visitors.[/B] [B]Go through[/B] [B]- examine or think about carefully, search[/B] [B]The police went through his house to look for a gun. [/B] [B]Go through[/B] [B]- experience, suffer, and live through[/B] [B]He has been through many hard times since he lost his job.[/B] [B]Go through[/B] [B]- be allowed, pass, and be agreed upon[/B] [B]The law finally went through Congress last week.[/B] [B]Go through changes[/B] [B]- be involved in changing circumstances[/B] [B]She has been going through many changes since her divorce. [/B] [B]Go through with[/B] [B]- finish, do as planned or agreed[/B] [B]He has decided to go through with his plans to go back to school. [/B] [B]Go to one’s head[/B] [B]- become conceited[/B] [B]His new position has really gone to his head and he won’t speak to us any longer.[/B] [B]Go to pieces[/B] [B]- lose your self-control[/B] [B]She went to pieces when she received the letter about her father’s death.[/B] [B]Go to pot[/B] [B]- deteriorate[/B] [B]The business has really gone to pot since he became president. [/B] [B]Go to rack and ruin[/B] [B]- reach a very bad state of repair[/B] [B]The building has gone to rack and ruin since the new owners took over.[/B] [B]Go to town[/B] [B]- work fast or hard, do something with much energy[/B] [B]They really went to town last night and finished painting the bedroom. [/B] [B]Go up in smoke/flames[/B] [B]- burn or be destroyed by fire, fail, not come true (dreams)[/B] [B]His plans to open a new restaurant have gone up in smoke since he lost his job. [/B] [B]Go without saying[/B] [B]- be so easy to see that it doesn’t have to be mentioned[/B] [B]He is a hard worker so it goes without saying that his boss is very happy with him. [/B] [B]Grasp at straws[/B] [B]- try something with little hope of succeeding; depend on something that is useless in a time of trouble[/B] [B]He is grasping at straws. He will never find enough money to pay next month’s rent. [/B] [B]Grass is always greener on the other side[/B] [B]- A place or thing that is far away or different seems better than what we have or where we are[/B] [B]She is always moving or changing jobs as she thinks that the grass is always greener on the other side.[/B] [B]Gravy train[/B] [B]- Job that gives one a lot of money compared with what you do[/B] [B]The cleaning contract was really a gravy train. We only worked for 3 hours but we got paid for 8 hours. [/B] [B]Grease one’s palm[/B] [B]- give money or pay for some special favor[/B] [B]We had to grease the border guard’s palm in order to enter the country. [/B] [B]Greasy spoon[/B] [B]- A small, cheap eating place with basic but not-so-good food[/B] [B]We had to go to a greasy spoon for breakfast as all the other restaurants were closed. [/B] [B]Green[/B] [B]- be inexperienced or immature[/B] [B]He is a little green and doesn’t know the job very well. [/B] [B]Green thumb[/B] [B]- Skill in making plants grow[/B] [B]He has a real green thumb and has a beautiful garden.[/B] [B]Green with envy[/B] [B]- Very jealous, full of envy[/B] [B]The little girl was green with envy when she saw her friend’s new bicycle.[/B] [B]Grind to a halt[/B] [B]- slow down and stop (like a machine when it is turned off)[/B] [B]The city ground to a halt when the power went off for five hours. [/B] [B]Ground floor[/B] [B]- The first or best chance - especially in a business[/B] [B]The video store was a good investment so I was happy to get in on the ground floor.[/B] [B]Gum up[/B] [B]- cause not to work, ruin something, and make something go wrong[/B] [B]The computer printer seemed to have become gummed up just as I was about to print my resume. [/B] [B]Gun for someone[/B] [B]- look hard for a chance to harm or defeat someone[/B] [B]My supervisor has been gunning for me for a long time but I don’t really know why. [/B] [B]Gun for something[/B] [B]- try very hard to get (prize or promotion etc.)[/B] [B]He has been gunning for the new sales job for a long time. [/B] [B]Gung-ho[/B] [B]- Enthusiastic, full of eagerness[/B] [B]She is really gung-ho about her new job at the library. [/B] [B]H................................................................................................[/B] [B]Had better[/B] [B]- should do something[/B] [B]I’d better go now or I’ll be late for class. [/B] [B]Hair stand on end[/B] [B]- become frightened or afraid of something[/B] [B]My hair stood on end when I saw the aftermath of the automobile accident.[/B] [B]Hale and hearty[/B] [B]- In very good health, well and strong[/B] [B]My uncle is a hale and hearty fellow who never gets sick. [/B] [B]Half-baked[/B] [B]- Foolish[/B] [B]I didn’t really like his half-baked idea about the new delivery system. [/B] [B]Half the battle[/B] [B]- A large part of the work [/B] [B]Sending the letters out will be half the battle. We can finish the rest of the work next week.[/B] [B]Hammer out[/B] [B]- remove; work out by discussion and debate[/B] [B]The union and managers were able to hammer out an agreement before midnight last night. [/B] [B]Hand down[/B] [B]- arrange to give something to someone after your death[/B] [B]My grandmother handed down her silver jeweler to my mother. [/B] [B]Hand in[/B] [B]- Give to someone, hand to someone[/B] [B]I went to the company early to hand in my job application. [/B] [B]Hand it to (someone)[/B] [B]- give credit or praise to someone[/B] [B]You have to hand it to him - he worked hard and was very successful with his business.[/B] [B]Handle with kid gloves[/B] [B]- be very careful handling someone or something[/B] [B]He is very sensitive so you have to handle him with kid gloves when you speak to him.[/B] [B]Hand-me-down[/B] [B]- Something given away after another person doesn’t need it (especially clothing)[/B] [B]She was very poor when she was a child and always wore hand-me-down clothing. [/B] [B]Hand out[/B] [B]- give things of the same kind to several people[/B] [B]The teacher decided not to hand out the tests until everyone in the class stopped talking.[/B] [B]Hand-out[/B] [B]- A gift - usually from the government[/B] [B]The government stopped giving hand-outs to the university students as they said they had no money.[/B] [B]Hand-out[/B] [B]- Sheet of paper given to students or people who attend a meeting etc.[/B] [B]Everyone at the meeting was given a hand-out on how to save and invest money. [/B] [B]Hand over[/B] [B]- give control or possession to someone, give something to another person[/B] [B]The criminals were forced to hand over the stolen money to the police. [/B] [B]Hand over fist[/B] [B]- Rapidly[/B] [B]His new company is making money hand over fist. [/B] [B](One’s) hands are tied[/B] [B]- Unable to help[/B] [B]I’m sorry that I can’t help you with the job but my hands are tied at the moment. [/B] [B]Hands down[/B] [B]- Easy, unopposed[/B] [B]They won the game hands down over the other team.[/B] [B]Hands off[/B] [B]- leave alone, don’t interfere[/B] [B]The government decided to take a hands-off approach to the teachers during the strike. [/B] [B]Hand something to someone on a silver platter[/B] [B]- give a person something that has not been earned[/B] [B]He was handed a great job on a silver platter and never had to make any effort at all. [/B] [B]Hand to mouth[/B] [B]- having only enough money for basic living[/B] [B]He was living a hand to mouth existence until he was finally able to find a job. [/B] [B]Handwriting on the wall[/B] [B]- A sign that something bad will happen[/B] [B]The handwriting is on the wall. Business conditions are bad so probably nobody will get a pay raise this year.[/B] [B]Handy[/B] [B]- can easily fix things[/B] [B]He is very handy around the house and is always fixing or building something. [/B] [B]Hang around[/B] [B]- Pass time or stay someplace without any real purpose or aim[/B] [B]We decided to stay home and hang around on Sunday rather than go out to the game. [/B] [B]Hang back[/B] [B]- stay some distance behind or away, hesitate or be unwilling to do something[/B] [B]He lacks self-confidence and always hangs back when his boss asks for volunteers. [/B] [B]Hang by a thread[/B] [B]- be in doubt, depend on a very small thing[/B] [B]The outcome of the election hung by a thread until the last two or three hours. [/B] [B]Hang in the balance[/B] [B]- have two equally possible results, be uncertain[/B] [B]After the opposition party won the election whether or not the new highway will be built hangs in the balance. [/B] [B]Hang in (there)[/B] [B]- persevere, don’t give up[/B] [B]You should hang in there and don’t quit your job just because you don’t like the supervisor. [/B] [B]Hang it![/B] [B]- A rather old expression used to express annoyance or disappointment [/B] [B]"Hang it", he said when he hit his finger with the hammer.[/B] [B]Hang on[/B] [B]- continue[/B] [B]Although business was very bad he decided to hang on and fight to keep his business going. [/B] [B]Hang on[/B] [B]- wait, continue listening on the telephone[/B] [B]Hang on for a minute while I go and get some paper and a pen. [/B] [B]Hang one on[/B] [B]- get very drunk[/B] [B]He really hung one on last night after he heard about his promotion. [/B] [B]Hang on to[/B] [B]- hold tightly, keep firmly[/B] [B]Please hang on to your hats or the strong wind will blow them off. [/B] [B]Hang out[/B] [B]- spend one’s time idly or lounging about, spend time with someone or a group of people[/B] [B]Recently his brother has been hanging out with a group of people who are not a good influence on him.[/B] [B]Hang out one’s shingle[/B] [B]- Notify the public of the opening of an office - especially a doctor’s or lawyer’s office[/B] [B]He has decided to hang out his own shingle now that he has graduated from law school. [/B] [B]Hang up[/B] [B]- Place on a hook, peg or hangar[/B] [B]Everyone was forced to hang up their jackets before they entered the room. [/B] [B]Hang up[/B] [B]- place a telephone receiver back on the telephone and break the connection[/B] [B]After he hung up the telephone he left to go to work.[/B] [B]Hang-up[/B] [B]- A delay in some process[/B] [B]There was a hang-up in the construction of the office tower because of the fire.[/B] [B]Hang-up[/B] [B]- An inhibition, a neurotic reaction to some life situation[/B] [B]She has a serious hang-up about the dark and is afraid to go out alone at night. [/B] [B]Happy hour[/B] [B]- A time in bars or restaurants when drinks are served at a discount[/B] [B]We stopped at the restaurant during happy hour and had a couple of drinks.[/B] [B]Hard and fast rule[/B] [B]- Rules that cannot be altered to fit special cases[/B] [B]There is no hard and fast rule that says you can’t use a cellular phone in the train. [/B] [B]Hard as nails[/B] [B]- Physically very fit and strong, rough, stern[/B] [B]He is as hard as nails and is not a good person to have an argument with. [/B] [B]Hard feelings[/B] [B]- Anger or bitterness[/B] [B]I don’t have any hard feelings toward him even though he fired me. [/B] [B]Hard-nosed[/B] [B]- Not weak or soft, stubborn - especially in a fight, contest or negotiations[/B] [B]The company had a hard-nosed attitude while bargaining with the union. [/B] [B]Hard nut to crack[/B] [B]- A person or thing not easily understood or influenced[/B] [B]He is a hard nut to crack and is not close to many people.[/B] [B]Hard on (someone/something)[/B] [B]- treat something/someone roughly[/B] [B]His son is very hard on shoes.[/B] [B]Hard pressed[/B] [B]- burdened with urgent business[/B] [B]I am a little hard pressed for time. Can we meet later? [/B] [B]Hard sell[/B] [B]- selling something very aggressively and with great eagerness[/B] [B]I didn’t like their hard sell attitude at the car dealership so I went to another dealer. [/B] [B]Hard up[/B] [B]- Short of money[/B] [B]I am hard up for money at the moment so I can’t go to the movie. [/B] [B]Harp on[/B] [B]- talk repeatedly and tediously about something[/B] [B]He has been harping on his lack of money for a few months now. [/B] [B]Hassle[/B] [B]- Bothersome[/B] [B]It is a real hassle to have to report to him two times a day. [/B] [B]Hatchet man[/B] [B]- A politician etc. whose job it is to say negative things about the opposition, a person in a company who must fire extra workers or cut other expenses etc.[/B] [B]He is acting as a hatchet man for the leader but I don’t think that he really believes what he is saying. [/B] [B]Hate one’s guts[/B] [B]- feel very strong dislike for someone[/B] [B]I absolutely hate her guts after she caused me so many problems at my company.[/B] [B]Have a ball[/B] [B]- have a good time[/B] [B]She had a ball at the party last night. [/B] [B]Have a crush on[/B] [B]- be attracted to someone[/B] [B]Her sister has had a crush on him for a long time. [/B] [B]Have a fit[/B] [B]- become upset[/B] [B]She had a fit when she saw what her son did to the car. [/B] [B]Have a go at[/B] [B]- try something especially after others have tried it[/B] [B]I decided to have a go at applying for the job after my boss recommended me.[/B] [B]Have a hand in[/B] [B]- be partly responsible for something[/B] [B]I think that she had a hand in getting her friend fired from her job. [/B] [B]Have a head on one’s shoulders[/B] [B]- be smart or sensible[/B] [B]That new salesman really has a head on his shoulders.[/B] [B]Have an edge on[/B] [B]- have an advantage (over someone)[/B] [B]Their team has an edge on the race to win the high school football championship. [/B] [B]Have an eye for[/B] [B]- have good taste in something, be able to judge correctly[/B] [B]She has an eye for nice furniture and her apartment is absolutely beautiful.[/B] [B](Not) have anything to do with someone[/B] [B]- (not) want to be a friend of or work or have business with someone[/B] [B]My father will not have anything to do with the salesman because he sold him the faulty car. [/B] [B]Have a screw loose[/B] [B]- act in a strange way, be foolish[/B] [B]He is a really strange person. I think that he has a screw loose somewhere. [/B] [B]Have a time[/B] [B]- have trouble, have a hard time[/B] [B]She really had a time last night when her car stopped working completely [/B] [B]Have a time[/B] [B]- have a good time, have fun[/B] [B]We really had a time at the party last night.[/B] [B]Have a way with[/B] [B]- be able to lead, persuade or influence others[/B] [B]The little girl really has a way with horses. They are very gentle when she is around.[/B] [B]Have a word with[/B] [B]- Converse briefly[/B] [B]I will have a word with him before he goes home tonight.[/B] [B]Have been around[/B] [B]- have been to many places and done many things, be experienced[/B] [B]My brother has really been around and has been overseas many times. [/B] [B]Have dibs on[/B] [B]- demand a share of something or be in line to use something[/B] [B]I have dibs on the computer and would like to use it as soon as possible. [/B] [B]Have egg on one’s face[/B] [B]- be embarrassed[/B] [B]He really has egg on his face after finding out about his mistake. [/B] [B]Have eyes only for[/B] [B]- give all one’s attention to, be interested only in[/B] [B]She has eyes only for her boyfriend. [/B] [B]Have half a mind[/B] [B]- feel tempted or inclined to do something[/B] [B]I have half a mind to go and offer my resignation to the president. [/B] [B]Have had it (with someone or something)[/B] [B]- can’t tolerate anymore[/B] [B]I have really had it with her constant complaining. [/B] [B]Have in mind[/B] [B]- intend, plan[/B] [B]What do you have in mind for your wife’s birthday? [/B] [B]Have it[/B] [B]- hear or get news, understand[/B] [B]I have it that the new president will be coming to see us next week. [/B] [B]Have it[/B] [B]- claim, say[/B] [B]Rumor has it that three of the supervisors will be leaving next week. [/B] [B]Have it[/B] [B]- allow (usually used with will or would)[/B] [B]We wanted to have a party at our office next month but our boss won’t have it. [/B] [B]Have it[/B] [B]- get or find the answer[/B] [B]I think I finally have it. The reason she is leaving is because she is going to have a baby. [/B] [B]Have it both ways[/B] [B]- do two things, have both things[/B] [B]You can’t have it both ways. You must choose one or the other. [/B] [B]Have it coming[/B] [B]- deserve a punishment[/B] [B]He really has it coming to him after causing the problems in the company. [/B] [B]Have it in for someone[/B] [B]- show ill will or dislike a person[/B] [B]I have been having problems at work recently because I think that the new supervisor has it in for me. [/B] [B]Have it made[/B] [B]- be successful, have everything[/B] [B]He really has it made with his new job.[/B] [B]Have it out with someone[/B] [B]- settle or discuss something with someone angrily[/B] [B]I had it out with her yesterday over the problem with the money. [/B] [B]Have on[/B] [B]- be wearing something[/B] [B]What did she have on when you last saw her? [/B] [B]Have one’s ass in a sling[/B] [B]- be in an uncomfortable predicament, be at a disadvantage[/B] [B]He really has his ass in a sling now that he has quit his job and can’t find another one. [/B] [B]Have one’s eye on[/B] [B]- have a wish for something, have as an aim, look or think about something[/B] [B]I want to buy a nice present for my girlfriend so I have my eye on a nice dress that I saw at the department store last week.[/B] [B]Have one’s feet on the ground[/B] [B]- be practical or sensible[/B] [B]The new sales manager really has his feet on the ground.[/B] [B]Have one’s heart set on something[/B] [B]- want something very much[/B] [B]The child has his heart set on getting a new bicycle for his birthday. [/B] [B]Have over[/B] [B]- invite someone to your house[/B] [B]We will have you over when we settle into our new house.[/B] [B]Have rocks in one’s head[/B] [B]- be stupid, not have good judgment[/B] [B]She really has rocks in her head. She should never have bought that old car. [/B] [B]Have (something) going for one[/B] [B]- have ability, talent or good looks[/B] [B]She has a lot going for her and I am sure that she will get the new job. [/B] [B]Have something on someone[/B] [B]- have information or proof that someone did something wrong[/B] [B]I think that the police have something on him and that is why he wants to quit his job. [/B] [B]Have something on the ball[/B] [B]- be smart, clever, and skilled[/B] [B]She really has a lot on the ball. She should do well in whatever she chooses to do. [/B] [B]Have something up one’s sleeve[/B] [B]- Something kept secretly ready for the right time[/B] [B]I’m not too worried about the meeting as I have something up my sleeve if they try to cause any more problems.[/B] [B]Have sticky fingers[/B] [B]- be a thief[/B] [B]He was fired because of his sticky fingers at the cash register. [/B] [B]Have the last laugh[/B] [B]- make someone seem foolish for having laughed at you first[/B] [B]I had the last laugh when I was able to get home early while everyone else had to stay overnight at the airport because of the storm. [/B] [B]Have (got) to[/B] [B]- Obliged or forced to, must[/B] [B]I have to leave at 4 o’clock or I will be late for my appointment.[/B] [B]Have to do with[/B] [B]- be about or on the subject or connected with something[/B] [B]The book has something to do with cooking but I am not sure if you will like it. [/B] [B]Have two strikes against one[/B] [B]- have things working against one, be in a difficult situation[/B] [B]He already has two strikes against him and it will be very difficult for him to get the job. [/B] [B]Haywire[/B] [B]- Broken or confused[/B] [B]The plan went haywire when their directions became confused. [/B] [B]Head above water[/B] [B]- Out of difficulty, clear of trouble[/B] [B]Although he works very hard he is not able to keep his head above water financially. [/B] [B]Head-hunting[/B] [B]- Search for qualified individuals to fill certain positions[/B] [B]The head-hunting company has phoned me several times about getting a new job. [/B] [B]Head in the clouds[/B] [B]- daydreaming[/B] [B]He always has his head in the clouds and can never answer a question easily.[/B] [B]Head off[/B] [B]- get in front of and stop, turn back[/B] [B]In the western movie the soldiers went to head off the gang at the mountain pass. [/B] [B]Head off[/B] [B]- block, stop, prevent[/B] [B]They were able to head off a strike by the union at the last minute. [/B] [B]Head-on[/B] [B]- Front end to front end, with the front facing[/B] [B]There was a serious head-on crash on the highway last night.[/B] [B]Head-on[/B] [B]- In a way that is exactly opposite, opposed to someone in an argument or fight[/B] [B]They decided to deal with their opponents in a head-on manner in order to win the battle. [/B] [B]Head out[/B] [B]- leave, start out[/B] [B]It is time that we head out for the movie now or we will be late.[/B] [B]Head over heels[/B] [B]- Upside down, head first[/B] [B]He fell head over heels when his bicycle hit the wall. [/B] [B]Head over heels[/B] [B]- Completely, deeply[/B] [B]She fell head over heels in love with the guy that she met at the party. [/B] [B]Head shirker[/B] [B]- Psychiatrist[/B] [B]The criminal had to go and see a head shrinker after the judge sentenced him to life in prison.[/B] [B]Head start[/B] [B]- To leave or start something before others[/B] [B]They left early in order to get a head start on the trip. [/B] [B]Head up[/B] [B]- be at the head of (a group), a leader[/B] [B]The president headed up a group of people going overseas to promote trade. [/B] [B]Hear from[/B] [B]- receive a letter/phone call/news from someone[/B] [B]I haven’t heard from my university roommate for over one year. [/B] [B]Heart goes out to someone[/B] [B]- One feels sympathy for someone[/B] [B]My heart went out to the victims of the railway accident. [/B] [B]Heart is in the right place[/B] [B]- be kindhearted, sympathetic, have good intentions[/B] [B]He makes some serious mistakes sometimes but his heart is in the right place. [/B] [B]Heart of gold[/B] [B]- A kind, generous or forgiving personality[/B] [B]My grandmother has a heart of gold and everyone loves her. [/B] [B]Heart of stone[/B] [B]- Someone with a nature with no pity[/B] [B]She has a heart of stone and is not at all interested in how other people feel. [/B] [B]Heart skips a beat[/B] [B]- be startled or excited from surprise, joy or fright[/B] [B]My heart skipped a beat when the truck almost hit us last night.[/B] [B]Heart stands still[/B] [B]- be very frightened or worried[/B] [B]My heart stood still when I heard the story about the little boy and the fire. [/B] [B]Heart-to-heart[/B] [B]- Honest or intimate[/B] [B]They had a heart-to-heart talk before they decided to get married. [/B] [B]Heavy heart[/B] [B]- A feeling of sadness or unhappiness[/B] [B]He seems to have a heavy heart now that his wife has died. [/B] [B]Hedge in[/B] [B]- keep from getting out or moving freely, block in[/B] [B]My car was hedged in by the other cars and I was unable to move it this morning. [/B] [B]Hell and high water[/B] [B]- Troubles or difficulties of any kind[/B] [B]They went through hell and high water in order to get the food to the flood victims.[/B] [B]Hell-on-wheels[/B] [B]- A short-tempered, nagging or crabby person[/B] [B]She is hell-on-wheels in the morning so you should be careful of her. [/B] [B]Helter-skelter[/B] [B]- In a confusing group, in disorder[/B] [B]When we arrived at work we found all of the files scattered helter-skelter over the floor.[/B] [B]Hem and haw[/B] [B]- avoid giving a clear answer, be evasive in speech[/B] [B]He hemmed and hawed when I asked him if he knew where the missing money was. [/B] [B]Here and now[/B] [B]- Immediately[/B] [B]I want you to do that work right here and now. [/B] [B]Here and there[/B] [B]- In various places, go to various places[/B] [B]We went here and there during our holidays. [/B] [B]Here goes[/B] [B]- Ready to begin while hoping for the best[/B] [B]Well, here goes. I am going to go and ask her for a date right now.[/B] [B]Here goes nothing[/B] [B]- Ready to begin - but it will be a waste of time and will probably fail[/B] [B]Here goes nothing. I have already asked him to lend me some money and he always says no but I’ll try again. [/B] [B]Hide (bury) one’s head in the sand[/B] [B]- keep from knowing something dangerous or unpleasant[/B] [B]He hates to talk about important matters and hides his head in the sand when I try to talk to him. [/B] [B]High and dry[/B] [B]- stranded, out of the current of events[/B] [B]They left him high and dry when they moved the company to Europe. [/B] [B]High and low[/B] [B]- Every place[/B] [B]We looked high and low for her watch but we couldn’t find it.[/B] [B]High and mighty[/B] [B]- Arrogant[/B] [B]He has a high and mighty attitude to all of his employees. [/B] [B]High gear[/B] [B]- Top speed, full activity[/B] [B]The preparations for his visit have been going in high gear all week. [/B] [B]High-handed[/B] [B]- Bossy, dictatorial, depending on force rather than what is right[/B] [B]My supervisor always takes a high-handed approach when dealing with her employees. [/B] [B](The) high life[/B] [B]- A luxurious existence[/B] [B]They have been living the high life since they moved to Las Vegas.[/B] [B]High seas[/B] [B]- The ocean (away from the coast)[/B] [B]The crew of the ship spent three months on the high seas before going to shore for a visit.[/B] [B](Be in) high spirits[/B] [B]- have energy, be cheerful[/B] [B]They are in high spirits since their home team won the tournament. [/B] [B]High time[/B] [B]- The time before something should already have been done[/B] [B]It is high time that we spent some time cleaning up our house. [/B] [B]Highway robbery[/B] [B]- An extremely high price for something[/B] [B]The price that we had to pay for the theater tickets was highway robbery.[/B] [B]Hire out[/B] [B]- accept a job, take employment[/B] [B]He decided to hire himself out as a dancer while he was going to school. [/B] [B]Hire out[/B] [B]- rent to someone[/B] [B]We rented out our boat last summer because we were too busy to use it.[/B] [B]Hit and miss[/B] [B]- Unplanned, uncontrolled, aimless, careless[/B] [B]We are looking for a new apartment but it seems to be hit and miss whether we can find a good one. [/B] [B]Hit-and-run[/B] [B]- An accident where the driver of the car drives away without leaving his address[/B] [B]My sister was involved in a hit-and-run accident last Sunday afternoon. [/B] [B]Hit-and-run[/B] [B]- striking suddenly and leaving quickly[/B] [B]The army made a hit-and-run attack on the enemy soldiers. [/B] [B]Hit bottom[/B] [B]- be at the very lowest, not be able to go any lower[/B] [B]The economy hit bottom last year but is finally starting to improve. [/B] [B]Hitch one’s wagon to a star[/B] [B]- Aim high, follow a great ambition or purpose[/B] [B]He wants to hitch his wagon to a star and pursue his dreams of becoming an actor. [/B] [B]Hither and thither[/B] [B]- In one direction and then in another[/B] [B]He looked hither and thither when he discovered that he had lost his wallet. [/B] [B]Hit it off with someone[/B] [B]- get along well with someone[/B] [B]We really hit it off at the party. [/B] [B]Hit on/upon[/B] [B]- find what you want or think of something by chance[/B] [B]We hit upon the idea of going to the lake for our holiday after our airline reservations were cancelled. [/B] [B]Hit parade[/B] [B]- A list of songs arranged in order of popularity[/B] [B]We listened to all the songs on the hit parade last night. [/B] [B]Hit someone between the eyes[/B] [B]- make a strong impression on someone, surprise greatly[/B] [B]Her incredible performance really hit me between the eyes. [/B] [B]Hit the books[/B] [B]- study or prepare for class[/B] [B]He stayed home all weekend and hit the books. [/B] [B]Hit the bottle[/B] [B]- drink alcohol (usually a negative meaning)[/B] [B]She started to hit the bottle soon after her divorce. [/B] [B]Hit the bull’s-eye[/B] [B]- go to the most important part of a matter, reach the main question[/B] [B]She hit the bull’s-eye when she suggested that decreasing costs was more important than increasing sales. [/B] [B]Hit the ceiling[/B] [B]- get angry[/B] [B]His wife is going to hit the ceiling when she sees the bill for the car repair. [/B] [B]Hit the deck[/B] [B]- get up from bed, start working[/B] [B]Let’s hit the deck and get this work done before supper. [/B] [B]Hit the dirt[/B] [B]- fall on the ground and take cover under gunfire[/B] [B]We were told to hit the dirt during the bank robbery.[/B] [B]Hit the hay[/B] [B]- go to bed[/B] [B]I decided to hit the hay early last night because I was very tired. [/B] [B]Hit the high spots[/B] [B]- consider or mention only the more important parts of something[/B] [B]He only had time to hit the high spots in his report but still it was very interesting.[/B] [B]Hit the jackpot[/B] [B]- be very lucky or successful[/B] [B]She hit the jackpot when she went to Las Vegas last weekend. [/B] [B]Hit the nail on the head[/B] [B]- make a correct guess or analysis[/B] [B]He really hit the nail on the head when he wrote the report about the bank’s problems.[/B] [B]Hit the road[/B] [B]- Leave - usually in a car[/B] [B]We should hit the road early tomorrow morning if we want to reach the seashore before evening.[/B] [B]Hit the roof[/B] [B]- become very angry, go into a rage[/B] [B]He hit the roof when he found out that his son had wrecked the family car. [/B] [B]Hit the sack[/B] [B]- go to bed[/B] [B]I’m a little bit tired so I think that I will hit the sack now.[/B] [B]Hit the sauce[/B] [B]- Drink alcohol - usually heavily and regularly[/B] [B]He has been hitting the sauce now for a couple of months although he says that he doesn’t drink. [/B] [B]Hit the spot[/B] [B]- refresh or satisfy[/B] [B]Drinking the lemonade after the baseball game really hit the spot. [/B] [B]Hold a candle to[/B] [B]- be in the same class or level with (used with a negative usually), can be compared with[/B] [B]As far as good service goes that restaurant can’t hold a candle to the one that I usually go to. [/B] [B]Hold a grudge[/B] [B]- Not forgive someone for something[/B] [B]He has been holding a grudge against the company manager for a number of years. [/B] [B]Hold all the trump cards[/B] [B]- have the best chance of winning, have full control[/B] [B]It will be difficult to do well in the negotiations with him as he holds all the trump cards. [/B] [B]Hold back[/B] [B]- stay back or away, show unwillingness, prevent someone from doing something[/B] [B]He always holds back during meetings and never says anything. [/B] [B]Hold court[/B] [B]- Act like a king or queen among their subjects[/B] [B]He always acts like he is holding court among his subjects when I see him in his office. [/B] [B]Hold down[/B] [B]- keep in obedience, keep control of[/B] [B]The government was able to hold down the people for many years but finally they revolted and got rid of the government. [/B] [B]Hold down a job[/B] [B]- keep a job[/B] [B]He has a serious drinking problem and is unable to hold down a job. [/B] [B]Hold forth[/B] [B]- offer, propose[/B] [B]The company held forth a promise to give all of the employees an extra bonus in the summer. [/B] [B]Hold forth[/B] [B]- speak in public, talk about[/B] [B]He was holding forth about taxes again last night when I saw him in his office. [/B] [B]hold good[/B] [B]- continue, endure, last[/B] [B]The demand for air conditioners held good during July but decreased rapidly in August. [/B] [B]hold off[/B] [B]- delay, not begin[/B] [B]The concert will be held off until next week. [/B] [B]hold off[/B] [B]- keep away by force[/B] [B]The man was able to hold off the police for several hours before he was arrested. [/B] [B]hold on[/B] [B]- wait a minute, stop, wait and not hang up the phone[/B] [B]Please hold on for a minute while I go back and lock the window. [/B] [B]hold one`s breath[/B] [B]- stop breathing for a moment when one is excited or nervous[/B] [B]I had to stop and hold my breath while I was waiting for the announcement of the winning names. [/B] [B]hold one`s fire[/B] [B]- keep back arguments or facts, keep from telling something[/B] [B]You should hold your fire during the meeting and save the rest of the information until next week. [/B] [B]hold one`s horses[/B] [B]- stop and wait patiently[/B] [B]Hold your horses for a minute while I return to get my wallet. [/B] [B]hold one`s own (in an argument)[/B] [B]- defend one`s position[/B] [B]Although her boss is very aggressive she is always able to hold her own in any dispute with him.[/B] [B]hold one`s peace[/B] [B]- be silent and not speak against something, be still[/B] [B]Please try and hold your peace during the meeting as it will be to our disadvantage if we have a confrontation. [/B] [B]hold one`s tongue[/B] [B]- keep quiet[/B] [B]He decided to hold his tongue rather than give his honest opinion. [/B] [B]hold on to[/B] [B]- continue to hold or keep, hold tightly[/B] [B]Hold on to your bag when you are in the bus or someone may try and steal it. [/B] [B]hold out[/B] [B]- reach out, extend[/B] [B]She held out her hand to help her daughter climb up the stairs. [/B] [B]hold-out[/B] [B]- someone who refuses to give something up, a non-conformist[/B] [B]He was the last hold-out in our effort to make sure that everyone wore a necktie to work. [/B] [B]hold out for something[/B] [B]- refuse to give up, keep resisting[/B] [B]The famous basketball star is holding out for a large salary increase. [/B] [B]hold out on[/B] [B]- refuse something to a person[/B] [B]He is holding out on me and wont give me the latest sales figures. [/B] [B]hold over[/B] [B]- extend the engagement of, keep longer[/B] [B]The movie was held over for another week. [/B] [B]hold something back[/B] [B]- keep information or something to or for oneself[/B] [B]He is holding back the information about the new computer system. [/B] [B]hold still[/B] [B]- not move[/B] [B]Please hold still while I fix your jacket zipper.[/B] [B]hold the fort[/B] [B]- cope in an emergency, act as a temporary substitute[/B] [B]He has been holding the fort at his company while his boss is on vacation. [/B] [B]hold the line[/B] [B]- not yield to pressure or something[/B] [B]The company has been holding the line on any new salary increases. [/B] [B]hold the reins[/B] [B]- be the most influential person[/B] [B]He has been holding the reins in his company for many years. [/B] [B]hold up[/B] [B]- lift, raise[/B] [B]The students hold up their hands when they have a question.[/B] [B]hold up[/B] [B]- support, carry[/B] [B]The main beams in the house are holding up the total weight of the house.[/B] [B]hold up[/B] [B]- check, stop, delay[/B] [B]The traffic was held up for over three hours at the border crossing. [/B] [B]hold up[/B] [B]- rob at gunpoint[/B] [B]The criminal was able to hold up three people before he was caught.[/B] [B]hold up[/B] [B]- keep up one`s courage or spirits[/B] [B]Her spirits are holding up quite well even though she does not have a job now. [/B] [B]hold up[/B] [B]- remain good, not get worse[/B] [B]Sales during the first six months of the year have held up very well compared to last year. [/B] [B]hold up[/B] [B]- prove true[/B] [B]Her story held up during the questioning by the police. [/B] [B]hold-up[/B] [B]- a robbery[/B] [B]He was involved in a hold-up when he was in the supermarket last weekend. [/B] [B]hold water[/B] [B]- be a sound idea[/B] [B]His proposal for a new work scheduling system doesn`t hold water. [/B] [B]hole in the wall[/B] [B]- a small place to live, stay in or work in; small hidden or inferior place[/B] [B]We went for a drink at a little hole in the wall near the university last night.[/B] [B]holier-than-thou[/B] [B]- acting as if one is better than others in goodness or character etc.[/B] [B]I don`t like him because he always takes a holier-than-thou attitude toward everyone else. [/B] [B]holy cats[/B] [B]- used to express strong feelings of astonishment, pleasure or anger[/B] [B]Holy cats he said as he looked out and saw the water rising in the river. [/B] [B]holy cow[/B] [B]- used to express strong feelings of astonishment, pleasure or anger[/B] [B]Holy cow! There are over one hundred people standing in front of our house. [/B] [B]holy mackerel[/B] [B]- used to express strong feelings of astonishment, pleasure or anger[/B] [B]"Holy mackerel," cried the little boy when he saw the new bicycle he got for his birthday. [/B] [B]holy Moses[/B] [B]- used to express strong feelings of astonishment, pleasure or anger[/B] [B]Holy Moses! It is already noon and I haven`t even started work yet. [/B] [B]holy terror[/B] [B]- a very disobedient or unruly child[/B] [B]The little boy is a holy terror and his parents never want to take him anywhere. [/B] [B]honeymoon is over[/B] [B]- the first happy period of friendship and cooperation between two groups is over[/B] [B]The honeymoon was over for the new President after about two months. [/B] [B]honky-tonk[/B] [B]- a cheap night-club or dance hall[/B] [B]We went to a small honky-tonk in the small town where we stopped last night. [/B] [B]hook, line and sinker[/B] [B]- without question or doubt, completely[/B] [B]She fell in love with her new boyfriend hook, line and sinker. [/B] [B]hook up[/B] [B]- connect or fit together[/B] [B]As soon as we moved to our new apartment we had to hook up the phone. [/B] [B]hook-up[/B] [B]- a connection[/B] [B]The new hook-up for the computer is not working very well. [/B] [B]hope against hope[/B] [B]- continue to hope when things look very bad[/B] [B]The rescue team were hoping against hope that the lost hikers would be found alive. [/B] [B]hop to it[/B] [B]- get started, start a job, get going[/B] [B]We must hop to it and try to get this job done before dinner. [/B] [B]hopped up[/B] [B]- high on a drug or on alcohol[/B] [B]The man who tried to rob the store was hopped up on some kind of drug. [/B] [B]horn in on[/B] [B]- come in without an invitation or welcome, interfere[/B] [B]He horned in on our conversation although he knows that nobody likes him. [/B] [B]horse around[/B] [B]- play around, join in rough teasing[/B] [B]The children were horsing around in the school yard when the bell rang for class. [/B] [B]horse of a different color[/B] [B]- something altogether separate and different[/B] [B]We should not be talking about that issue now. It is a horse of a different color entirely. [/B] [B]horse sense[/B] [B]- good judgement, wisdom in making decisions[/B] [B]He has a lot of good horse sense so you can expect him to make an intelligent decision. [/B] [B]horse trade[/B] [B]- business agreement arrived at after hard negotiations[/B] [B]We had to do a lot of horse trading but we were finally able to reach an agreement to buy the antique car. [/B] [B]hot air[/B] [B]- nonsense, exaggerated talk[/B] [B]He is full of hot air and you can`t rely on what he usually says. [/B] [B]hot and bothered[/B] [B]- excited and worried, displeased[/B] [B]I don`t know what is wrong with her but she is hot and bothered about something. [/B] [B]a hot potato[/B] [B]- a situation likely to cause trouble to the person handling it[/B] [B]The issue of the non-union workers is a real hot potato that we must deal with.[/B] [B]hot rod[/B] [B]- an automobile changed so that it can go very fast[/B] [B]He has always loved cars and was a member of his local hot rod club when he was a teenager. [/B] [B]hot water[/B] [B]- trouble[/B] [B]He has been in hot water at work since he took a week off with no excuse. [/B] [B]house of cards[/B] [B]- something badly put together and easily knocked down, a poorly founded plan/action[/B] [B]The peace agreement between the two countries was like a house of cards and fell apart as soon as a minor problem occurred. [/B] [B]how about[/B] [B]- will you have something or will you agree to something[/B] [B]How about some coffee before we go to work? [/B] [B]how about[/B] [B]- what is to be done about something[/B] [B]We can`t use her computer but how about one of the other staff members? [/B] [B]how about[/B] [B]- how do you feel about/think about something[/B] [B]She is not interested in the job but how about one of her friends? [/B] [B]how come[/B] [B]- why[/B] [B]How come you don`t telephone her if you want to talk to her so much? [/B] [B]how`s that[/B] [B]- what did you say[/B] [B]How`s that? I couldn`t hear you because the radio was too loud. [/B] [B]hue and cry[/B] [B]- an excited protest or alarm or outcry[/B] [B]They raised a big hue and cry when they realized that we had failed to notify the bank about our financial problems.[/B] [B]hush-hush[/B] [B]- something kept secret or hidden, concealed[/B] [B]What is the big hush-hush? Everyone seems to be very quiet this morning. [/B] [B]hush up[/B] [B]- keep news of something from getting out, prevent people from knowing about something[/B] [B]The government tried to hush up the bad economic figures but the news media soon discovered the facts.[/B] [B]hush up[/B] [B]- be or make quiet, stop talking/crying/making noise[/B] [B]The child was told to hush up by her mother when they were in the department store. [/B] [B]hyped-up[/B] [B]- have an excess of energy, be excited[/B] [B]She has been hyped up all morning because she will go to Italy for a holiday next week. [/B] |
Idioms(I-J-K)
I................................................................................................
idiot box - television set He sits in front of the idiot box all day and never gets any work done. if the shoe fits, wear it - if what is being said in general describes you then it probably means you He was complaining that most of the workers at his company were lazy. However his friend looked at him and said that if the shoe fits, wear it. if worst comes to worst - if the worst possible thing happens If worst comes to worst we can cancel our holiday and go next year. ill at ease - feel nervous/uncomfortable He appeared to be ill at ease during the interview. in a bind - in trouble hey will really be in a bind if they can`t sell their house by next month. in advance - ahead of time They bought the tickets in advance so that they could get a good seat. in a family way - pregnant, going to have a baby Our new secretary is in a family way and plans to take a few months off from work soon. in a fog (haze) - confused, not sure what is happening He is always in a fog and never seems to know what is going on. in a hole - in some trouble, in an embarrassing or difficult position He is really in a hole now that he has problems both at work and at home. in a hurry - a need to move or act quickly He is very busy and always in a hurry. in a jam - in trouble He is really in a jam now that his car is not working properly. in a kind (sort) of way - to a certain extent, a little, somewhat I would like to go in a kind of way but still I don`t think that I will bother going today. in and out - coming in and going out often He has been in and out all day but I don`t know where he is at the moment. in a nutshell - briefly I tried to explain the problem to him in a nutshell but there still wasn`t enough time. in any case (event) - no matter what happens, surely, without fail I may not be able to meet you next week but in any case I will still give you the books before then. in a pig`s eye - hardly, unlikely, not so In a pig`s eye will I let him borrow my car next weekend. in a pinch - okay when nothing else is available That other tool will do in a pinch if we can`t find the correct one. in arms - armed, ready to fight They are all in arms since they found out about the wage decrease. in a rush - in a hurry They got the job done in a big rush so I am a little worried about the quality. in a rut - always doing the same thing She feels that she is in a rut after doing the same job for seven years. in a spot - in some trouble, in an embarrassing or difficult position She is really in a tight spot right now since she was unable to enter university and also has no job. in a way - to a certain extent, a little, somewhat In a way I would like to go but basically I don`t care. in a word - briefly, to sum up In a word, the problem with the car is that it needs a new motor. in a world of one`s own - in deep thought or concentration, not caring about other people He is always in a world of his own and doesn`t notice what other people say or think. in black and white - in writing I want to get the information in black and white before I go to the meeting. in cahoots with - in secret agreement or partnership with someone The supermarket was in cahoots with the vegetable producer to try and keep the prices high. in case - as a precaution, in order to be prepared In case there is a fire, we keep our computer backup files in a fireproof safe. in character - as usual, typical, in the way that a person usually behaves Supporting the other members of the staff is in character with her usual actions. in charge - in control or authority, responsible He is charge of the sales department at his company. in check - under control, kept quiet or back The violence was kept in check by the police department and the army. in clover - rich or successful, having a pleasant or easy life They are in clover now that they have sold their business and retired. in cold blood - without feeling or pity, cooly and deliberately The family was murdered in cold blood by the criminal gang. in common - shared together or equally, in use or ownership by all We had to use the bathroom in common with the other people in the house. in deep - seriously mixed up in something like debt or trouble He owes a lot of money and is in very deep with his new house and car. in due course - in the usual amount of time, at the right time We will send the information to you in due course. in fact - actually, the truth is He`s been to China before. In fact he`s been there three times. in for - unable to avoid, sure to get He is in for a lot of trouble now that he is unable to finish his graduation essay. in good time - a little early, sooner than necessary I will try and get the information to you in good time so that you will be able to decide what to do. in hand - under control The teacher had the class in hand when the principal came to visit the classroom. in hot water - in trouble I am in hot water over the extra expenses that I used during the conference. in keeping with - going well together, agreeing, similar In keeping with our tradition of letting the visiting team kick first we will do it for this game as well. in kind - in a similar way, with the same kind of thing We will pay them back in kind for the use of their sailboat. in league with - in secret agreement or partnership with someone The union has been in league with management in trying to build the new factory. in light of - as a result of new information, because of In light of his contribution to the company we decided to give him a large summer bonus. in line - doing or being what people expect or accept, within ordinary limits It was difficult to keep the children in line at the picnic but somehow we managed. in love - liking very much, loving He has been in love with his girlfriend ever since he met her in high school. in luck - having good luck, finding something good by chance I think that we are in luck. I have found two tickets for the concert. in memory of - as a reminder of, as a memorial to We decided to put our money together and buy a painting in memory of our grandfather. in nothing flat - quickly I will have this information printed out for you in nothing flat. in no time - soon, quickly I will have this done for you in no time and then you can go for lunch. in on - joining together for something We went in on a present for our father for Father`s Day. in on - told about, having knowledge of I was finally let in on the secret about why she left our company. in one`s element - in an environment or situation that comes naturally to someone She is in her element being in charge of the new sales department. in one`s face - abruptly, unexpectedly The plan blew up in our face just as we were ready to start. in one`s good books (graces) - approved of by someone, liked by someone I have been in her good books since I helped her with her work last month. in one`s hair - annoying someone She has been in my hair all morning because she is on her summer holiday starting this week. in one`s mind`s eye - in one`s imagination In your mind`s eye try and imagine that you are on a nice sunny beach in Hawaii. in one`s shell - withdrawn, silent, not sociable We have been trying to get her out of her shell but it is of no use. She doesn`t want to talk to anyone. in one`s shoes - in someone elses place or position I wish that I was in his shoes with his great job and new car. in one`s tracks - abruptly, immediately, just where one is at the moment I was forced to stop in my tracks when I saw the snake on the road. in order to - for the purpose of We have decided to close down the school for the summer in order to do some major repairs. in other words - say something in a different (usually more direct) way In other words if you don`t finish the assignment by Wednesday you will not pass the course. in part - to some extent, partly I think the reason he is not golfing well this year is in part due to his problem with his back. in point of fact - really, truthfully In point of fact there were not enough people at the meeting to vote on the proposal. ins and outs - all the details He knows all the ins and outs of the new machine. in seventh heaven - very happy I have been in seventh heaven since I started my new job. in short supply - not enough, in less than the amount or number needed Chairs were in short supply so some of the guests had to sit on the floor. inside and out - in every part, completely We looked through the room inside and out for my lost wallet. inside out - so that the inside is turned outside She turned her purse inside out in order to look for her lost key. inside track - an advantage, shortest distance around a racetrack I think that he has the inside track on getting the new job at the computer company. in spite of - in opposition to, despite In spite of the terrible weather we went to the beach for a picnic. instead of - in place of Let`s meet at the restaurant instead of the department store as we had planned. in stitches - laughing They were in stitches over their teacher`s joke. in stock - having something ready to sell or use The store didn`t have any computer discs in stock so we bought some over the Internet. in store - ready to happen, waiting I don`t really know what the future has in store for me but I will be ready for anything. in the air - current, exerting an influence It is in the air that we will be getting a new president next week. in the bag - certain, sure The new contract will be in the bag if we put in a good proposal. in the black - have a credit balance, make a profit The company has been in the black for over three years now. in the cards - to be expected, likely to happen, predictable I think that a new company structure is in the cards but I can`t be sure. in the charge of - under the care or supervision of She has been in the charge of her grandmother since her mother and father died. in the clear - with nothing to limit action, free of anything that makes moving or seeing difficult We seem to be in the clear now so it should be safe to cross the road. in the clear - free of blame or suspicion The police talked to the three boys for a few minutes but they seem to be in the clear now. in the clouds - far from real life, in dreams, in thought He is usually in the clouds so you may have trouble finding out what you want to know from him. in the course of - during In the course of his life he visited over 45 countries. in the dark - having no information about something He is still in the dark about my plans to quit my job. in the doghouse - in trouble He is in the doghouse with his wife after staying out drinking last night. in the first place - firstly, to begin with Of course I can`t go. In the first place I must work on Saturday. In the second place I have no money. in the groove - at one`s best, doing something very well We are finally getting in the groove and should be able to finish this job by early next week. in the hole - having a score lower than zero in a game, a score below zero At the beginning of the card game I was in the hole but later I began to do well. in the hole - in debt, behind financially Although he is always working he always seems to be in the hole in the line of duty - done or happening as part of a job The police officer was killed in the line of duty during the bank robbery. in the long run - the distant future, in the end For now he is losing money on his stocks but in the long run he should make money. in the market for - wanting or ready to buy something I am in the market for a new computer as my old one is too slow. in the red - lose money, not make a profit The company has been in the red for three years now. in the saddle - in command, in control The president is back in the saddle again after being ill for several months. in the same boat - in a similar situation We are all in the same boat now that our company has gone out of business. in the soup - in serious trouble, in disorder She is in the soup now that she has had a big fight with her boss. in the swim - active in or knowing what is going on He is definitely in the swim. He has information about everybody. in the wake of - as a result of, following In the wake of the large number of people who have recently left our company we will need to hire some more people. in the wind - soon to happen, being planned It is in the wind that they are planning to open a new store next year. in the works - in preparation, being planned or worked on Don`t worry about whether or not we will be building the new computer lab. It is definitely in the works. in the wrong - wrong; against justice, truth or fact The driver was in the wrong and was arrested by the police after the accident. in time - early enough I didn`t come home in time to meet my cousin. into thin air - completely, without anything left The group of hikers vanished into thin air and were never heard of again. in touch - talking or writing to each other, giving or getting news We are still in touch even though we have been out of school for many years. in tow - being pulled The truck had a trailer in tow when it went off the highway. in tow - being taken from place to place, along with someone She spent the morning at the shopping center with her child in tow. in tune - going well together, in agreement, matching We have been in tune with each other ever since we met at our high school graduation party. in turn - each following another We went up to the front of the class in turn in order to pick up our diplomas. in two shakes of a lamb`s tail - quickly, in no time at all I will have this finished in two shakes of a lamb`s tail and then I will give it to you. in vain - without effect, without success We tried in vain to find a good job but it was impossible. in view of - after thinking about, because of In view of the large number of people who have come I think that we will need a bigger room. in with - in friendship, favor or closeness with I think that he was in with the wrong group of people when he was in high school. iron out - work out We have ironed out all of our problems and are finally doing better. irons in the fire - things one is doing, projects with which a person is busy Recently he has too many irons in the fire. That is why he has become sick. itching palm - a wish for money, greed The guard at the border crossing has an itching palm so be careful of him. J................................................................................................. jack-of-all-trades - a person who can do many things We gave him a job because we needed a jack-of-all-trades around the factory to look after the many repairs. jack up - raise prices The gas station jacked up their prices during the snow storm. jam on the brakes - quickly put the brakes on in a car to stop He jammed on the brakes and was able to avoid hitting the child. jam-packed - crowded, full The train that we took this morning was jam-packed with people. jazz up - brighten up, add more noise or movement or color They really jazzed up the community center for the party tonight. John Doe - name used for an unknown person Why do the application forms use "John Doe" as the name of the person who is applying for something? John Henry (John Hancock) - signature Please sign your John Henry here and we will process your order right away. Johnny-come-lately - new-comer He`s a Johnny-come-lately and doesn`t really know what he is talking about. Johnny-on-the-spot - be at the right place when needed, right on time He`s always Johnny-on-the-spot. Just when we need him he arrives. jump all over someone - criticize, scold, blame As soon as I began to talk about my plans for the summer he jumped all over me. jump at - take or accept quickly and gladly He jumped at the chance to go to Europe on company business. jump bail - run away and fail to come to trial and give up the money you have already paid to the court He jumped bail and decided to go and live in a foreign country. jump down someone`s throat - criticize or become angry with someone As soon as I reached the office he jumped down my throat over the missing file. jumping-off place - the starting place of a long trip We gathered early in the morning at the jumping-off place for our trip to the mountains. jump on someone - scold, criticize, blame Everyone jumped on him at the meeting because they were angry about the new schedules. jump on the bandwagon (also get or climb on the bandwagon) - join a popular activity Everyone has jumped on the bandwagon to try and stop smoking in the workplace. jump out of one`s skin - be badly frightened I nearly jumped out of my skin when I saw him at the window. jump the gun - start before you should He jumped the gun and started selling the tickets before he should. jump through a hoop - do whatever one is told to do, obey any order He is always ready to jump through a hoop for his boss so he is not very popular with the other employees. jump to conclusions - make a quick conclusion without thinking Please don`t jump to conclusions over who broke the computer. just about - nearly, almost I waited just about one hour before the concert started. just now - this very moment, a minute ago The accident happened just now. The police haven`t even arrived yet. just so - with great care, very carefully She always makes sure that her hair is just so before she goes out. just the same - nevertheless I told her not to come early but just the same she came early anyway. just what the doctor ordered - exactly what is needed or wanted Having the extra day off from work was just what the doctor ordered and he was able to get his many errands finished. K............................................ kangaroo court - a self-appointed group that decides how to punish someone who is supposed to have done something wrong The men were convicted by the people in the town but it was like a kangaroo court and nobody agreed with the decision. Katie bar the door - get ready for trouble, a desperate situation is at hand The gang arrived at the bar and were ready to come in and fight. Well, Katie bar the door. keel over - fall over and faint Three of the members of the band suddenly keeled over because of the heat. keel over - turn upside down, tip over The boat keeled over in the middle of the lake but everybody was safe. keep after - remind someone over and over I always have to keep after her to do her job properly. keep an eye on something or someone - watch (as in take care of something) Will you keep an eye on the baby while I go to the store. keep a secret - not tell a secret to others I have been trying to keep a secret about her boyfriend for a long time now. keep a stiff upper lip - be brave, face trouble bravely The prisoners tried hard to keep a stiff upper lip in spite of the hardships of the prison. keep at - persist with He has decided to keep at his studies so I am sure he will succeed. keep body and soul together - keep alive, survive It was very cold during the winter but somehow she was able to keep body and soul together and survived. keep books - keep records of money gained and spent, do the work of a bookkeeper My first job was to keep books for a small company in my hometown. keep down - keep from progressing or growing, keep within limits, control The students were told to keep down the noise as some of the other classes were having exams. keep from - prevent, refrain from I love ice cream and couldn`t keep from eating three bowls. keep good time - work accurately (a clock) My watch has not been keeping good time lately. keep house - look after a house or a household She has been keeping house for her father while he is sick. keep in touch - talk or write to someone I have always tried to keep in touch with my friends from high school. keep on (doing something) - continue She is careless and keeps on making the same mistakes over and over. keep one`s chin up - be brave, be determined Try and keep your chin up. Things will get better in the future. keep one`s eye on the ball - be watchful and ready You should keep your eye on the ball or you will make a mistake. keep one`s fingers crossed - wish for good results in something one is doing Please keep your fingers crossed that I will pass the exam. keep one`s head - stay calm when there is trouble or danger He is a very good leader and always is able to keep his head during an emergency. keep one`s head above water - have the ability to pay one`s bills He is having trouble keeping his head above water since his salary has decreased. keep one`s mouth shut - be or stay silent I was very angry so I told him to keep his mouth shut. Later I had to apologize. keep one`s nose clean - stay out of trouble He has been managing to keep his nose clean since he moved to the new town. keep one`s nose to the grindstone - work very hard He has been keeping his nose to the grindstone recently and I haven`t had a chance to see him. keep one`s own counsel - keep one`s ideas and plans to oneself He always keeps his own counsel and never really reveals his plans to anyone. keep one`s shirt on - calm down, keep from losing one`s temper or getting impatient Try and keep your shirt on! Everything is going to be alright in a few minutes. keep one`s wits about one - stay calm when there is trouble or danger Although there was a fire in the building he was able to keep his wits about him and help everybody to safety. keep one`s word - fulfill one`s promise She never keeps her word so I don`t believe that she will come to the party. keep pace - go as fast, go at the same rate It was difficult to keep pace with the other students but somehow I managed. keep quiet - remain silent Could you all please keep quiet and listen to the instructor. keep someone on - allow someone to continue working for you Although we have too many workers we have decided to keep him on until business improves. keep tabs on - watch or check, keep under observation They have been keeping tabs on the spending of the sales department. keep the ball rolling - keep up an activity or action, not allow something that is happening to slow or stop We should try to keep the ball rolling and get as much of our work done while everyone is still here. keep the home fires burning - keep things going as usual while someone is away Don`t worry about anything. I will stay home and keep the home fires burning while you are on your holiday. keep track of - maintain a record Please carefully keep track of your expenses during the trip. keep (someone) up - prevent someone from going to bed They kept me up last night with their noisy radio. keep time - show the right time My new watch keeps perfect time so I am very happy. keep time - keep the beat, keep the same rhythm It is difficult for him to keep time with the other members of the band but at least he tries. keep under one`s hat - keep secret, not tell He won`t say where he is going for his holiday. He wants to keep it under his hat. keep up appearances - keep an outward show of prosperity or good behavior They have been trying to keep up appearances even though he has lost his job. keep up - go on, not stop, continue He is working hard to keep up the same level of production as last year. keep up - keep something at the same level or rate or in good condition He spends a lot of time trying to keep up the garden of his house. keep up with - go at the same speed as a person or thing, maintain the same rate of progress I can`t keep up with the rest of the class. keep up with the news - keep informed He reads the newspaper every morning in order to keep up with the news. keep up with the Joneses - try to be the same as your neighbors He always worries about keeping up with the Joneses and is always frustrated. kettle of fish - something to be considered, how things are That`s a totally different kettle of fish. We should talk about it another time. keyed up - excited, nervous I was all keyed up after we won the game and I couldn`t go to sleep. kick around - treat badly, act roughly or badly to someone or something I don`t like her very much because she is always kicking other people around. kick around - lie around in a place I was tired on Saturday so I stayed home and kicked around in the morning. kick back - relax and do nothing I`m going to kick back this evening and stay home and watch television. kickback - money paid illegally for favorable treatment The construction company gave the politician some illegal kickbacks in order to win the contract. kick off - begin, launch, start The department store kicked off their summer sale early Saturday morning. kick-off - a start The kick-off for the no smoking campaign will start next week. kick oneself - regret I kicked myself for not applying for the job sooner. kick out - make someone go or leave, get rid of, dismiss He was kicked out of school when he was 15 years old because of his bad behavior. kick over - a motor begins to work At first the engine wouldn`t start because it was too cold but finally it kicked over. kick over - pay, contribute I was forced to kick over a lot of money for the motor for my car. kick the bucket - die The man who used to clean the walls at the factory kicked the bucket last week. kick the habit - stop a bad habit like smoking or taking drugs He has been trying to kick his smoking habit for years. kick up a fuss - make trouble, make a disturbance I didn`t think that it would be a big problem but he really kicked up a fuss when I told him about the accident. kick up one`s heels - have a good time, celebrate We really kicked up our heels at the Christmas party that we attended last week. kill off - kill or end completely, destroy The pollution in the river has killed off all of the fish. kill the goose that layed the golden egg - spoil something that is good or something that one has by being greedy He was always complaining about his job but now it is gone. He has killed the goose that layed the golden egg. kill two birds with one stone - accomplish two things with one action He was able to kill two birds with one stone by going to the meeting. knock about - travel without a plan, go where one pleases We decided to go to Brazil and knock about for a couple of months. knock it off - stop doing something, quit Please knock it off. You are going to hurt yourself if you are not careful. knock off - murder someone The owner of the shop was knocked off in the robbery last week. knock off one`s feet - surprise or shock someone so much that he does not know what to do When they announced that I had won the prize it knocked me off my feet. knock one`s block off - hit someone very hard, beat someone up He was very angry and threatened to knock anyone`s block off who came near him. knock one`s head against the wall - waste time trying to do something with no success They have been knocking their head against the wall for years trying to find a solution to the problem. knock oneself out - make a great effort They really knocked themselves out trying to make the party successful. knock on wood - knock on something made of wood to keep from having bad luck I don`t think that I will lose my job - knock on wood. knockout - a very beautiful woman The man said that the woman he saw at the bus stop was a real knockout. knock out - make unconscious, unworkable or unusable The storm last night knocked out power in most of the town. knock the living daylights out of someone - make someone unconscious The man knocked the living daylights out of his friend during the fight. know by heart - memorize I learned the poem by heart. (not) know if one is coming or going - not know what to do The new sales manager doesn`t seem to know if he is coming or going. know-it-all - a person who acts as if they know everything He is a know-it-all and nobody likes to be around him. (not) know the first thing about something - lack basic knowledge about something He doesn`t know the first thing about computers. know which side one`s bread is buttered on - know who can help one and try to please him, know what is good for oneself He is careful not to make his boss angry. He knows which side his bread is buttered on. knuckle down - begin to work earnestly I think it is time that we knuckle down and finally finish this project. knuckle under - yield, submit The union finally knuckled under the pressure and ended the strike. |
Idioms(L-M-N)
L................................................................................................
labor of love - something done for personal pleasure and not for money The book that he wrote was a labor of love and he doesn`t expect to make any money from it. lady killer - a man who some women find very charming and attractive The man in the movie was a lady killer who broke many women`s hearts before he left them. lady`s man - a man who is popular with women He is a lady`s man who always seems to have a lot of women interested in him. laid up - be confined to bed or unfit for work He has been laid up for a few days because of a cold. lame duck - public official who has a short time left to serve in office and therefore has less power than before He is a lame duck president so it is difficult for him to get things accomplished. land on one`s feet - come out of a bad situation successfully He always manages to land on his feet no matter how difficult the situation is. lap up - eat or drink with the tongue The dog lapped up the milk that his master had given him. lap up - take in eagerly He lapped up the praise that his boss gave him for the recently completed project. lash out - try suddenly to hit someone He suddenly lashed out and hit the man who was sitting beside him. lash out - attack someone with words They were walking along the beach when she suddenly lashed out in anger at her boyfriend. last but not least - in the last place but not the least important Last but not least he came up to the front of the class to receive his report card. last straw - the last insult or mistake that one can endure and which then causes some reaction The fourth time he came late was the last straw and we finally fired him. last word - the last remark in an argument, the final say in deciding something She always expects to have the last word when she and her husband go to the store to buy something important. laugh off - not take seriously He laughed off the attempt of his boss to tell him that he should try and come to work on time. (not) lay a finger on someone - not touch someone, not bother to do something (not even a little) He was told by the police never to lay a finger on his wife again. lay an egg - fail to win the interest or favor of an audience Although he was supposed to be a good magician, his performance was terrible and it laid an egg with the audience. lay away - save They are trying to lay away some money for their holiday next year. layaway plan - a plan in which one pays some money down and then pays the rest little by little and the store holds the article until the full price has been paid He decided to buy the television set on the department store`s layaway plan. lay down the law - tell someone what to do using your power or influence The new management plans to lay down the law to the workers regarding long lunch breaks. lay eyes on - see I have never laid eyes on a more beautiful dog in my life. lay hands on something - get hold of or find something If I can lay my hands on a slide projector I will show you the pictures of my trip tonight. lay hands on someone - do violence to, harm, hurt He said that if he ever lays hands on the person who stole his car he will take him directly to the police. lay hold of - get possession of If I can lay hold of a car this weekend we can go for a drive. lay in - store up a supply of something, get and keep for future use They are trying to lay in as much food as possible before winter comes. lay (light) into - attack physically, do (eat) something with energy He laid into the steak as soon as the waiter brought it to his table. lay (light) into - attack with words As soon as I came into work this morning she laid (lit) into me about my poor sales performance last month. lay it on the line - say plainly so that there can be no doubt, tell truthfully The librarian finally had to lay it on the line and told everyone not to bring drinks into the library. lay it on thick - praise someone too much He really began to lay it on thick when he met me at the party. lay low - hide, keep out of sight for awhile He decided to lay low for awhile until his friend forgot that he had damaged his car. lay off (someone) - get rid of workers when business is bad Six hundred workers at the automobile factory were recently laid off. lay off - stop bothering, leave alone The players were told by the coach to lay off teasing the new player so that he could relax before the game. lay off - stop using or taking (drugs/cigarettes) I was told by my doctor to lay off smoking or I would be very sick in the future. lay one`s cards on the table - let someone know one`s position and feelings openly, deal honestly about something He decided to lay his cards on the table and tell his boss about the job offer from the other company. lay out - spend or pay some money He will have to lay out a lot of money for his new apartment. lay out - plan something They will lay out their plan for the new building at the next meeting. lay over - arrive in one place and wait some time before continuing a journey We were told that we will have to lay over in London for nine hours before we go on to Kenya. lay to rest - get rid of, put away permanently, stop They have been trying to lay to rest the rumors about the financial problems in the company. lay up - take out of active service, put in a boat dock or a garage The weather was getting cold so they decided to lay up their boat for the winter. lay up - collect a supply of something, save for future use, store They are trying to lay up some canned fruit for the winter. lay waste - destroy and leave in ruins, wreck The army troops laid waste to the enemy territory. lead a dog`s life - live a hard life, work hard and be treated unkindly He says that he has been leading a dog`s life since he started his new job. lead a merry chase - delay or escape capture by someone, make a person work hard He led the investigators on a merry chase before they finally arrested him. lead by the nose - have full control of, make or persuade someone to do anything you want He isn`t very aggressive and always lets his boss lead him by the nose. lead off - begin, start, open The golfer was the first to lead off in the tournament. lead on - insincerely encourage I think he was leading me on when he told me about the new job. lead the way - go before and show how to go somewhere, guide I had to lead the way because nobody else knew where the new office was located. lean on - pressure someone by blackmailing or threats of physical violence to make the person comply with a request The gang decided to lean on the small shop owner to get him to sell his property. learn the ropes - learn how to do a job He is a new employee and is still learning the ropes. leave a bad taste in one`s mouth - leave a bad impression, make one feel disgusted The way that the company fired the workers left a bad taste in everyone`s mouth. leave alone - don`t disturb someone lease leave me alone so I can finish this essay. leave behind - leave something somewhere I left my coat behind in the restaurant. leave hanging (in the air) - leave undecided or unsettled Whether or not they will be leaving next year was left hanging in the air at the end of the meeting. leave (someone) holding the bag - leave someone else to take the blame He left me holding the bag when he ran away from the accident. leave in the lurch - desert or leave alone and in trouble, refuse to help or support someone He left me in the lurch when he didn`t come over to help me although he had promised to earlier in the day. leave no stone unturned - try in every way, do everything possible The police left no stone unturned when they were looking for the little girl who was lost. leave out - omit He told me about the accident but he left out some of the main points. leave (let) well enough alone - be satisfied with something that is good enough You should let well enough alone and be happy with your work schedule the way it is. left-handed compliment - an ambiguous compliment interpreted as offensive He gave her a left-handed compliment when he said that her dyed hair looked nice. leg man - someone who performs messenger services, an errand boy He was working as a leg man for the motion picture company. leg to stand on - a firm foundation of facts, facts to support one`s claims She doesn`t have a leg to stand on as far as her excuses for not finishing her work goes. leg work - physical work He was forced to do all of the leg work preparing for the meeting because his assistant was sick. let alone - certainly not I don`t have enough money to go to a movie let alone go on a holiday. let bygones be bygones - forget about problems that happened in the past We need to let bygones be bygones and forget about our past differences. let down - fail to do as well as expected, disappoint He let down his parents when he failed the university entrance exams. let down easy - refuse or say no to someone in a pleasant way I will talk to her tomorrow and try and let her down easy about her not getting the promotion. let down one`s hair - relax, act freely and naturally Everybody at the party let down their hair and had a good time. let (something) go - pay no attention to, neglect She seems to be letting her appearance go since she lost her job. let go - allow something to pass, do nothing about something Although I was angry at his remark I decided to let it go. let go - discharge from a job, fire The company has decided to let go several hundred workers in order to become profitable again. let go of - release He let go of the rope and the suitcase fell from the bus. let grass grow under one`s feet - be idle, be lazy, waste time He is always working hard and is not the type of person to let grass grow under his feet. let (someone) have it - hit someone hard He really let the other man have it when they got into a fight on the bus. let it all hang out - not to disguise anything, let the truth be known She decided to let it all hang out and told her boss about the mistakes she had made with the new sales account. let it lay - forget it, leave it alone You should let it lay and stop worrying about what she did to you last year. let it rip - become involved and make the most of something, really try to win He let it rip and set off from the shore in the motorboat. let loose - set free, give up one`s hold on something, release something being held They decided to let loose the injured bird that they had found in the park. let (someone) know - tell, inform Let me know when you are ready to go to the movie. let off - discharge (a gun), explode The children let off many firecrackers during the festival. let off steam - get rid of your extra energy or strong feelings by doing some activity He was very angry at first but he has let off a lot of steam and has calmed down now. let (someone) off the hook - excuse someone from a penalty or promise He let me off the hook and I didn`t have to stay after work and help clean the office. let on - reveal, inform Please don`t let on that you saw me at the movie last night. let on - try to make people believe something, pretend He tried to let on that he didn`t want the job but actually he does. let out - allow to go out or escape I let out our dog this morning and he hasn`t come home yet. let out - allow to be known, tell They let out the details of the restructuring plan late last night so we haven`t had time to talk about them yet. let out - make longer or looser (clothes), allow a rope to slip out little by little I had to go to the tailors to have them let out my sports jacket. let out - dismiss or be dismissed (from class or practice etc.) Everyone was let out from class early yesterday because of the bad weather. let (something) ride - continue without changing a situation We should forget about his recent problems at work and just let the whole matter ride. let sleeping dogs lie - don`t make trouble if you don`t have to You should let sleeping dogs lie and not worry about what she said to you last summer. let the cat out of the bag - reveal a secret Don`t let the cat out of the bag about the surprise party for the boss. let the chips fall where they may - don`t worry about the results of your actions I am not going to worry about whether or not the company will go broke or not. I will let the chips fall where they may. let up - become less or weaker, become slower or stop The rain finally let up around noon so we were able to go back outside. let up - do less or go slower or stop, stop working too hard He was told by his doctor to let up on his work schedule or he will become sick in the future. lie in state - after death a famous person lies in a state of honor (in an open coffin) so the public can see their body The President lay in state for three days after his death. lie in wait - watch from hiding in order to attack or surprise someone The police decided to lie in wait for the bank robbers to appear at the bank. lie low - stay quietly out of sight, try not to attract attention He is very angry at you so I think that you should lie low for a few days until he calms down. life of Riley - a soft easy life, pleasant way of living He has been living the life of Riley since he retired from his job last year. lift a finger (hand) - do something, do one`s share, help Although he is a nice person he will never lift a finger to help anyone else. light up - suddenly look pleased and happy As soon as I told him about our summer holiday plans his face lit up and he started smiling. like father, like son - a son usually acts like his father Like father, like son the man said as he watched the boy playing baseball exactly like his father. like a ton of bricks - strongly or forcefully The news of his retirement hit me like a ton of bricks. like crazy - very fast, with great energy They were running like crazy but still they couldn`t catch up with their friend. like hell - with much effort and energy, not so, untrue I had to run like hell this morning in order to catch the bus for work. like mad - very fast, with great energy I worked like mad but I was unable to finish the project by noon as I had hoped. like water off a duck`s back - without effect, without changing one`s feelings or opinion He always criticizes his friend who always ignores it so it falls away like water off a duck`s back. line up - take places in line or formation, stand one behind another We were forced to line up in front of the movie theater for over one hour. line up - adjust correctly First he lined up the two pieces of wood before he nailed them together. line up - arrange, make ready for action We were unable to line up a speaker for Sunday evening so we will cancel the meeting. lip service - support shown by words only and not by action They paid lip service to the proposal but I don`t think that they really support it. little by little - gradually He broke his leg while skiing but little by little it is getting better. little frog in a big pond - an unimportant person in a large group or organization He transferred to the headquarters branch but he is a little frog in a big pond and nobody knows him now. little pitchers have big ears - little children often overhear things that they are not supposed to hear Little pitchers have big ears she said when she saw her daughter standing at the door listening to her talking to her husband. live down - remove blame or distrust by good conduct, cause to be forgiven by not repeating something He is trying to live down his reputation of being a hard person to work for. live from hand to mouth - live on little money Her brother is an artist and has to live from hand to mouth because he has no money. live high on the hog - live very luxuriously or comfortably He has been living high on the hog since he won the money in the lottery. live it up - have a good time He likes to live it up every weekend when he gets paid. live out of a suitcase - stay away from your home with only the belongings in your suitcase I dislike this job because I am often on a business trip and must live out of my suitcase. live up to - come up to, agree with, act according to He is trying very hard to live up to his reputation as a smart busnessman. living end - great, fantastic, the ultimate She said that her new boyfriend was the living end. loaded - have lots of money His new boss is really loaded. lock the barn door after the horse is stolen - be careful or try to make something safe when it is too late If you try and prevent a flood after the rains have started it is like locking the barn door after the horse is stolen. lock up - to be assured of success The candidate has already locked up the nomination to be a candidate for president in the next election. long face - a sad look, a disappointed look He had a long face when he came into work this morning. What is the matter with him? long haul - a long distance or trip He is a long-haul trucker and is always out of town working. long haul - a long period of time during which work continues or something is done He has decided to stay here for the long haul and will not return to his home country for awhile. long shot - a bet or other risk taken though not likely to succeed It was a long shot that he would get the job so he was very happy when he did get it. look after someone - take care or attend to someone She has been looking after her mother since her recent illness. look a gift horse in the mouth - complain if a gift is not perfect Even if you don`t like the present from the company you shouldn`t complain. Remember don`t look a gift horse in the mouth. look at the world through rose-colored glasses - see only the good things about something, be too optimistic I told him not to be so naive and always look at the world through rose-colored glasses. look down one`s nose at someone or something - show your dislike of someone or something He always looks down his nose at the other members of his class. look down on someone - regard with contempt or a feeling of superiority She looks down on the activities and life of most small towns. look for - think likely, expect They are looking for John to become the next sales director of the company. look for - try to find, search for, hunt She has been looking for her credit card all morning but she can`t find it. look forward to something - anticipate with pleasure He`s been looking forward to the concert for a long time. look in on - go to see, make a short visit with, make a call on Could you please look in on the baby and see if she is sleeping. look into - investigate or check something They have been looking into the cause of the accident for many months. look like a million dollars - look well and prosperous, appear healthy and happy He was looking like a million dollars when I saw him at the party last weekend. look like the cat that ate (swallowed) the canary - seem very self-satisified like you have just had some kind of success He looked like the cat that ate the canary when he came in with a smile on his face. look on - be a spectator There were over a hundred people who gathered to look on after the accident. look out - take care, be careful, be on guard Look out! There is a large truck coming down the highway. look out - be alert or watchful, keep looking for something Could you please look out for any old Elvis Presley records that you may find. look out - provide protection and care Please look out for my sister when she stays with you this summer. look over something - inspect, survey or examine Please take some time to look over these documents before you sign them. look to - attend to, get ready for, take care of She is a wonderful nurse and spends a great deal of time looking to the needs of her patients. look to - go for help to, depend on He always looks to his mother for help when he has a problem. look (something) up - search for something in a dictionary or other book I`ll look up their name in the telephone book. look (someone) up - seek and find When I was in New York I looked up my friend from university. look up to - think of someone as a good example to copy, respect someone I always look up to the president of our company as someone I would like to be like. loose ends - without something definite to do He has been at loose ends since he lost his job. lord it over - act as the superior and master of someone, be bossy over someone She likes to lord it over the other members of the staff since she became a supervisor. lose face - be embarrassed or ashamed by an error or failure, lose dignity He lost face when his employees decided not to support him during the meeting. lose ground - go backward, become weaker, not improve The government has been losing ground in their fight against inflation. lose heart - become discouraged She has begun to lose heart in her studies to learn the piano. lose one`s marbles - go crazy or act irrationally He seems to have lost his marbles and doesn`t make any sense at all. lose one`s shirt - lose a lot of money I think he is going to lose his shirt on that new business venture. lose one`s way - become lost The first time she went to New York City she lost her way. lose one`s temper - become angry He lost his temper when the child broke the dish. lose out - fail to win, miss first place in a contest He lost out on a chance to go to Mexico City because he was too busy with other things. lose sight of - forget, fail to see Don't lose sight of the main reason that you are planning to go on the business trip. lose touch with - fail to keep in contact or communication with someone I lost touch with everyone who I worked with at my summer job. lose track of - lose contact with someone (or something) I`ve lost track of many of my friends from high school. loudmouth - a noisy, boastful or foolish talker He is a loudmouth and nobody at work likes him. louse up - throw into confusion, make a mess of, spoil She loused up her job interview and has no chance at all now to get the job. lover`s lane - a hidden road or walkway where lovers walk or park in the evening After the movie they drove to the local lover`s lane. lowdown - the inside facts of a matter, the total truth I met with him after the presentation and he gave me the lowdown on the new computer equipment. luck out - suddenly get lucky when it looks like you won`t succeed He lucked out with the concert tickets and was able to get four of them. lucky star - a certain star or planet which is thought to bring a person good luck and success in life You should thank your lucky star that you don`t have to go to work on a rainy day like today M................................................................................................ mad as a hornet - very angry He was mad as a hornet when I saw him at the meeting yesterday. main drag - the most important street in a town We spent most of Saturday evening driving up and down the main drag of the town. make a beeline for something - hurry directly somewhere When he enters the cafeteria he always makes a beeline for the dessert section. make a bundle - make a lot of money My father made a bundle on the stock market in early 1998. make a day of it - do something all day We decided to make a day of it and spend the day at the beach. make a dent in - make progress We worked hard all day but we didn`t seem to make a dent in the amount of work left to do. make a difference - cause a change in a situation It doesn`t make any difference whether he comes to the meeting or not. make a go of - succeed, produce good results Although he tried hard he was never able to make a go of his business. make a hit - be successful Her cake made a big hit at the party. make a killing - make a large amount of money Her mother made a killing on the real estate market before she retired. make a living - earn enough money to live He cannot make a living by only doing a part-time job. make a mistake - make an error He made a mistake on the math test. make a mountain out of a molehill - make a big problem out of a small one He is really making a mountain out of a molehill by worrying about his son`s problems. make a name for oneself - become well-known or famous He has made a name for himself in the field of computers. make a pass at someone - make romantic advances to a member of the opposite sex He was fired because he made a pass at one of the women who he works with. make a point of - do or say something with a definite intent He always makes a point of visiting his aunt when he is in town. make a run for it - dash for safety, make a speedy escape He made a run for it as soon as the class finished. make away with - take, carry away The cat made away with the fish that was sitting on top of the kitchen counter. make believe - act as if something is true while one knows that it is not, pretend The children were playing make believe and pretended that they lived in a castle. make do with something - substitute one thing for another If there is no cream for the coffee, we`ll have to make do with milk. make ends meet - be able to live on the money one has It`s hard to make ends meet on his salary. make eyes at - flirt, look at a member of the opposite sex to try and attract them The boy was making eyes at the girl in his history class. make for - go toward, start in the direction of As soon as it began to become dark we decided to make for a quiet place to set up a camp. make friends - form friendships with people or animals She is shy and isn`t able to make friends easily. make fun of - ridicule The students were making fun of the girl with the short hair. make good - do what one promised to do, make something come true He made good on his promise to give everyone a raise in the new year. make hay while the sun shines - do something at the right time, not wait too long You should make hay while the sun shines and paint the house while the weather is good. (can`t) make head nor tail of something - understand, find meaning in something We couldn`t make head nor tail of what he was trying to say during his speech. make it up to someone - do something for someone to compensate for an unfulfilled promise or debt I can`t go with you to the game tonight but I will make it up to you later. make light of - treat as of little importance, minimize My friend made light of my efforts to learn how to speak and write Chinese. make of something - interpret, think of What do you make of the new manager in accounting. make merry - have fun, laugh and celebrate We decided to go to a nice restaurant and make merry for the evening. make no bones about something - make no secret, not keep from talking about something He has made no bones about the fact that he is not interested in applying for the supervisor`s job. make one`s bed and lie in it - be responsible for what one has done and then have to accept the bad results You quit your job and now you have no money. You made your bed. Now you must lie in it. make one`s blood boil - make someone very angry Every time that I see him he makes my blood boil. make one`s hair stand on end - frighten, horrify The horror movie that we rented last week really made my hair stand on end. make one`s own way - rely on one`s own abilities His father wants him to join the family business but he wants to make his own way in the world. make one`s mouth water - want to eat something because of the thought or smell of the food Looking at the menu made my mouth water. make oneself at home - act as if you were at home She is able to make herself at home when she goes to visit her friends. make oneself felt - use one`s authority He was not able to make himself felt when trying to resolve the conflict. make oneself scarce - leave quickly, go away I think that I will make myself scarce and go to the beach for the day. make out - do, progress How did you make out at your job interview yesterday? make out - understand, interpret I can never make out what he wants to say when he phones me. make out - distinguish, identify The ship captain couldn`t make out the other boat because of the fog. make out - make someone believe, show, prove He made out that he was at the library last night but I know that he wasn`t. make over - make something look different, change the style of We decided to make over our living room because we were tired of the old style make room for someone or something - arrange space for He made room for the new computer in the spare room. make sense - seem reasonable His proposal makes absolutely no sense. make short work of something - finish quickly He made short work of the typing and has started working on the other documents. make something out - manage to see or read something I was unable to make out the sign because I didn`t have my glasses. make something up - invent (a story etc.) He made up the story about his lost wallet. make the best of - do as well as possible in a bad situation He has really made the best of his time since beginning his new job. make the grade - make good, succeed, meet a standard, qualify He wasn`t able to make the grade and join the football team. make the most of - use to the greatest advantage He made the most of his time in Europe and visited many art galleries. make the scene - be present, go to a certain place or event He decided to make the scene and go to the disco for the evening. make time - be successful in arriving at a destination in a short time We made very good time yesterday and arrived home before it got dark. make up - make something by putting things or parts together A car is made up of many different parts. make up - invent, think and say something that is new or not true She made up the story about how she got lost in the mountains. make up - do or supply something that is lacking, regain, repay I had to make up the time that I was sick by working on Saturday. make up - put on cosmetics She always wants to make up her face before she goes to the store. make up - become friends again after a quarrel They finally made up after their fight last week. make up for something - compensate for a loss or mistake I have to work hard in order to make up for the loss from the poor sales. make up one`s mind - decide I haven`t made up my mind yet about whether or not I will accept the new job. make waves - create a disturbance He is very calm and quiet at work and doesn`t like to make waves. make way - stand aside, move so someone can go through The truck had to go to the side of the road to make way for the ambulance. man in the street - the average or ordinary person According to what the man in the street is saying the government is not very popular. man-to-man - frank or direct I had a man-to-man talk with him about the problem last night. mark time - move one`s feet up and down to music He was marking time to the music as he was driving his car. mark time - be idle, waiting for something to happen He has been marking time for over a month now as he waits to hear about the new job. matter - be important It doesn`t matter if you can`t come here tomorrow. matter of course - the usual way, habit, rule It was done as a matter of course and nobody really thought about the results. matter of fact - something that is really true, something that can be proved As a matter of fact I saw him last night and he asked me how you were. matter-of-fact - simply telling or showing the truth, seeming not to care much The witness told about the murder in a matter-of-fact way. mean business - be serious, ready to take action He is working very hard and really means business when he says he is going to get the office organized. measure up - be equal, be of high quality The new accounting manager didn`t measure up to the previous one so we had to ask him to leave. meet someone half-way - make a compromise with someone He is very stubborn and is never willing to meet his friends half-way. meet up with - meet by accident, come upon without planning or expecting to He met up with a nice group of people in Australia when he was travelling there. melt in one`s mouth - taste very good, be delicious The pastry that she made melted in my mouth. mend one`s fences - do something to make people like you after a fight, strengthen one`s friendship or influence I made a big effort to mend my fences with my boss so that we could work together effectively. mend one`s ways - improve one`s habits She has been forced to mend her ways in order to get along better at work. mess around - play around, engage in idle activity The children were messing around in the school yard before the class began. mess up - cause trouble, spoil something He messed up his chance to get a promotion by not making much of an effort last year. middle of the road - being halfway between two different ideas, seeing good on both sides of an issue The president was elected because he was a person whose ideas were very middle of the road. mind one`s P`s and Q`s - be very careful about what one does or says You should mind your P`s and Q`s and not say anything to offend your aunt. Mind you. - I want you to notice and understand. I don`t want to work any more overtime. Mind you, if there is an emergency I will be able to work extra in that case. miss out on - lose an opportunity He missed out on the new job because he was late for the interview. miss the boat - lose an opportunity You had better hurry and get your application in or you will miss the boat on entering that new company. might as well - be somewhat preferable We might as well go home now. I don`t think he will come. mix up - confuse, make a mistake about He mixed up the video tapes and played the wrong one in front of the class. mix-up - an error, some confusion There was a mix-up at the airline ticket counter and I was given the wrong ticket. (get or become) mixed up - become confused He gets all mixed up when he tries to speak French. money to burn - have very much money, have more than is needed He has money to burn and never has to worry about working. monkey business - comical or silly actions, goofing off The kids were involved in some kind of monkey business. That was when the window was broken. monkey business - unethical, illegal or objectionable activity, cheating The company was involved in some monkey business with the tax department and have recently had to hire a lawyer to defend themselves. more and more - increasingly, increasing number More and more people are buying computers for their homes. more or less - somewhat, to some extent I like the new color more or less but it`s not great. more the merrier - the more people who join in the fun the better it will be The more the merrier he said as his sister`s friends also decided to come to the beach. morning after (the night before) - a hangover He`s not feeling well. I think it`s the morning after the night before. (not) move a muscle - don`t move even a small amount The doctor told him not to move a muscle when he was fixing his leg. move heaven and earth - try every way, do everything one can I will move heaven and earth to help you get a job with our company. move in on - take over something that belongs to another He was angry because the other salesman was moving in on his sales territory. mum`s the word - say nothing of the secret you know Don`t worry mum`s the word on the party. I won`t tell anybody. musical chairs - the transfer of a number of officers in an organization into different jobs - especially each other`s jobs They seem to be playing a game of musical chairs at the company as many people move from one position to another position. music to one`s ears - something one likes to hear When he told me that I could go to the sales convention in the summer it was music to my ears. my goodness (my God) - used to express surprise or shock etc. "My goodness," she said when she saw the small dog jump over the fence. N.................................. nail down - make certain, make sure I am trying to nail down the exact time that he will be able to meet with us. name is mud - a person`s reputation becomes bad, one is in trouble His name is mud now that he has been charged by the police with stealing money from his company. name of the game - the main part of a matter The name of the game is for the salesmen to sell cars and not to worry about other things. name someone after - give someone another`s name He was named after his mother`s grandfather. narrow escape - an escape with no chance of error He had a narrow escape when he almost fell from his bicycle. neck and neck - equal or nearly equal in a race or contest The two teams were neck and neck in the race to win the national championship. neck of the woods - an area or part of the country He has never been down to my neck of the woods since he was a child. needle in a haystack - something that is very hard to find Looking for the lost receipt among the thousands of other receipts is like looking for a needle in a haystack. neither fish nor fowl - something that does not belong to a definite group I don`t know where we should put those books in the library. They are neither fish nor fowl. neither here nor there - not relevant to the thing being discussed, off the subject What you are saying is neither here nor there. We are talking about our plans to move this year - not 5 years in the future. nervous Nellie - a timid person who lacks determination and courage He is a nervous Nellie and is afraid of most of the other students in the school. nest egg - money someone has saved up He has a nice nest egg in the bank so he will have no financial problems if he leaves his company. never mind - don`t worry, don`t bother If you don`t have time to pick up my laundry, never mind I will get it tomorrow. new blood - fresh energy or power, something or someone that gives new life or vigor to something She a great employee and helped us to inject new blood into our organization. new broom sweeps clean - a new person makes many changes We discovered the truth to the expression "a new broom sweeps clean" when our new boss changed everything in our organization. new deal - a complete change, a fresh start, another chance He was given a new deal by the team although the previous year he was not very good. new person - a person who has become very much better He is a new person now that he has quit smoking and quit drinking. nick of time - at the very last moment He was able to board the airplane just in the nick of time. nip and tuck - evenly matched, hard fought to the finish They were going along nip and tuck but he finally won the race in the end. nip in the bud - prevent at the start They found out about the computer problem but were able to nip the problem in the bud. no bed of roses - difficult or bad situation It is no bed of roses to have no job and a large family to support. nobody's home - one`s attention is somewhere else, having a simple mind It looks like nobody`s home, I thought as I tried to have a conversation with the strange man. nobody`s fool - a smart person, a person who can take care of himself She is nobody`s fool. You will not have to worry about her at all when she goes to New York. no cigar - not agreed to, refused or useless, no, certainly not I almost got the job but in the end it was no cigar. no deal - not agreed to, refused or useless, no, certainly not It was no deal I realized as I left the meeting and the other members had all said no to my plan. No dice. - No. Certainly not. No dice. I will never lend you that much money. no doubt - without doubt, surely, certainly No doubt he will be the one to win the contest again this year. no end - almost without stopping, continually The little girl cried no end when she couldn`t find her favorite doll. no end to (of) - so many or so much of, to seem almost endless, very many or very much He had no end of problems when he lived overseas for a year. no go - not agreed to, refused or useless, no, certainly not It`s no go for our plan to have three games this weekend. We can only have two of them. no great shakes - mediocre, unimportant The hotel was no great shakes and I wouldn`t recommend that you stay there if you go to Hawaii. no love lost - bad feelings, ill will There is no love lost between my father and our next door neighbor. no matter - regardless of No matter how hard that I try my tutor is never satisfied. no picnic - not pleasant, difficult It was no picnic trying to drive to the lake during the storm. nose around (about) - look for something kept private or secret, pry The secretary was nosing around in her boss's desk trying to discover what was going on. nose down - head down, bring down the nose of The pilot began to nose down the plane as it neared the airport. (have one`s) nose in something - unwelcome interest in something, impolite curiosity He always has his nose in other people`s private business where it doesn`t belong. no-show - a person who makes a reservation for something and then neither comes nor cancels it There were several no-shows at the concert last night. no sweat - easily accomplished, uncomplicated The work was no sweat. I finished it in about two hours. no sweat - no problem No sweat. I will help you all day tomorrow if you need me. not a leg to stand on - no good proof or excuse, no good evidence or defence to offer someone The company doesn`t have a leg to stand on if they try to refuse to pay you the money that they owe you. not for the world - not at any price, not for anything I wouldn`t go out on a date with that woman for the world. not give someone the time of day - dislike someone so strongly that you totally ignore them I hate her and would never even give her the time of day. nothing doing - I will not do it, certainly not, no indeed Nothing doing. I am not going to stay and work late again this evening. nothing if not - without doubt, certainly He is nothing if not punctual. He has never been late in his seven years with this company. not much of - rather bad It`s not much of a hotel but I guess it will be okay for one night. Not on your life. - definitely not. "May I borrow your car"? "Not on your life". not so hot - not very good I have been feeling not so hot lately as I had a cold last week. nothing to sneeze at - something you should take seriously His new salary is nothing to sneeze at. not touch something with a ten-foot pole - consider something completely undesirable or uninteresting That class may be alright but because I hate the professor I wouldn`t touch it with a ten-foot pole. no wonder - not surprising No wonder he is so tired after staying up all night. now and then - occasionally He likes to go to that restaurant now and then. number one - oneself, one`s own interests He is always looking out for number one and will never do anything for anyone else. nurse a grudge - keep a feeling of dislike toward some person My old girlfriend is still nursing a grudge toward me even after three years. nuts about - enthusiastic about something He has been nuts about cars ever since he was a little boy. nutty as a fruitcake - very crazy The woman who lives next door to us is as nutty as a fruitcake. |
Idioms(O-P-Q)
O...........................
oddball - a person who doesn`t act like everyone else He is an oddball and nobody at his company likes to work with him. odds and ends - various items We made games for the children from odds and ends from around the house. of age - old enough to be allowed to do something (vote,drink etc.) When he came of age we had a big party for him to celebrate. of age - fully developed, mature Fast transportation came of age when the first jets began to be used regularly. of course - as one would expect Of course you can use my car if you want to. off and on - occasionally He`s been seeing the woman off and on but I don`t think that their relationship is very serious. off balance - not prepared, unable to meet the unexpected I was caught a little off balance when he asked me to deliver the speech instead of him. off base - inaccurate He was really off base on his estimate of next year`s budget. offbeat - nonconventional, different from the usual The movie was very offbeat which is just the kind of movie that I like. off-center - different from the usual pattern, not quite like most others, odd The picture was off-center and didn`t really fit in with the rest of the photos. off-color - in bad taste, not polite, dirty He likes to tell off-color jokes which most people don`t like at all. off duty - not working, having free time The police officer was off duty when he came across the bank robbery. off guard - not alert to the unexpected It caught me off guard when she suddenly asked me to lend her $800. off one`s back - stop from bothering someone I wish he would get off my back and stop always asking me when I am going to look for another job. off one`s chest - talk about a problem to someone so that it doesn`t bother you anymore I finally talked to my friend from work and was able to get some of my problems off my chest. off one`s hands - no longer in one`s care or possession I sold my old computer and finally got it off my hands. off one`s high horse - not acting proud and scornful We got him off his high horse when he was forced to admit that he had made many mistakes related to the new product launch. off one`s rocker - crazy He must be off his rocker if he thinks that he can spend all that money and not have a problem. off the beam - wrong, mistaken What he said about the new office was right off the beam and should be ignored by everyone. off the beaten track - not well known or often used, unusual We went to a small restaurant off the beaten track last night and liked it very much. off the cuff - without preparing ahead of time what one will say, without preparation He made a few remarks off the cuff but he has never really explained in full what he wants to do. off the hook - out of trouble or free from an embarrassing situation I think that I am off the hook now and won`t have to worry about the problem anymore. off the record - privately, unofficially He told the reporters off the record about the problems with the budget estimate. off the top of one`s head - from memory, spontaneously He knew all of the team`s members off the top of his head. off the wagon - begin to drink alcohol again after stopping for awhile He seems to be off the wagon again. I saw him yesterday and I am sure that he had been drinking. (as) old as the hills - very old The old building at the library is as old as the hills. old hat - old-fashioned, not new or different The job has become old hat and I am becoming a little tired of it. on a dime - in a very small space His new car has very powerful brakes and is able to stop on a dime. on again, off again (off again, on again) - not settled, changeable, uncertain The plans for the fireworks display were on again, off again because of the rainy and windy weather. on and off - intermittently, now and then It has been raining on and off since early this morning. on and on - continually, at tedious length The speech continued on and on until we finally left the gathering. on an even keel - in a well-ordered way or condition We finally got the new department running on an even keel although it took a long time. on a shoestring - with very little money He started the new company on a shoestring. on behalf of - representing a person The lawyer went to the meeting on behalf of his client. on board - on a ship, plane or similar form of transportation We had to get on board the airplane before it was able to take off. on call - available to be called out on duty He works as a computer repair man and is always on call which is very tiring. once and for all - permanently I told him once and for all that I would not take the new job. once in a blue moon - rarely I only go to that restaurant once in a blue moon. once in a while - occasionally We like Japanese food so we go to that restaurant once in a while. once or twice - a few times We went to that restaurant once or twice but we quickly became tired of it. once-over - a quick look or examination of someone or something He gave the rental car a once-over before he signed the contract. on cloud nine - very happy She has been on cloud nine ever since she decided to get married last month. on easy street - having enough money to live comfortably He has been on easy street since he sold his house and invested the money. on edge - be nervous or irritable He has really been on edge lately because of his exams. on end - seemingly endless We worked for hours on end last night but we still never finished the job. on faith - without question or proof I took it on faith that he would help me when I had a lot of extra work to do. on guard - careful, wary He has been keeping on guard since the accident last month. on hand - available I`m sorry but I don`t have any aspirin on hand at the moment. on hand - nearby, within reach Please keep your dictionary on hand in case we need to use it. on hand - present The speaker will be on hand after the lecture if you have any questions that you want to ask her. on ice - away for safekeeping or later use, aside The city decided to put the plans for a new stadium on ice until they can raise more money.. on one`s back - making insistent demands of someone, being an annoyance or bother She has been on my back all week trying to get me to finish my monthly report. on one`s chest - worrisome thoughts or feelings that one might need to share with someone else I had a long talk with my friend last night and was able to get most of my problems off my chest. on one`s coat-tails - along with someone else, as a result of someone else doing something The mayor was elected on the coat-tails of his brother who was a famous singer. on one`s feet - recovering from sickness or trouble I was sick for a couple of weeks but now I am on my feet again. on/upon one`s head - on one`s self He brought the anger on his own head and should not try and blame someone else. on one`s high horse - acting as if one is better than others, being very proud and scornful He is always up on his high horse and never bothers to think about how other people feel. on one`s/its last legs - at the end of someone/something`s strength or usefulness I think that his old car is on its last legs. on one`s shoulders - one`s responsibility Please don`t try to put the failure of his marriage on my shoulders. on one`s toes - be alert He always asks the students many questions to keep them on their toes. on pins and needles - excited, nervous Her daughter has been on pins and needles all day waiting for the contest to begin. on purpose - intentionally I think that she spilled the drink on purpose. on shaky ground - unstable, not secure His position at the company has been on shaky ground for quite some time. on the air - broadcasting or being broadcast on radio or TV That television program has been on the air for over three years now. on the ball - intelligent, able to do things well He is really on the ball and can usually get all of his work done quickly. on the bandwagon - the newest popular group or activity, joining something because many others are doing it Everybody in our company is on the bandwagon now to try and eliminate smoking in the workplace on the beam - doing well, just right or correct What he said about the tax problem was right on the beam. . on the blink - not working My stereo has been on the blink for the last few months. on the block - to be sold, for sale Our house has been on the block for over a month now. on the button - exactly on time I arrived for the meeting right on the button. on the dole - receiving welfare The area is very poor and there are many people on the dole. on the dot - right on time He always arrives for his meetings on the dot. on the edge of one`s seat - nervously and excitedly waiting I have been on the edge of my seat all day while waiting for the contest to begin. on the go - busy running around He has been on the go since early morning trying to get ready for the meeting. on the house - provided free by a business - especially a bar or restaurant The room at the hotel was not ready when we arrived so they provided us with free drinks on the house. on the level - honest He was really on the level with me when he told me about my job possibilities. on the loose - free to go, not shut in or stopped by anything The animals at the zoo were on the loose for over three hours when the zookeeper discovered their escape. on the make - trying to get some advantage - money or sexual etc. Be careful of him. He is on the make and will try and cheat you out of your money. on the mend - healing, becoming better He broke his leg last week but it is on the mend now. on the move - moving around from place to place, in motion She is in Europe and has been on the move for several months now. on the nose - just right, exactly What he said about our new boss was right on the nose. on the other hand - looking at the opposite side of a matter He is very intelligent but on the other hand he is very lazy and always gets low marks. on the Q.T. - secretly, without anyone knowing I don`t want anyone to know about my plans so let`s go over them on the Q.T. on the road - travelling (especially as a salesman or performer) Her husband is a salesman and is often on the road. on the rocks - breaking up (relationship), ruined He has been married for seven years but his relationship seems to be on the rocks now. on the same wavelength - thinking similarly about something We have been on the same wavelength for months about the need for change in the company. on the sly - so that people won`t know, secretly We went to the restaurant on the sly so that nobody would know where we were. on the spot - in a difficult or embarrassing situation He was really put on the spot when the reporter asked him about the campaign donations. on the spur of the moment - on a sudden wish or decision, suddenly On the spur of the moment we went and bought some ice cream. on the tip of one`s tongue - not quite able to remember something The name of his latest movie is on the tip of my tongue. on the up and up - honest, trustworthy, sincere I decided not to work for the company because I didn`t think that it was on the up and up. on the wagon - not drinking alcohol He has been on the wagon for over seven months now. on the warpath - very angry, looking for trouble He is really on the warpath today so you should stay out of his way. on the whole - in general On the whole I think it is a good idea but I would still like to study it further. on time - at the scheduled time Our train arrived right on time. on top - in the lead He was on top of his class in the economics department. on top of - in addition to, along with On top of everything else he wants me to work on Sunday as well. on top of - managing very well, in control of We are able to keep on top of our work now that we have someone in to help us. on top of - knowing all about something, up-to-date He reads the newspaper every morning and is always on top of the latest news. one-armed bandit - a slot machine for gambling He spent the weekend with a one-armed bandit and now has no money. one foot in the grave - near death Her grandmother has one foot in the grave and is not expected to live much longer. one for the books - something very unusual or remarkable His latest complaint about noise at work is one for the books and is very stupid. one-track mind - thinking about only one thing He has a one-track mind. All he thinks about is money. one-two - any quick or decisive action that takes the opposition by surprise The salesman gave them the one-two and before they knew it they had agreed to buy the product. one up - having an advantage, being one step ahead His brother was one up on the other students because he had studied very hard. one-upmanship - ability to keep ahead of others, trying to keep an advantage I get tired of his one-upmanship and his desire to always be better than everyone else. open one`s heart - talk about one`s feelings honestly, confide in someone I opened my heart to my friend when I saw her at the restaurant last night. open secret - a secret that so many people know it is no longer a secret It is an open secret that he will be leaving the company next month. other fish to fry - have more important things to do I think he has other fish to fry and will not be content to continue with his current job. out cold - unconscious, in a faint He was out cold when the nurse went into his room to check on him. out in left field - far from the right answer What he said was totally out in left field. He has no idea what we were talking about. out in the cold - alone, not included I was left out in the cold when the rest of the class went to the movie without me. out like a light - fall asleep very quickly I was out like a light when I went to bed last night. out of - have none left The restaurant was out of fish so we had meat instead. out of breath - be tired and breathing quickly. He was out of breath after running from the station. out of circulation - not active, not joining in what others are doing He has a new girlfriend so he will probably be out of circulation for awhile. out-of-date - no longer current or in style Computers become out-of-date very quickly. out of favor with someone - not have a person`s goodwill They have been out of favor with their boss for a few months now. out of kilter - not balanced right, not in a straight line or lined up right The door handle seems to be out of kilter and doesn`t work well at all. out of line - unacceptable, not correct His proposal to go to New York was out of line. We can never accept that. out of one`s element - where one does not belong or fit in He is out of his element teaching the computer course. He doesn`t know anything at all about computers. out of one`s hair - get rid of someone who is a nuisance She finally got her children out her hair and was able to study for her exam. out of one`s shell - out of one`s silence or shyness, into friendly conversation We got her out of her shell and she decided to join in with the rest of the group. out of order - not working The public telephone was out of order. out of order - against the rules, not suitable His question was ruled to be out of order by the judge so he wasn`t able to ask it. out of place - in the wrong place or at the wrong time, improper What he said at the party was totally out of place. He should talk about it at another time. out of sorts - in a bad mood He is a little out of sorts today so maybe you should wait until tomorrow to speak to him. out of step - not in step, not keeping pace with someone The soldiers were out of step when they were marching in the parade. out of step - out of harmony, not keeping up He is out of step with the rest of the group and needs to think about what he should be doing. out of the blue - unexpectedly, from nowhere From right out of the blue he asked her if she wanted to get married. out of the frying pan and into the fire - out of one trouble and into more trouble, from something bad to something worse When he changed jobs he went out of the frying pan and into the fire. His new job is much worse. out of the question - impossible You have no money so going to Hong Kong for your holiday is out of the question. out of the way - remote, no longer an obstacle We went to an out of the way place for our first dinner together. out of the woods - out of danger, in the clear His injury was very serious and I don`t think he is out of the woods yet. out of thin air - out of nothing or from nowhere The deer seemed to jump out of thin air and onto the road. out of this world - wonderful, fantastic The new dessert that she made last weekend was right out of this world. out of tune - not in agreement, not going well together They are out of tune with what the other members of the group think. out on a limb - in a dangerous or risky position He really went out on a limb to offer his brother the job. outside of - other than, except for Outside of the weather our vacation was really quite enjoyable. out to lunch - crazy, mad He is totally out to lunch but is still a very nice person. over a barrel - in a helpless or trapped position I think that we have them over a barrel and should be able to win the contract easily. over and over - repeated many times I told him over and over that I do not want to go to that restaurant again. over one`s dead body - never, under no circumstances Over my dead body will I let him come to the party next week. over one`s head - too difficult for someone to understand The joke went over her head so we had to explain it to her. over one`s head - go to a more important person in charge, go to a higher official We didn`t receive a good answer from the official so we went over his head to talk to his boss. over the hill - past one`s prime, unable to function as one used to He thought that his friend was over the hill and shouldn`t be working so hard. over the long run - in the end, over a long period of time Over the long run he plans to expand his business and then sell it and retire. over with - at the end of, finished with When the game on television is over with we can eat dinner. own up - take the blame, admit one`s guilt The suspected murderer finally owned up to the murder of his wife. P................................... pad the bill - add false expenses He always pads the bill when he goes on a business trip. pain in the neck (ass) - an annoying thing or person, bothersome Dealing with my neighbor is always a pain in the neck. paint oneself into a corner - get oneself into a bad situation that is difficult or impossible to get out of He has painted himself into a corner now that he has begun to fight with his supervisor. paint the town red - go out and party and have a good time We decided to go out and paint the town red after we all passed our exams. palm off - deceive someone by a trick or a lie, sell or give by tricking He palmed off his old television set as one that was new and reliable. pan out - end or finish favorably, work out well I hope that your plans to go back to school pan out well. par for the course - just what was expected, nothing unusual That was par for the course. He always comes late when there is a lot of work to do. part and parcel - a necessary or important part, something necessary to a larger thing The house that he bought was part and parcel of a much larger piece of land. pass away - die His father passed away when he was about 96 years old. pass muster - pass a test or checkup, be good enough I wrote some of the instructions of the computer manual and will send them to my partner to see if they pass muster. pass off - sell or give something by false claims, offer something as genuine The man passed off the diamond watch as a real one and received much more money than it was worth pass off - claim to be someone one is not, pretend to be someone else He passed himself off as a reporter and was able to get into the concert. pass on - give away something that you don`t use anymore She always passes on her old clothes to her younger sister. pass on - die Her grandmother passed on when she was 92 years old. pass out - faint Three teenage girls passed out at the rock concert. pass the buck - shift responsibility to others He always tries to pass the buck if someone tries to criticize his work. pat on the back - praise He gave me a pat on the back after I finished the project. patch up - fix I have been trying to patch up our differences for many months now. pay attention - look at or listen to with full attention He never pays attention to what his supervisor tells him. pay dirt - dirt in which much gold is found, a valuable discovery The company hit pay dirt when they invented the new Internet equipment. pay off - pay in full and be free from a debt, yield good results (the risk paid off) She finally paid off her car so she has lots of extra money to spend. pay-off - results of one`s work, a bribe He expects to get a big pay-off from his education when he finally begins to look for a job. pay through the nose - pay a lot of money for something My uncle always pays through the nose when he buys a new car. pecking order - the way people are ranked in relation to each other The pecking order in his company is very difficult to understand for most of the workers. peeping Tom - someone who looks in people`s windows The police arrested a peeping Tom near our apartment building last week. penny for one`s thoughts - Please tell me what you are thinking about. "A penny for your thoughts," she said as she saw her boyfriend looking out of the window. penny-wise and pound-foolish - wise or careful in small things to the costly neglect of important things He is penny-wise and pound-foolish and is always wasting his money on things that he doesn`t need. people who live in glass houses should not throw stones - do not complain about other people if you are as bad as they are You should not criticize other people so much. Remember, people who live in glass houses should not throw stones. pep talk - a speech to encourage people to try harder and not give up The coach gave his team a pep talk after they lost three games last month. perk up - become energetic or happy after being sad or tired My sister began to perk up after she had a chance to rest for awhile. peter out - die down gradually, grow less strong The large crowd from the football game has begun to peter out and the streets around the stadium are becoming quiet now. pick-me-up - food or a drink one takes when one feels tired or weak I stopped at the restaurant on my way home from work for a quick pick-me-up. pick a quarrel - start a quarrel with someone on purpose I don`t like her because she is always trying to pick a quarrel with others. pick on - do or say bad things to someone He always picked on his sister when they were children. pick out - choose or select I tried to pick out a suitable necktie for my father. pick someone`s brains - extract ideas or information from someone for one`s own use They are always picking his brains to get new ideas for their business. pick up - get, receive I picked up my dry cleaning after I finished work yesterday. pick up - take on passengers, receive The bus picked us up at about six o`clock in the morning. pick up - make neat and tidy He decided to pick up his room before his friend came to visit. pick up - get without trying, accidentally He picked up a lot of French when he lived in France for a year. pick up - catch or receive the sound of a radio etc. We couldn`t pick up the radio station when we were travelling through the mountains. pick up - take to the police station, arrest someone The police picked up the man because they thought he had been drinking. pick up - pick up something that has fallen on the floor etc. Could you please pick up my pen from the floor. pick up - start again after interruption, go on It was getting late so we decided to stop work for the evening and pick up where we left off the next day.. pick up a trail/scent - recognize the trail of a hunted person or animal The tracking dogs were able to pick up the trail of the criminal easily. pick up speed - increase the speed of The car picked up speed as it began to go down the hill. pick up the tab - pay the bill for someone else He picked up the tab for the dinner at the restaurant. piece of cake - easy That job was a piece of cake. It was the easiest thing I ever did. piggyback - sitting or being carried on the back and shoulders The man was carrying his child around the room piggyback style. piggy bank - a small bank (sometimes in the shape of a pig) for saving coins Her daughter put all of her spare money into her piggy bank. pig in a poke - something accepted or bought without looking at it carefully The stereo system he bought was a pig in a poke. He has no idea if it will work well. pile up - accumulate, put things on top of each other He piled up the magazines on top of the small table. pinch pennies - be careful with money, be thrifty He has been pinching pennies for months in order to save money for his vacation. pin down - keep someone from moving, make someone stay in a place or position The wrestler won the match after he pinned his opponent down for almost a minute. pin down - make someone tell the truth or make a commitment I couldn`t pin him down as to exactly when he would pay back the money that he owed me. pink slip - dismissal notice from a job He received his pink slip yesterday and no longer has a job. pipe dream - an unrealistic plan He always has a lot of pipe dreams about what he wants to do in the future. pipe up - speak louder We asked the speaker to pipe up so that we could hear him. pip-squeak - a small, unimportant person He called his friend a pip-squeak which made him very angry. piss off - bother or annoy someone, make someone angry My supervisor pissed me off when he asked me to work late again last night. pitch a tent - put up a tent We pitched the tent in a nice field beside a stream. pitch in - give help or money for something They pitched in and helped him finish the job quickly. play ball with someone - cooperate fairly with someone If you agree to play ball with the new manager things should go well for you. play by ear - play a musical instrument by remembering the tune and not by reading the music Although she can`t read music at all she can play by ear and is a great musician. play cat and mouse with someone - tease or fool someone by pretending to let him go free and then catching him again The boxer was playing cat and mouse with his opponent although he could have won easily. play down - give less emphasis or make something seem less important The politician played down the polls that showed that he was becoming less popular. played out - tired out, worn out, exhausted I was totally played out last night so I went to bed early. play footsie - touch the feet of a member of the opposite sex under the table while flirting The couple in the restaurant were playing footsie under the table during their dinner. play footsie - engage in any kind of collaboration or flirtation especially in a political situation The opposition party was playing footsie with the government in order to have their opinions heard. play (someone) for something - treat someone as something, act toward someone as something He was trying to play me for a fool but I could easily see what he was trying to do. play hooky - stay away from school or work without permission When he was a student he often played hooky and didn`t go to school. play into someone`s hands - do something that gives someone else an advantage If you walk out of the meeting in anger you will only be playing into his hands. play it by ear - decide on something according to the situation Let`s play it by ear and decide what to do after we see the movie. play off - match opposing persons, forces or interests for one`s own gain Nobody likes the supervisor because he is always trying to play off one group of workers against another. play off - settle a score between two teams or contestants by more play We went to the game last night as our team had to play off against the other team. play on/upon (something) - cause an effect on, influence They played on his feelings of loneliness to get him to come and buy them dinner every night. play on words - a humorous use of a word to suggest a different meaning There are many cases of using a play on words in the newspaper headlines. play one`s cards right - take advantage of your opportunities If you play your cards right you will probably get a promotion soon. play second fiddle to someone - be second in importance to someone He has been playing second fiddle to his boss for years and has finally decided to quit. play the field - date many different people, avoid steady dates with the same person After my sister stopped seeing her boyfriend she decided to play the field until she met someone nice. play up - call attention to, emphasize During the job interview he played up his experience as an experienced computer operator. play up to someone - flatter or please someone to try and gain some advantage He is always playing up to his boss so he can leave work early. play with fire - invite danger or trouble You are playing with fire if you get involved with those people. plow into - attack vigorously We plowed into the food as soon as the waiter brought it to our table. plow into - crash into with force The truck plowed into the group of people waiting for the bus. pluck up - make oneself have courage He plucked up his courage and went and asked the woman for a date. point out - explain, call attention to She was very kind when she pointed out the mistakes that I had made. pointed remark - a remark clearly aimed at a particular person or thing He made a pointed remark during the meeting that was clearly designed to get my attention. poke fun at - joke about, laugh at, tease She is always poking fun at the way her husband plays golf. polish off - finish completely, finish doing something quickly We polished off the work early and went to the beach for the day. polish the apple - try to win favor by flattering someone The teacher doesn`t like students who are always trying to polish the apple with her. pony up - pay It is time to pony up and pay for the equipment that he bought. pooped out - worn out, exhausted We spent all day painting the house and were pooped out by the time we got home. pop the question - ask someone to marry you He finally popped the question to her after they had been going out together for two years. pop up - appear suddenly or unexpectedly I hadn`t seen my friend for almost a year but suddenly he popped up for a visit last week. pot calling the kettle black - a person who is criticizing someone else is as guilty as the person he criticizes I was joking to her about why she was afraid to look for another job but she said it was like the pot calling the kettle black as I also never tried to change jobs. pound the pavement - look for a job He has been pounding the pavement for a few months now but still has not found a job. pour it on thick - flatter greatly He has been pouring it on thick but she still doesn`t like him. pour oil on troubled waters - calm down a quarrel, say something to lessen anger and bring peace to a situation They tried to pour oil on troubled waters after they noticed the argument among the students. pour out - tell everything about something She poured out her heart to her mother when she returned home from work. pour out - come out in great number or quantity, stream out After the football game thousands of fans poured out of the stadium. press (push) one`s luck - depend too much on luck, expect to continue to be lucky He is pushing his luck if he thinks that he will continue to make a lot of money on the stock market. pressed for time - have barely enough time He was pressed for time so I didn`t have a chance to speak to him. prey on (upon) - catch for food, kill and eat Cats usually prey on mice and small birds if they can catch them. prey on (upon) - cheat, rob Criminals usually prey on people who are living in poor areas. promise the moon - mentally alert, ready to do something Before the elections the politicians were promising everyone the moon but when they were elected they began to talk differently. psyched up - mentally alert, ready to do something The team was psyched up for the game but they lost anyway. psych out - find out the real motives of (someone) I tried to psych out the salesman to see what he really wanted to sell the car for. pull a fast one - cheat, deceive They pulled a fast one on him when they sold him the used car. pull (something) off - accomplish something remarkable He really is lucky in being able to pull off the new business merger with no problems. pull one`s socks up - make a greater effort You had better begin to pull your socks up or you will not be able to continue working here. pull one`s weight - do one`s fair share of the work If everyone pulls their weight we can quickly finish and go home. pull someone`s leg - trick or fool someone playfully Her grandfather is always pulling her leg when he comes to visit. pull out of a hat - get as if by magic, invent, imagine I didn`t think that he was going to be able to find a dictionary but he suddenly pulled one out of a hat and gave it to me. pull over - drive to the side of the road and stop The police pulled over the man because he had been drinking. pull rank - assert one`s superior position or authority on a person of lower rank in order to get a privilege or favor The navy officer pulled rank on the other officers and was able to stay in the best hotel during the trip. pull strings - secretly use influence and power He was able to pull some strings and get his son a job for the summer. pull the plug - expose someone`s secret activities The company decided to pull the plug on the salesman and tell everyone about his illegal sales methods. pull the plug - quit a job He suddenly decided to pull the plug and is no longer here. pull the rug out from under - spoil someone`s plans, withdraw support He pulled the rug out from under our plans to open a branch office in New York. pull the wool over someone`s eyes - deceive or fool someone Don`t let him pull the wool over your eyes with his excuses. pull through - recover from an illness or misfortune It looked like he was going to die from cancer but in the end he pulled through and is now doing very well. pull up stakes - move to another location They decided to pull up stakes and move to London. push (someone) around - make someone do what you want He is always pushing around his salesmen and saleswomen. push off - start, leave The boat pushed off from the dock and started out to sea. push the panic button - become very frightened or excited at a time of danger or worry At first he thought that his wallet had been stolen but before he pushed the panic button and told everyone he looked around again and found it. put a damper on - discourage, spoil a person`s fun The death of the president put a damper on the anniversary celebrations. put across - explain clearly, make oneself understood He spends a lot of effort trying to put across clearly what he wants to say. put all one`s eggs in one basket - place all one`s efforts, interests or hopes in a single person or thing You should not put all your eggs in one basket and invest all of your money in the stock market. put away - put an animal to death, kill We had to have our dog put away because he tried to bite the small girl next door. put down - stop by force, crush The government easily put down the rebellion by the militants. put down - write a record of something, write down He was asked by his company to put down his request for a transfer in writing. put down - criticize, make someone look bad He is always putting down his girlfriend in front of his friends. put in - plant flowers We decided to put in some roses in our garden last year. put in - stop at a port on a journey by water The ship put in at several ports during the cruise. put in - add to what has already been said Suddenly he put in that he was tired and wanted to go home. put in for something - apply for something I put in for a transfer to another department of our company but it was refused. put in (time) - spend time He has put in a lot of time fixing up his house and now it looks beautiful. put in one`s two cents - give one`s opinion She always wants to put in her two cents when she has a chance. put off - postpone The game was put off because of the rain. put off - discourage, cause a bad feeling He put me off with his complaints about the hotel room that I had reserved for him. put on - dress in and wear clothes Please put on your jacket before you go out. put on - fool or joke with someone, tease, pretend I think that he is putting me on. I don`t believe that he will move to Rome. put on - produce or arrange a play etc. My sister helped to put on the school play. put on one`s thinking cap - think hard and long about something I will put on my thinking cap and try and decide what to do about finding a new job. put on the map - make a place well known The Woodstock rock concert really put the town of Woodstock on the map. put on weight - gain weight He has put on a lot of weight since he stopped going to the gym. put one`s cards on the table - be frank, tell everything I put my cards on the table and told him everything about the plans for next year. put one`s finger on something - locate precisely, remember exactly I was unable to put my finger on the exact date of his arrival. put one`s foot down - object strongly, take firm action He put his foot down and didn`t allow any more money to be spent on company entertainment. put one`s foot in one`s mouth - say something that is the wrong thing to say in a situation He really put his foot in his mouth when he told her about the surprise party. put one`s own house in order - organize one`s own private affairs He should put his own house in order before he tells others what to do. put our heads together - confer, discuss We put our heads together and finally thought of a new name for the football team. put out - make a flame or light stop burning, extinguish The man put out his cigarette on the theater carpet. put out - produce, make The company decided to put out a newsletter to give news to the employees. (be) put out - be inconvenienced or irritated She was a little put out that you didn`t call her when you were in town. put (someone) out - inconvenience, bother, She shouldn`t put herself out so much when people come and visit her. put someone in his or her place - scold someone for rude or bad behavior She was very angry and really put him in his place over the rude remark. put someone in the picture - tell someone what the situation is They have finally decided to put me in the picture about the new work procedures. put (something or someone) out of one`s head (mind) - try not to think about something He has been trying to put his girlfriend out of his mind since they decided to stop seeing each other. put (something) over on someone - fool, trick He was trying to put something over on his boss when he said that he was sick and couldn`t come to work. put (something) past someone (negative) - be surprised by what someone does I wouldn`t put it past him to try and sell the main part of the company and leave the rest. put the bite on someone - ask for money or favors He is always trying to put the bite on his friends to collect money for charity. put the cart before the horse - do things in the wrong order I think that he is putting the cart before the horse by talking about fixing up the house before he even buys it. put the screws to someone - try to force someone to do or say what you want The police were putting the screws to the criminal to try and get some information. put through the wringer - cause a lot of stress He really put his wife through the wringer when he asked her for a divorce. put two and two together - understand or figure something out after learning the facts I finally put two and two together and realized that she was his boyfriend. put up - provide money or something needed The telephone company put up most of the money for the new stadium. put up a good fight - try hard They put up a good fight but were unable to win the tournament. put up a good front - pretend to be happy, fool people about one`s status He always puts up a good front but actually he is very unhappy. put up at a hotel etc. - stay at a hotel or someone`s home We decided to put up at a hotel and continue our trip the next day. put up or shut up - prove something or stop saying it, bet money on what one says or stop saying it The politician was forced to put up or shut up over the plans to build a new convention center. put up to - persuade or get someone to do something His friend put him up to cheating on the examination. put up with - patiently accept, endure He makes a great effort to put up with his wife`s complaints. put words in one`s mouth - say something for someone else Her husband is always putting words in her mouth which makes her a little angry. quite a few - many He has quite a few videos at home. |
Idioms(R-S)
R
rack one`s brains - try hard to think or remember something I have been racking my brains all day trying to remember his name. rain cats and dogs - rain very hard It has been raining cats and dogs all morning. rain check - a free ticket to an event in place of one cancelled because of rain We received two rain checks to the baseball game after it was cancelled because of the rain. rain check - a promise to repeat an invitation at a later date I didn`t have time to go to the restaurant with my friend so I took a rain check instead. raise a fuss - make trouble, make a disturbance The woman at the restaurant raised a fuss when her meal arrived late. raise a hand - do something, do one`s share, help Nobody likes him because he will never raise a hand to help his friends. raise Cain - create a disturbance, cause trouble They began to raise Cain at the dance and were asked to leave. raise eyebrows - cause surprise or disapproval It really raised eyebrows when she appeared at the party unannounced. rake in the money - make a lot of money His new pizza franchise has been raking in the money since it first opened. rake someone over the coals - scold, reprimand His boss raked him over the coals when he heard about the lost sales report. ram (something) down one`s throat - force one to do or agree to something not wanted She always tries to ram her ideas down our throats which makes us very angry. rat out on - desert or betray someone, leave at a critical time His friend ratted out on him when he refused to support him in his fight with the neighborhood bully. rat race - endless hurried existence He likes working for a major corporation although sometimes he finds it too much of a rat race. raw deal - unfair treatment he got a raw deal when he was forced to resign from his company. read between the lines - find a hidden meaning in something I know that he didn`t say it but I can read between the lines so I know what he means. read the riot act - give someone a strong warning or scolding The teacher read the riot act to her students when they began to misbehave in class. real McCoy - the genuine thing That new camera is the real McCoy and will let you do everything that you want. red herring - something that draws attention away from the matter under consideration The issue of the pay cut is a red herring and is not related to the main issues. red letter day - a day that is memorable because of some important event Saturday was a red letter day when we finally won the championship. red tape - excessive formalities in official transactions There was much red tape when we went to city hall to get a business license. regular guy - a friendly person who everyone gets along with The former Prime Minister was a regular guy and was well liked by most people. rest on one`s laurels - be satisfied with the success one has already won He is always willing to work hard and is not the type of person to rest on his laurels. rhyme or reason - a good plan or reason, a reasonable purpose or explanation Without rhyme or reason he suddenly decided to quit his job. ride herd on - watch closely and control The new supervisor plans to ride herd on the people who work for him. ride out - survive safely, endure We were able to easily ride out the storm at the small restaurant. riding high - attracting attention, enjoying great popularity The new government has been riding high in the polls for several months now. right away - immediately I forgot to bring the book today but I will go home and get it right away. right off the bat - immediately, from the beginning I told him right off the bat that we didn`t need a new computer for the office. right on - indicates approval, "that`s right", "yes" He called out "right on" every time that the politician promised a new program to help unemployed people. right out - plainly, in a way that hides nothing He told the new supervisor right out that he did not like him. right under one`s nose - in an obvious, nearby place I found the calculator right under my nose after searching for it for an hour. ring a bell - remind one of something The name doesn`t ring a bell. I`m sure I have never heard of him. ring up - add and record on a cash register I went to the cash register to have them ring up the things that I had bought. ring up - telephone someone You should ring up the police if you see anybody strange around your house. rip off - cheat, rob I was ripped off by the mechanics at that gas station. road hog - a car driver who takes up more than his share of the road My father becomes very angry at the road hogs when he is driving. rob Peter to pay Paul - take from one person or thing to pay another When the government began to take money from education to pay for the medical system it was like robbing Peter to pay Paul. rob the cradle - have dates with or marry a person much younger than oneself Everyone said that my friend was robbing the cradle when he married the young woman at his company. rock the boat - upset the way things are He is a very quiet worker and never likes to rock the boat at work. roll around - return at a regular or usual time, come back Every time that his birthday rolls around he has a big party. roll in - arrive in great numbers or quantity The money has been rolling in since they started the new franchise. rolling stone - a person who does not live or work in one place He is a rolling stone and I never know where to find him. roll out the red carpet - welcome an important guest by putting a red carpet down for him or her to walk on They rolled out the red carpet when the President of France came for a visit. roll out the red carpet - make a big effort to greet and entertain someone Whenever I visit my aunt in New York City she rolls out the red carpet for me. roll up one`s sleeves - prepare to work hard or seriously Everyone in our club rolled up their sleeves to help prepare for the party. rope into - trick, persuade by pressuring someone I didn`t want to help with the dinner but I was roped into doing it by my best friend. rough and ready - rough or crude but effective The boat is rough and ready so let`s take it for a ride. rough and tumble - fighting or arguing in a very rough and reckless way It was a rough and tumble meeting that we attended at the city planning office last night. rough guess - an approximate estimate He made a rough guess as to how many people would come to the party. rough up - attack or hurt physically The three men roughed up the bartender at the hotel and were arrested by the police. round robin (letter) - a letter written by a group of people with each person writing part of the letter We sent a round robin letter to the librarian to ask for better opening hours for the library. round robin (meeting or discussion) - a meeting or discussion in which each person in a group takes part We had a round robin panel discussion on what we could do to help save the environment. round robin (tournament or contest) - game or contest in which each player or team plays every other player or team in turn The round robin tournament was held in order to choose the championship team for the city. round up - bring together, collect We rounded up enough people to play a game of soccer last night. rub elbows/shoulders - be in the same place (with others), meet and mix At the party we were able to rub elbows with many important people. rub off - remove or be removed by rubbing, erase She rubbed off the writing on the whiteboard. rub off - pass to someone nearby, transmit to someone Her bad habit of talking all the time has rubbed off on her husband as well. rub out - destroy completely, kill, eliminate The government troops rubbed out the whole village. rub someone the wrong way - irritate others with something one says or does Her lack of politeness always rubs me the wrong way. rub something in - continue to talk or joke about something someone said or did I know that she made a mistake but you shouldn`t rub it in. rule out - decide against, eliminate They still haven`t ruled out using him on the team for the tournament. rule the roost - be the dominant one in the family She seems rather quiet but she really rules the roost in their family. run a risk - unprotected, open to danger or loss You are running a great risk if you drive with him after he has been drinking. run around - go to different places for entertainment or to do things We ran around all day and now we are very tired. run around in circles - act confused, do a lot but accomplish little I have been running around all day but I can`t seem to get anything done. run away with - take quickly and secretly - especially without permission or by stealing Someone ran away with the dictionary so now we don`t have one. run away with - take hold of Their imagination ran away with them when they went to the circus. They decided that they actually wanted to join the circus. run away with - be much better than others, win easily Our hometown team ran away with the football championship. run down - crash against and knock down My dog was run down by a car last week. run down - say bad things about someone, criticize She is always running down her friends. That is why nobody likes her. run down - get into poor health or condition, look bad She has become run down since she started working at night. run for it - dash for safety, make a speedy escape As soon as it started raining we ran for it and tried to get to the shelter. run in - make a brief visit I ran in to see my sister at her office before I left for the weekend. run (someone) in - take to jail, arrest The police ran the three boys in for questioning about the robbery. run in the family/blood - be a common family characteristic Being a left-handed golfer and baseball hitter runs in our family. run into - add up to, total If you decide to stay in nice hotels during your holiday it will run into a lot of money. run into - mix with, join with During the hot weather the red paint on the roof ran into the white paint. run into - be affected by, get into He ran into trouble when he tried to cross the border with no visa. run into (something) - hit something or crash into something His car ran into the other car on the highway. run into (someone) - meet by chance I ran into him when I was at the supermarket. run into the ground - use something more than is wanted or needed He ran his car into the ground before he had to buy another one. run off - produce with a printing press or copy machine We ran off hundreds of copies of the poster for the festival. run off with (someone) - go away with someone, elope My sister ran off with her boyfriend and got married when she was quite young. run-of-the-mill - ordinary, usual The restaurant was in a run-of-the-mill building but it was superb. run out (of something) - use up, come to an end The car ran out of gas in the middle of the countryside. run out - force to leave, expel The drug dealers were run out of town by the police. run over - be too full and flow over the edge The water in the bathtub ran over the edge and got everything in the room wet. run over - try to go over something quickly, practice briefly We can run over this material tomorrow before the meeting. run over - drive on top of, ride over We ran over a small rabbit on the way to the meeting. run ragged - be tired or exhausted She has been run ragged by her three children. run scared - try everything to avoid defeat as in a political campaign The senator has been running scared in his attempt to win re-election. run short - not have enough, be not enough in quantity We ran short of money during our trip to Europe. run the gauntlet - face a hard test or painful experience He had to run the gauntlet of many interviews before he got the job. run through - spend recklessly, use up wastefully We ran through a lot of money when we were looking for a new apartment. run through - read or practice from beginning to end without stopping I usually try to run through my speech a couple of times before I have to give it. run up - add to the amount of something, increase He ran up a large bill at the department store before he left for home. run up - pull something up on a rope We ran up the flag early this morning before the parade started. run up against (something) - encounter They ran up against many problems when they were building the freeway. run wild - be or go out of control The crowd ran wild after the soccer game. Russian roulette - a game of chance in which one bullet is placed in a revolver, the cartridge is spun, and the player aims the gun at his head and pulls the trigger The men in the movie played Russian roulette until one of them finally died. Russian roulette - a potentially dangerous situation Putting the load of plutonium on the old ship was like playing a game of Russian roulette. S sacred cow - something that is never criticized or laughed at even if it sometimes deserves to be The medical insurance system is a sacred cow of the government and is never criticized by anyone. (on the) safe side - take no chances It may rain so just to be on the safe side I think that I will bring my umbrella. sail into - scold or criticize very hard, attack As soon as I came in the door she sailed into me for being late. salt away - save money She has salted away a few thousand dollars from her new job. save face - save one`s good reputation when something has happened to hurt it Our boss was very embarrassed when he had to tell us that the company had lost a lot of money. However, he was able to save face when he showed that the problems were outside of his control. save one`s breath - remain silent because talking will do no good You may as well save your breath and not talk to her as she never believes you anyway. save one`s neck/skin - save oneself from danger or trouble He left the scene of the fire as soon as possible in order to save his own neck. save the day - bring about victory or success - esp. when defeat is likely He saved the day for his team after he played his best game of the season. say a mouthful - say something of great importance or meaning or length He really said a mouthful yesterday when he made the announcement about his new job. say one`s piece - say openly what one thinks He said his piece at the meeting and then left quietly by the back door. say the word - give a sign, show a wish Just say the word and I will come and pick you up at the airport. scare out of one`s wits - frighten very much Her little girl was scared out of her wits after she saw the horror movie. scare the daylights out of someone - frighten very much Falling off her bicycle scared the daylights out of her. scare up - find or gather something with some effort We were able to scare up a couple of sleeping bags so that we could go camping. scatter around - carelessly put in different places His papers are always scattered around his house so he is never able to find anything. school of hard knocks - ordinary experiences of life He learned all about life in the school of hard knocks. scrape the bottom of the barrel - take whatever is left after the best has been taken They are really scraping the bottom of the barrel if they must give him a job. scrape together - gather money etc. a little at a time We managed to scrape together enough money to go to Disneyland even though business is very bad and we don`t have much money. scrape up - find or gather something with some effort His girlfriend scraped up some money and went to visit him during the summer. scratch one`s back - do something nice for someone in the hope that they will do something for you "You scratch my back and I`ll scratch yours," he said when he offered to help me increase my sales. scratch the surface - make only a beginning to do or accomplish something They have been gathering information about the planned merger but they have only scratched the surface of what is available. screw around - loaf about, hang around without doing anything I spent the morning screwing around and didn`t get anything done. screw up - make a mess of something My travel agent screwed up our travel schedule so we had to stay at the airport overnight. scrounge around - look in many places for an item or items We didn`t have enough wood for the small building so we had to scrounge around the neighborhood to find some. search me - "I don`t know.", "How should I know." "Search me," he said when I asked him what had happened to the front of his car. search one`s soul - study one`s reasons and actions to see if one has been fair and honest I have been searching my soul to see if I was responsible for the accident that destroyed my friend`s car. second-guess someone - guess what someone else intends to do or would have done You should never try to second-guess the firefighters in a dangerous situation. second hand - not new, used by someone else He went to a second-hand bookstore to look for the books. second thought - after thinking about something again On second thought maybe you should bring an extra coat. second wind - regaining your energy after being tired After we got our second wind we continued on our hike up the mountain. security blanket - something one holds on to for reassurance or comfort (like a child and a blanket) He uses his computer as his security blanket so that he doesn`t have to go out and meet new people. see about (something) - check into something I`ll see about getting the book for you by next week. see eye to eye - agree We don`t always see eye to eye on everything but generally we get along. see off - go with someone to their point of departure I went to the airport to see her off. see one`s way clear to do something - feel able to do something When you see your way clear to begin the project could you please come and tell me. see out - go with someone to an outer door I went to the front door to see out our guests to their cars. see out - finish and not quit I decided to stay with my company for awhile in order to see out the restructuring process. see red - become very angry He saw red last night when I told him about the broken dishes. see stars - imagine one is seeing stars as a result of being hit on the head When I was hit by the opposing football player I fell to the ground and began to see stars. see the light - realize your mistake, suddenly see how to proceed with something He finally saw the light and began to do his work the same as everyone else. see the light of day - be born or begun I don`t believe that his plans to build a new house will ever see the light of day. see the world (things) through rose-colored glasses - see only the good things about something, be too optimistic She is a little unrealistic and tends to see the world through rose-colored glasses. see things - imagine sights that are not real, think one sees what is not there He is always daydreaming and imagining that he is seeing things. see through - understand someone`s true character or motivation I could easily see through his attempt to fire her from her job. see to (something) - attend to or do something I will see to the rental car and you can see to the airplane tickets. see to it - take the responsibility to do something, make sure Will you please see to it that the garbage is taken out in the morning. sell like hotcakes - sell quickly, sell rapidly The tickets for the football game were selling like hotcakes when I inquired this morning. sell out - be disloyal, sell a secret, be unfaithful He said that he was a socialist but as soon as he got a good job he sold out to the establishment. sell oneself short - underestimate oneself He is selling himself short when he thinks that he can`t do any other job. send away for something - write a letter asking for something I sent away for some postage stamps but they haven't arrived yet. send someone packing - tell someone to leave, dismiss someone He was sent packing because of his bad attitude to his job. send up - sentence someone to prison He was sent up for seven years for robbing a bank. serve one`s purpose - be useful to someone for a certain need That tool should serve my purpose until I find the correct one. serve someone right - get the punishment or results that one deserves He never studies at all so it serves him right to fail his exam. serve time - spend time in jail He served time when he was young but now he is a model citizen. set about - begin, start We set about preparing the office for the move to a bigger building. set back - cause to put off or get behind schedule, slow up We were set back over a month when the floods destroyed the road to our farm. set (one) back - cost How much did your new suit set you back? set eyes on - to see I don`t know if she is here or not. I haven`t set eyes on her since yesterday. set foot - step, walk I have never set foot in that restaurant and I never will in the future. set forth - explain exactly or clearly He carefully set forth the terms of the rental contract. set forth - start to go somewhere, begin a trip They set forth on their holiday about 7:00 this morning. set in - weather condition begins and will probably continue The rain has set in and it looks like it won`t stop for awhile. set loose - set free, release something that you are holding The wildlife department decided to set loose the bear that it had captured. set off - decorate through contrast, balance by difference He painted the trim of his house red in order to set off the light colors. set off - to cause to explode The fire set off a large explosion on the ship. set one`s heart on - want very much I set my heart on a nice holiday this winter but I won`t be able to go because I have no money. set one`s mind at rest - free oneself from worry I told him the reason we can`t come in order to set his mind at rest. set out - leave on a journey Marco Polo set out for China many years ago. set out - decide and begin to try, attempt He set out to learn Spanish when he was transferred to Mexico. set sail - start sailing, begin a sea voyage The three women set sail for Hawaii on a small sailboat. set store on (by) - like or value, want to keep Our company sets great store on their ability to attract good people. set the pace - decide on a rate of speed to do something that others will follow The manager of our section sets the pace for the employees under him. set the world on fire - do something outstanding or that makes one famous He has not been able to set the world on fire with his writing but he is trying very hard. settle for - be satisfied with less, agree to I settled for less than I originally wanted with my contract but still I am happy with it. set up - establish, provide the money for something The newspaper company provided the money to set up the new travel magazine. set up - make something ready to use by putting the parts together After we set up the gas barbecue we were able to cook dinner. set (someone) up - put someone in a position to be manipulated I don`t believe that I lost that money honestly. I believe that I was set up. setup - arrangement, management, circumstances My uncle has a very nice setup at his office. settle down - live a quiet normal life He settled down and started a family after he finished university. settle a score with someone - retaliate against someone, pay someone back for a past wrong He always appears to be trying to settle the score with him and never treats him fairly. seventh heaven - a state of intense delight She has been in seventh heaven since she got the music award. sewed up - won or arranged as one wishes, decided The candidate for the nomination easily sewed up his victory last week. shack up with - live with someone of the opposite sex without marrying them When his sister was younger she shacked up with her boyfriend for a couple of years. shake a leg - go fast, hurry "You will have to shake a leg if you want to arrive at the movie on time." shake down - get money by threats The gangsters shook down the small shop owners to get some money. shake off (an illness) - get rid of (an illness) She has been unable to shake off her illness and can`t come to the party. shake up - change the command or leadership of something The president decided to shake up top management in order to bring new energy into the organization. (be) shaken up - be bothered or disturbed I was a little shaken up after I heard about the fire at our new apartment building. shape up - begin to act and look right He has finally begun to shape up and is doing his job much better. shell out - pay I shelled out over a thousand dollars for the new stereo. shine up to - try to please, try to make friends with He is always shining up to his boss in the hopes of getting a raise. shoe is on the other foot - opposite is true, places are changed The shoe is on the other foot now that he has also bought a house and has to pay a lot of money every month for his mortgage. shoo-in - someone or something that is expected to win, a sure winner The new president is a shoo-in to win another term in office. shook up - upset, worried He was really shook up after the accident and has not been back to work since. shoot one`s wad - spend all one`s money, say everything that is on one`s mind He shot his wad on a vacation to the Caribbean last winter. shoot straight - act fairly, deal honestly He always shoots straight when he is dealing with the police or the government. shoot the breeze/bull - talk idly I met him at the supermarket so we decided to shoot the breeze for a few minutes. shoot the works - spare no expense or effort They are planning to shoot the works when they plan the victory celebration for the Olympic medal winners. shoot up - grow quickly His son really shot up quickly when he went away for the summer. shoot up - arise suddenly The flames shot up over the top of the building when the wind started blowing. shoot up - shoot at recklessly In many western movies the outlaws come into town and shoot up everybody. shoot up - take drugs by injecting them We were going to a movie when we saw the heroin addict shooting up heroin in the alley. shop around - go to various stores to look for something We shopped around for a month before we bought a new stereo system. shore up - add support to something which is weak It was necessary to shore up the house after the mud slide damaged the foundation. short and sweet - brief and pleasant His visit with his parents was short and sweet. short end (of the stick) - unfair, unequal treatment He always gets the short end of the stick when he is at work. short of - not have enough of something We are short of sugar so could you please buy some when you are at the store. short shrift - rude treatment She received short shrift from her supervisor when she asked for a holiday. shot in the arm - something inspiring or encouraging His job search got a shot in the arm when the company president called him in for an interview. shot in the dark - an attempt without much hope or chance of succeeding The attempt to find the small boy who had fallen into the river was a shot in the dark. shove down one`s throat - force someone to do or agree to something not wanted I don`t like him because he is always trying to shove his ideas down my throat. shove off - start, leave I think that it is time for us to shove off. It is almost midnight. show off - try to attract attention, display He has bought a lot of new clothes that recently he has been trying to show off. show-off - a person who brags a lot He is a show-off and is always trying to impress other people. show one`s cards - disclose one`s plans He hasn`t really shown us his cards yet so I don`t really know what he wants. show one`s (true) colors - show what one is really like or is thinking He has shown his true colors lately with his attempt to punish those who don`t reach the sales target. show someone the door - ask someone to go away When he started yelling in the restaurant he was quickly shown the door. show up - appear, arrive, be present What time did your friend show up for the party? show up - become or make something easy to see At first we couldn`t see what was written on the vase but after a little effort to clean it up the design began to show up. shrug off - not be bothered or hurt by something, disregard She is a little mean but we always just shrug off her comments. shut off - make something like water or electricity stop We always shut off the gas when we leave the house for more than a few minutes. shut off - be apart, be separated from The small town is shut off from the other towns in the valley. shut out - prevent the opposite team from scoring during a game The national soccer team shut out the second place team three games in a row. shut up - stop talking "Please shut up and let someone else speak for a change." shut up - close the doors and windows of a building for a period of time We decided to shut up our cottage for the summer as we would not use it anymore. shut up - confine We have to shut up our dog in the house when the mailman comes. sick and tired - dislike something, be annoyed with something I am sick and tired of his constant complaining. sick of (someone or something) - bored with, dislike I think that she is sick of working overtime every day. side with - favor, support a position in a dispute Her mother always sides with her if they have an argument. sight unseen - before seeing a thing or person He bought the car sight unseen and now he is having trouble with it. sign over - give something legally to someone by signing one`s name He signed over his car to his son on his 21st birthday. sign up - promise to do something by signing one`s name, join He signs up for tennis lessons every summer but his ability never improves. simmer down - become calm, quiet He was very angry after the meeting but he has begun to simmer down a little now. sing (whistle) a different tune - contradict something said before, talk or act in the opposite way Usually he doesn`t care if he disturbs his neighbors at midnight but now that he has to get up early in the morning he is whistling a different tune. sink in - to penetrate, become understood What he said hasn`t really sunk in with the other members of the company. sink one`s teeth into - go to work seriously It`s a difficult problem and is a little difficult to sink your teeth into. sink or swim - fail or succeed by your own efforts He will have to sink or swim when he begins his new job. sit back - be built a distance away from a street The large mansion sits back three or four hundred meters from the street. sit back - relax, rest, take time out We decided to sit back for the day and not do anything. sit idly by - sit and watch or rest while others work He sat idly by all morning while the others worked hard. sit-in - political demonstration where students or workers refuse to leave their classroom or job sites The students held a sit-in demonstration to demand an end to the war. sit in on - attend or participate in a meeting Our boss sat in on the meeting so that he could find out what was happening. sit on - be a member of a jury or board, etc. The former Prime Minister is now sitting on the board of many corporations. sit right (negative) - be unacceptable His idea seemed good at first but it doesn`t seem to sit right with the president. sit tight - wait patiently for something Please sit tight for a few minutes while I go and get a police officer. sitting duck - a non-moving target that is easily hit by a hunter The hunter shot the sitting ducks easily and quickly. sitting duck - an unsuspecting person easily fooled - as if they are waiting to be attacked The woman was a sitting duck when she sat on the bench with her purse beside her. sitting pretty - be in a favorable situation He is sitting pretty with his new job and lots of money. sit up - stay awake instead of going to bed My mother had to sit up all night as my younger sister was very sick. sit well (with) - please or find favor with someone His decision to leave early for the weekend didn`t sit well with the other members of the staff. six feet under - dead He doesn`t plan to move until he is six feet under. (at) sixes and sevens - in confusion or disagreement They have been at sixes and sevens since they opened the new school. six of one and half-a-dozen of the other - two things the same, no difference It was six of one or half-a-dozen of the other as to whether or not we should take the train or the airplane. They both arrived at the same time and cost the same. (the) size of it - the way it is That`s about the size of it he said as he finished telling her about the accident. size up - form an opinion, assess a situation It took him a little time to size up the candidate before deciding to give him a job. skate on thin ice - take a chance, risk danger or disapproval He has been skating on thin ice recently with regard to his job. He is causing many problems and may be fired. skeleton in one`s closet - family secret I heard that he has a lot of skeletons in his closet that he doesn`t want to talk about. skid row - area of a city where many people live who have no money and drink a lot of alcohol The skid row of our city is very depressing with the large number of drunk people around. skin alive - scold angrily, spank or beat She told her son that if he was late for dinner she would skin him alive. skin and bones - very skinny The cat which we found in the empty house was all skin and bones.. skin-deep - only on the surface, not having any deep or honest meaning Although beauty is said to be only skin-deep many people care about it too much. (no) skin off one`s nose - matter of interest, concern or trouble to one It is no skin off my nose whether or not she comes to the party. (by the) skin of one`s teeth - only just, barely We were able to arrive in time for the train by the skin of our teeth. skip bail - run away and not come to trial and therefore give up any money that you may have already paid the court The man didn`t want to go to jail so he skipped bail and went to another city. skip it - forget all about it "Skip it", I said as she forgot to bring me the phone number after I had asked her three times. slap in the face - an insult Not getting a promotion was a real slap in the face for her. slap together - make in a hurry and without care We slapped together a picnic table for the company picnic. sleep a wink - get a moment`s sleep I didn`t sleep a wink last night. sleep on it - think about something, consider, decide later I will have to sleep on it tonight but I will give you an answer tomorrow. slip of the tongue - say the wrong thing at the wrong time His insult to the customer was a major slip of the tongue. slip one`s mind - be forgotten I`m very sorry I didn`t come and meet you last night. Our appointment totally slipped my mind. slip up - make a mistake I slipped up when I said that I would not be able to go to the meeting next week. slow down - go more slowly than usual You should slow down a little when you come to a bridge while driving. slow-down - a form of striking without coming to a complete stop There was a slow-down at the post office last year. smack into - collide, hit The first car ran smack into the car behind it. small fry - someone or something of little importance, young children The police are trying to find some of the major criminals in the drug trade. They are not interested in the small fry. smash hit - a very successful performance, song, play, or movie The series of Star War movies were all smash hits. smell a rat - become suspicious I don`t know what he is doing but something seems strange and I smell a rat. smoke out - force out with smoke The rats were smoked out of their nests by the black smoke. smoke out - find out the facts about something They were able to easily smoke out the real reasons for his decision to leave the company. smooth something over - make better or more pleasant She tried to smooth over the problems between her boss and his sales staff. snail`s pace - a very slow movement forward The cars on the highway moved at a snail`s pace. snake in the grass - an enemy who pretends to be a friend You should be careful of her even if she seems very nice. She is like a snake in the grass. (a) snap - an easy task The exam was a snap and I`m sure that I did very well. snap out of it - return to normal, stop being afraid He finally snapped out of his depression and was able to return to work quickly. snap up - take or accept eagerly The tickets to the concert were snapped up in three hours. (not to be) sneezed at - worth having, not to be despised That new stereo system is not to be sneezed at. (not a) snowball`s chance in hell - no chance at all They don`t have a snowball`s chance in hell of winning the game tomorrow. snow job - insincere or exaggerated talk designed to gain the favors of someone His presentation at the interview was a total snow job. |
snow job
- use technical vocabulary to seem like an expert in a field The salesman gave us a snow job when he started to talk about the specifications of the machine. snow under - have or get so much of something that it can`t be taken care of I have been snowed under with paperwork during the last few weeks. soak up - take into oneself like a sponge takes up water He was able to soak up a lot of knowledge when he went to the summer film seminar. sob story - a story that makes one feel pity or sorrow My sister told me a sob story about how she had lost her job. sock it to someone - give everything one is capable of The president socked it to the audience with his speech at the convention. so far - until now So far no one has entered the speech contest at the television station. so far, so good - until now things have gone well "So far, so good." she replied when he asked her how her new job was going. soft spot for someone/something - a feeling of affection toward a person or thing She has a soft spot for the elderly lady in the store. so help me - I promise, I swear "So help me, if you don`t pay me back my money I will phone your company and ask them for help." so long - goodbye "So long, I will see you next week." somebody up there loves/hates me - an expression meaning that an unseen power in heaven has been favorable/unfavorable to you "Somebody up there loves me," he said as he found the money on the side of the road. something else - so good as to be beyond description The movie was something else. It was the best movie I had seen in years. something else again - a different kind of thing Working all day on Saturday is OK but working all day Sunday is something else again. so much - a large quantity of something There was so much rain in the spring that our garden wouldn`t grow well. song and dance - excuses He gave me a song and dance about being busy but I never really believed him. son of a gun/bitch - a person, used as an exclamation I wish that that son of a bitch would stop using my camera without asking me. sooner or later - eventually Sooner or later you must pay me back the money so you should do it as soon as possible. sore loser - someone who gets angry when they lose He is a sore loser when he doesn`t win a game of tennis. sort of - almost, similar to, not quite Did you finish cleaning the kitchen? Well, sort of, but not really. sound off - tell what one knows or thinks in a loud voice He is always sounding off about why he doesn`t like his job. sound out - try to find out how a person feels about something by asking questions I have been sounding out my wife recently about whether or not she wants to move to a new house. souped-up - changing and adding something to make it more powerful or faster He bought a souped-up car when he was a teenager. spaced out - confused, incoherent, resembling someone who is using drugs He was totally spaced out when the professor asked him a question about the text. speak for - make a request for, ask for He spoke for the comfortable chair as soon as he entered the room. speak of the devil and he appears - a person comes just when one is talking about him "Speak of the devil and he appears," I said just as our colleague who we were talking about walked in the door. speak one`s piece - say openly what one thinks I think that it is time for me to speak my piece and tell them what I want to do about the plans for a new factory. speak out - speak in favor of or in support of something My boss spoke out in favor of a promotion for me. speak up - speak in a loud or clear voice I had to ask the teacher to speak up as I couldn`t hear him at all. spell out - explain something in very simple words, explain very clearly I spelled out our conditions for renting out our house very clearly. spic and span - very clean, very neat The house was spic and span when we returned from our holiday. spill the beans - tell a secret, inform He promised not to spill the beans about his plans to get married. spitting image - exact resemblance He is a spitting image of his father. split hairs - make unnecessary distinctions He makes a lot of good points but he also has a tendency to split hairs and waste a lot of our time. split the difference - settle a money disagreement by dividing the difference We had to pay extra money for the car so we decided to split the difference. split ticket - vote for candidates from more than one political party He always votes for a split ticket when he votes and never votes for only one party. split up - separate They seemed like a nice couple but they suddenly decided to split up last month. splurge on something - spend a lot of money for something He splurged on a beautiful present for his girlfriend. spoon-feed - make something very easy for someone He is a very strict teacher and never likes to spoon-feed his students. spread oneself too thin - try to do too many things at one time She has been spreading herself too thin lately and is not accomplishing very much of anything. spring chicken - a young person (usually negative) She is no spring chicken. She is almost 96 years old. spruce up - clean, redecorate They spruced up the community center for the summer holidays. (on the) spur of the moment - suddenly He decided to go to Hong Kong on the spur of the moment. square away - put right for use or action Have you squared away your plans for your holidays yet? square one - in the beginning We had to go back to square one and start the project over. square peg in a round hole - a person who does not fit into a job or position He is like a square peg in a round hole trying to do the job of an accountant. squawk about - complain about He is always squawking about the bad service in that restaurant. stab someone in the back - betray someone I dislike him because he tried to stab me in the back during the last meeting. stack the cards - arrange things (unfairly) for or against a person They are stacking the cards against him with their constant demands for more and more qualifications for the job. stamping grounds - a place where a person spends much of his time He went back to his old stamping grounds which he remembered as a teenager. stamp out - destroy completely and make disappear The government is making a great effort to stamp out smoking among teenagers. (can`t) stand - can`t tolerate, dislike She can`t stand the other people in her class. stand a chance - have a possibility They stand a good chance of winning the game. stand by - be near, waiting to do something when needed There is a doctor standing by in case there is a medical emergency. stand by - follow or keep (one`s promise), be loyal to or support She always stands by her husband when he has a problem. stand clear of something - keep away from something Please stand clear of the door while we are moving the piano. stand for - be a sign of, make one think of I didn`t know what the letters stood for so I was not able to write the correct name of the company. stand for - speak in favor of something or show that one supports it All of the candidates stand for a platform of law and order. stand for - allow to happen or be done, permit He will not stand for anybody to come to his classes late. stand in awe of - look upon with wonder, feel respectful to He stands in awe of the former coach in the football department. stand in for someone - be a substitute for someone else The other actor stood in for her when she was sick. stand (someone) in good stead - be a great advantage to someone It will stand you in good stead with the company if you do the extra work. stand off - stay at a distance, stay apart He always stands off from the rest of the students in his class. stand off - keep someone or something from coming near or winning There was a stand-off at the bank between the police and the bank robbers. stand on ceremony - be formal You don`t need to stand on ceremony. You can relax. stand one`s ground - maintain and defend one`s position He stood his ground over his decision to fire the employee. stand on one`s own two feet - be independent He learned to stand on his own two feet when he was very young. stand out - be more noticeable in some way than those around one He likes to wear clothes that make him stand out from the crowd. stand over - watch closely, keep checking all the time He stood over his son all day to make sure that he was studying for his final exams. stand pat - be satisfied with things and be against a change We should stand pat for awhile and not do anything to cause any problems with the negotiations. stand to reason - make sense, be logical If he told a lie about that it stands to reason that he will probably lie to you about other things too. stand up - strong enough to use for a long time The new carpet is able to stand up to the use of many people. stand up and be counted - be willing to say what one thinks in public The union members thought it was time that they stood up and were counted before management took away their benefits. stand (someone) up - fail to keep an appointment or date with your boyfriend or girlfriend He stood her up on a date last Saturday and now she won`t talk to him. stand up for - defend against attack, fight for The citizens of the town were ready to stand up for their rights, stand up to someone - be brave in confronting someone He stood up to his boss during the meeting when his boss criticized his work. stars in one`s eyes - an appearance or feeling of very great happiness She had stars in her eyes when she saw the beautiful ring that her boyfriend had bought for her. start in - begin a career He started in as a mailroom clerk but soon he began to have more and more important jobs in the company. start the ball rolling - begin to do something He finally started the ball rolling on their plans to build a new house. start up - begin operating, begin to play He started up a small business when he was 20 years old. stay away from - avoid He has been staying away from salty foods for several months now. stay put - stay in one place, not leave We decided to stay put for our holidays rather than go away. steal one`s thunder - do or say something that another person had planned to say He stole my thunder when he announced that he was leaving the company before me. steal the show - act or do so well in a performance that you get most of the attention The little boy stole the show at the music festival. steer clear of someone - avoid I have been steering clear of that person ever since our argument. step by step - gradually He has made a great effort and step by step he has learned how to use a computer. step down - leave an important position My father stepped down from his job as president of his company recently. step on it - go faster, hurry "Step on it," he yelled as the taxi took him to the airport a little late. step on one`s toes - do something that embarrasses or offends someone else He stepped on a lot of people`s toes at work and now has many enemies. step on the gas - go faster, hurry I decided to step on the gas in order to get to work on time. step up - make something go faster or more actively Recently we had to step up our effort to hire some new computer programmers for our company. step up - rise to a higher or more important position, be promoted He stepped up to the position of manager after the old manager was fired. stew in one`s own juice - suffer from something that one has caused to happen oneself He is stewing in his own juice after he got into trouble for being late. stick around - stay or wait nearby We decided to stick around after the game to talk for awhile. stick-in-the-mud - someone who is old-fashioned, someone who doesn`t want to join in with others He is a stick-in-the-mud and will never join in any of the activities at a party. stick one`s neck out - take risks, support someone He never sticks his neck out for anyone at work and therefore has few friends. stick it out - endure, continue She doesn`t like her new job but plans to stick it out until she saves enough money to go to Europe. stick to (a story/the facts) - remain faithful to something Please stick to the facts when you tell the story to the police. stick to one`s guns - defend an action or opinion despite an unfavorable reaction He is sticking to his guns on his decision to fire the manager of the store. stick up - rob with a gun A man with a gun tried to stick up my mother when I was a child. stick up for - defend, help, support He always sticks up for the younger workers at his company. stick with - continue doing, not quit He has been able to stick with his trumpet lessons since he was a child. stick with - stay with, not leave If you stick with your job for a few years you will be able to save a lot of money. stick (someone) with - leave someone with something unpleasant I was stuck with paying the bill when I went to the restaurant with my friends. sticky fingers - the habit of stealing things that one sees and wants The young boy has sticky fingers and you must watch him all the time. stink - terrible, bad quality Do you like that new policy at your company? No, I think it stinks. stir up - cause some action to occur, rouse The man`s angry words stirred up the crowd and made them very angry. stir up a hornet`s nest - make many people angry, do something that many people don`t like He stirred up a hornet`s nest when he began to talk about the problems with the bonus system at his job. stone-broke - having no money He was stone-broke after he came back from his holiday in Greece. stop by - visit, pass by Why don`t you stop by my house on your way home? stop dead/cold - stop very quickly or with great force He stopped dead when he saw the bear in the middle of the road. stop in one`s tracks - stop very quickly or with great force The elephant was forced to stop in its tracks by the electric fence. stop off - stop at a place for a short time while going somewhere We decided to stop off in New York City on our way to Egypt. stop over - stay at a place overnight or for a short time while on a trip The plane had to stop over in Alaska because one of the passengers had a heart attack. straight from the horse`s mouth - directly from the person involved I went over to my friend`s house so that I could hear about her wedding straight from the horse`s mouth. straight from the shoulder - open and honest way of speaking He always speaks straight from the shoulder. straight out - plainly, in a way that hides nothing He was told straight out by his boss that his work was not satisfactory. straighten up - put in order, clean up He had to straighten up the house before inviting his parents over for dinner. strapped for cash - have no money available I am a little strapped for cash so I won`t be able to go away this summer. straw in the wind - a small sign of what may happen When the company began to try and cut back on expenses it was a straw in the wind as to what would happen in the future. straw that breaks the camel`s back - a small problem which follows other troubles that makes you lose patience and be unable to continue as before Recently she has caused many problems in this company. However, when she lost the key to the front door of the office it was the straw that broke the camel`s back and we decided to fire her. stretch a point - agree to something beyond the limit of what is normally allowed I think it is stretching a point to think you can go and take a two-hour lunch break. strike it rich - become rich or successful suddenly He struck it rich when he got a job at the computer company and was able to buy some stock very cheap. strike out - be put out of action through one`s own errors He struck out in his attempt to gather enough support to build a new cafeteria in the building. strike while the iron is hot - take advantage of an opportunity He decided to strike while the iron was hot and quickly applied for the job. string along - deceive or fool He tried to string me along with his story about his sick mother. string out - make something extend over a great distance or over a long period of time The games of the soccer tournament were strung out over a period of about 3 weeks. strings attached - obligations, restraining conditions He was able to borrow the money for the furniture with no strings attached. stuck on - very much in love with, crazy about My niece has been stuck on the boy next door for several months now. stuck up - acting as if other people are not as good as one is, conceited We don`t like the new woman at work because she is very stuck up and thinks she is much better than the rest of us. stuffed shirt - a person who is too rigid or too formal He is a stuffed shirt and I never feel comfortable to try and talk with him. sucker list - a list of easily-fooled people who are easily persuaded to buy something The salesmen used a sucker list to try and get people to buy his new product. sugar daddy - a rich older man who gives money to a younger woman for her companionship The woman went off on a nice winter holiday with her sugar daddy. sum up - put something into a few words, summarize He summed up his presentation and asked for questions from the audience. sunny-side up - eggs fried on one side only We asked for our eggs to be fried sunny-side up at the restaurant. sure thing - something sure to happen, something about which there is no doubt His promotion to senior manager is a sure thing according to the president. sure thing - of course, certainly "Sure thing, I would be glad to help you with your homework tonight." swallow one`s pride - bring one`s pride under control, become humble I had to swallow my pride and go and ask my supervisor for some extra money. swamped - overwhelmed I am a little swamped with work at the moment so I can`t meet you tonight. swan song - final appearance He was a big hit during his swan song at the party last week. swear by - use as the support or authority that what one is saying is truthful The accused criminal was asked to swear on a bible at the trial. swear by - have complete confidence in , be sure of something He swears by the walk that he takes every morning. swear in - have a person promise to do his duty as a member of an organization or government dept. etc. The new Prime Minister was sworn in last night at the parliament. swear off - decide to give up something that you are in the habit of using My friend swore off alcohol several years ago. sweat bullets/blood - be nervous, be very worried I was sweating bullets during the interview but after it started I was able to calm down. sweat out - wait anxiously, worry while waiting I spent the evening sweating out whether or not I would get the job or not. sweep off one`s feet - overcome with strong feelings We were swept off our feet over the excitement of the ceremony. sweep under the rug - hide or dismiss casually They always sweep their problems under the rug and never want to discuss them. sweetie pie - darling, sweetheart He always calls his wife sweetie pie. Even after they have been married for 30 years. sweet on - in love with, very fond of He was sweet on his next door neighbor when he was a child. sweet talk - praise or flatter someone to get what you want My sister tried to sweet talk our father into giving her the car but he said no. swelled head - a feeling that one is more important than one really is He has a swelled head since he got the new position in his company. swim against the tide/current - do the opposite of what most people want to do He is always swimming against the tide and never wants to do what his friends are doing. switched on - in tune with the latest fads, ideas and fashions His aunt is really switched on and looks much younger than her age. |
[B]IDIOMS,MEANINGS AND ITS USAGE:[/B]
Idiom #1 [B]DON'T GIVE UP THE DAY JOB [/B] Explanation of Idiom #1 YOU ARE NOT VERY GOOD AT THAT. YOU COULD DEFINITELY NOT DO IT PROFESSIONALLY. Example of Idiom #1 "I REALLY LIKE THE WAY YOU SING BUT DON'T GIVE UP YOUR DAY JOB." Idiom #2 [B]A CASH COW[/B] Explanation of Idiom #2 AN EASY WAY TO EARN MONEY REGULARLY. Example of Idiom #2 "INCOME TAX IS A REAL CASH COW FOR THE GOVERNMENT." Idiom #3 [B]CLEAR THE AIR[/B] Explanation of Idiom #3 DISCUSS SOMETHING THAT WAS CAUSING PEOPLE TO FEEL UPSET. Example of Idiom #3 "THERE SEEMS TO HAVE BEEN A MISUNDERSTANDING. I'D LIKE TO EXPLAIN WHAT HAPPENED, JUST TO CLEAR THE AIR." Idiom #4 [B]TURN YOUR BACK ON[/B] Explanation of Idiom #4 GIVE UP ON, OR ABANDON. Example of Idiom #4 "I NEED YOUR HELP BUT YOU JUST TURNED YOUR BACK ON ME. "Idiom #5 [B]NOT CUT OUT FOR [/B] Explanation of Idiom #5 NOT SUITABLE FOR SOMETHING. Example of Idiom #5 "HE TRIED MOUNTAIN CLIMBING BUT HE SIMPLY WAS NOT CUT OUT FOR IT." Idiom #6 [B]A CLASS ACT [/B] Explanation of Idiom #6 SOPHISTICATED, ABOVE AVERAGE. Example of Idiom #6 "HE OFFERED TO HELP, EVEN THOUGH HE DOESN'T KNOW ME. HE'S A REAL CLASS ACT." Idiom #7 [B]CLEAN UP YOUR ACT [/B] Explanation of Idiom #7 IMPROVE YOUR BEHAVIOR. Example of Idiom #7 "IF YOU ARE EVER GOING TO IMPROVE YOUR ENGLISH SKILLS, YOU MUST START GETTING TO CLASS ON TIME AND DOING YOUR HOMEWORK. WHY DON'T YOU CLEAN UP YOUR ACT?" Idiom #8 [B]GET YOUR ACT TOGETHER [/B] Explanation of Idiom # 8 GET MORE ORGANIZED. Example of Idiom #8 "YOU HAVE BEEN LATE FOR WORK EVERY DAY THIS WEEK. IF YOU WANT TO KEEP THIS JOB, YOU MUST GET YOUR ACT TOGETHER." Idiom #9 [B]IN THE AIR [/B] Explanation of Idiom #9 BEING DISCUSSED. GENERALLY OBVIOUS. Example of Idiom #9 "THE DAYS ARE GETTING LONGER AND THE FLOWERS ARE BLOOMING. SPRING IS IN THE AIR." Idiom #10 [B]UP IN ARMS [/B] Explanation of idom #10 ANGRY. Example of Idiom #10 "THE CROWD WAS AGITATED. EVERYONE WAS UP IN ARMS OVER THE GOVERNMENT DECISION." Idiom #11 [B]SCRATCH THE SURFACE [/B] Explanation of Idiom #11 EXAMINE ONLY A PART OF SOMETHING. UNCOVER ONLY A FEW FACTS ABOUT SOMETHING. Example of Idiom #11 "CANCER RESEARCH IS A VERY LONG-TERM PROCESS. SO FAR, WE HAVE JUST BEGUN TO SCRATCH THE SURFACE." Idiom #12 [B]SPILL THE BEANS[/B] Explanation of Idiom #12 TELL A SECRET. Example of Idiom #12 "I WON'T BE THE ONE TO SPILL THE BEANS." Idiom #13 [B]GIVE THE BENEFIT OF THE DOUBT [/B] Explanation of Idiom #13 BELIEVE SOMEONE'S STATEMENT, WITHOUT PROOF. Example of Idiom #13 "THE TEACHER'S EXPLANATION DID NOT SEEM LOGICAL, BUT I GAVE HER THE BENEFIT OF THE DOUBT." Idiom #14 [B]BLACK AND BLUE [/B] Explanation of Idiom #14 BRUISED. Example of Idiom #14 "HE WAS BEATEN UNTIL HE WAS BLACK AND BLUE." Idiom #15 [B]BY THE BOOK [/B] Explanation of Idiom #15 DOING SOMETHING ACCORDING TO THE RULES. Example of Idiom #15 "HE IS A GOOD COP. HE DOES EVERYTHING BY THE BOOK." Idiom #16 [B]IN THE CLEAR [/B] Explanation of Idiom #16 OUT OF TROUBLE. Example of Idiom #16 "HIS INNOCENCE HAS BEEN PROVEN. HE IS IN THE CLEAR." Idiom #17 [B]STEER CLEAR OF [/B] Explanation of Idiom #17 AVOID. Example of Idiom #17 "SHE IS NOT VERY NICE. I THINK WE SHOULD STEER CLEAR OF HER." Idiom #18 [B]ROUND THE CLOCK [/B] Explanation of Idiom #18 ALL DAY. Example of Idiom #18 "HE IS A VERY HARD WORKER. HE USUALLY WORKS ROUND THE CLOCK." Idiom #19 [B]TURN BACK THE CLOCK [/B] Explanation of Idiom #19 GO BACK IN TIME. Example of Idiom #19 "I FEEL OLD. I WISH I COULD TURN BACK THE CLOCK." Idiom #20 [B]LIKE CLOCKWORK [/B] Explanation of Idiom #20 WITH MECHANICAL EFFICIENCY. Example of Idiom #20 "HE IS VERY PREDICTABLE. HE ALWAYS EATS AT THE SAME TIME, LIKE CLOCKWORK." |
Abdul Salam Khan has strived to post impressive Idioms for kind perusal of forum Members.
A Across the board, at a loss B bail a company out, ball park figure/estimate, bang for the buck, banker's hours, bean-counter, big gun/cheese/wheel/wig, bottom fall out/drop out, bottom line, bottom out, boys/men in the backroom, break even, budget squeeze/crunch, buy off, buy out, by a long shot C calculated risk, captain of industry, carry over, carry the day, carry through, close out, close the books, cold call, come on strong, company man, company town, cut back, cut corners, cut off, cut one's losses D deliver the goods, double-check F face value, fair play, figure out, fill the bill, finger in the pie G gain ground, get a break, get off the ground, give someone the green light, go public, go through with H hard sell, heads will roll I in black and white, in charge of, in short supply, in stock, in the black, in the long run, in the market for, in the red, in the works J jack up K keep books, keep track of, kickback M make a go of, mean business, number-cruncher O on hand, (buy) on credit, on the block P pay off, piece/slice of the action R red ink, run short S saddled with debt, sell like hotcakes, sell out, strike while the iron is hot, sweetheart deal T take a nosedive, take on, take over, take public, take stock, throw cold water on, throw money at something, tight spot, turn over W work out, write off across the board MEANING: including everyone or everything EXAMPLE: The computer company decided to give the workers an across-the-board increase in their salary. at a loss MEANING: sell something and lose money EXAMPLE: We were forced to sell the computers at a big loss. bail a company out MEANING: help or rescue a company with financial problems. EXAMPLE: The government decided to bail out the failing bank in order to maintain stability in the economy. ball park figure/estimate MEANING: a rough estimate or figure EXAMPLE: The contractor gave us a ball park figure for the cost of repairing the new building. bang for the buck MEANING: value for the money spent EXAMPLE: We were able to get a big bang for our buck when we advertised on the Internet. banker's hours MEANING: short work hours EXAMPLE: My sister's husband owns his own company and is able to work banker's hours with his large staff. Bean-counter MEANING: an accountant EXAMPLE: We asked the bean-counters to look over the figures in the new budget. big gun/cheese/wheel/wig MEANING: an important person, a leader EXAMPLE: The new director was a big wheel in his previous company but is not so important now. bottom fall out/drop out MEANING: to fall below an earlier lowest price EXAMPLE: When the bottom fell out of the coffee market many companies had to stop doing business. bottom line MEANING: the total, the final figure on a balance sheet EXAMPLE: When they examined the bottom line of the company they decided not to invest in it. bottom out MEANING: reach the lowest or worst point of something EXAMPLE: The value of the stock has begun to bottom out and should soon begin to increase in value. boys/men in the backroom MEANING: a group of men making decisions behind the scenes EXAMPLE: The boys in the backroom told us that we must close down the factory as soon as possible. break even MEANING: have expenses equal to profits EXAMPLE: After only three months the company was able to break even and start making profits. budget squeeze/crunch MEANING: a situation where there is not enough money in the budget EXAMPLE: We have been going through a severe budget squeeze at our company and must begin to stop spending money in a wasteful manner. buy off MEANING: use a gift or money to divert someone from their duty or purpose EXAMPLE: The land developer tried to buy off the politician but he was not successful. buy out MEANING: buy the ownership or a decisive share of something EXAMPLE: The company was bought out by another large company in the textile industry. by a long shot MEANING: by a big difference, by far EXAMPLE: The soap company was able to beat out the bids of the other companies by a long shot. calculated risk MEANING: an action that may fail but has a good chance to succeed EXAMPLE: They took a calculated risk when they introduced the new computer screen onto the market. captain of industry MEANING: a top corporation officer EXAMPLE: The president of our company was a captain of industry and after he retired he was appointed to many government boards. carry over MEANING: save for another time EXAMPLE: We were forced to carry over the sale to the Monday after the national holiday. carry over MEANING: transfer (a figure) from one column or book to another EXAMPLE: Our company is still facing difficult times and we will have to carry over last year's losses to this year. carry the day MEANING: win completely EXAMPLE: The president's new idea carried the day and everyone supported him energetically. carry through MEANING: put into action EXAMPLE: The steel company carried through their plan to restructure all of their operations. close out MEANING: sell the whole of something, sell all the goods EXAMPLE: They decided to close out the store and sell all of the remaining stock very cheap. close the books MEANING: stop taking orders, end a bookkeeping period EXAMPLE: They usually close the books at the end of February every year. cold call MEANING: call a potential customer from a list of persons one has never seen EXAMPLE: When he first started to work at his company he was asked to make cold calls using the telephone book. come on strong MEANING: overwhelm with excessively strong language or personality EXAMPLE: The salesman came on too strong at the meeting and angered the other members of the team. company man MEANING: a person who always works hard and agrees with his employees EXAMPLE: My father was a true company man and was always putting in an extra effort for his company. company town MEANING: a town dominated by one industry or company EXAMPLE: When the coal mine closed down the company town faced severe economic times. cut back MEANING: use fewer or use less EXAMPLE: The company has been cutting back on entertainment expenses for over a year now. cut corners MEANING: economize EXAMPLE: We have been forced to economize on stationary expenses during these severe economic times. cut off MEANING: interrupt or stop EXAMPLE: The speech of the president was cut off when the electricity went off in the building. cut one's losses MEANING: do something to stop losing money or something EXAMPLE: We should sell the old machinery as soon as possible and try and cut our losses. deliver the goods MEANING: succeed in doing well what is expected EXAMPLE: The new owner of the company is not very popular but he is able to deliver the goods. double-check MEANING: check something again to confirm EXAMPLE: We were unable to double-check the costs of the new products before the price list was printed. face value MEANING: the official worth or trust of something EXAMPLE: Although the face value of the postage stamp was very low it sold at the auction for much money. fair play MEANING: justice, equal and right action to someone EXAMPLE: The company is very good to work for as they always use fair play when they are bargaining with their employees. figure out MEANING: find an answer by thinking about something EXAMPLE: Everyone in our company is trying to figure out what our boss is going to do with the new equipment. fill the bill MEANING: be just what is needed EXAMPLE: That new machine should fill the bill as to what we need to finish the job. finger in the pie MEANING: involved in what is happening, receiving money for something EXAMPLE: The new manager has his finger in the pie in all aspects of our company's business. gain ground MEANING: go forward, make progress EXAMPLE: Our company has been gaining ground in our attempt to be the best in the industry. get a break MEANING: get an opportunity or good deal EXAMPLE: We were able to get a break on the price of the paint and saved a lot of money. get off the ground MEANING: make a successful beginning, go ahead EXAMPLE: We were unable to get the new product off the ground and will have to wait until next year. give someone the green light MEANING: give permission to go ahead with a project EXAMPLE: Our boss gave us the green light to begin work on the new sales promotion. go public MEANING: sell shares of a privately owned company to the public EXAMPLE: The stock of the Internet company rose very quickly when they went public. go through with MEANING: finish, do as planned or agreed EXAMPLE: We have decided not to go through with our plans to launch the new product until we have solved all of its problems. hard sell MEANING: sell something by being very aggressive EXAMPLE: The car salesman gave us a hard sell so we decided to go to another dealer. heads will roll MEANING: someone will be punished EXAMPLE: Heads will roll when our boss learns about the money that we have lost recently. in black and white MEANING: in writing EXAMPLE: The company refused to deal with the customer's complaints until they saw them in black and white. in charge of MEANING: in control of, responsible for EXAMPLE: My sister has been in charge of buying supplies at her company for many years. in short supply MEANING: not enough, in less than the amount or number needed EXAMPLE: Experienced computer programmers are in short supply at our company. in stock MEANING: have something ready to sell or use EXAMPLE: They didn't have any computer printer ribbons in stock at the store. in the black MEANING: successful or making money EXAMPLE: The new company has been in the black for over a year now. in the long run MEANING: in the final result EXAMPLE: The company has been losing money recently but in the long run they should do very well. in the market for MEANING: ready to buy something EXAMPLE: We have been in the market for a new computer for a long time but still we haven't bought one. in the red MEANING: losing money, unprofitable EXAMPLE: The company began to go into the red when the price of oil began to rise rapidly. in the works MEANING: in preparation, being planned or worked on EXAMPLE: The camera company has a new automatic camera in the works but nobody knows about it yet. jack up MEANING: make a price higher EXAMPLE: The steel companies decided to jack up the price of steel at the beginning of the year. keep books MEANING: keep records of money gained and spent EXAMPLE: The new assistant to the sales manager has no experience keeping books and has made many mistakes. keep track of MEANING: keep a count or record, stay informed EXAMPLE: They have been making a great effort to keep track of the number of visitors to their store. kickback MEANING: money paid illegally for favourable treatment EXAMPLE: The construction company was taken to court for giving kickbacks to the local politicians. make a go of MEANING: produce good results, succeed EXAMPLE: Although he works very hard in his small business he has been unable to make a go of it and may soon go out of business. mean business MEANING: be serious EXAMPLE: Our boss means business when he tells everyone to try and work harder. number-cruncher MEANING: an accountant, someone who works with numbers EXAMPLE: Our president is a good number-cruncher and understands about the finances of our company. on hand MEANING: in one's possession, ready EXAMPLE: We didn't have any supplies on hand and were unable to finish the job. (buy) on credit MEANING: buy something without paying cash EXAMPLE: My friend had no money so he decided to buy the furniture on credit. on the block MEANING: for sale EXAMPLE: As soon as they purchased the company they began to put some of the equipment on the block. pay off MEANING: make a profit, be successful EXAMPLE: The furniture manufacturer was unable to pay off their loan and had to go out of business. piece/slice of the action MEANING: a share in the activity or the profits of something EXAMPLE: The inventor wanted a large piece of the action of the profits from the new computer that he had invented. red ink MEANING: debt (red ink on a financial statement) EXAMPLE: The automobile company has been drowning in red ink since the US dollar began to rise. run short MEANING: not have enough in quantity EXAMPLE: They ran short of gasoline at the gas station and had to close early. saddled with debt MEANING: burdened with debt EXAMPLE: Our sister company is saddled with a great amount of debt and should be sold as soon as possible. sell like hotcakes MEANING: sell very quickly EXAMPLE: The children's toys were selling like hotcakes at the end of the year. sell out MEANING: sell all of a product EXAMPLE: Every year at least one company sells out all of their products which frustrates many customers. strike while the iron is hot MEANING: take advantage of an opportunity EXAMPLE: We decided to strike while the iron was hot and began to market the product around the time of the Olympics. sweetheart deal MEANING: a deal made between friends so that both may make a big profit EXAMPLE: We were able to make a sweetheart deal with our landlord and got the rent greatly reduced. take a nosedive MEANING: collapse, fail, decrease in value EXAMPLE: The stock market took a nosedive when the earnings of the oil company began to weaken. take on MEANING: to give a job to or hire someone EXAMPLE: The company took on many new workers during the busy holiday season. take over MEANING: take control or possession of something, take charge or responsibility EXAMPLE: The government decided to take over the bank after it declared bankruptcy. take public MEANING: sell shares in a company to the general public EXAMPLE: We decided it was necessary to take our company public in order to raise money to expand our facilities. take stock MEANING: count the items of merchandise or supplies in stock, take inventory EXAMPLE: The department store closes down for 3 days every March in order to take stock. throw cold water on MEANING: discourage, forbid EXAMPLE: The managers threw cold water on the plans to close down the factory for one week in August. throw money at something MEANING: try to solve a problem by spending money on it EXAMPLE: The president of our company is willing to throw a lot of money at the problem in the hope of solving it. tight spot MEANING: a difficult situation EXAMPLE: The computer manufacturing company has been in a tight spot since the shortage of computer chips appeared. turn over MEANING: to buy and then sell something to customers EXAMPLE: The turn-over at that discount store is very rapid. work out MEANING: plan, develop EXAMPLE: I spent the weekend trying to work out the budget estimates for next year. write off MEANING: remove from a business record, cancel a debt EXAMPLE: It was impossible for the bank to collect the money so they were forced to write off the loan. With Best regards |
Idioms(T)
T
tail between one`s legs - feeling ashamed or beaten He was forced to resign from his company with his tail between his legs after he was caught lying about his expense account. take a back seat - accept a poorer or lower position, be second to something or someone I had to take a back seat to my partner when we went on the business trip. take a bath - come to financial ruin She took a bath on the stock market last year and is afraid to invest in stocks now. take a beating - lose money His father really took a beating on the stock market recently. take a crack at - try, attempt Have you decided to take a crack at the entrance exam in June? take a dim view of - be against, disapprove Our company takes a dim view of people who do not wear a suit and tie. take advantage of - use for one`s own benefit We took advantage of the beautiful weather and went to the beach. take after - resemble or act like a parent or relative He is tall and handsome like his father and seems to take after him in other ways as well. take a leak - urinate He stopped at the side of the road to take a leak when he was walking home last night. take a powder - leave quickly, run away I don`t know where he is but I think that he took a powder right after the meeting. take a shine to - have or show a quick liking for someone Her daughter took a shine to her new teacher and is very happy at school now. take a stand on something - declare firmly that one is for or against something The Prime Minister finally took a stand on the tax issue. take a trip - go for a journey We plan to take a trip to Italy in November. take back - admit to making a wrong statement He had to take back what he said about his boss in front of his co-workers. take by storm - capture by a sudden or very bold attack The army took the town by storm and was easily able to capture all of the enemy troops. take by storm - win the favor of, become popular with a group of people The rock band took the town by storm when they came to town. take care of - look after or give attention to someone or something You should take care of your health or you will get sick. take care of - deal with something, do what is necessary to do something Could you please take care of these letters while I make some phone calls. take down - write or record what is said I took down many notes during the lecture last week. take down - take apart, pull to pieces We took down our tent as soon as it began to rain. take down a notch (peg) - make someone less proud or sure of himself He was taken down a notch by his boss because he was beginning to act in an arrogant manner. take effect - become legally right or operative The new laws related to alcohol took effect early last month. take exception to - speak against, find fault with, be angered by He took exception to the fact that everyone was able to go and play golf except for himself. take for - mistake someone for something The man took the young boy for a robber and called the police. take for a ride - play a trick on or fool someone, take unfair advantage of someone I was taken for a ride by the used car salesman. The car that I bought is not very good. take for granted - assume something is a certain way or is correct I took it for granted that you knew him. Otherwise I would have introduced you. take heart - be encouraged, feel brave and want to try something He took heart from his previous failure and decided to try again. take ill/sick - become sick She took ill during her holiday and spent most of the time in her hotel. take in - go and see or visit We decided to go and take in a movie last night. take in - make smaller The tailor took in the waist of my suit pants and they now fit much better. take in - grasp with the mind The course was very difficult but I tried to take in as much as possible. take in (money) - receive, get We were able to take in a lot of money last night at the charity auction. take in - let someone come in, admit The farmer took in the couple for the night after their car broke down. take in stride - accept good or bad luck and go on The boxer took his loss in stride and began to prepare for his next fight. take it - endure trouble or criticism or abuse He is quite sensitive and can never really take it if I make a joke about him. take it - get an idea or impression, understand from what is said or done I take it that you are not going to come to the graduation ceremony next week. take it easy - relax I`ve been working hard all month so I have decided to take it easy for a few days. take it on the chin - be badly beaten or hurt, accept trouble calmly Our team took it on the chin at the baseball tournament last week. take it out on - be unpleasant or unkind to someone because one is angry or upset Although he has much stress from work he is careful not to take it out on his friends or family. take its toll - cause loss or damage His new job and the long hours have begun to take their toll on his health. take kindly to - be pleased by, like He doesn`t take kindly to people telling him how to run his business. take leave of - abandon, go away from or become separated from I think that he has taken leave of his senses. He has been acting very strange lately. take liberties - act toward someone in too close or friendly a manner, use someone as one would a close friend or something of one`s own She is taking liberties with her friend by always borrowing her car. taken aback - unpleasantly surprised, suddenly puzzled or shocked I was taken aback when she said that she didn`t want to work with us any longer. take off (clothes) - remove clothes etc. Please take off your shoes before you enter our house. take off (time) - be absent from work He was sick and had to take off a week from work. take off - depart suddenly or quickly, run away We decided to take off right after the concert ended. take off - leave on a flight The flight took off right on time. take on - begin to handle, commit oneself to Recently he has begun to take on too many things at work and has become very tired. take on - give a job to, hire, employ The factory took on over fifty new employees last month. take on - begin to have the look of He has begun to take on the look of a university professor although he has only been working at the university for a short time. take on - load The ship took on most of its cargo the week before it left the port. take one`s hat off to someone - admire, respect, praise You really have to take your hat off to him. He has built up his company from almost nothing. take one`s own medicine - accept punishment without complaining He likes to criticize everyone but can never take his own medicine when others criticize him. take one`s time - do something without hurrying He took his time in returning the book he had borrowed. take out - escort or go on a date with someone I finally had a chance to take out the new woman from work last week. take over - take control, take command Our company was taken over by a foreign company last month. take part in - participate in Are you planning to take part in the seminar next week? take place - happen, occur The game took place on the coldest day of the year. take sides - support one side on the other You should not take sides in the argument or both sides will hate you. take someone for a ride - cheat, swindle I think that they really took him for a ride when he was visiting last year. take someone to the cleaners - take all of someone`s money or cheat someone He was taken to the cleaners when he decided to buy the series of books from the salesman. take something into account - remember and consider Please take into account that she has only been studying French for a few weeks. take something lying down - suffer without a fight I am very angry and won`t take what he says lying down. take something to heart - consider seriously You shouldn`t really take what he says to heart. He is really very kind. take something with a grain of salt - not take seriously something someone has said You can take everything that he says with a grain of salt. take steps - begin to make plans or arrangements, make preparations The company has begun to take steps to stop people from smoking in the main office building. take stock - count items of merchandise or supplies in stock, take inventory The store will be closed for three days next week while the company is taking stock. take stock in (usually negative) - have faith in, believe She took no stock in the idea that women could not work as firefighters as well as men. take stock of - carefully study a situation or a number of possibilities or opportunities After taking stock of the situation he decided that it would be difficult to continue working for the company. take the bull by the horns - take some kind of action He finally decided to take the bull by the horns and started to plan their anniversary party. take the edge off - lessen, weaken, soften We had a drink of hot chocolate in order to take the edge off the cold weather. take the Fifth - hide behind the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution which guarantees any witness the right not to incriminate himself while testifying at a trial He decided to take the Fifth rather than tell the truth at the trial. take the plunge - do something decisive (often used when you get married) He finally decided to take the plunge and will get married next year. take the rap - receive punishment, be accused and punished The owner of the restaurant was forced to take the rap over allowing underage workers to work at night. take the words out of someone`s mouth - say something someone else was going to say He took the words right out of my mouth when he answered your question. take to - begin the work or job of, learn easily, do well at He took to the job of administrator very easily and was a great success. take to - to like at first meeting, be pleased by or attracted to, accept quickly They took to the new coach immediately and did very well during the beginning of the season. take to task - scold for a fault or error I was taken to task by the supervisor for not arriving at work on time. take to the cleaners - win all someone`s money He went to Las Vegas and was taken to the cleaners by the card dealers. take to the woods - run away and hide He decided to take to the woods rather than wait to talk to his wife. take turns - do something alternately with others We had to take turns using the dictionary as there was only one. take (someone) under one`s wing - protect someone He has taken the new employee under his wing and is teaching him about the company. take up - begin an activity or hobby He has a lot of free time lately and has decided to take up fishing as a hobby. take up - fill a place or time, occupy All of his evenings have been taken up by his hobby of building model airplanes. take up - gather together, collect We decided to take up a collection in order to help repair the old building. take up - begin, start We took up the lesson where we had finished last week. take up - pull and make tight I went back to the department store to see if they could take up my suit pants. take up arms - get ready to fight or make war The citizens were not willing to take up arms to try and change their government. talk back - answer rudely She is very strict and never allows her children to talk back to her. talk big - talk boastfully, brag He is always talking big but nobody believes what he says. talk down to someone - use words or ideas that are too simple I don`t really like her because she is always talking down to the people around her. talk into - get someone to agree to something, persuade someone to do something She finally talked her father into lending her the family car. talk out - discuss until everything is agreed on, settle We stayed up late last night and talked out the problem. talk out of - persuade not to, decide not to I spent about an hour yesterday trying to talk my friend out of quitting his job. talk over - discuss You had better talk over your plans with your parents before you decide what to do. talk shop - talk about things in one`s work Everyone at the restaurant decided that they would not talk shop during the dinner. talk through one`s hat - make exaggerated or inaccurate statements He is always talking through his hat and you never know if you can believe him or not. talk turkey - discuss seriously Now you`re talking turkey so let`s finish and go home. talk up - speak in favor of The manager was talking up the product as we entered the meeting. tan someone`s hide - give a beating to, spank hard The boy`s mother threatened to tan his hide if he did not behave himself. taper off - come to an end little by little, become smaller toward the end The rain began to taper off early in the afternoon. tar and feather - punish severely The teacher said that she would tar and feather anyone who didn`t do their homework. tear down - take down, destroy The city decided to tear down the building because it was unsafe. tear down - say bad things about, criticize The audience tore down his argument after he finished the lecture. tear up - tear something up into small pieces The child tore up the new telephone book. tell apart - distinguish between two things or people It is hard to tell the two sisters apart. tell it like it is - be honest, sincere, tell the truth Although what he said was very difficult for everyone to believe he decided to tell it like it is anyway. tell it to the marines (Sweeney) - I don`t believe you, stop trying to fool me She said that she was going to start her own business but I told her to tell it to the marines as I didn`t believe her. tell (someone) off - speak to angrily He told his neighbor off after their music was too loud last night. tell on someone - reveal the activities or wrongdoings of someone by telling others She told on her brother for eating the cake. tempest in a teapot - great excitement about something not important The problem was really a tempest in a teapot and after a few days everyone had forgotten about it. ten-four - I understand you. "Ten-four", he said when his friend asked him if he understood the plan. tenterhooks - in a state of suspense or strain because of uncertainty They have been on tenterhooks all week while waiting for the decision about the Olympics. that will be the day - that will never happen That will be the day that he is willing to put you in charge of running the restaurant. thick - dumb, unreasonable He is a little bit thick and never understands what I want to say. think better of - consider something again and make a better decision about something I would think better of going to Europe in the winter if I have a chance to go again. think little of - think that something or someone is not important or valuable She is not very happy and seems to think little of the people that she is working with. think nothing of something - not worry about something, forget it When he goes drinking he thinks nothing of spending most of his money at one time. think out - think through to the end I didn`t really have time to think out the problem of where everyone would sleep before the guests arrived. think out loud - say what one is thinking I am sorry. I was thinking out loud about the new system we have started. think over - consider carefully He carefully thought over his plans before talking to his supervisor. think twice about something - think very carefully You should think twice before you go ahead and quit your job. think up - invent, create He has thought up a lot of interesting ideas for his company. (the) third degree - detailed questioning His mother gave him the third degree when he came home late last night. three sheets to the wind - unsteady from too much liquor, drunk I saw him walking down the street last night but he seemed to have three sheets to the wind. through the grapevine - hear from other people I heard it through the grapevine that he was going to move to Paris next summer. through the mill - experience a difficult situation He has really been through the mill after his divorce and loss of job. through thick and thin - through all difficulties and troubles, through good times and bad times Her husband is always ready to help her and supports her through thick and thin. throw a curve - take someone by surprise in an unpleasant way Everything was going well until he threw me a curve and told me that we would have to move to another office building next month. throw a monkey wrench into - cause something that is going smoothly to stop He threw a monkey wrench into our plans to go to the lake for the summer. throw away a chance or opportunity - fail to make use of a chance or opportunity He threw away a chance to get a good education when he began to work when he was very young. throw cold water on - discourage, forbid My boss quickly threw cold water on my plan to go to New York on a field trip. throw down the gauntlet - challenge someone to a fight or something similar The government threw down the gauntlet to the opposition party to either give an alternative or stop criticizing the government`s plans. throw in - give or put in as an addition When we bought the car the dealer threw in some new tires as a bonus. throw in one`s lot with - join, take part in something He decided to throw in his lot with the members of the company who were on strike. throw in the towel - surrender, give up The boxer threw in the towel about half way through the match. throw off - get free from I was able to throw off my cold and quickly recovered. throw off - mislead, confuse, fool The criminals threw off the police and escaped into the subway. throw one`s weight around - use one`s influence in an aggressive way He has been throwing his weight around ever since he got his new promotion. throw out - force to leave, dismiss The umpire threw out the coach for arguing with him. throw the baby out with the bathwater - reject all of something because part of it is faulty When they decided to get rid of all of the computers because one was broken it was like throwing the baby out with the bath water. They only needed one new computer. throw the book at - punish severely for breaking a rule or the law The government threw the book at him after he was convicted of drunk driving. throw together - make in a hurry and without care We didn`t have much time last night so we threw together a quick meal and then went to the football game. (be) thrown together - be grouped with other people by chance We were thrown together with some strange people when the storm forced the plane to delay its flight for a day. throw to the wolves - send into danger without protection The small boy was thrown to the wolves when he was made to join the team of older players. throw up - vomit He threw up two times after he got food poisoning from the seafood. throw up one`s hands - give up trying, admit that one cannot succeed He threw up his hands and decided to let the students go home early. thumb a lift/ride - hitchhike Their car had a flat tire so they thumbed a lift to the nearest gas station. thumb one`s nose - look with disfavor or dislike The star player thumbed his nose at the fans when they began to boo him. tickled pink - very happy He was tickled pink to be awarded a prize for growing the best flowers. tide (someone) over - help someone through a difficult situation I lent him some money to tide him over until he gets paid. tie the knot - get married They decided to tie the knot after seeing each other for over three years. tie down - keep someone from going somewhere or doing something The project tied him down for over three months. tied down - have family or job responsibilities I never see him anymore as he is tied down because of his busy schedule at work. tie in - to connect with something else The merchandise was tied in with the movie and had very good sales. tie up - slow or stop the movement or action of The highway traffic was tied up for over three hours last night. tie up - take all the time of someone I was tied up this morning so I was unable to answer the phone. tie up - limit or prevent the use of All of his money is tied up in real estate investments. tie up - enter into an association or partnership, join Our company decided to tie up with a company from Sweden to make the pollution control equipment. tie up - dock (a ship) The ship docked at the pier three days before it was ready to load. tie up in knots - make someone very nervous or worried He was tied up in knots before the speech at the convention. tighten one`s belt - economize, spend less We will have to tighten our belts for awhile until the economy improves. tight spot - a difficult situation They are in a very tight spot since the head salesman quit. tight squeeze - difficult financial situation The company is in a tight squeeze now that sales are down from last year. time after time - repeatedly I have told her time after time to be careful with her spelling. time of one`s life - a wonderful time She had the time of her life when she went to Rome last summer. time out - time when a game or something is temporarily stopped for some reason During the game we took some time out to rest. tip (someone) off - warn, inform The police were tipped off that there was going to be a robbery at the bank. tip the balance - have important or decisive influence, decide His ability to speak French tipped the balance in his favor to get the job at the embassy. tip the scales - weigh The sumo wrestler tipped the scales at over 200 kilograms. tire out - make very tired My father was tired out after working hard all day. tit for tat - equal treatment in return, a fair exchange The government policy was a tit for tat response to any attacks against its territory. to a fault - so very well that it is almost bad He is honest to a fault and will not say anything unless it is the absolute truth. to and fro - forward and back again and again They went to and fro between the two items trying to decide what to buy. to a T - perfectly, exactly That new suit fits you to a T. to be sure - without a doubt, certainly To be sure it would be better to talk to the president of the company in person. to boot - in addition, also You will not only need a new video. You will need a new television to boot. toe the line - obey the rules and do one`s duties The children were forced to toe the line when the new teacher arrived. to heel - under control The army brought the citizens to heel when they entered the town. tone down - make less harsh or strong, moderate The union leader was forced to tone down his language after the strike began to grow violent. too bad - worthy of sorrow or regret It is too bad that the university decided to close the bookstore last year. too big for one`s breeches/boots - feeling more important than one really is Our new boss is too big for his breeches and needs someone to tell him to change his behavior. too many irons in the fire - too many things you are trying to do He has too many irons in the fire at the moment and has no time for other things. to one`s name - in one`s ownership He is a very good dresser although he doesn`t have a penny to his name. to order - according to directions given in an order in the way something is made or size wanted etc. He had three suits made to order when he visited Hong Kong last year. tooth and nail - fiercely, as hard as possible He decided to fight tooth and nail to get a transfer to another department of the company. top-drawer - of the best or most important kind When he buys a new car he always buys a top-drawer model. to pieces - into broken pieces or fragments, destroyed, not working His car fell to pieces during his recent trip to Alaska. to pieces - very much, greatly He loves his little girl to pieces. top-notch - excellent, the best They had a top-notch cook at the restaurant but he left last month. top off - come or bring to a special or unexpected ending, climax The conference was topped off by a large dinner on the last day. topsy-turvy - upside down, in disarray My apartment was topsy-turvy so I stayed home to clean up. to speak of - important, worth talking about We didn`t do anything to speak of during the summer vacation. toss off - drink rapidly He tossed off a couple of drinks before he went home for the evening. toss off - make or say easily without trying or thinking hard He was able to toss off the answer to the question easily when the teacher asked him. toss out - force to leave, dismiss The boys was tossed out of the restaurant for their bad behavior. to the bone - thoroughly, entirely He became wet to the bone when the sudden storm appeared. to the eye - as it is seen, apparently To the eye it looked like a nice hotel but when we entered it was not very good at all. to the full - very much, fully He always tries to live his life to the full. to the hilt - to the maximum amount, completely He has been up to the hilt in debt since he bought that car. to the letter - exactly, precisely The police officer always follows the law to the letter. to the nth degree - to the greatest degree possible, extremely They made an effort to the nth degree but were unable to successfully complete the project. to the tune of - to the amount or extent of The damage that he did to his car was to the tune of about $2000. to the wall - into a place from which there is no escape The credit agency pushed him to the wall and he finally had to declare bankruptcy. touch and go - uncertain, dangerous situation It was touch and go as to whether she was going to survive after the car accident. touch off - cause to fire or explode by lighting the fuse The fire at the oil refinery touched off an explosion that destroyed many tanks. touch off - start something The arrest of the labor leader touched off a riot among the citizens. touch on (upon) - speak of or write of briefly The news article about the company touched upon their previous legal problems. touch up - paint over (small imperfections) I decided to have the repair shop touch up several places on my car where the paint was bad. touch up - improve with small additions or changes My essay will be done as soon as I touch up some of the weak spots. tough break - unlucky event, misfortune He received a tough break when he became sick immediately before the music contest. tourist trap - place that is overpriced and attracts tourists He thinks that Hawaii is a tourist trap and doesn`t want to go there for his holiday. tower of strength - a person who gives strong and reliable support He has been a real tower of strength to his sister since her husband died. track down - search for I have been trying to track down an old Beatles album for many months. trade something in - exchange something old or used for something new He traded in his old car for a new one. travel light - travel with very little luggage or with little to carry We always travel very light when we go on a holiday. tread on one`s toes - do something that offends someone I don`t want to tread on her toes because she is the most powerful supervisor in this company. treat someone - pay for someone else He treated me to a dinner at the restaurant. trial and error - a way of solving problems by trying different possible solutions until one finds one that works They worked by trial and error until they found a solution to the parking problems at the factory. trial balloon - a hint about a plan with the purpose of finding out what people think about the idea We sent up a trial balloon to see who would support our plan to enlarge the factory. trick of the trade - a smart, quick or skillful way of doing something He knows many of the tricks of the trade in the publishing business. trip the light fantastic - go dancing It`s Friday night so let`s go downtown and trip the light fantastic. trip up - make a mistake The teacher tripped up over the correct pronunciation of the president`s name. trump up - make up, invent in the mind He was arrested on trumped up charges of selling illegal CDs. trump card - something kept back to be used to win success if nothing else works His trump card was his knowledge of the sales figures that nobody else knew.. try on - put on clothes to see how they fit and look You should try on that jacket before you buy it. try one`s hand - make an inexperienced attempt at something I have decided to try my hand at sailing a boat this summer. try (something) out - test We were not allowed to try the computer out before we bought it. try out for - planning to join or take part in a team, competing for a place Their son has decided to try out for the football team this summer. tug-of-war - a game in which two teams pull on opposite ends of a rope and try to pull the other team over a line marked on the ground The children played tug-of-war at the summer camp. tug-of-war - a contest in which two sides try to defeat each other, a struggle The two countries have been in a tug-of-war over the territory for many years. tune in - adjust a radio or television to pick up a certain station We were able to tune in to the basketball game when we were driving to work this morning. tune in - get in touch with something important like one`s own feelings, etc. She is always going to workshops and taking short courses to help her tune in to her feelings. tune up - adjust a musical instrument to the right sound The orchestra tuned up their instruments before the performance. tune up - adjust a car engine so that it will run properly We took our car to the garage to be tuned up before we went on our holiday. turn a deaf ear to - pretend not to hear, refuse to hear The company turned a deaf ear to our demands for more money and holidays. turn down - reduce the loudness, brightness or force of something I went over to my next door neighbor and asked him to turn down his stereo. turn down - refuse to accept, reject The union turned down the company offer of more money but no change in working conditions. turn in - give to someone, hand to someone I turned in the wallet that I had found to the police. turn in - inform on, report The department store turned in the shoplifter to the police. turn in - go to bed We decided to turn in about 9:00 PM last night. turn off - shut off, stop Please turn off the lights before you go out. turn off - leave by turning right or left onto another road or path When we arrived at the small store we decided to turn off on the small road. turn (someone) off - disgust, irritate, repel someone Her constant complaining always turns me off. turn on - open, start, let water or electricity flow Please turn on the radio so we can hear the evening news. turn (someone) on - excite a person, become interested in an idea, person or undertaking She was turned on by the idea of going to Spain for the summer. turn on someone - become suddenly hostile to someone He used to be my friend but he suddenly turned on me last summer. turn one`s back on - refuse to help someone in trouble or need She turned her back on her friend when she asked for help writing the exam paper. turn one`s stomach - make one feel sick Seeing the car accident turned my stomach. turn on one`s heel - turn around suddenly The mailman turned on his heel when when he saw the large dog. turn out - make someone leave or go away The man decided to turn his son out of the house when he refused to get a job. turn out - turn inside out, empty He turned out his pockets when he was looking for his car keys. turn out - result, end, prove to be true At first we thought the weather would be terrible but it actually turned out fine. turn out - make, produce The car company is turning out over 8,000 cars a week now. turn out - come or go out to see or do something Over 50.000 people turned out for the football game. turn out - make a light go out He always turns out the light if he doesn`t need it. turn over - roll over, upset The ferry turned over during the winter storm. turn over - give to someone for use or care I turned over the keys of my apartment to the landlord when I went away for a month. turn over - start an engine or motor It was too cold in the morning so the car engine would not turn over. turn over - sell We were able to turn over most of our stock of air conditioners during the summer. turn over a new leaf - make a fresh start I`m going to turn over a new leaf and begin to practice the piano every day. turn over in one`s grave - be so angry that one would not rest quietly in one`s grave My grandmother would turn over in her grave if she knew that I had lost my job and was not working. turn tail - run away from trouble or danger The young boys turned tail when the farmer began to chase them from the field. turn the clock back - return to an earlier period The politician wanted to turn the clock back to an earlier time but of course everyone knew it was impossible. turn the other cheek - let someone do something to you and not try to get revenge He decided to turn the other cheek when the man tried to start a fight in the restaurant. turn the tables - reverse the situation The opposing team were able to finally turn the tables and won the game. turn the tide - change what looks like defeat into victory At the beginning of the game they were losing badly but they turned the tide and finally won the game. turn the trick - bring about the result one wants, succeed in what one plans to do He wanted to win two prizes at the competition but was unable to turn the trick and only won one. turn thumbs down - disapprove or reject, say no My supervisor turned thumb downs to my plan to work on a more flexible schedule. turn to - go to for help He turned to his wife`s parents for advice about buying a house. turn up - appear suddenly They turned up when the party was almost over. turn up - find, discover My wallet turned up in my suit jacket - just where I left it. turn up one`s nose at - refuse as not being good enough for one He turned up his nose at the offer of a job in another department of the company. twiddle one`s thumbs - not busy, not working He was sitting around twiddling his thumbs all day and didn`t get any work done. twist someone around one`s little finger - have complete control over someone and be able to make them do anything you want She is able to easily twist her supervisor around her little finger and gets whatever she wants at work. twist one`s arm - force someone or threaten someone to make them do something He didn`t have to twist my arm to get me to go to the movie. I wanted to go anyway. two bits - twenty-five cents, a quarter of a dollar He bought several used books for two bits each. two cents - something not important or very small, almost nothing Although his stereo works well I wouldn`t give him two cents for it. two cents worth - something one wants to say, opinion He is always talking and I never have a chance to put in my two cents worth. two-faced - disloyal, untrustworthy I think he is two-faced and can never be trusted. |
Idioms(U, V, W)
[b]U.......................................[/b]
ugly duckling - an ugly or plain child who grows up to be pretty and attractive She was an ugly duckling when she was a child but now she is very beautiful. under a cloud - under suspicion, not trusted The politician has been under a cloud over the possibility of taking bribes. under a cloud - depressed, sad She has been under a cloud of depression since her cat died. under cover - hidden, concealed The police officer went under cover to look for the drug dealers. under fire - being shot at or attacked, under (verbal) attack The owner of the company is under fire for not paying his employees a fair salary. under one`s belt - in one`s experience, memory or possession When he has more experience as a cook under his belt he will begin to look for a job. under one`s belt - in one`s stomach After he has a big breakfast under his belt he is ready for work. under one`s breath - in a whisper, with a low voice He was talking under his breath in the movie theater and someone complained. under one`s nose - in sight of, in an easily seen or noticeable place He found his driver`s license right under his nose where he had left it. under one`s own steam - by one`s own efforts, without help He was able to go home under his own steam even though he was feeling very sick. under one`s thumb - obedient to someone, controlled by someone He is only an assistant salesman but he has his boss under his thumb. under one`s wing - under the care or protection of He took the new employee under his wing to help him in the new job. under the counter - secretly bought or sold The drugs are being sold under the counter although the government has not given its approval. under the hammer - up for sale at an auction The painting went under the hammer and sold for a very high price. under the table - in secret and usually illegal He paid some money under the table in order to get his product exported into the country. under the weather - feel ill (but not seriously ill) He is feeling under the weather so he is going to bed early tonight. under wraps - not allowed to be seen until the right time, in secrecy The new car was still under wraps when the auto show started. unearthly hour - absurdly early or inconvenient We got up at an unearthly hour this morning so we could get ready to go camping. until hell freezes over - forever, for an eternity He said that he would not talk to his girlfriend again until hell freezes over. up against - close to The ladder was standing up against the tree in the yard. up against - confronted with He was up against a lot of problems when he went to university but recently he is doing very well. up and about - recovered from an illness He has been up and about for a couple of days since he left the hospital. up for grabs - available for anyone to try to get, ready to be competed for The new championship of the city is up for grabs. up front - honestly, correctly He was very up front when giving me the information about the new office. up in arms - equipped with guns or weapons and ready to fight, very angry and ready to fight The villagers were up in arms over the proposal to take some of their land away from them. up in the air - not settled, undecided Whether or not I will be able to go to London is still up in the air. up one`s alley - something one is good at or enjoys Computer programming is right up his alley and he is very good at it. up one`s sleeve - kept secretly ready for the right time or for a time when needed He probably has something up his sleeve and will be able to get a job when he needs one. upper crust - richest, most famous or important people in a certain place, the highest class The private club was full of what looked like the upper crust of the city. upper hand - controlling power, advantage The union members have the upper hand in the negotiations with the company. ups and downs - alternate good and bad fortune He is having a few ups and downs but generally he is doing well. upset the applecart - ruin or spoil a plan or idea Try not to upset the applecart as we have spent a lot of time working on this project. up the creek - in trouble She is up the creek now that she has lost her passport. up the river/creek with no paddle - in trouble and unable to do anything about it I think that we are up the river with no paddle now that our car has run out of gasoline. uptight - worried, irritated, excessively eager or anxious My sister has been uptight all week because of her exams. up to - as far as, as deep or as high as, close to, approaching The water in the swimming pool came up to my waist. up to - doing or planning secretly, ready for mischief I don`t know what he was up to last night but it was probably something bad. up to - depending on It is up to his wife whether or not he goes to the movie. up to it/the job - capable of, fit for, equal to If he is up to it we should let him drive the truck to the new office. up to/till/until - until Up until last week he had never been inside of a bowling alley. up to here with - sick of someone`s continual bad or irritating behavior I have had it up to here with his always coming late to work. up to one`s ears in work - have a lot of work to do I`d like to go with you but I`m up to my ears in work at the moment. up to par/scratch/snuff/the mark - meeting normal standards, equal to the usual level or quality His work was not up to par and he was asked to leave and look for another job. up to someone to do something - be responsible to take care of something It is up to her to decide when the meeting will start. (in) up to the chin - very busy with, deeply involved in something, guilty of He has been in up to the chin in the project to build a new convention center. used to - accustomed to He is not used to living in such a big city. use one`s head/bean/noodle/noggin - think carefully about You should use your head a little more and try not to make the same mistake again. use up - use until nothing is left, spend or consume completely They used up all of the paper in the copy machine this morning. [b]V...............................[/b] very well - agreed, all right Very well, if you want to go I will go with you. vicious circle - unbroken sequence of cause and effect with bad results He had fallen into a vicious circle of drinking too much and then losing his job and then drinking even more. vote down - defeat in a vote The proposal to extend the opening hours of bars was voted down in the election. [b]W..........................[/b] wade into - attack, join in The football player waded into the fight to protect his teammates. wait on (someone) hand and foot - serve in every possible way, do everything for someone He always waits on his wife hand and foot. wait table - serve food He spent the summer waiting tables at the resort. wait up for - not go to bed until someone arrives or something happens The woman waited up for her daughter to come home. walk all over someone - take advantage of someone, win a game easily They walked all over the other team at the football tournament. walk away/off with - take and go away with, take away, steal Someone walked away with the computer from the library last night. walking papers - a statement that one is fired from one`s job, dismissal He was given his walking papers from his company last week. walk of life - way of living, manner in which people live People from every walk of life came to the concert in the park. walk on air - feel happy and excited She has been walking on air all morning since she heard that she had passed her exams. walk out - go on strike More than half of the workers at the factory decided to walk out on strike this morning. walk out - leave suddenly Three people walked out of the meeting yesterday. walk (all) over - make someone do whatever one wishes, make selfish use of He tried to walk all over me when I began the job but after I became used to the company he stopped. walk the floor - walk back and forth across the floor, pace He spent the night in the hospital walking the floor while waiting for his wife to have a baby. walk the plank - be forced to resign from a job The vice-president was forced to walk the plank when the new president joined the company. walk the plank - be forced by pirates to walk a long plank from the ship out over the water to your death The pirates seized the small ship and forced the captain to walk the plank. waltz off with - to take, get or win easily My favorite team waltzed off with the championship again last night. warm one`s blood/heart - make one feel warm or excited The sight of the small boy looking after his dog warmed the heart of the people on the street. warm up - become friendly or interested His wife finally warmed up to the idea of going to Italy for a holiday. warm up - get ready for a game or other event by exercising or practising We spent two hours warming up for the game on Saturday. wash one`s hands of - abandon, refuse responsibility for He washed his hands of the problem after they refused to deal with it. washed up - no longer successful or needed The boxer was all washed up and had to retire last year. waste one`s breath - speak pointlessly without the desired results He is very stubborn and you are wasting your breath to try and argue with him. watch it - be careful (usually used as a command) "Watch it! That truck is going very fast and may hit you." watch/mind one`s P`s and Q`s - be well-behaved, be careful The boy was told to watch his P`s and Q`s by his teacher after he caused too many problems at school. water down - make weak, dilute The new policy was a watered down version of the earlier one. water under the bridge - something that happened in the past and can`t be changed It was terrible that your house was robbed but it is water under the bridge now and you must move on. way the wind blows - direction or course something may go, what may happen We will have to see which way the wind blows as far as our plans to go to London or not. wear and tear - damage as a result of ordinary use They put a lot of wear and tear on their car during their long holiday. wear down - make something become less useful or smaller or weaker by wearing or aging Little by little the water wore down the rocks at the edge of the river. wear down - exhaust or tire someone out He was worn down after the meeting that took seven hours. wear off/away - remove or disappear little by little by use, time or weather The name on the front of my passport has worn off from using it too much. wear on - anger or annoy, tire His constant complaining is beginning to wear on my nerves. wear one`s heart on one`s sleeve - show one`s feelings openly He was wearing his heart on his sleeve after the meeting with his boss. wear out - use or wear something until it becomes useless My shoes wore out during my trip to Paris. wear out one`s welcome - visit somewhere too long or come back too often so that one is not welcome anymore My friend has worn out his welcome at our house as he always comes to visit us without calling first. wear the pants in a family - be the boss in a family She is very strong and seems to be the one who wears the pants in her family. wear thin - become thin from use or the passing of time The silver dollar had begun to wear thin after it was in use for many years. wear thin - grow less or less interesting or believable His excuses have begun to wear thin after he keeps using the same ones over and over. weed out - remove what is unwanted, get rid of I spent the morning weeding out the clothes that I didn`t need anymore. weigh on/upon - be a weight or pressure on someone or something, worry or upset someone The pressure of her exams has begun to weigh upon my sister. weigh one`s words - be careful of what one says You should weigh your words carefully before you tell him your decision to quit. well and good - good, satisfactory It is well and good that he will go and talk to his supervisor about the problem. well-heeled - rich He seems rather well-heeled and is always wearing expensive clothes and driving a nice car. well-off - wealthy Her parents are well-off and don`t need to worry about money during their retirement. well-to-do - having or making enough money to live comfortably He comes from a rather well-to-do family. wet behind the ears - inexperienced, immature He is a little wet behind the ears and doesn`t know much about the company yet. wet blanket - person who discourages others from having fun He is a wet blanket so we never invite him to any parties. wet one`s whistle - have a drink, especially alcohol They decided to stop at a bar on the way home from work to wet their whistle. what about - about or concerning something I know that he wants to borrow my tent but what about my sleeping bag. what have you - whatever one likes or wants "I`ll have a blueberry ice cream cone or what have you." (have) what it takes - ability for a job, courage He really has what it takes to be a success at his job. what`s the big idea - what is the purpose, what do you have in mind "What`s the big idea. Why are you using my bicycle?" what`s up/cooking/doing - what is happening, what is planned, what is wrong "What`s up ", he said as he entered the room. what`s what - what each thing is in a group, one thing from another It is hard to tell what`s what at an auction of old furniture. what`s (up) with - what is happening/wrong, how is everything "What`s with the new supervisor? He seems very angry this morning." what with - because, as a result of We wanted to go away for a holiday but what with the move to a new building and the expansion we are too busy to go anywhere. wheel and deal - take part in political or commercial scheming There was a lot of wheeling and dealing going on before they built the new convention center. when hell freezes over - never He said that he would come to an office party when hell freezes over. when the chips are down - at the most important or dangerous time, when the winner and loser of a bet or a game will be decided When the chips are down he will always come and help his friends. while away the time - make time go by pleasantly We spent the afternoon whiling away the time by the river. (a) while back - several weeks or months in the past I saw him a while back but recently I have no idea where he is. whip up - make or do quickly or easily It was very late when we got home last night so we whipped up something to eat very quickly. whip up - make active, stir to action The union leader whipped up the crowd with his speech. whistle a different tune - change one`s attitude, contradict previous ideas He is whistling a different tune now that he has been promoted and has responsibility for the office. whistle in the dark - try to stay brave and forget one`s fear Although he felt very frightened he began to whistle in the dark which helped to calm him down. white elephant - a useless possession They are having a white elephant sale at the school next week. white lie - a harmless lie (eg. told for the sake of politeness) I told her a white lie when I said that I would be too busy to meet her. white sale - selling at reduced prices of towels, linens, etc. We went to the white sale at the department store last Saturday. whole show - everything The new boss always tries to run the whole show. wide of the mark - far from the target or the thing aimed at, incorrect His ideas for the new company were wide of the mark from what everyone expected. wildcat strike - a strike not ordered by a labor union but spontaneously by a group of workers There was a wildcat strike at the factory last night. will not hear of - will not allow or consider My aunt said that she will not hear of us staying at a hotel when we come to see her. wild goose chase - absurd or hopeless search He led them all on a wild goose chase when he told them about the sale at the computer store. will power - strength of mind He has very strong will power and was able to quit smoking easily. wind up - end, finish, settle Let`s wind things up now and then we can all go home. wind up - tighten the spring of a machine to make it work or run Every night before he goes to bed my grandfather winds up his alarm clock. wind up - make very excited, nervous or upset I was really wound up yesterday after work so I couldn`t get to sleep easily. wing it - act without preparation He wasn`t prepared for the examination so he had to wing it. wink at - allow and pretend not to know about something (a law or rule being broken) The librarian always winks at the rule about borrowing a maximum of three books. winning streak - a series of several wins one after the other Our baseball team has been on a winning streak for several weeks now. win out - be victorious or successful after hard work or difficulty We have had a lot of problems with our boss recently but finally we won out and he agreed to listen to our complaints. wipe out - remove, kill or destroy completely The city spends a lot of money trying to wipe out rats near the river. wipe-out - a disaster, a calamity My exams were a total wipe-out. I think that I failed all of them. wisecrack - sarcastic or nasty remark She made a funny wisecrack during the speech which caused the audience to start laughing. wise guy - a person who acts as if he were smarter than other people He always acts like a wise guy when he is in a big group. wise up to - finally understand what is really going on after a period of ignorance He finally wised up to the fact that he was never going to get a promotion in his company. wishy-washy - unable to decide, have no definite opinion He is very wishy-washy and can never make up his mind what he wants to do. with child - pregnant, going to have a baby I think that the new teacher at our school is with child. with flying colors - with great or total success I was able to pass my final exams with flying colors. within an inch of one`s life - until one is almost dead The elderly man was beaten to within an inch of his life. within reason - sensible, reasonable I think that, within reason, you should be able to take as much time off as you want to go to school. with open arms - greet someone warmly or eagerly My aunt and uncle were at the airport to greet us with open arms. with the best of them - as well as anyone He can play soccer with the best of them when he makes the effort. wit`s end - not knowing what to do, at the end of one`s mental resources I have been at my wit`s end all week trying to decide what to wear to the party. wolf in sheep`s clothing - a person who pretends to be good but really is bad He is a wolf in sheep`s clothing and you should be very careful when you have to deal with him. word for word - in exactly the same words I told her word for word exactly what had happened before the accident. word of mouth - passing information orally from one person to another He heard about the new restaurant by word of mouth. worked up - feeling excited, angry, worried He is all worked up about the fact that he wasn`t invited to the party. work in - rub in We spent a long time trying to work the softening cream into the leather. work in - slip in, mix in, put in I was able to work in a part in the play for my best friend. work into - force into little by little He was able to work his foot into his boot but it was still very tight. work off - make something go away - especially by working He was able to work off his hangover and is now feeling much better. work on/upon - have an effect on, try to influence or convince I am working on my boss to let me have some time off this summer. work one`s fingers to the bone - work very hard She has been working her fingers to the bone for years trying to raise her three children. work out - end successfully, be efficient I hope that everything will work out for her when she moves to London next week. work out - solve, find an answer to I was unable to work out the math problem on the final examination. work out - accomplish, arrange, plan Recently we worked out a unique system for filling out our expenses at work. work out - exercise He spends most weekends working out at the health club. work over - beat someone up very roughly in order to intimidate them or get money The gang worked over the storeowner in order to get some money from him. work up - stir up, arouse, excite He really likes to work up a sweat when he does his exercises. world is one`s oyster - everything is possible for one, one can get anything The world is her oyster now that she has received her MBA from Harvard University. worse for wear - not as good as new, worn out I borrowed my friend`s canoe for a month and it is now beginning to look the worse for wear. worth a cent - worth anything, of any value His new car is broken down and not worth a cent. worth one`s salt - worth what one is paid He is definitely worth his salt in our company and is one of our best employees. would just as soon - prefer to do one thing rather than another She would just as soon stay at home as go to the movie. wrap around one`s finger - have complete control over someone and be able to make them do anything you want She has her boss wrapped around her finger and can do anything that she wants. wrapped up in - thinking only of, interested only in He is always wrapped up in playing with his computer. wrap up - put on warm clothes, dress warmly She wrapped herself up in her warm clothes and went out. write off - remove (an amount) from a business record, cancel (a debt) The bank was forced to write off a large amount of its debt. write off - accept (a loss or trouble) and not worry any more about it He was forced to write off his bad experience at his old job. write up - write or describe in writing, give a full account of After our trip to Vietnam I spent a couple of weeks trying to write it up for a magazine. wrong side of the tracks - the poor side of town He married a girl who everyone said was from the wrong side of the tracks because he loved her. [b]Y...................................................[/b] yakety-yak - a lot of talk about little things We spent the whole evening in a yakety-yak session at my friends. year-round - operating all year We usually spend all summer at a year-round resort in California. yellow-bellied - extremely timid, cowardly He is a yellow-bellied person who is not good to have as a friend. yellow streak - cowardice in a person`s character He has a real yellow streak and will not say anything to defend his friends. yes-man - a person who tries to be liked by agreeing with everything said (especially by a boss) He is a yes-man who will do anything that his boss asks him to do. you bet/you bet your boots/you bet your life - most certainly, yes, without any doubt You bet your life I will be attending the conference next year. you don`t say - used to show surprise at what is said "You don`t say", he said when he heard about the accident on the highway. you said it/you can say that again - used to show strong agreement with what another person has said "You can say that again," I answered when the woman mentioned how hot it was out in the sun. you`re telling me - used to show that a thing is so clear that it need not be said "This restaurant is very expensive and the food is not so good." "You`re telling me." You tell`em - used to agree with or encourage someone in what they are saying "You tell`em," I yelled out to the politician who was making the speech. [b] Z..............................[/b] zero hour - the exact time when an attack or other military action will start The air force planes waited until zero hour in order to start out on their bombing mission. zero hour - the time when an important decision or change is supposed to come We waited for zero hour and the time when the new computer system was supposed to begin operating. zero in on - adjust a gun so that it will hit a target, aim at The soldiers zeroed in on the target and began to fire their guns. zero in on - give one`s full attention to We spent the morning zeroing in on the problem of what to do with the excess space in our office. zonk out - fall asleep very quickly As soon as I got home last night I immediately zonked out. |
Some more idioms
[B][CENTER]A--------------P[/CENTER][/B]
[B] 1- A bit much[/B] If something is excessive or annoying, it is a bit much. [B]2- A day late and a dollar short[/B] If something is a day late and a dollar short, it is too little, too late. [B]3- A fool and his money are soon parted [/B]This idiom means that people who aren't careful with their money spend it quickly.'A fool and his money are easily parted' is an alternative form of the idiom. [B]4- A little bird told me[/B] If someone doesn't want to say where they got some information from, they can say that a little bird told them. [B]5- A OK[/B] If things are A OK, they are absolutely fine. [B]6- A poor man's something[/B] Something or someone that can be compared to something or someone else, but is not as good is a poor man's version; a writer who uses lots of puns but isn't very funny would be a poor man's Oscar Wilde. [B]7- A1 [/B]If something is A1, it is the very best or finest. [B]8- Abide by a decision[/B] If you abide by a decision, you accept it and comply with it, even though you might disagree with it. [B]9- About face[/B] If someone changes their mind completely, this is an about face. It can be used when companies, governments, etc, change their position on an issue. [B]10- Above board[/B] If things are done above board, they are carried out in a legal and proper manner. [B]11- Absence makes the heart grow fonder[/B] This idiom means that when people are apart, their love grows stronger. [B]12- Achilles' heel[/B] A person's weak spot is their Achilles' heel. [B]13- Acid test[/B] An acid test is something that proves whether something is good, effective, etc, or not. [B]14- Across the board[/B] If something applies to everybody, it applies across the board. [B]15- Against the grain[/B] If doing something goes against the grain, you're unwilling to do it because it contradicts what you believe in, but you have no real choice. [B]16- Agony aunt [/B]An agony aunt is a newspaper columnist who gives advice to people having problems, especially personal ones. [B]17- Ahead of the pack[/B] If you are ahead of the pack, you have made more progress than your rivals. [B]18- Albatross around your neck[/B] An albatross around, or round, your neck is a problem resulting from something you did that stops you from being successful. [B]19- All along[/B] If you have known or suspected something all along, then you have felt this from the beginning. [B]20- All and sundry[/B] This idiom is a way of emphasising 'all', like saying 'each and every one'. [B]21- All ears[/B] If someone says they're all ears, they are very interested in hearing about something. [B]22- All fingers and thumbs[/B] If you're all fingers and thumbs, you are too excited or clumsy to do something properly that requires manual dexterity.'All thumbs' is an alternative form of the idiom. [B]23- All hat, no cattle[/B] When someone talks big, but cannot back it up, they are all hat, no cattle. [B]24- All hell broke loose[/B] When all hell breaks loose, there is chaos, confusion and trouble. [B]25- All mod cons[/B] If somehing has all mod cons, it has all the best and most desirable features. It is an abbreviation of 'modern convenience' that was used in house adverts. [B]26- All mouth and trousers[/B] Someone who's all mouth and trousers talks or boasts a lot but doesn't deliver. 'All mouth and no trousers' is also used, though this is a corruption of the original. [B]27- All over the place[/B] If something is completely disorganised or confused, it is all over the place. [B]28- All over the shop[/B] If something is completely disorganised or confused, it is all over the shop. [B]29- All road lead to Rome[/B] This means that there can be many different ways of doing something. [B]30- All skin and bone[/B] If a person is very underweight, they are all skin and bone, or bones. [B]31- All talk and no trousers[/B] Someone who is all talk and no trousers, talks about doing big, important things, but doesn't take any action. [B]32- All the tea in China[/B] If someone won't do something for all the tea in China, they won't do it no matter how much money they are offered. [B]33- All-singing, all-dancing[/B] If something's all-singing, all-dancing, it is the latest version with the most up-to-date features. [B]34- Alter ego[/B] An alter ego is a very close and intimate friend. It is a Latin phrase that literally means 'other self'. [B]35- Always a bridesmaid, never a bride[/B] If someone is always a bridesmaid, never a bride, they never manage to fulfill their ambition- they get close, but never manage the recognition, etc, they crave. [B]36- Ambulance chaser[/B] A lawyer who encourages people who have been in accidents or become ill to sue for compensation is an ambulance chaser. [B]37- Amen [/B]Some use 'Amen' or 'Amen to that' as a way of agreeing with something that has just been said. [B]38- An old flame[/B] An old flame is a person that somebody has had an emotional, usually passionate, relationship with, who is still looked on fondly and with affection. [B]39- Ants in your pants [/B]If someone has ants in their pants, they are agitated or excited about something and can't keep still. [B]40- Any port in a storm[/B] This means that in an emergency any solution will do, even one that would normally be unacceptable. [B]41- Apple of your eye[/B] Something or,more often, someone that is very special to you is the 'apple of your' eye. [B]42- Argue the toss[/B] If you argue the toss, you refuse to accept a decision and argue about it. [B]43- Arm and a leg[/B] If something costs an arm and a leg, it is very expensive. [B]44- Armed to the teeth[/B] If people are armed to the teeth, they have lots of weapons. [B]45- As a rule[/B] If you do something as a rule, then you usually do it. [B]46- As cold as ice[/B] This idiom can be used to describe a person who does not show any emotion. [B]47- As cool as a cucumber[/B] If someone is as cool as a cucumber, they don't get worried by anything. [B]48- As mad as a hatter [/B]This simile means that someone is crazy or behaves very strangely. In the past many people who made hats went insane because they had a lot of contact with mercury. [B]49- As neat as a new pin[/B] This idiom means tidy and clean. [B]50- As one man [/B]If people do something as one man, then they do it at exactly the same time or in complete agreement. [B]51- As the actress said to the bishop[/B] This idiom is used to highlight a sexual reference, deliberate or accidental. [B]52- As the crow flies[/B] This idiom is used to describe the shortest possible distance between two places. [B]53- Asleep at the switch[/B] If someone is asleep at the switch, they are not doing their job or taking their responsibilities very carefully'Asleep at the wheel' is an alternative. [B]54- Asleep at the wheel[/B] If someone is asleep at the wheel, they are not doing their job or taking their responsibilities very carefully'Asleep at the switch' is an alternative. [B]55- At a loose end[/B] If you are at a loose end, you have spare time but don't know what to do with it. [B]56- At death's door[/B] If someone looks as if they are at death's door, they look seriously unwell and might actually be dying. [B]57- At loggerheads [/B]If people are at loggerheads, they are arguing and can't agree on anything. [B]58- At loose ends [/B]If you are at a loose end, you have spare time but don't know what to do with it. [B]59- At odds [/B]If you are at odds with someone, you cannot agree with them and argue. [B]60- At sea [/B]If things are at sea, or all at sea, they are disorganized and chaotic. [B]61- At the coalface[/B] If you work at the coalface, you deal with the real problems and issues, rather than sitting in a office discussing things in a detached way. [B]62- At the drop of a hat[/B] If you would do something at the drop of a hat, you'd do it immediately. [B]63- At the end of your rope[/B] If you are at the end of your rope, you are at the limit of your patience or endurance. [B]64- At the end of your tether [/B]If you are at the end of your tether, you are at the limit of your patience or endurance. [B]65- At your wit's end [/B]If you're at your wit's end, you really don't know what you should do about something, no matter how hard you think about it. [B]66- Avowed intent[/B] If someone makes a solemn or serious promise publicly to attempt to reach a certain goal, this is their avowed intent. [B]67- Awe inspiring[/B] Something or someone that is awe inspiring amazes people in a slightly frightening but positive way. [B]68- AWOL[/B] AWOL stands for "Absent Without Leave", or "Absent Without Official Leave". Orignially a military term, it is used when someone has gone missing without telling anyone or asking for permission. [B]69- Axe to grind[/B] If you have an axe to grind with someone or about something, you have a grievance, a resentment and you want to get revenge or sort it out. [B]70- Babe in arms[/B] A babe in arms is a very young child, or a person who is very young to be holding a position. [B]71- Babe in the woods[/B] A babe in the woods is a naive, defenceless, young person. [B]72 Baby boomer[/B] A baby boomer is someone born during 1945-1965, a period when the population was growing fast. [B]73- Back burner [/B]If an issue is on the back burner, it is being given low priority. [B]74- Back foot[/B] If you are on your back foot, you are at a disadvantage and forced to be defensive of your position. [B]75- Back the wrong horse[/B] If you back the wrong horse, you give your support to the losing side in something. [B]76- Back to square one[/B] If you are back to square one, you have to start from the beginning again. [B]77- Back to the drawing board [/B]If you have to go back to the drawing board, you have to go back to the beginning and start something again. [B]78- Backseat driver[/B]A backseat driver is an annoying person who is fond of giving advice to the person performing a task or doing something, especially when the advice is either wrong or unwelcome. [B]79- Bad blood [/B]If people feel hate because of things that happened in the past, there is bad blood between them. [B]80- Bad egg [/B]A person who cannot be trusted is a bad egg.Good egg is the opposite. [B]81- Bad taste in your mouth[/B] If something leaves you with a bad taste in your mouth, you feel there is something wrong or bad about it. [B]82- Bad workers always blame their tools[/B] "A bad worker always blames their tools" If somebody does a job badly or loses in a game and claims that they were let down by their equipment, you can use this to imply that this was not the case. [B]83- Baker's dozen[/B] A Baker's dozen is 13 rather than 12. [B]84- Bald as a coot[/B] A person who is completely bald is as bald as a coot. [B]85- Ball is in your court[/B] If the ball is in your court, it is up to you to make the next decision or step. [B]86- Ballpark figure[/B] A ballpark figure is a rough or approximate number (guesstimate) to give a general idea of something, like a rough estimate for a cost, etc. [B]87- Banana republic[/B] Banana republic is a term used for small countries that are dependent on a single crop or resource and governed badly by a corrupt elite. [B]88- Bandit territory[/B] An area or an industry, profession, etc, where rules and laws are ignored or flouted is bandit territory. [B]89- Baptism of fire [/B]A baptism of fire was a soldier's first experience of shooting. Any unpleasant experience undergone, usually where it is also a learning experience, is a baptism of fire. [B]90- Bar fly[/B] A bar fly is a person who spends a lot of time drinking in different bars and pubs. [B]91- Barefaced liar [/B]A barefaced liar is one who displays no shame about lying even if they are exposed. [B]92- Bark is worse than their bite [/B]Someone who's bark is worse than their bite may well get angry and shout, but doesn't take action. [B]93- Barking up the wrong tree [/B]If you are barking up the wrong tree, it means that you have completely misunderstood something or are totally wrong. [B]94- Barrel of laughs[/B] If someone's a barrel of laughs, they are always joking and you find them funny. [B]95- Basket case [/B]If something is a basket case, it is so bad that it cannot be helped. [B]96- Bat an eyelid [/B]If someone doesn't bat an eyelid, they don't react or show any emotion when surprised, shocked, etc. [B]97- Be that as it may[/B] Be that as it may is an expression which means that, while you are prepared to accept that there is some truth in what the other person has just said, it's not going to change your opinions in any significant manner. [B]98- Be up the spout[/B] If a woman is up the spout, she is pregnant. [B]99- Bean counter [/B]A bean counter is an accountant. [B]100- Bear fruit [/B]If something bears fruit, it produces positive results. [B]101- Beard the lion in his own den [/B]If you confront a powerful or dangerous rival on their territory, you are bearding the lion in his own den. [B]102- Beat about the bush[/B] If someone doesn't say clearly what they mean and try to make it hard to understand, they are beating about (around) the bush. [B]103- Beat someone to the draw [/B]If you beat someone to the draw, you do someone before they do. [B]104- Beating a dead horse [/B]If someone is trying to convince people to do or feel something without any hope of succeeding, they're beating a dead horse.This is used when someone is trying to raise interest in an issue that no-one supports anymore; beating a dead horse will not make it do any more work. [B]105- Beauty is in the eye of the beholder[/B] Beauty is in the eye of the beholder means that different people will find different things beautiful and that the differences of opinion don't matter greatly. [B]106- Beauty is only skin deep [/B]This idiom means that appearances can be deceptive and something that seems or looks good may turn out to be bad. 107[B]Beck and call[/B] Someone who does everything for you, no matter when you ask, is at your beck and call. 108[B]Bedroom eyes[/B] Someone with bedroom eyes has a sexy look in their eyes. 109[B]Bee in your bonnet [/B]If someone is very excited about something, they have a bee in their bonnet. 110[B]Bee's Knee[/B]s If something is the bee's knees, it's outstanding or the best in its class. 111[B]Beeline for[/B] If you make a beeline for a place, you head there directly. 112[B]Behind closed doors [/B]If something happens away from the public eye, it happens behind closed doors. 113[B]Behind someone's back[/B] If you do something behind someone's back, you do it without telling them. 114[B]Behind the times [/B]Someone that is behind the times is old-fashioned and has ideas that are regarded as out-dated. 115[B]Believe in the hereafter [/B]A belief in the hereafter is a belief in the afterlife, or life after death. It is, therefore, associated with religions and the soul's journey to heaven or to hell, whichever way being just deserts for the person based on how they led their life. 116[B]Bells and whistles[/B] Bells and whistles are attractive features that things like computer programs have, though often a bit unnecessary. 117[B]Belly up[/B] If things go belly up, they go badly wrong. 118[B]Below par[/B] If something isn't up to standard, or someone isn't feeling or doing very well, they are below par. 119[B]Below the belt [/B]If someone says something that is cruel or unfair, it is below the belt, like the illegal punches in boxing. 120[B]Best thing since sliced bread[/B] If something is the best thing since sliced bread, it is excellent. ('The greatest thing since sliced bread' is also used.) 121[B]Bet your bottom dollar[/B] If you can bet your bottom dollar on something, you can be absolutely sure about it. 122[B]Better late than never[/B] This idiom suggests that doing something late is better than not doing it at all. 123[B]Better safe than sorry[/B] This idiom is used to recommend being cautious rather than taking a risk. 124[B]Better the devil you know[/B] This is the shortened form of the full idion, 'better the devil you know than the devil you don't', and means that it is often better to deal with someone or something you are familiar with and know, even if th2ey are not ideal, than take a risk with an unkown person or thing. 125[B]Between a rock and a hard place [/B]If you are caught between a rock and a hard place, you are in a position where you have to choose between unpleasant alternatives, and your choice might cause you problems; you will not be able to satisfy everyone. 126[B] Between the devil and the deep blue sea[/B] If you are caught between the devil and the deep blue sea, you are in a dilemma; a difficult choice. 127[B]Between the lines[/B] If you read between the lines, you find the real massage in what you're reading or hearing, a meaning that is not available from a literal interprtation of the words. 128[B]Beyond a shadow of a doubt[/B] If something's beyond a shadow of a doubt, then absolutely no doubts remain about it. 129[B]Beyond belief [/B]If people behave in such a way that you find it almost impossible to accept that they actually did it, then you can say that their behaviour was beyond belief. 130[B]Beyond our ken[/B] If something's beyond your ken, it is beyond your understanding. 131[B]Beyond the pale[/B] If something's beyond the pale, it is too extreme to be acceptable morally or socially. 132[B]Big Apple[/B] The Big Apple is New York. 133[B]Big bucks[/B] If someone is making big bucks, they are making a lot of money. 134[B]Big cheese[/B] The big cheese is the boss. 135[B]Big fish[/B] An important person in a company or an organisation is a big fish. 136[B]Big fish in a small pond [/B]A big fish in a small pond is an important person in a small place or organisation. 137[B]Big hitter [/B]A big hitter is someone who commands a lot of respect and is very important in their field. 138[B]Big picture[/B] The big picture of something is the overall perspective or objective, not the fine detail. 139[B]Big time[/B] This can be used to with the meaning 'very much'- if you like something big time, you like it a lot. 140[B]Bigger fish to fry[/B] If you aren't interested in something because it isn't important to you and there are more important things for you to do, you have bigger fish to fry. 141[B]Bird in the hand is worth two in the bush[/B] 'A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush' is a proverb meaning that it is better to have something that is certain than take a risk to get more, where you might lose everything. 142[B]Bird's eye view [/B]If you have a bird's eye view of something, you can see it perfectly clearly. 143[B]Bird-brain[/B] Someone who has a bird-brain, or is bird-brained, is stupid. 144[B]Birds and the bees[/B] If a child is taught about the birds and the bees, they are taught about sex. 145[B]Birds of a feather flock together [/B]This idiom means that people with similar interests will stick together. 146[B]Birthday suit[/B] If you are in your birthday suit, you are naked. 147[B]Bit between your teeth[/B] If you take or have the bit between your teeth, you take or have control of a situation. (Bit = piece of metal in a horse's mouth) 148[B]Bit part[/B] If someone has a small or unimportant role in something, they have a bit part. 149[B]Bit player [/B]A bit player has a small or unimportant role in something. 150[B]Bite off more than you can chew [/B]If you bite off more than you can chew, you take on more responsibilities than you can manage. 'Don't bite off more than you can chew' is often used to advise people against agreeing to more than they can handle. 151[B]Bite the bullet [/B]If you have to bite the bullet, you have to accept or face something unpleasant because it cannot be avoided. 152[B]Bite the dust [/B]This is a way of saying that somebody has died, especially if they are killed violently like a soldier in battle. 153[B]Bits and bobs[/B] Bits and bobs are small, remnant articles and things- the same as odds and ends. 154[B]Bitter end[/B] If you do something to the bitter end, you do it to the very end, no matter how unsuccessful you are. 155[B]Bitter pill to swallow [/B]A bitter pill to swallow is something that is hard to accept. 156[B]Black and white [/B]When it is very clear who or what is right and wrong, then the situation is black and white. 157[B]Black as Newgate's knocker[/B] If things are as black as Newgate's knocker, they are very bad. Newgate was an infamous prison in England, so its door knocker meant trouble. 158[B]Black hole[/B] If there is a black hole in financial accounts, money has disappeared. 159[B]Black sheep[/B] Someone who is the black sheep doesn't fit into a group or family because their behaviour or character is not good enough. 160[B]Blessing in disguise[/B] If some bad luck or misfortune ultimately results in something positive, it's a blessing in disguise. 161[B]Blind as a bat [/B]If you are in total darkness and can't see anything at all, you are as blind as a bat. 162[B]Blink of an eye[/B] If something happens in the blink of an eye, it happens so fast it is almost impossible to notice it. 163[B]Blood and thunder[/B] An emotional speech or performance is full of blood and thunder. 164[B]Blood is thicker than water[/B] This idiom means that family relationships are stronger than others. 165[B]Blood out of a stone [/B]If something is like getting blood out of a stone, it is very difficult indeed. 166[B]Blood, sweat and tears [/B]If something will take blood, sweat and tears, it will be very difficult and will require a lot of effort and sacrifice. 167[B]Blow a gasket[/B] If you blow a gasket, you get very angry. 168[B]Blow hot and cold[/B] If you blow hot and cold on an idea, your attitude and opinion keeps changing; one minute you are for it, the next you are against. 169[B]Blow off steam[/B] If you blow off steam, you express your anger or frustration. 170[B]Blow out of the water[/B] If something, like an idea, is blown out of the water, it is destroyed or defeated comprehensively. 171[B]Blow the cobwebs away [/B]If you blow the cobwebs away, you make sweeping changes to something to bring fresh views and ideas in. 172[B]Blow your stack [/B]If you blow your stack, you lose your temper. 173[B]Blue blood[/B] Someone with blue blood is royalty. 174[B]Blue-eyed boy[/B] Someone's blue-eyed boy is their favourite person. 175[B]Bolt from the blue[/B] If something happens unexpectedly and suddenly, it is a bolt from the blue. 176[B]Bone of contention[/B] If there is an issue that always causes tension and arguments, it is a bone of contention. 177[B]Bone to pick[/B] If you have a bone to pick with someone, you are annoyed about something they have done and want to tell them how you feel. 178[B]Born with a silver spoon in your mouth[/B] If you are born with a silver spoon in your mouth, you are born into a rich family. 179[B]Bottom line[/B] In accountancy, the bottom line is net income, and is used idiomatically to mean the conclusion. 180[B]Box and dice[/B] Box and dice means everything. 181[B]Box clever [/B]If you box clever, you use your intelligence to get what you want, even if you have to cheat a bit. 182[B]Brass monkey [/B]If it's brass monkey weather, or cold enough to freeze the balls off a brass monkey, it is extremly cold. 183[B]Brass tacks [/B]If you get down to brass tacks, you get down to the real business. 184[B]Break a leg [/B]This idiom is a way of wishing someone good luck. 185[B]Break even[/B] If you break even, you don't make any money, but you don't lose any either. 186[B]Break ground[/B] If you break ground, or break new ground, you make progress, taking things into a new area or going further than anyone has gone before.'Ground-breaking' is used an adjective. 187[B]Break the ice [/B]When you break the ice, you get over any initial embarrassment or shyness when you meet someone for the first time and start conversing. 188[B]Break your duck[/B] If you break your duck, you do something for the first time. 189[B]Breathe your last [/B]When you breathe your last, you die. 190[B]Brighten up the day [/B]If something brightens up your day, something happens that makes you feel positive and happy all day long. 191[B]Bring a knife to a gunfight[/B] If someone brings a knife to a gunfight, they are very badly prepared for something. 192[B]Bring someone to book[/B] If somebody is brought to book, they are punished or made to account for something they have done wrong. 193[B]Bring the house down[/B] Something that brings the house down is acclaimed and praised vigorously. 194[B]Broad church[/B] If an organisation is described as broad church, it is tolerant and accepting of different opinions and ideas. 195[B]Broad strokes[/B] If something is described or defined with broad stokes, then only an outline is given, without fine details. 196[B]Brown nose[/B] When someone tries to make themselves popular with somebody, usually in a position of authority, especially by flattering them, they are brown nosing. 197[B]Brownie points [/B]If you try to earn Brownie points with someone, you do things you know will please them. 198[B]Brush under the carpet[/B] If you brush something under the carpet, you are making an attempt to ignore it, or hide it from others. 199[B]Bull in a China shop [/B]If someone behaves like a bull in a China shop, they are clumsy when they should be careful. 200[B]Bun in the oven[/B] If a woman has a bun in the oven, she is pregnant. 201[B]Burn the candle at both ends[/B] Someone who burns the candle at both ends lives life at a hectic pace, doing things which are likely to affect their health badly. 202[B]Burn the midnight oil [/B]If you stay up very late working or studying, you burn the midnight oil. 203[B]Burn your bridges [/B]If you burn your bridges, you do something that makes it impossible to go back from the position you have taken. 204[B] Bury the hatchet[/B] If you bury the hatchet, you make peace with someone and stop arguing or fighting. 205[B]Bury your head in the sand[/B] If someone buries their head in the sand, they ignore something that is obviously wrong. 206[B]Busman's holiday [/B]A busman's holiday is when you spend your free time doing the same sort of work as you do in your job. 207[B]Busted flush[/B] Someone or something that had great potential but ended up a useless failure is a busted flush. 208[B]Butter wouldn't melt in their mouth[/B] If someone looks as if butter wouldn't melt in their mouth, they look very innocent. 209[B]By a hair's breadth[/B] If a person escapes from some danger by a hair's breadth, they only just managed to avoid it. The breadth is the thickness of a hair, so they probably feel somewhat lucky because the margin between success and what could easily have been failure was so close. 210[B]By a long chalk[/B] If you beat somebody by a long chalk, you win easily and comfortably. 211[B]By a whisker [/B]If you do something by a whisker, you only just manage to do it and come very near indeed to failing. 212[B]By hook or by crook[/B] If you are prepared to do something by hook or by crook, you are willing to do anything, good or bad, to reach your goal. 213[B]By the back door[/B] If something is started or introduced by the back door, then it isn't not done openly or by following the proper procedures. 214[B]By the book[/B] If you do something by the book, you do it exactly as you are supposed to. 215[B]By the skin of your teeth [/B]If you do something by the skin of your teeth, you only just manage to do it and come very near indeed to failing. 216[B]By word of mouth[/B] If something becomes known by word of mouth, it gets known by being talked about rather than through publicity or advertising, etc. 217[B]Call a spade a spade[/B] A person who calls a spade a spade is one speaks frankly and makes little or no attempt to conceal their opinions or to spare the feelings of their audience. 218[B]Call the shots[/B] If you call the shots, you are in charge and tell people what to do. 219[B]Can of worms[/B] If an action can create serious problems, it is opening a can of worms. 0[B]Can't hold a candle[/B] If something can't hold a candle to something else, it is much worse. 221[B]Card up your sleeve [/B]If you have a card up your sleeve, you have a surprise plan or idea that you are keeping back until the time is right. 222[B]Carpetbagger[/B] A carpetbagger is an opportunist without any scruples or ethics, or a politican who wants to represent a place they have no connection with. 223[B]Carrot and stick [/B]If someone offers a carrot and stick, they offer an incentive to do something combined with the threat of punishment. 224[B]Carry the can [/B]If you carry the can, you take the blame for something, even though you didn't do it or are only partly at fault. 225[B]Cash in your chips[/B] If you cash in your chips, you sell something to get what profit you can because you think its value is going to fall. It can also mean 'to die'. 226[B]Cast doubt on[/B] If you make other people not sure about a matter, then you have cast doubt on it. 227[B]Cast your mind back [/B]If somebody tells you to cast your mind back on something, they want you to think about something that happened in the past, but which you might not remember very well, and to try to remember as much as possible. 228[B]Castles in the air [/B]Plans that are impractical and will never work out are castles in the air. 229[B]Cat among the pigeons[/B] If something or someone puts, or sets or lets, the cat among the pigeons, they create a disturbance and cause trouble. 230[B]Cat nap[/B] If you have a short sleep during the day, you are cat napping. 231[B]Cat's whiskers [/B]Something excellent is the cat's whiskers. 232[B]Catch as catch can [/B]This means that people should try to get something any way they can. 233[B]Chalk and cheese[/B] Things, or people, that are like chalk and cheese are very different and have nothing in common. 234[B]Change horses in midstream[/B] If people change horses in midstream, they change plans or leaders when they are in the middle of something, even though it may be very risky to do so. 235[B]Charity begins at home[/B] This idiom means that family members are more important than anyone esle, and should be the focus of a person's efforts. 236[B]Chase rainbows[/B] If someone chases rainbows, they try to do something that they will never achieve. 237[B]Cheap as chips [/B]If something is very inexpensive, it is as cheap as chips. 238[B]Cherry pick[/B] If people cherry pick, they choose things that support their position, while ignoring things that contradict it. 239[B]Chew the cud[/B] If you chew the cud, you think carefully about something. 240[B]Chew the fat[/B] If you chew the fat with someone, you talk at leisure with them. 241[B]Chickenfeed[/B] If something is small or unimportant, especially money, it is chickenfeed. 242[B]Chinese walls[/B] Chinese walls are regulatory information barriers that aim to stop the flow of information that could be misused, especially in financial corporations. 243[B]Chinese whispers[/B] When a story is told from person to person, especially if it is gossip or scandal, it inevitably gets distorted and exaggerated. This process is called Chinese whispers. 244[B]Chip off the old block[/B] If someone is a chip off the old block, they closely resemble one or both of the parents in character. 245[B]Cigarette paper[/B] If you cannot get or put a cigarette paper between people, they are so closely bonded that nothing will separate them or their positions on issues. 246[B]Clapham omnibus[/B] The man on the Clapham omnibus is the ordinary man in the street. 247 [B]Clean as a whistle[/B] If something is as clean as a whistle, it is extremely clean, spotless. It can also be used to mean 'completely', though this meaning is less common nowadays. 248[B]Clean bill of health [/B]If something or someone has a clean bill of health, then there's nothing wrong; everything's fine. 249[B]Clean slate [/B]If you start something with a clean slate, then nothing bad from your past is taken into account. 250[B]Clear as mud [/B]If something is as clear as mud, then it is very confusing and unclear. 251[B]Cliffhanger[/B] If something like a sports match or an election is a cliffhanger, then the result is so close that it cannot be predicted and will only be known at the very end. 252[B]Close but no cigar[/B] If you are close but no cigar, you are close to success, but have not got there. 253[B]Close call [/B]If the result of something is a close call, it is almost impossible to distinguish between the parties involved and to say who has won or whatever. 254[B]Close the stable door after the horse has bolted [/B]If people try to fix something after the problem has occurred, they are trying to close the stable door after the horse has bolted. 'Close the barn door after the horse has bolted' is alternative, often used in American English. 255[B]Closed book to me[/B] If a subject is a closed book to you, it is something that you don't understand or know anything about. 256[B]Cloud cuckoo land[/B] If someone has ideas or plans that are completely unrealistic, they are living on cloud cuckoo land. 257[B]Cloud nine[/B] If you are on cloud nine, you are extremely happy.('cloud seven' is a less common alternative) 258[B]Cloud of suspicion[/B] If a cloud of suspicion hangs over an individual, it means that they are not believed or are distrusted. 259[B]Cloud on the horizon [/B]If you can see a problem ahead, you can call it a cloud on the horizon. 260[B]Clutch at straws [/B]If someone is in serious trouble and tries anything to help them, even though their chances of success are probably nil, they are clutching at straws. 261[B]Coals to Newcastle[/B] Taking, bringing, or carrying coals to Newcastle is doing something that is completely unnnecessary. 262[B]Cock and bull story[/B] A cock and bull story is a lie someone tells that is completely unbelievable. 263[B]Cold feet[/B] If you get cold feet about something, you lose the courage to do it. 264[B]Cold fish [/B]A cold fish is a person who doesn't show how they feel. 265[B]Cold light of day[/B] If you see things in the cold light of day, you see them as they really are, not as you might want them to be. 266[B]Cold sweat [/B]If something brings you out in a cold sweat, it frightens you a lot. 267[B]Cold turkey[/B] If someone suddenly stops taking drugs, instead of slowly cutting down, they do cold turkey. 268[B]Collateral damage[/B] Accidental or unintended damage or casualties are collateral damage. 269 [B]Collect dust [/B]If something is collecting dust, it isn't being used any more. 270 [B]Come a cropper[/B] Someone whose actions or lifestyle will inevitably result in trouble is going to come a cropper. 271 [B]Come clean[/B] If someone comes clean about something, they admit to deceit or wrongdoing. 272 [B]Come hell or high water[/B] If someone says they'll do something come hell or high water, they mean that nothing will stop them, no matter what happens. 273 [B]Come rain or shine [/B]If I say I'll be at a place COME RAIN OR SHINE, I mean that I can be relied on to turn up; nothing, not even the vagaries of British weather, will deter me or stop me from being there. 274 [B]Come to grips[/B] If you come to grips with a problem or issue, you face up to it and deal with it. 275 [B]Come what may[/B] If you're prepared to do something come what may, it means that nothing will stop or distract you, no matter how hard or difficult it becomes. 276 [B]Comfort zone [/B]It is the temperature range in which the body doesn't shiver or sweat, but has an idiomatic sense of a place where people feel comfortable, where they can avoid the worries of the world. It can be physical or mental. 277 [B]Constitution of an ox[/B] If someone has the constitution of an ox, they are less affected than most people by things like tiredness, illness, alcohol, etc. 278 [B]Cook someone's goose[/B] If you cook someone's goose, you ruin their plans. 279 [B]Cook up a storm[/B] If someone cooks up a storm, they cause a big fuss or generate a lot of talk about something. 280 [B]Corner a market [/B]If a business is dominant in an area and unlikely to be challenged by other companies, it has cornered the market. 281 [B]Couch potato[/B] A couch potato is an extremely idle or lazy person who chooses to spend most of their leisure time horizontal in front of the TV and eats a diet that is mainly junk food. 282 [B]Could eat a horse[/B] If you are very hungry, you could eat a horse. 283[B]Crash a party[/B] If you crash a party, or are a gatecrasher, you go somewhere you haven't been invited to. 284 [B]Cream of the crop[/B] The cream of the crop is the best there is. 285 [B]Crocodile tears[/B] If someone cries crocodile tears, they pretend to be upset or affected by something. 286 [B]Cross to bear[/B] If someone has a cross to bear, they have a hevay burden of responsibility or a problem that they alone must cope with. 287 [B]Cry wolf [/B]If someone cries wolf, they raise a false alarm about something. 288 [B]Cry your eyes out [/B]If you cry your eyes out, you cry uncontrollably. 289 [B]Cry-baby [/B]A cry-baby is a person who gets emotional and cries too easily. 290 [B]Curate's egg[/B] If something is a bit of a curate's egg, it is only good in parts. 291 [B]Curiosity killed the cat [/B]As cats are naturally curious animals, we use this expression to suggest to people that excessive curiosity is not necessarily a good thing, especially where it is not their business. 292 [B]Curve ball [/B]If something is a curve ball, it is deceptive. 293 [B]Cut and dried [/B]If something is cut and dried, then everything has already been decided and, in the case of an opinion, might be a little stale and predictable. 294 [B]Cut down the tall poppies [/B]If people cut down the tall poppies, they criticise people who stand out from the crowd. 295 [B]Cut it fine[/B] If you cut it fine, you only just manage to do something- at the very last moment.'Cut things fine' is the same. 'Cut it a bit fine' is a common variation. 296 [B]Cut off your nose to spite your face[/B] If you cut off your nose to spite your face, you do something rash or silly that ends up making things worse for you, often because you are angry or upset. 297 [B]Cut the Gordian knot [/B]If some cuts the Gordian knot, they solve a very complex problem in a simple way. 298 [B]Cut the mustard [/B]If somebody or something doesn't cut the mustard, they fail or it fails to reach the required standard. 299 [B]Cut to the chase[/B] If you cut to the chase, you get to the point, or the most interesting or important part of something without delay. 300 [B]Cut to the quick[/B] If someone's cut to the quick by something, they are very hurt and upset indeed. 301 [B]Cut your teeth on[/B] The place where you gain your early experience is where you cut your teeth. 302 [B]Cutting edge [/B]Something that is cutting edge is at the forefront of progress in its area. 303 [B]Daft as a brush[/B] Someone who is daft as a brush is rather stupid. 304 [B]Damp squib[/B] If something is expected to have a great effect or impact but doesn't, it is a damp squib. 305 [B]Dark horse[/B] If someone is a dark horse, they are a bit of a mystery. 306 [B]Daylight robbery[/B] If you are overcharged or underpaid, it is a daylight robbery; open, unfair and hard to prevent. Rip-off has a similar meaning. 307 [B]Dead and buried[/B] If something is dead and buried, it has all long been settled and is not going to be reconsidered. 308 [B]Dead as a dodo [/B]If something's dead as a dodo, it is lifeless and dull. The dodo was a bird that lived the island of Mauritius. It couldn't fly and was hunted to extinction. 309 [B]Dead as a doornail[/B] This is used to indicate that something is lifeless. 310 [B]Dead duck[/B] If something is a dead duck, it is a failure. 311 [B]Dead heat [/B]If a race ends in a dead heat, two or more finish with exactly the same result. 312 [B]Dead in the water[/B] If something is dead in the water, it isn't going anywhere or making any progress. 313 [B]Dead man walking[/B] A dead man walking is someone who is in great trouble and will certainly get punished, lose their job or position, etc, soon. 314 [B]Dead men's shoes[/B] If promotion or success requires replacing somebody, then it can only be reached by dead men's shoes' by getting rid of them. 315 [B]Dead to the world[/B] If somebody's fast asleep and completely unaware of what if happening around them, he or she's dead to the world. 316 [B]Dear John letter [/B]A letter written by a partner explaining why they are ending the relationship is a Dear John letter. 317 [B]Death of a thousand cuts[/B] If something is suffering the death of a thousand cuts, or death by a thousand cuts, lots of small bad things are happening, none of which are fatal in themselves, but which add up to a slow and painful demise. 318 [B]Death warmed up[/B] If someone looks like death warmed up, they look very ill indeed. ('death warmed over' is the American form) 319 [B]Demon weed [/B]Tobacco is the demon weed. 320 [B]Derring-do[/B] If a person shows derring-do, they show great courage. 321 [B]Devil finds work for idle hands[/B] When people say that the devil finds work for idle hands, they mean that if people don't have anything to do with their time, they are more likely to get involved in trouble and criminality. 322 [B]Devil is in the detail [/B]When people say that the devil in the detail, they mean that small things in plans and schemes that are often overlooked can cause serious problems later on. 323 [B]Devil's advocate[/B] If someone plays Devil's advocate in an argument, they adopt a position they don't believe in just for the sake of the argument 324 [B]Die is cast [/B]If the die is cast, a decision has been made that cannot be altered and fate will decide the consequences. 325 [B]Different kettle of fish [/B]If something is a different kettle of fish, it is very different from the other things referenced. 326[B]Discerning eye [/B]If a person has a discerning eye, they are particularly good at judging the quality of something. 327 [B]Do a runner[/B] If people leave a restaurant without paying, they do a runner. 329 [B]Do their dirty work[/B] Someone who does someone's dirty work, carries out the unpleasant jobs that the first person doesn't want to do. Someone who seems to enjoy doing this is sometimes known as a 'henchman'. 330 [B]Dog and pony show[/B] A dog and pony show is a pesentation or some marketing that has lots of style, but no real content. 331 [B]Dog days [/B]Dog days are very hot summer days. 332 [B]Dog eat dog[/B] In a dog eat dog world, there is intense competition and rivalry, where everybody thinks only of himself or herself. 333 [B]Dog in the manger[/B] If someone acts like a dog in the manger, they don't want other people to have or enjoy things that are useless to them. 334 [B]Dog tired [/B]If you are dog tired, you are exhausted. 335 [B]Dog's dinner [/B]Something that is a dog's dinner is a real mess. 336 [B]Dog's life [/B]If some has a dog's life, they have a very unfortunate and wretched life. 337 [B]Dog-eared[/B] If a book is dog-eared, it is in bad condition,with torn pages, etc. 338 [B]Doggy bag[/B] If you ask for a doggy bag in a restaurant, they will pack the food you haven't eaten for you to take home. 339 [B]Doldrums [/B]If a person is in the doldrums, they are depressed.If a project or something similar is in the doldrums, it isn't making any progress. 340 [B]Don't judge a book by the cover [/B]This idiom means that you should not judge something or someone by appearances, but should look deeper at what is inside and more important. 341 [B]Don't look a gift horse in the mouth[/B] This means that if you are given something, a present or a chance, you should not waste it by being too critical or examining it too closely. 342 [B] Don't upset the applecart[/B] If you are advised not to upset the applecart, you are being told not to disturb the way things are done because it might ruin things. [B]344 Don't hold your breath[/B] If you are told not to hold your breath, it means that you shouldn't have high expectations about something. [B]345 Don't wash your dirty laundry in public [/B]People, especially couples, who argue in front of others or involve others in their personal problems and crises, are said to be washing their dirty laundry in public; making public things that are best left private. (In American English, 'don't air your dirty laundry in public' is used.) [B]346 Done to death[/B] If a joke or story has been done to death, it has been told so often that it has stopped being funny. [B]347 Donkey's years [/B]This idiom means 'a very long time'. [B]348 Doormat [/B]A person who doesn't stand up for themselves and gets treated badly is a doormat. [B]349 Double Dutch [/B]If something is double Dutch, it is completely incomprehensible. [B]350 Double take [/B]If someone does a double take, they react very slowly to something to show how shocked or surprised they are. [B]351 Double whammy[/B] A double whammy is when something causes two problems at the same time, or when two setbacks occur at the same time. [B]352 Double-edged sword[/B] If someone uses an argument that could both help them and harm them, then they are using a two-edged sword; it cuts both ways. [B]353 Down and out[/B] If someone is down and out, they are desperately poor and need help. [B]354 Down at heel [/B]Someone who is down at heel is short of money. ('Down in heel' is used in American English) [B]355 Down for the count[/B] If someone is down for the count, they have lost a struggle, like a boxer who has been knocked out. [B]356 Down in the doldrums[/B] If somebody's down in the doldrums, they are depressed and lacking energy. [B]357 Down in the dumps[/B] If someone's down in the dumps, they are depressed. [B]358 Down the pan [/B]If something has gone down the pan, it has failed or been ruined. [B]359 Down the tubes[/B] If something has gone down the tubes, it has failed or been ruined. [B]360 Down to the wire[/B] If something goes down to the wire, like a competition, then it goes to the very last moment before it is clear who has won. [B]361 Drag your feet[/B] If someone is dragging their feet, they are taking too long to do or finish something, usually because they don't want to do it. [B]362 Drag your heels[/B] If you drag your heels, you either delay doing something or do it as slowly as possible because you don't want to do it. [B]363 Draw a blank[/B] If you try to find something out and draw a blank, you don't get any useful information. [B]364 Draw a line in the sand[/B] If you draw a line in the sand, you establish a limit beyond which things will be unacceptable. [B]365 Draw a long bow[/B] If someone draws a long bow, they lie or exaggerate. [B]366 Draw the line[/B] When you draw the line, you set out limits of what you find acceptable, beyond which you will not go. [B]367 Draw the shortest straw[/B] If someone draws the shortest straw, they lose or are chosen to do something unpleasant. [B]368 Dressed to the nines[/B] If you are in your very best clothes, you're dressed to the nines. [B]369 Drink like a fish[/B] If someone drinks like a fish, they drink far too much alcohol. [B]370 Drive a wedge[/B] If you drive a wedge between people, you exploit an issue so that people start to disagree. [B]371 Drive someone up the wall[/B] If something or someone drives you up the wall, they do something that irritates you greatly. [B]372 Drop in the ocean[/B] A drop in the ocean implies that something will have little effect because it is small and mostly insignificant. [B]373 Drunk as a lord[/B] Someone who is very drunk is as drunk as a lord. [B]374 Dry as a bone[/B] If your lawn is as dry as a bone, the soil is completely dry. [B]375 Duck soup [/B]If something is duck soup, it is very easy. [B]376 Duck to water [/B]If you take to something like a duck to water, you find when you start that you have a natural affinity for it. [B]377 Dull as ditchwater[/B] If something is as dull as ditchwater, it is incredibly boring. A ditch is a long narrow hole or trench dug to contain water, which is normally a dark, dirty colour and stagnant (when water turns a funny colour and starts to smell bad). (In American English,'things are 'dull as dishwater'.) [B]378 Dunkirk spirit [/B]Dunkirk spirit is when people pull together to get through a very difficult time. [B]379 Dutch auction[/B] If something is sold by setting a price, then reducing it until someone buys it, it is sold in a Dutch auction. It can also mean that something is changed until it is accepted by everyone. [B]380 Dutch courage [/B]Dutch courage is the reckless bravery caused by drinking too much. [B]381 Dutch uncle [/B]A Dutch uncle is a person who gives unwelcome advice. [B]382 Dwell on the past [/B]Thinking too much about the past, so that it becomes a problem is to dwell on the past. [B]383 Dyed-in-the-wool [/B]If someone is a dyed-in-the-wool supporter of a political party, etc, they support them totally, without any questions. [B]384 Each to their own [/B]Different people have different preferences. In American English, 'Each to his own' is more common. [B]385 Eager beaver[/B] A person who is extremely keen is an eager beaver. [B]386 Eagle eyes [/B]Someone who has eagle eyes sees everything; no detail is too small. [B]387 Early bath [/B]If someone has or goes for an early bath, they quit or lose their job or position earlier than expected because things have gone wrong. [B]388 Early bird catches the worm[/B] The early bird catches the worm means that if you start something early, you stand a better chance of success. [B]389 Easier said than done[/B] If something is easier said than done, it is much more difficult than it sounds. It is often used when someone advises you to do something difficult and tries to make it sound easy. [B]390 Easy as pie [/B]If something is easy as pie, it is very easy indeed. [B]391 Easy come, easy go[/B] This idiom means that money or other material gains that come without much effort tend to get spent or consumed as easily. [B]392 Eat crow[/B] If you eat crow, you have to admit that you were wrong about something. [B]393 Eat humble pie[/B] If someone apologises and shows a lot of contrition for something they have done,they eat humble pie. [B]394 Eat like a bird [/B]If someone eats like a bird, they eat very little. [B]395 Eat like a horse [/B]Someone who eats like a horse, eats a lot. [B]396 Eat like a pig [/B]If some eats like a pig, they either eat too much or they have bad table manners. [B]397 Eat someone alive [/B]If you eat someone alive, you defeat or beat them comprehensively. [B]398 Economical with the truth[/B] If someone, especially a politician, is economical with the truth, they leave out information in order to create a false picture of a situation, without actually lying. [B]399 Egg on your face [/B]If someone has egg on their face, they are made to look foolish or embarrassed. [B]400 Elbow grease [/B]If something requires elbow grease, it involves a lot of hard physical work. [B]401 Elbow room [/B]If you haven't got enough elbow room, you haven't got enough space. [B]402 Elephant in the room[/B] An elephant in the room is a problem that everyone knows very well but no one talks about because it is taboo, embarrassing, etc. [B]403 Eleventh hour[/B] If something happens at the eleventh hour, it happens right at the last minute. [B]404 Even keel[/B] If something is on an even keel, it is balanced. [B]405 Even Stevens[/B] If everything is equal between people, they are even Stevens. [B]406 Every cloud has a silver lining [/B]People sometimes say that every cloud has a silver lining to comfort somebody who's having problems. They mean that it is always possible to get something positive out of a situation, no matter how unpleasant, difficult or even painful it might seem. [B]407 Every man for himself [/B]If it's every man for himself, then people are trying to save themselves from a difficult situation without trying to help anyone else. [B]408 Every man jack[/B] If every man jack was involved in something, it is an emphatic way of saying that absolutely everybody was involved. [B]409 Every Tom, Dick and Harry[/B] If every Tom, Dick and Harry knows about something, then it is coomon knowledge. [B]410 Every trick in the book[/B] If you try every trick in the book, you try every possible way, including dishonesty and deceit, to get what you want. [B]411 Explore all avenues [/B]If all avenues are being explored, then every conceivable approach is being tried that could possibly get the desired result. [B]412 Eye for an eye[/B] This is an expression for retributive justice, where the punishment equals the crime. [B]413 F-word [/B] The F-word is a euphemism for 'fuck'. [B]414 Face like thunder[/B] If someone has a face like thunder, they are clearly very angry or upset about something. [B]415 Face the music[/B] If you have to face the music, you have to accept the negative consequences of something you have done wrong. [B]416 Face value [/B] If you take something at face value, you accept the appearance rather than looking deeper into the matter. [B]417 Facts of life [/B] When someone is taught the facts of life, they learn about sex and reproduction. [B]418 Fair and square[/B] If someone wins something fair and square, they follow the rules and win conclusively. [B]419 Fair crack of the whip[/B] If everybody has a fair crack of the whip, they all have equal opportunities to do something. [B]420 Fair shake of the whip[/B] If everybody has a fair shake of the whip, they all have equal opportunities to do something. [B]421 Fairweather friend [/B] A fairweather friend is the type who is always there when times are good but forgets about you when things get difficult or problems crop up. [B]422 Fall off the back of a lorry[/B] If someone tries to sell you something that has fallen of the back of a lorry, they are trying to sell you stolen goods. [B]423 Fall on your sword [/B] If someone falls on their sword, they resign or accept the consequences of some wrongdoing. [B]424 Familiarity breeds contempt [/B] This means that the more you know something or someone, the more you start to find faults and dislike things about it or them. [B]425 Fast and furious[/B] Things that happen fast and furious happen very quickly without stopping or pausing. [B]426 Fat chance! [/B] This idiom is a way of telling someone they have no chance. [B]427 Fat head [/B] A fat head is a dull, stupid person. [B]428 Fat hits the fire [/B] When the fat hits the fire, trouble breaks out. [B]429 Fat of the land [/B] Living off the fat of the land means having the best of everything in life. [B]430 Fate worse than death [/B] Describing something as a fate worse than death is a fairly common way of implying that it is unpleasant. [B]431 Feather in your cap[/B] A success or achievement that may help you in the future is a feather in your cap. [B]432 Fed up to the back teeth [/B] When you are extremely irritated and fed up with something or someone, you are fed up to the back teeth. [B]433 Feel at home[/B] If you feel relaxed and comfortable somewhere or with someone, you feel at home. [B]434 Feel free[/B] If you ask for permission to do something and are told to feel free, the other person means that there is absolutely no problem [B]435 Feel the pinch[/B] If someone is short of money or feeling restricted in some other way, they are feeling the pinch. [B]436 Feeling blue[/B] If you feel blue, you are feeling unwell, mainly associated with depression or unhappiness. [B]437 Feet on the ground [/B] A practical and realistic person has their feet on the ground. [B]438 Fiddle while Rome burns [/B] If people are fiddling while Rome burns, they are wasting their time on futile things while problems threaten to destroy them. [B]439 Fifth columnist [/B] A fifth columnist is a member of a subversive organisation who tries to help an enemy invade. [B]440 Fifth wheel [/B] A fifth wheel is something unneccesary or useless. [B]441 Fighting chance [/B] If you have a fighting chance, you have a reasonable possibility of success. [B]442 Fine tuning [/B] Small adjustments to improve something or to get it working are called fine tuning. [B]443 Fine words butter no parsnips[/B] This idiom means that it's easy to talk, but talk is not action. [B]444 Finger in the pie[/B] If you have a finger in the pie, you have an interest in something. [B]445 Fingers and thumbs[/B] If you are all fingers and thumbs, you are being clumsy and not very skilled with your hands. [B]446 Fire away [/B] If you want to ask someone a question and they tell you to fire away, they mean that you are free to ask what you want. [B]447 Fire on all cylinders [/B] If something is firing on all cylinders, it is going as well as it could. [B]448 First come, first served[/B] This means there will be no preferential treatment and a service will be provided to those that arrive first. [B]449 First out of the gate[/B] When someone is first out of the gate, they are the first to do something that others are trying to do. [B]450 First port of call [/B] The first place you stop to do something is your first port of call. [B]451 Fish out of water [/B] If you are placed in a situation that is completely new to you and confuses you, you are like a fish out of water. [B]452 Fishy [/B] If there is something fishy about someone or something, there is something suspicious; a feeling that there is something wrong, though it isn't clear what it is. [B]453 Fit as a fiddle[/B] If you are fit as a fiddle, you are in perfect health. [B]454 Fit for a king [/B] If something is fit for a king, it is of the very highest quality or standard. [B]455 Fit of pique[/B] If someone reacts badly because their pride is hurt, this is a fit of pique. [B]456 Fit the bill [/B] If something fits the bill, it is what is required for the task. [B]457 Flash in the pan [/B] If something is a flash in the pan, it is is very noticeable but doesn't last long, like most singers, who are very successful for a while, then forgotten. [B]458 Flat out[/B] If you work flat out, you work as hard and fast as you possibly can. [B]459 Fleet of foot[/B] If someone is fleet of foot, they are very quick. [B]460 Flesh and blood[/B] Your flesh and blood are your blood relatives, especially your immediate family. [B]461 Flogging a dead horse[/B] If someone is trying to convince people to do or feel something without any hope of succeeding, they're flogging a dead horse.This is used when someone is trying to raise interest in an issue that no-one supports anymore; beating a dead horse will not make it do any more work. [B]461 Flowery speech [/B] Flowery speech is full of lovely words, but may well lack substance. [B]462 Fly off the handle [/B] If someone flies off the handle, they get very angry. [B]463 Fly on the wall[/B] If you are able to see and hear events as they happen, you are a fly on the wall. [B464 Fools rush in where angels fear to tread[/B] This idiom is used where people who are inexperienced or lack knowledge do something that more informed people would avoid. [B]465 Football's a game of two halves [/B] If something's a game of two halves, it means that it's possible for someone's fortunes or luck to change and the person who's winning could end up a loser. [B]466 For a song[/B] If you buy or sell something for a song, it is very cheap. [B]467 For donkey's years [/B] If people have done something, usually without much if any change, for an awfully long time, they can be said to have done it for donkey's years. [B]468 For kicks [/B] If you do something for kicks, or just for kicks, you do it purely for fun or thrills. [B]469 For my money[/B] This idiom means 'in my opinion'. [B]470 For the time being[/B] For the time being indicates that an action or state will continue into the future, but is temporary. I'm sharing an office for the time being. [B]471 Forbidden fruit [/B] Something enjoyable that is illegal or immoral is forbidden fruit. [B]472 Foregone conclusion[/B] If the result of, say, a football match is a foregone conclusion, then the result is obvious before the game has even begun. [B]473 Forest for the trees [/B] If someone can't see the forest for the trees, they get so caught up in small details that they fail to understand the bigger picture. [B]474 Foul play [/B] If the police suspect foul play, they think a crime was committed. [B]475 Fourth estate [/B] This is an idiomatic way of describing the media, especially the newspapers. [B]476 Freudian Slip [/B] If someone makes a Freudian slip, they accidentally use the wrong word, but in doing so reveal what they are really thinking rather than what they think the other person wants to hear. [B]477 From Missouri[/B] If someone is from Missouri, then they require clear proof before they will believe something. [B]478 From pillar to post [/B] If something is going from pillar to post, it is moving around in a meaningless way, from one disaster to another. [B]479 From rags to riches[/B] Someone who starts life very poor and makes a fortune goes from rags to riches. [B]480 From scratch[/B] This idiom means 'from the beginning'. [B]481 From soup to nuts[/B] If you do something from soup to nuts, you do it from the beginning right to the very end. [B]482 From the horse's mouth[/B] If you hear something from the horse's mouth, you hear it directly from the person concerned or responsible. [B]483 From the sublime to the ridiculous [/B] If something declines considerably in quality or importance, it is said to have gone from the sublime to the ridiculous. [B]484 From the word go[/B] From the word go means from the very beginning of something. [B]485 Full Monty [/B] If something is the Full Monty, it is the real thing, not reduced in any way. [B]486 Full of the joys of spring [/B] If you are full of the joys of spring, you are very happy and full of energy. [B]487 Full swing [/B] If a something is in full swing, it is going or doing well. [B]488 Fullness of time[/B] If something happens in the fullness of time, it will happen when the time is right and appropriate. [B]489 Game plan [/B] A game plane is a strategy. [B]490 ardening leave[/B] If someone is paid for a period when they are not working, either after they have given in their notice or when they are being investigated, they are on gardening leave. [B]491 Get along famously[/B] If people get along famously, they have an exceedingly good relationship. [B]492 Get on your soapbox [/B] If someone on their soapbox, they hold forth (talk a lot) about a subject they feel strongly about. [B]493 Get out of bed on the wrong side[/B] If you get out of bed on the wrong side, you wake up and start the day in a bad mood for no real reason. [B]494 Get the ball rolling [/B] If you get the ball rolling, you start something so that it can start making progress. [B]495 Get the green light [/B] If you get the green light to do something, you are given the necessary permission, authorisation. [B]496 Get to grips [/B] If you get to grips with something, you take control and do it properly. [B]497 Get up and go[/B] If someone has lots of et up and go, they are have lots of enthusiasm and energy. [B]498 Get your feet wet[/B] If you get your feet wet, you gain your first experience of something. [B]499 Get your hands dirty[/B] If you get your hands dirty, you become involved in something where the realities might compromise your principles. [B]500 Ghost of a chance [/B] If something or someone hasn't got a ghost of a chance, they have no hope whatsoever of succeeding. [B]501 Ghostly presence [/B] You can feel or otherwise sense a ghostly presence, but you cannot do it clearly only vaguely. [B]502 Gift of the gab[/B] If someone has the gift of the gab, they speak in a persuasive and interesting way. [B]503 Gilded cage[/B] If someone is in a gilded cage, they are trapped and have restricted or no freedom, but have very comfortable surroundings- many famous people live in luxury but cannot walk out of their house alone. [B]504 Give it some stick[/B] If you give something some stick, you put a lot of effort into it. [B]505 Give someone a piece of your mind [/B] If you give someone a piece of your mind, you criticise them strongly and angrily. [B]506 Give someone enough rope [/B] If you give someone enough rope, you give them the chance to get themselves into trouble or expose themselves. [B]507 Give someone stick [/B] If someone gives you stick, they criticise you or punish you. [B]508 Give up the ghost [/B] People give up the ghost when they die. [B]509 Give your eye teeth[/B] If you really want something and would be prepared to sacrifice a lot to get it, you would give your eye teeth for it. [B]510 Glass ceiling [/B] The glass ceiling is the discrimination that prevents women and minorities from getting promoted to the highest levels of companies and organisations. [B]511 Glutton for punishment [/B] If a person is described as a glutton for punishment, the happily accept jobs and tasks that most people would try to get out of. A glutton is a person who eats a lot. [B]512 Go against the grain[/B] A person who does things in an unconventional manner, especially if their methods are not generally approved of, is said to go against the grain. Such an individual can be called a maverick. [B]513 Go awry[/B] If things go awry, they go wrong. [B]514 Go bust[/B] If a company goes bust, it goes bankrupt. [B]516 Go Dutch [/B] If you go Dutch in a restaurant, you pay equal shares for the meal. [B]517 Go pear-shaped [/B] If things have gone wrong, they have gone pear-shaped. [B]518 Go round in circles [/B] If people are going round in circles, they keep dicussing the same thing without reaching any agreement or coming to a conclusion. [B]519 Go south[/B] If things go south, they get worse or go wrong. 520 [B]Go spare[/B] If you go spare, you lose your temper completely. 521 [B]Go the whole hog [/B] If you go the whole hog, you do something completely or to its limits. 522 [B]Go with the flow [/B] If you go with the flow, you accept things as they happen and do what everyone else wants to do. 523 [B]Golden handshake [/B] A golden handshake is a payment made to someone to get them to leave their job. 524 [B]Golden rule[/B] The golden rule is the most essential or fundamental rule associated with something. 525 [B]Gone for a burton [/B] If something's gone for a burton, it has been spoiled or ruined. If a preson has gone for a burton, they are either in serious trouble or have died. 526 [B]Gone pear-shaped[/B] If things have gone pear-shaped they have either gone wrong or produced an unexpected and unwanted result. 527 [B]Gone to pot [/B] If something has gone to pot, it has gone wrong and doesn't work any more. 528 [B]Gone to the dogs[/B] If something has gone to the dogs, it has gone badly wrong and lost all the good things it had. 529 [B]Good antennae [/B] Someone with good antennae is good at detecting things. 530 [B]Good egg [/B] A person who can be relied on is a good egg. Bad egg is the opposite. 531 [B]Good spell [/B] A spell can mean a fairly or relatively short period of time; you'll hear weather forecasts predict a dry spell. Sports commentators will say that a sportsperson is going through a good spell when they're performing consistently better than they normally do. 532 [B]Good time [/B] If you make good time on a journey, you manage to travel faster than expected. 533 [B]Good walls make good neighbours[/B] Your relationship with your neighbours depends, among other things, on respecting one another's privacy. 534 [B]Goody two-shoes[/B] A goody two-shoes is a self-righteous person who makes a great deal of their virtue. 535 [B]Grab the bulls by its horns [/B] If you grab (take) the bull by its horns, you deal head-on and directly with a problem. 536 [B]Grasp the nettle [/B] If you grasp the nettle, you deal bravely with a problem. 537 [B]Grass roots[/B] This idioms is often used in politics, where it refers to the ordinary people or voters. It can be used to mean people at the bottom of a hierarchy. 538 [B]Grass widow[/B] A grass widow is a woman whose husband is often away on work, leaving her on her own. 539 [B]Graveyard shift [/B] If you have to work very late at night, it is the graveyard shift. 540 [B]Gravy train [/B] If someone is on the gravy train, they have found and easy way to make lots of money. 541 [B]Grease monkey[/B] A grease monkey is an idiomatic term for a mechanic. 542 [B]Grease someone's palm [/B] If you grease someone's palm, you bribe them to do something. 543 [B]Greased lightning[/B] If something or someone moves like greased lightning, they move very fast indeed. 544 [B]Great guns [/B] If something or someone is going great guns, they are doing very well. 545 [B]Great unwashed [/B] This is a term used for the working class masses. 546 [B]Great white hope[/B] Someone who is expected to be a great success is a great white hope. 547 [B]Greek to me [/B] If you don't understand something, it's all Greek to you. 548 [B]Green fingers [/B] Someone with green fingers has a talent for gardening. 549 [B]Green light [/B] If you are given the green light, you are given approval to do something. 550 [B]Green thumb[/B] Someone with a talent for gardening has a green thumb. 551 [B]Green-eyed monster[/B] The green-eyed monster is an allegorical phrase for somebody's strong jealousy 552 [B]Greenhorn [/B] A greenhorn or someone who is described simply as green lacks the relevant experience and knowledge for their job or task 553 [B]Grey area [/B] A grey/gray area is one where there is no clear right or wrong. 554 [B]Grey matter [/B] Grey/gray matter is the human brain. 555 [B]Grey pound[/B] In the UK, the grey pound is an idiom for the economic power of elderly people. 556 [B]Grin like a Cheshire cat[/B] If someone has a very wide smile, they have a grin like a Cheshire cat. 557 [B]Guinea-pig[/B] If you are a guinea-pig, you take part in an experiment of some sort and are used in the testing. 558 [B]Gung Ho[/B] If someone is gung ho about something, they support it blindly and don't think about the consequences 559 [B]Hair of the dog [/B] If someone has a hair of the dog, they have an alcoholic drink as a way of getting rid of a hangover, the unpleasant effects of having drunk too much alcohol the night before. It is commonly used as a way of excusing having a drink early on in the day. 560 [B]Half-baked[/B] A half-baked idea or scheme hasn't not been thought through or planned very well. 561 [B]Hammer and tongs[/B] If people are going at it hammer and tongs, they are arguing fiercely. The idiom can also be used hen people are doing something energetically. 562 [B]Hand in glove [/B] If people are hand in glove, they have an extremely close relationship. 563 [B]Hand to mouth [/B] Someone who's living from hand to mouth, is very poorand needs the little money they have coming in to cover their expenses. 564 [B]Handwriting like chicken scratch[/B] If your handwriting is very hard to read, it is like chicken scratch. 565 [B]Hang in the balance [/B] If an outcome is hanging in the balance, there are at least two possibilities and it is impossible to predict which will win out. 566 [B]Hang out to dry[/B] If you hang someone out to dry, you abandon them when they are in trouble. 567 [B]Hangdog expression [/B] A hangdog expression is one where the person's showing their emotions very clearly, maybe a little too clearly for your liking. It's that mixture of misery and self-pity that is similar to a dog when it's trying to get something it wants but daren't take without permission. 568 [B]Hanged for a sheep as a lamb[/B] This is an expression meaning that if you are going to get into trouble for doing something, then you ought to stop worrying and should try to get everything you can before you get caught. 569 [B]Hard cheese[/B] Hard cheese means hard luck. 570 [B]Hard of hearing[/B] Someone who's hard of hearing is a bit deaf. 571 [B]Hard sell[/B] If someone puts a lot of pressure on you to do or buy something, they are hard selling it. 572 [B]Haste makes waste[/B] This idiom means that if you try to do something quickly, without planning it, you're likely to end up spending more time, money, etc, doing it. 573 [B]Hat trick [/B] Three successes one after the other is a hat trick. 574 [B]Hatchet job[/B] A piece of criticism that destroys someone's reputation is a hatchet job. 575 [B]Have a trick up your sleeve[/B] If you have a trick up your sleeve, you have a secret strategy to use when the time is right. 576 [B]Having a gas[/B] If you're having a gas, you are having a laugh and enjoying yourself in company. 577 [B]He'll rue the day [/B] He'll rue the day that he crossed me. This means that the person will one day bitterly regret what they have done. 578 [B]Head is in the clouds [/B] If a person has their head in the clouds, they have unrealistic, impractical ideas. 579 [B]Head nor tail [/B] If you can't make head nor tail of something, you cannot understand it at all or make any sense of it. 580 [B]Head on the block [/B] If someone's head is on the block, they are going to be held responsible and suffer the consequences for something that has gone wrong. 581 [B]Head over heels in love [/B] When someone falls passionately in love and is intoxicated by the feeling has fallen head over heels in love. 582 [B]Heads will roll[/B] If heads will roll, people will be punished or sacked for something that has gone wrong. 583 [B]Headstrong [/B] A headstrong person is obstinate and does not take other people's advice readily. 584 [B]Hear a pin drop [/B] If there is complete silence in a room, you can hear a pin drop. 585 [B]Heart in your boots [/B] If you're heart is in your boots, you are very unhappy. 586 [B]Heart of gold [/B] Somone with a heart of gold is a genuinely kind and caring person. 587 [B]Heaven knows[/B] If you ask someone a question and they say this, they have no idea. 588 [B]Heavenly bodies [/B] The heavenly bodies are the stars. 589 [B]Heavy-handed [/B] If someone is heavy-handed, they are insensitive and use excessive force or authority when dealing with a problem. 590 [B]edge your bets [/B] If you hedge your bets, you don't risk everything on one opportunity, but try more than one thing. 591 [B]Hell for leather[/B] If you do something hell for leather, especially running, you do it as fast as you can. 592 [B]Hell in a handcart [/B] If something is going to hell in a handcart, it is getting worse and worse, with no hope of stopping the decline. 593 [B]Herding cats [/B] If you have to try to co-ordinate a very difficult situation, where people want to do very different things, you are herding cats. 594 [B]Here today, gone tomorrow [/B] Money, happiness and other desirable things are often here today, gone tomorrow, which means that they don't last forever. 595 [B]Hiding to nothing[/B] If people are on a hiding to nothing, their schemes and plans have no chance of succeeding. 'Hiding to nowhere' is an alternative. 596 [B]High-handed[/B] If someone is high-handed, they behave arrogantly and pompously. 597 [B]High-wire act[/B] A high-wire act is a dangerous or risky strategy, plan, task, etc. 598 [B]Hit the bull's-eye [/B] If someone hits the bull's-eye, they are exactly right about something or achieve the best result possible."Bulls-eye" and "bullseye" are alternative spellings. 599 [B]Hit the fan[/B] When it hits the fan, or, more rudely, the shit hits the fan, serious trouble starts. 600 [B]Hit the ground running [/B] If someone hits the ground running, they start a new job or position in a very dynamic manner. 601 [B]Hit the hay [/B] When you hit the hay, you go to bed. 602 [B]Hit the mark [/B] If someone hits the mark, they are right about something. 603 [B]Hit the nail on the head.[/B] If someone hits the nail on the head, they are exactly right about something. 604 [B]Hit the roof [/B] If you lose your temper and get very angry, you hit the roof. 605 [B]Hit the sack [/B] When you hit the sack, you go to bed. 607 [B]Hoist with your own petard [/B] If you are hoist with your own petard, you get into trouble or caught in a trap that you had set for someone else. 608 [B]Hold all the aces[/B] If you hold all the aces, you have all the advantages and your opponents or rivals are in a weak position. 609 [B]Hold the baby [/B] If someone is responsible for something, they are holding the baby. 610 [B]Hold the bag [/B] If someone is responsible for something, they are holding the bag. 611 [B]Hold your horses[/B] If someone tells you to hold your horses. you are doing something too fast and they would like you to slow down. 612 [B]Hollow victory[/B] A hollow victory is where someone wins something in name, but are seen not to have gained anything by winning. 613 [B]Home stretch [/B] The home stretch is the last part of something, like a journey, race or project. 614 [B]Home, James [/B] This is a cliched way of telling the driver of a vehicle to start driving. It is supposed to be an order to a chauffeur (a privately employed driver). 615 [B]Honest truth [/B] If someone claims that something is the honest truth, they wish to sound extra-sincere about something. 616 [B]Honours are even [/B] If honours are even, then a competition has ended with neither side emerging as a winner. 617 [B]Hook, line, and sinker [/B] If somebody accepts or believes something hook, line, and sinker, they accept it completely. 618 [B] Hope against hope[/B] If you hope against hope, you hope for something even though there is little or no chance of your wish being fulfilled. 619 [B]Hope in hell[/B] If something hasn't got a hope in hell, it stands absolutely no chance of succeeding. 620 [B]Horns of a dilemma[/B] If you are on the horns of a dilemma, you are faced with two equally unpleasant options and have to choose one. 621 [B]Horse of a different color [/B] If something is a horse of a different color, it's a different matter or separate issue altogether. 622 [B]Horse trading [/B] Horse trading is an idiom used to describe negotiations, especially where these are difficult and involve a lot of compromise. 623 [B]Horses for courses[/B] Horses for courses means that what is suitable for one person or situation might be unsuitable for another. 624 [B]Hostile takeover[/B] If a company is bought out when it does not want to be, it is known as a hostile takeover. 625 [B]Hot ticket[/B] A hot ticket is something that is very much in demand at the moment. 626 [B]Hot water[/B] If you get into hot water, you get into trouble. 627 [B]How come[/B] If you want to show disbelief or surprise about an action, you can ask a question using 'how come'. How come he got the job? (You can't believe that they gave the job to somebody like him) 628 [B]How do you like them apples[/B] This idiomatic expression is used to express surprise or shock at something that has happened. It can also be used to boast about something you have done. 629 [B]How long is a piece of string[/B] If someone has no idea of the answer to a question, they can ask 'How long is a piece of string?' as a way of indicating their ignorance. 630 [B]Hue and cry[/B] Hue and cry is an expression that used to mean all the people who joined in chasing a criminal or villain. Nowadays, if you do something without hue and cry, you do it discreetly and without drawing attention. 631 [B]I hereby give notice of my intention[/B] Hereby is used sometimes in formal, official declarations and statements to give greater force to the speaker' or the writer's affirmation. People will say it sometimes to emphasise their sincerity and correctness. 632 [B]I should cocoa[/B] This idiom comes from 'I should think so', but is normally used sarcastically to mean the opposite. 633 [B]I'll eat my hat [/B] You can say this when you are absolutely sure that you are right to let the other person know that there is no chance of your being wrong. 634 [B]I've got a bone to pick with you[/B] If somebody says this, they mean that they have some complaint to make against the person they are addressing. 635 [B]If you'll pardon my French [/B] This idiom is used as a way of apologising for swearing. 636 [B]Ill-gotten gains[/B] Ill-gotten gains are profits or benefits that are made either illegally or unfairly. 637 [B]In a cleft stick[/B] If you are in a cleft stick, you are in a difficult situation, caught between choices. 638 [B]In a flash[/B] If something happens in a flash, it happens very quickly indeed. 638 [B]In a heartbeat [/B] If something happens very quickly or immediately, it happens in a heartbeat. 639 [B]In a jam[/B] If you are in a jam, you are in some trouble. 640 [B]In a jiffy[/B] If something happens in a jiffy, it happens very quickly. 641 [B]In a nutshell [/B] This idiom is used to introduce a concise summary. 642 [B]In a pickle [/B] If you are in a pickle, you are in some trouble or a mess. 643 [B]In a tick [/B] If someone will do something in a tick, they'll do it very soon or very quickly. 644 [B]In all honesty[/B] If you say something in all honesty, you are telling the complete truth. It can be used as a way of introducing a negative opinion whilst trying to be polite; in all honesty, I have to say that I wasn't very impressed. 645 [B]In an instant[/B] If something happens in an instant, it happens very rapidly. 646 [B]In cold blood [/B] If something is done in cold blood, it is done ruthlessly, without any emotion. 647 [B]In dire straits[/B] If you're in dire straits, you're in serious trouble or difficulties. 648 [B]In donkey's years [/B] 'I haven't seen her in donkey's years.' - This means for a very long time. 649 [B]In dribs and drabs[/B] If people arrivein dribs and drabs, they come in small groups at irregular intervals, instead of all arriving at the same time. 650 [B]In droves [/B] When things happen in droves, a lot happen at the same time or very quickly. 651 [B]In for a penny, in for a pound [/B] If something is worth doing then it is a case of iIn for a penny, in for a pound, which means that when gambling or taking a chance, you might as well go the whole way and take all the risks, not just some. 652 [B]In my bad books[/B] If you are in someone's bad books, they are angry with you. Likewise, if you are in their good books, they are pleased with you. 653 [B]In my book [/B] This idiom means 'in my opinion'. 654 [B]In my good books [/B] If someone is in your good books, you are pleased with or think highly of them at the momnent. 655 [B]In one ear and out the other [/B] If something goes in one ear and out the other, you forget it as soon as you've heard it because it was too complicated, boring etc. 656 [B]In over your head[/B] If someone is in over their head, they are out of the depth in something they are involved in, and may end up in a mess. 657 [B]In rude health[/B] If someone's in rude health, they are very healthy and look it. 658 [B]In stitches [/B] If someone is in stitches, they are laughing uncontrollably. 659 [B]In tandem[/B] If people do things in tandem, they do them at the same time. 660 [B]In the black[/B] If your bank account is in credit, it is in the black. 661 [B]In the club[/B] If a woman's in the club, she's pregnant. 'In the pudding club' is an alternative form. 662 [B]In the dock[/B] If someone is in the dock, they are on trial in court. 663 [B]In the doghouse [/B] If someone is in the doghouse, they are in disgrace and very unpopular at the moment. 664 [B]In the family way[/B] If a woman is in the family way, she is pregnant. 665 [B]In the hot seat[/B] If someone's in the hot seat, they are the target for a lot of unwelcome criticism and examination. 667 [B]In the long run[/B] This means 'over a long period of time', 'in the end' or 'in the final result'. 668 [B]In the offing[/B] If something is in the offing, it is very likely to happen soon. 669 [B]In the pink[/B] If you are in very good health, you are in the pink. 670 [B]In the pipeline[/B] If something's in the pipeline, it hasn't arrived yet but its arrival is expected. 671 [B]In the red [/B] If your bank account is overdrawn, it is in the red. 672 [B]In the same boat [/B] If people are in the same boat, they are in the same predicament or trouble. 673 [B]In the soup[/B] If you're in the soup, you're in trouble. 674 [B]In the swim [/B] If you are in the swim, you are up-to-date with and fully informed about something. 675 [B]In the twinkling of an eye[/B] If something happens in the twinkling of an eyeE, it happens very quickly. 676 [B]In two minds[/B] If you are in two minds about something, you can't decide what to do. 677 [B]In your face[/B] If someone is in your face, they are direct and confrontational. (It is sometime written 'in yer face'colloquially) 678 [B]In your sights[/B] If you have someone or something in your sights, they are your target to beat. 679 [B]Indian file [/B] If people walk in Indian file, they walk in a line one behind the other. 680 [B]Indian giver[/B] An Indian giver gives something, then tries to take it back. 681 [B]Indian summer[/B] If there is a period of warmer weather in late autumn, it is an Indian summer. 681 [B]Into thin air[/B] If something vanishes or disappears without trace, it vanishes into thin air; no-one knows where it has gone. 682 [B]Iron fist[/B] Someone who rules or controls something with an iron fist is in absolute control and tolerates no dissent. An iron fist in a velvet glove is used to describe someone who appears soft on the outside, but underneath is very hard. 'Mailed fist' is an alternative form. 683 [B]Irons in the fire[/B] A person who has a few irons in the fire has a number of things working to their advantage at the same time. 684 [B]It ain't over till the fat lady sings [/B] This idiom means that until something has officially finished, the result is uncertain. 685 [B]It cost an arm and a leg[/B] If something costs an arm and a leg, it is very expensive indeed. 686 [B]It cost the earth[/B] If something costs the earth, it is very expensive indeed. 687 [B]It's no use crying over spilt milk[/B] This idiom means that getting upset after something has gone wrong is pointless; it can't be changed so it should be accepted. 688 [B]Ivory tower[/B] People who live in ivory towers are detached from the world around them. 689 [B]Jack Frost [/B] If everything has frozen in winter, then Jack Frost has visited. 690 [B]Jack-of-all-trades[/B] A jack-of-all-trades is someone that can do many different jobs. 691 [B]Jane Doe[/B] Jane Doe is a name given to an unidentified female who may be party to legal proceddings, or to an unidentied person in hospital, or dead. John Doe is the male equivalent. 692 [B]Jersey justice[/B] Jersey justice is very severe justice. 693 [B]Jet-black[/B] To emphasise just how black something is, such as someone's hair, we can call it jet-black. 694 [B]Job's comforter [/B] Someone who says they want to comfort, but actually discomforts people is a Job's comforter. (Job's is pronounced 'jobes', not 'jobs') 695 [B]Jobs for the boys[/B] Where people give jobs, contracts, etc, to their friends and associates, these are jobs for the boys. 696 [B]Jockey for position [/B] If a number of people want the same opportunity and are struggling to emerge as the most likely candidate,they are jockeying for position. 697 [B]John Doe [/B] John Doe is a name given to an unidentified male who may be party to legal proceddings, or to an unidentied person in hospital, or dead. Jane Doe is the female equivalent. 698 [B]John Q Public [/B] John Q Public is the typical, average person. 699 [B]Johnny-come-lately[/B] A Johnny-come-lately is someone who has recently joined something or arrived somewhere, especially when they want to make changes that are not welcome. 700 B]Juggle frogs [/B] If you are juggling frogs, you are trying to do something very difficult. 701 [B]Jump on the bandwagon [/B] If people jump on the bandwagon, they get involved in something that has recently become very popular. 702 [B] Jump the gun [/B] If you jump the gun, you start doing something before the appropriate time. 703 [B]Jump through hoops [/B] If you are prepared to jump through hoops for someone, you are prepared to make great efforts and sacrifices for them. 704 [B]Jungle out there [/B] If someone says that it is a jungle out there, they mean that the situation is dangerours and there are no rules. 705 [B]Jury's out [/B] If the jury's out on an issue, then there is no general agreement or consensus on it. 706 [B]Just coming up to[/B] If the time is just coming up to nine o'clock, it means that it will be nine o'clock in a very few seconds. You'll hear them say it on the radio in the morning. 707 [B]Just deserts[/B] If a bad or evil person gets their just deserts, they get the punishment or suffer the misfortune that it is felt they deserve. 708 [B]Just in the nick of time[/B] If you do somethingin the nick of time, you just manage to do it just in time, with seconds to spare. 709 [B]Just off the boat[/B] If someone is just off the boat, they are naive and inexperienced. 710 [B]Kangaroo court[/B] When people take the law into their own hands and form courts that are not legal, these are known as kangaroo court. 711 [B]Keen as mustard[/B] If someone is very enthusiatic, they are as keen as mustard. 712 [B]Keep abreast[/B] If you keep abreast of things, you stay informed about developments. 713 [B]Keep at bay [/B] If you keep someone or something at bay, you maintain a safe distance from them. 714 [B]Keep body and soul together[/B] If you earn enough to cover your basic expenses, but nothing more than that, you earn enough to keep body and soul together. 715 [B]Keep mum[/B] If you keep mum about something, you keep quiet and don't tell anyone. 716 [B]Keep posted [/B] If you keep posted about something, you keep up-to-date with information and developments. 717 [B]Keep up with the Joneses[/B] People who try to keep up with the Joneses are competitive about material possessions and always try to have the latest and best things. 718 [B]Keep your chin up [/B] This expresion is used to tell someone to have confidence. 719 [B]Keep your ear to the ground [/B] If you keep your ear to the ground, you try to keep informed about something, especially if there are rumours or uncertainties. 720 [B]Keep your eye on the ball[/B] If you keep your eye on the ball, you stay alert and pay close attention to what is happening. 721 [B]Keep your fingers crossed[/B] If you are keeping your fingers crossed, you are hoping for a positive outcome. 722 [B]Keep your hair on[/B] Keep your hair on is advice telling someone to keep calm and not to over-react or get angry. 723 [B]Keep your head above water[/B] If you are just managing to survive financially, you are keeping your head above water. 724 [B]Keep your nose clean [/B] If someone is trying to keep their Nose Clean, they are trying to stay out of trouble by not getting involved in any sort of wrong-doing. 725 [B]Keep your pecker up[/B] If someone tells you to keep your pecker up, they are telling you not to let your problems get on top of you and to try to be optimistic. 726 [B]Keep your powder dry[/B] If you keep your powder dry, you act cautiously so as not to damage your chances. 727 [B]Keep your shirt on! [/B] This idiom is used to tell someone to calm down. 728 [B]Keep your wig on! [/B] This idiom is used to tell someone to calm down. 729 [B]Keeping your options open[/B] Is someone's keeping her or his options open, they aren't going to restrict themselves or rule out any possible course of action. 730 [B]Kettle of fish [/B] A pretty or fine kettle of fish is a difficult problem or situation. 731 [B]Kick away the ladder [/B] If someone kicks away the ladder, they remove something that was supporting or helping someone. 732 [B]Kick in the teeth[/B] Bad news or a sudden disappointment are a kick in the teeth. 733 [B]Kick something into the long grass [/B] If an issue or problem is kicked into the long grass, it is pushed aside and hidden in the hope that it will be forgotten or ignored. 734 [B]Kick the bucket[/B] When someone kicks the bucket, they die. 735 [B]Kid gloves[/B] If someone is handled with kid gloves, they are given special treatment and handled with great care. 736 [B]Kill the goose that lays the golden egg[/B] If you kill the goose that lays the golden egg, you ruin something that is very profitable. 737 [B]Kill two birds with one stone[/B] When you kill two birds with one stone, you resolve two difficulties or matters with a single action. 738 [B]Kindred spirit[/B] A kindred spirit is someone who feels and thinks the way you do. 739 [B]Kiss of death [/B] The kiss of death is an action that means failure or ruin for someone, a scheme, a plan, etc. 740 [B]Kith and kin[/B] Your kith and kin are your family; your next of kin are close relations you nominate to deal with your affairs in the event of your death on a document, like a passport. 741 [B]Knee-jerk reaction[/B] A knee-kerk reaction is an instant, instinctive response to a situation. 742 [B]Knock your socks off[/B] If something knocks your socks off, it amazes and surprises you, usually in a positive way. 743 [B]Know full well [/B] When you know full well, you are absolutely sure that you know. 744 [B]Know the ropes[/B] Someone who is experienced and knows how the system works know the ropes. 745 [B]Know which side one's bread is buttered on[/B] If you know which side one's bread is buttered on, you know where your interests lie and will act accordingly to protect or further them. 746 [B]Know your onions[/B] If someone is very well-informed about something, they know their onions. 747 [B]Know your place[/B] A person who knows their place doesn't try to impose themselves on others. 749 [B]Labor of love[/B] A labor of love is a project or task undertaking for the interest or pleasure in doing it rather than the reward, financial or otherwise. 750 [B]Labour of love [/B] A labour of love is a project or task undertaking for the interest or pleasure in doing it rather than the reward, financial or otherwise. 751 [B]Lame duck[/B] If something or someone is a lame duck, they are in trouble. 752 [B]Land of nod [/B] If someone has gone to the land of nod, they have fallen asleep or gone to bed. 753 [B]Lap of the gods[/B] If something is in the lap of the gods, it is beyond our control and fate will decide the outcome. 754 [B]Larger than life[/B] If something is excessive or exaggerated, it is larger than life. 755 [B]Last hurrah[/B] If an elderly person does something special before they die, it is a last hurrah. 756 [B]Last straw[/B] The last straw is the final problem that makes someone lose their temper or the problem that finally brought about the collapse of something. It comes from an Arabic story, where a camel was loaded with straw until a single straw placed on the rest of the load broke its back. 757 [B]Last-ditch [/B] A last-ditch attempt is a desperate attempt that will probably fail anyway. 758 [B]Law unto yourself[/B] If somebody's a law unto themselves, they do what they believe is right regardless of what is generally accepted as correct. 759 [B]Lay down the law [/B] If someone lays down the law, they tell people what to do and are authoritarian. 760 [B]Lead someone up the garden path[/B] If someone leads you up the garden path, they deceive you, or give you false information that causes you to waste your time.'Lead someone down the garden path' is also used. 761 [B]Leave no stone unturned [/B] If you look everywhere to find something, or try everything to achieve something, you leave no stone unturned. 762 [B]Leave well alone [/B] If you leave something well alone, you keep a safe distance from it, either physically or metaphorically. 763 [B]Left hand doesn't know what the right hand is doing [/B] If the left hand doesn't know what the right hand is doing, then communication within a company, organisation, group, etc, is so bad that people don't know what the others are doing. 764 [B]Left in the dark[/B] If you are left in the dark about something, you aren't given the information that you should have. 765 [B]Legend in your own lunchtime [/B] Somebody who becomes a legend in their own lifetime acquires fame, but often only to a select or specialist audience, while they are still alive. 766 [B]Lesser of two evils[/B] Something that is the lesser of two evils, is an unpleasant option, but not as bad as the other. 767 [B]Let bygones be bygones[/B] If people decide to let bygones be bygones, they decide to forget old problems or grievances they have with each other. 768 [B]Let sleeping dogs lie [/B] If someone is told to let sleeping dogs lie, it means that they shouldn't disturb a situation as it would result in trouble or complications. 769 [B]Let the cat out of the bag[/B] If you accidentally reveal a secret, you let the cat out of the bag. 770 [B]Let the devil take the hindmost [/B] This idiom means that you should think of yourself and not be concerned about other people; look after yourself and let the devil take the hindmost. 771 [B]Level playing field[/B] If there's a level playing field everybody is treated equally. 772 [B]Lie through your teeth [/B] Someone who is always lying, regardless of what people know, lies through their teeth. 773 [B]Light years ahead [/B] If you are light years ahead of others, you are a long way in front of them in terms of development, success, etc. 774 [B]Lightning rod [/B] Someone or something that attracts a lot of negative comment, often diverting attention from other probolems, is a lightning rod. 775 [B]Like a beached whale [/B] Once a whale is on a beach, it cannot get back into the easily, so if you are completely stuck somewhere and can't get away, you are stranded like a beached whale. 776 [B]Like a cat that got the cream[/B] If someone looks very pleased with themselves and happy, they look like a cat that got the cream. 777 [B]Like a duck to water[/B] If someone has a natural talent for something and enjoys it, they take to it like a duck to water. 778 [B]Like a fish needs a bicycle [/B] If someone needs something like a Fish Needs a Bicycle, they do not need it at all, originally a feminist slogan: A woman needs a man like a fish needs a bicycle. 779 [B]Like a fish out of water[/B] If someone feels like a fish out of water, they are very uncomfortable in the situation they are in. 780 [B]Like a rat deserting a sinking ship[/B] If people leave a company because they know that it's about to have serious problems, or turn their back on a person about to be in a similar situation, they are said to be like rats deserting a sinking ship. 781 [B]Like lambs to the slaughter[/B] If somebody does something unpleasant without any resistance, they go like lambs to the slaughter. 782 [B]Like taking candy from a baby [/B] If something is like taking candy from a baby, it is very easy to do. 783 [B]Like the clappers [/B] If something is going like the clappers, it is going very fast. 784 [B]Like there's no tomorrow[/B] If you do something like there's no tomorrow, you do it fast or energetically. 785 [B]Lily-livered [/B] Someone who is lily-livered is a coward. 786 [B]Lines of communication[/B] Lines of communication are the routes used to communicate by people or groups who are in conflict; a government might open lines of communication with terrorists if it wished to negotiate with them. 787 [B]Lip service [/B] When people pay lip service to something, they express their respect, but they don't act on their words, so the respect is hollow and empty. 788 [B]Live wire [/B] A person who is very active, both mentally and physically, is a live wire. 789 [B]Loan shark [/B] A loan shark lends money at very high rates of interest. 790 [B]Lock the stable door after the horse has bolted[/B] If someone takes action too late, they do this; there is no reason to lock an empty stable. 791 [B]Lock, stock and barrel [/B] This is an expressions that means 'everything'; if someone buys a company lock, stock and barrel, they buy absolutely everything to do with the company. 792 [B]Long in the tooth [/B] If someone is long in the tooth, they are a bit too old to do something. 793 [B]Long time no see [/B] Long time no see means that the speaker has not seen that person for a long time. 794 [B]Look after number 1 [/B] You are number one, so this idiom menas that you should think about yourself first, rather than worrying about other people. 795 [B]Look before you leap [/B] This idiom means that you should think carefully about the possible results or consequences before doing something. 796 [B]Look out for number one[/B] If you look out for number one, you take care of yourself and your interests, rather than those of other people. 797 [B]Lose the plot [/B] If someone loses the plot, they have stopped being rational about something. 798 [B]Lose your lunch [/B] If you lose your lunch, you vomit. 799 [B]Lose your marbles[/B] If someone has lost their marbles, they've gone mad. 800 [B]Lose your shirt [/B] If someone loses their shirt, they lose all their money through a bad investment, gambling, etc. 801 [B]Lower the bar [/B] If people change the standards required to make things easier, they lower the bar. 802 [B]Lower your sights [/B] If you lower your sights, you accept something that is less than you were hoping for. 803 [B]Luck of the draw [/B] To have the 'Luck of the draw' is to win something in a competition where the winner is chosen purely by chance. 804 [B]Mad as a badger [/B] If someone is as mad as a badger, they are crazy. 805 [B]Mad as a hornet[/B] If someone is as mad as a hornet, they are very angry indeed. 806 [B]Mad as a March hare[/B] Someone who is excitable and unpredictable is as mad as a March hare. 807 [B]Mailed fist [/B] Someone who rules or controls something with a mailed fist is in absolute control and tolerates no dissent. A mailed fist in a velvet glove is used to describe someone who appears soft on the outside, but underneath is very hard. 'Iron fist' is an alternative form. 808 [B]Major league [/B] Something major league is very important. 809 [B]Make a better fist[/B] If someone makes a better fist of doing something, they do a better job. 810 [B]Make a killing[/B] If you make a killing, you do something that makes you a lot of money. 811 [B]Make a mint [/B] If someone is making a mint, they are making a lot of money. 812 [B]Make a monkey of someone [/B] If you make a monkey of someone, you make them look foolish. 813 [B]Make a mountain out of a molehill[/B] If somebody makes a mountain out of a molehill, they exagerate the importance or seriousness of a problem. 814 [B]Make a pitch [/B] If you make a pitch for something, you make a bid, offer or other attempt to get it. 815 [B]Make a request [/B] If you request something, or make a request, you are asking for something you want or need. 816 [B]Make a song and dance [/B] If someone makes a song and dance, they make an unecessary fuss about something unimportant. 817 [B]Make an enquiry[/B] If you make an enquiry, you ask for general information about something. 818 [B]Make bets in a burning house [/B] If people are making bets in a burning house, they are engaged in futile activity, while serious problems around them are getting worse. 819 [B]Make ends meet[/B] If somebody finds it hard to make ends meet, they have problems living on the money they earn. 820 [B]Make hay[/B] If you make hay, or may hay while the sun shines, you take advantage of an opportunity as soon as it arises and do not waste time. 821 [B]Make headway [/B] If you make headway, you make progress. 822 [B]Make no bones about it [/B] If somebody make no bones about a scandal in their past, they are open and honest about it and show no shame or embarrassment. 823 [B]Make out like a bandit[/B] If someone is extremely successful in a venture, they make out like a bandit. 824 [B]Make waves[/B] If someone makes waves, they cause a lot of trouble. 825 [B]Make your blood boil [/B] If something makes your blood boil, it makes you very angry. 826 [B]Make your hair stand on end[/B] If something makes your hair stand on end, it terrifies you. 827 [B]Man in the street[/B] The man in the street is an idiom to describe ordinary people, especially when talking about their opinions and ideas. 828 [B]Man of letters[/B] A man of letters is someone who is an expert in the arts and literature, and often a writer too. 829 [B]Man of means [/B] A man, or woman, of means is wealthy. 830 [B]Man of straw [/B] A weak person that can easily be beaten of changed is a man of straw. 831 [B]Man of the cloth[/B] A man of the cloth is a priest. 832 [B]Man's best friend [/B] This is an idiomatic term for dogs. 833 [B]Man's man [/B] A man's man is a man who does things enjoyed by men and is respected by other men. 834 [B]Many a slip twixt cup and lip [/B] There's many a slip twixt cup and lip means that many things can go wrong before something is achieved. 835 [B]Mark my words[/B] Mark my words is an expression used to lend an air of seriousness to what the speaker is about to say when talking about the future. You often hear drunks say it before they deliver some particularly spurious nonsense. 836 [B]Marked man[/B] A marked man is a person who is being targetted by people who want to do them harm or cause them trouble. 837 [B]Matter of life and death [/B] If something is a matter of life and death, it is extremely important. 838 [B]Mealy-mouthed [/B] A mealy-mouthed person doesn't say what they mean clearly. 839 [B]Meet someone halfway[/B] If you meet someone halfway, you accept some of their ideas and make concessions. 840 [B]Meet your expectations [/B] If something doesn't meet your expectations, it means that it wasn't as good as you had thought it was going to be; a disappointment. 841 [B]Meet your match [/B] If you meet your match, you meet a person who is at least as good if not better than you are at something. 842 [B]Megaphone diplomacy[/B] If negotiations between countries or parties are held through press releases and announcements, this is megaphone diplomacy, aiming to force the other party into adopting a desired position. 843 [B]Memory like a sieve[/B] If somebody can't retain things for long in his or her memory and quickly forgets, he or she has a memory like a sieve. A sieve has lots of tiny holes in it to let liquids out while keeping the solids inside. 844 [B]Memory like an elephant [/B] 'An elephant never forgets' is a saying, so if a person has a memory like an elephant, he or she has a very good memory indeed. 845 [B]Mickey Mouse [/B] If something is Mickey Mouse, it is intellectually trivial or not of a very high standard. 846 [B]Midas touch[/B] If someone has the Midas touch, they make a lot of money out of any scheme they try. 847 [B]Mighty oaks from little acorns grow [/B] Big or great things start very small. 848 [B]Millstone round your neck[/B] A millstone around your neck is a problem that prevents you from doing what you want to do. 849 [B]Mind the gap[/B] Mind the gap is an instruction used on the Underground in the UK to warn passengers to be careful when leaving the tube or train as there is quite a distance between the train and the platform. 850 [B]Mind Your P's and Q's[/B] If you are careful about the way you behave and are polite, you mind Your P's and Q's. 851 [B]Mint condition[/B] If something is in mint condition, it is in perfect condition. 852 [B]Misery guts [/B] A misery guts is a person who's always unhappy and tries to make others feel negative. 853 [B]Miss is as good as a mile[/B] A miss is as good as a mile means that if you fail, even by the smallest margin, it is still a failure. 854 [B]Miss the boat[/B] If you miss the boat, you are too late to take advantage of an opportunity. 855 [B]Money laundering[/B] If people launder money, they get money made illegally into the mainstream so that it is believed to be legitimate and clean. 856 [B]Money to burn [/B] If someone is very rich, they have money to burn. 857 [B]Monkey business [/B] If children get up to monkey business, they are behaving naughtily or mischievously. This is the same as MONKEYING AROUND. 858 [B]Moot point [/B] If something's a moot point, there's some disagreement about it; a debatable point. 859 [B]More haste, less speed [/B] The faster you try to do something, the more likely you are to make mistakes that make you take longer than it would had you planned it. 860 [B]More heat than light [/B] If a discussion generates more heat than light, it doesn't provide answers, but does make people angry. 861 [B]More than one string to their bow[/B] A person who has more than one string to their bow has different talents or skills to fall back on. 862 [B]Move the goalposts [/B] When people move the goalposts, they change the standards required for something to their advantage. 863 [B]Mover and shaker[/B] A person who is a mover and shaker is a highly-respected, key figure in their particular area with a lot of influence and importance. 864 [B]Mud in your eye [/B] This is a way of saying 'cheers' when you are about to drink something, normally alcohol. 865 [B]Mud-slinging [/B] If someone is mud-slinging, they are insulting someone and trying to damage that person's reputation. 866 [B]Muddy the waters [/B] If somebeody muddies the waters, he or she makes the situation more complex or less clear. 867 [B]Murky waters [/B] Where people are behaving in morally and ethically questionable ways, they are in murky waters. 868 [B]Music to my ears[/B] If something someone says is music to your ears, it is exactly what you had wanted to hear. 869 [B]Mutton dressed as lamb[/B] Mutton dressed as lamb is term for middle-aged or elderly people trying to look younger. 870 [B]My hands are full[/B] If your hands are full, you have so much to do that you cannot take on any more work, responsibilities and so on. 871 [B]My hands are tied[/B] If your hands are tied, you are unable to act for some reason 872 [B]Nail in the coffin[/B] A nail in someone or something's coffin is a problem or event that is a clear step towards an inevitable failure. 873 [B]Nature abhors a vacuum [/B] This idiom is used to express the idea that empty or unfilled spaces are unnatural as they go against the laws of nature and physics. 874 [B]Neck and neck[/B] If two competitors or candidates, etc, are neck and neck, then they are very close and neither is clearly winning. 875 [B]Neck of the woods[/B] If someone talks about their neck of the woods, they mean the area where they live. 876 [B]Needle in a haystack[/B] If trying to find something is like looking for a needle in a haystack, it means that it is very difficult, if not impossible to find among everything around it. 877 [B]Neither fish nor fowl [/B] Something or someone that is neither fish nor fowl doesn't really fit into any one group. 878 [B]Nest egg[/B] If you have some money saved for the future, it is a nest egg. 879 [B]Never a rose without the prick[/B] This means that good things always have something bad as well; like the thorns on the stem of a rose. 880 [B]New blood[/B] If something needs new blood, it has become stale and needs new ideas or people to invigorate it. 881 [B]New brush sweeps clean[/B] 'A new brush sweeps clean' means that someone with a new perspective can make great changes. However, the full version is 'a new brush sweeps clean, but an old brush knows the corners', which warns that experience is also a valuable thing. Sometimes 'broom' is used instead of 'brush'. 882 [B]New lease of life[/B] If someone finds new enthusiasm and energy for something, they have a new lease of life. 883 [B]New man [/B] A New man is a man who believes in complete equality of the sexes and shares domestic work equally. 884 [B]New York minute[/B] If something happens in a New York minute, it happens very fast. 885 [B]Newfangled [/B] People who don't like new methods, technologies, etc, describe them as newfangled, which means new but not as good or nice as the old ones. 886 [B]Nick of time[/B] If you do something in the nick of time, you do it at the very last minute or second. 887 [B]Ninth circle of hell[/B] In Dante's Inferno, the ninth circle of hell is the centre where the worst punishments are found, so it is used idiomatically for something that couldn't get worse. 888 [B]Nip it in the bud[/B] If you nip something in the bud, you deal with a problem when it is still small, before it can grow into something serious. 889 [B]Nitty gritty[/B] If people get down to the nitty gritty, they concentrate on the most important and serious issues. 890 [B]No bed of roses[/B] If something isn't a bed of roses, it is difficult. 891 [B]No can do [/B] No can do means that the speaker can't do whatever it is that has been asked of him or her. 892 [B]No great shakes [/B] If someone is no great shakes at something, they are not very good at it. 893 [B]No holds barred [/B] If there are no holds barred, there are no rules of conduct; you can do anything. 894 [B]No ifs or buts[/B] Ifs and Buts is a term used to describe the reasons people give for not wanting to do something. To show that you don't wish to accept any excuses, you can tell somebody that you wish to hear no ifs or buts Here IF & BUT have become nouns 895 [B]No love lost [/B] If there is no love lost between two people they have a strong enmity towards or hate for the other and make no effort to conceal it. 896 [B]No quarter [/B] This means without mercy. We can say no quarter given or asked. 897 [B]No question [/B] This idiom means that something is certain or definite. 898 [B]No questions asked[/B] If something is to be done and no questions asked, then it doesn't matter what methods are used or what rules are broken to ensure that it gets done. 899 [B]No spring chicken[/B] If someone is no spring chicken, they aren't very young. 900 [B]No time for[/B] If you have no time for an activity, you have absolutely no desire to spend or waste any time doing it. You can have no time for people, too. 901 [B]No time like the present[/B] If people say that there's no time like the present , they believe that it is far better to do something now than to leave it for later, in which case it might never get done. 902 [B]No time to lose[/B] If there's no time to lose, then it's time to get started otherwise it won't be finished on time. 903 [B]Not all there [/B] If someone isn't all there, they are a little bit stupid or crazy. 904 [B]Not cricket [/B] If something is not cricket, it is unfair. 905 [B]Not enough room to swing a cat [/B] If a room is very small, you can say that there isn't enough room to swing a cat in it. 906 [B]Not much cop[/B] Describing a film or something as not much cop is a way of saying that you didn't think much of it. 907 [B]Not my cup of tea[/B] If something is not your cup of tea, you don't like it very much. 908 [B]Not to be sneezed at[/B] If something is not to be sneezed at, it should be taken seriously. 909 [B]Notch on your belt[/B] A success or achievement that might help you in the future is a notch on your belt. 910 [B]Number cruncher[/B] A number cruncher is an accountant or someone who is very good at dealing with numbers and calculations. 911 [B]Nuts and bolts[/B] The nuts and bolts are the most essential components of something. 912 [B]Odds and ends[/B] Odds and ends are small, remnant articles and things- the same as bits and bobs. 913 [B]Off colour[/B] If someone looks off colour/color, they look ill. 914 [B]Off the chart[/B] If something goes off the chart, it far exceeds the normal standards, good or bad, for something. 915 [B]Off the cuff [/B] If you do something off the cuff, you do it without any preparation. 916 [B]Off the hook [/B] If someone is off the hook, they have avoided punishment or criticism for something they have done. 917 [B]Off the mark [/B] If something is off the mark, it is inaccurate or incorrect. 918 [B]Off the rails[/B] If someone has gone off the rails, they have lost track of reality. 919 [B]Off the scale[/B] If something goes off the scale, it far exceeds the normal standards, good or bad, for something. 920 [B]Off the wall[/B] Something that is off the wall is unconventional. 921 [B]Off your rocker[/B] Someone who is off their rocker is crazy. 922 [B]Off-hand[/B] Off-hand means without preparation. People say that they don't know the answer off-hand, meaning that they don't know it at that time. 923 [B]Old hat[/B] If something's old hat, it seems rather old fashioned and dated. 924 [B]Oldest trick in the book[/B] The oldest trick in the book is a well-known way of deceiving someone, though still effective. 925 [B]Olive branch [/B] If you hold out or offer an olive branch, you make a gesture to indicate that you want peace. 926 [B]On a fishing expedition [/B] If someone is on a fishing expedition, they are trying to get information, often using incorrect or improper ways to find things out. 927 [B]On Carey Street [/B] If someone is on Carey Street, they are heavily in debt or have gone bankrupt. 928 [B]On hold [/B] If something is on hold, no action is being taken. 929 [B]On ice[/B] If plans are put on ice, they are delayed and no action will be taken for the foreseeable future. 930 [B]On tenterhooks[/B] This means that she is waiting impatiently and excitedly for something. 931 [B]On the ball[/B] If someone's on the ball, they are well-informed and know what's going on in their area of responsibility or interest. 932 [B]On the blink[/B] Is a machine is on the blink, it isn't working properly or is out of order. 933 [B]On the blower [/B] If someone is on the blower, they are on the phone. 934 [B]On the case [/B] If someone is on the case, they are dealing with a problem. 935 [B]On the dot [/B] If someone says that they're leaving at seven on the dot, don't be late; they mean at exactly seven o'clock. 936 [B]On the fiddle[/B] Someone who is stealing money from work is on the fiddle, especially if they are doig it by fraud. 937 [B]On the fly[/B] If you do things on the fly, you do things without preparation, responding to events as they happen. 938 [B]On the game[/B] A person who is on the game works as a prostitute. 939 [B]On the ground[/B] Events on the ground are where things are actually happening, not at a distance. 940 [B]On the hoof [/B] If you decide something on the hoof, you do it without planning, responding to events as they happen. 941 [B]On the level[/B] If someone is honest and trustworthy, they are on the level. 942 [B]On the line[/B] If somebody's job is on the line, they stand a very good chance of losing it. 943 [B]On the map[/B] If a place becomes widely known, it is put on the map. A place that remains unknown is off the map. 944 [B]On the never-never[/B] If you buy something on the never-never, you buy it on long-term credit. 945 [B]On the nod[/B] Someone who has taken a lot of drugs and is barely conscious is on the nod. 946 [B]On the right foot [/B] If you start something or set off on the right foot, you get off to a good start. 947 [B]On the shelf[/B] If something like a project is on the shelf, nothing is being done about it at the moment. 948 [B]On the sly[/B] If someone does something on the sly, they do it furtively or secretly. 949 [B]On the stump[/B] When politicians are campaigning for support and votes, they are on the stump. 950 [B]On the take [/B] Someone who is stealing from work is on the take. 951 [B]On the tip of your tongue[/B] If a word is on the tip of your tongue, you know you know the word, but you just can't quite remember it at the moment. 952 [B]On the trot[/B] This idiom means 'consecutively'; I'd saw them three days on the trot, which means that I saw them on three consecutive days. 953 [B]On the up and up [/B] If you are on the up and up, you are making very good progress in life and doing well. 954 [B]On the wagon [/B] If someone is on the wagon, they have stopped drinking alcohol. 955 [B]On top of the world[/B] If you are on top of the world, everything is going well for you. 956 [B]On your high horse[/B] When someone is on their high horse, they are being inflexible, arrogant and will not make any compromises. 957 [B]On your last legs [/B] If someone's on their last legs, they're close to dying. 958 [B]Once bitten, twice shy[/B] If somebody is said to be once bitten twice shy, it means that someone who has been hurt or who has had something go wrong will be far more careful the next time. 959 [B]One bad apple[/B] The full form of this proverb is 'one bad apple spoils the barrel', meaning that a bad person, policy, etc, can ruin everything around it. 960 [B]One fell swoop[/B] If something is done at one fell swoop, it is done in a single period of activity, usually swiftly and ruthlessly. 961 [B]One man's meat is another man's poison [/B] This idiom means that one person can like something very much, but another can hate it. 962 [B]One over the eight [/B] Someone who is one over the eight is drunk. 963 [B]One-man band[/B] If one person does all the work or has all the responsibility somewhere, then they are a one-man band. 964 [B]One-off[/B] A one-off event only happens once and will not be repeated. 965 [B]Open all hours[/B] If a shop or suchlike is open all hours, it only closes, if at all, terribly late. 966 [B]Open book[/B] If a person is an open book, it is easy to know what they think or how they feel about things. 967 [B]Opening a can of worms[/B] If you open a can of worms, you do something that will cause a lot of problems and is, on balance, probably going to cause more trouble than it's worth. 968 [B]Opportunity knocks but once[/B] This idiom means that you only get one chance to achieve what you really want to do. 969 [B]Out and about [/B] If someone is out and about, they have left their home and are getting things done that they need to do. 970 [B]Out in the sticks[/B] If someone lives out in the sticks, they live out in the country, a long way from any metropolitan area. 971 [B]Out like a light[/B] If you are out like a light, you fall fast asleep. 972 [BOut of pocket[/B] If you are out of pocket on a deal, you have lost money. 973 [B]Out of sight, out of mind[/B] Out of sight, out of mind is used to suggest that someone will not think or worry about something if it isn't directly visible or available to them. 974 [B]Out of sorts[/B] If you are feeling a bit upset and depressed, you are out of sorts. 975 [B]Out of the blue[/B] If something happens out of the blue, it happens suddenly and unexpectedly. 976 [B]Out of the frying pan, into the fire[/B] If you get out of one problem, but find yourself in a worse situation, you are out of the frying pan, into the fire. 977 [B]Out of your own pocket[/B] If someone does something out of their own pocket, they pay all the expenses involved. 978 [B]Out on a limb[/B] If somebody's out on a limb, they are in a very exposed position and could get into difficulties. 979 [B]Out to lunch[/B] If someone's out to lunch, they are crazy or out of touch. 980 [B]Over a barrel[/B] If someone has you over a barrel, they have you in a position where you have no choice but to accept what they want. 981 [B]Over the counter[/B] Medicines and drugs that can be sold without a doctor's prescription are sold over the counter. 982 [B]Over the moon[/B] If you are over the moon about something, you are overjoyed. 983 [B]Over your head[/B] If something is over your head, or goes over your head, it is too complex or difficult for you to understand. 984 [B]Pain in the neck[/B] If someone is very annoying and always disturbing you, they are a pain in the neck. 985 [B]Paint the town red[/B] If you go out for a night out with lots of fun and drinking, you paint the town red. 986 [B]Paint yourself into a corner[/B] If someone paints themselves into a corner, they get themselves into a mess. 987 [B]Paper tiger[/B] A paper tiger is a person, country, institution, etc, that looks powerful, but is actually weak. 988 [B]Par for the course[/B] If something is par for the course, it is what you expected it would be. If it is above par, it is better, and if it is below par, it is worse. 989 [B]Parrot fashion[/B] If you learn something parrot fashion, you learn it word for word. A parrot is a bird from South America that can talk. 990 [B]Part and parcel[/B] If something is part and parcel of your job, say, it is an essential and unavoidable part that has to be accepted. 991 [B]Pass muster[/B] If something passes muster, it meets the required standard. 992 [B]Pass the buck [/B] If you pass the buck, you avoid taking responsibility by saying that someone else is responsible. 993 [B]Pass the time of day[/B] If you pass the time of day with somebody, you stop and say hello, enquire how they are and other such acts of social politeness. 994 [B]Patience of Job[/B] If something requires the patience of Job, it requires great patience. 995 [B]Pay on the nail[/B] If you pay on the nail, you pay promptly in cash. 996 [B]Pay through the nose[/B] If you pay through the nose for something, you pay a very high price for it. 997 [B]Pecking order[/B] The pecking order is the order of importance or rank. 998 [B]Pen is mightier than the sword [/B] The idiom 'the pen is mightier than the sword' means that words and communication are more powerful than wars and fighting. 999 [B]Penny wise, pound foolish[/B] Someone who is penny wise, pound foolish can be very careful or mean with small amounts of money, yet wasteful and extravagant with large sums. 1000 [B]Perfidious Albion[/B] England is known to some as perfidious Albion, implying that it is not trustworthy in its dealings with foreigners. 1001 [B]Perish the thought[/B] Perish the thought is an expression meaning that you really hope something will not happen. 1002 [B]Pick up the tab [/B] A person who pays for everyone picks up the tab. 1003 [B]Pick-up game [/B] A pick-up game is something unplanned where people respond to events as they happen. 1004 [B]Pie in the sky [/B] If an idea or scheme is pie in the sky, it is utterly impractical. 1005 [B]Piece of cake[/B] If something is a piece of cake, it is really easy. 1006 [B]Pig in a poke[/B] If someone buys a pig in a poke, they buy something without checking the condition it was in, usually finding out later that it was defective. 1007 [B]Pigs might fly[/B] If you think something will never happen or succeed, you can say that 'pigs might fly' (or 'pigs can fly' and 'pigs will fly'- the idiom is used in many forms) 1008 [B]Pin money [/B] If you work for pin money, you work not because you need to but because it gives you money for extra little luxuries and treats. 1009 [B]Pink pound[/B] In the UK, the pink pound is an idiom for the economic power of gay people. 1010 [B]Pipe dream[/B] A pipe dream is an unrealistic, impractical idea or scheme. 1011 [B]Piping hot[/B] If food is piping hot, it is very hot indeed. 1012 [B]Plain as a pikestaff[/B] If something is as plain as a pikestaff, it is very clear. 1013 [B]Plain as the nose on your face[/B] If something is as plain as the nose on your face, it is very clear and obvious. 1014 [B]Plain sailing [/B] If something is relatively easy and there are no problems doing it, it is plain sailing. 1015 [B]Plastic Smile [/B] When someone is wearing a plastic smile, they are appear to be happier with a situation or events than they actually are. This is actually a description of the forced smile you might see in many photographs. 1016 [B]Play hardball [/B] If someone plays hardball, they are very agressive in trying to achieve their aim. 1017 [B]Play havoc[/B] Playing havoc with something is creating disorder and confusion; computer viruses can play havoc with your programs. 1018 [B]Play it by ear [/B] If you play it by ear, you don't have a plan of action, but decide what to do as events take shape. 1019 [B]Play out of your skin[/B] If someone plays out of their skin, they give an outstanding performance. 1020 [B]Play second fiddle [/B] If you play second fiddle, you take a subordinate role behind someone more important. 1021 [B]Play the field [/B] Someone who plays the field has sexual relationships with many people. 1022 [B]Playing to the glallery[/B] If someone plays to the gallery, they say or do things that will make them popular, but which are not the right things to do. 1023 [B]Pointy-heads [/B] Pointy-heads are supposed intellectuals or experts, but who don't really know that much. 1024 [B]Pop the question[/B] When someone pops the question, they ask someone to marry them. 1025 [B]Pop your clogs [/B] When someone pops their clogs, they die. 1026 [B]Pork barrel [/B] Pork barrel politics involves investing money in an area to get political support rather than using the money for the common good. 1027 [B]Pot-luck [/B] If you take pot-luck, you take whatever happens to be available at the time. 1028 [B]Powder your nose [/B] If somebody goes to powder your nose, it is a euphemism for going to the lavatory (toilet). 1029 [B]Powers that Be[/B] The Powers that Be are the people who are in charge of something. 1030 [B]Primrose path[/B] The primrose path is an easy and pleasurable lifestyle, but one that ends in unpleasantness and problems. 1031 [B]Proclaim it from the rooftops[/B] If something is proclaimed from the rooftops, it is made as widely known and as public as possible. 1032 [B]Prodigal son [/B] A prodigal son is a young man who wastes a lot on money on a lavish lifestyle. If the prodigal son returns, they return to a better way of living. 1033 [B]Pull in the reins [/B] When you pull in the reins, you slow down or stop something that has been a bit out of control. 1034 [B]Pull no punches [/B] If you pull no punches, you hold nothing back. 1035 [B]Pull someone's leg [/B] If you pull someone's leg, you tease them, but not maliciously. 1036 [B]Pull strings[/B] If you pull strings, you use contacts you have got to help you get what you want. 1037 [B]Pull the other one, it's got brass bells on[/B] This idiom is way of telling somebody that you don't believe them. The word 'brass' is optional. 1038 [B]Pull the wool over someone's eyes[/B] If you pull the wool over someone's eyes, you deceive or cheat them. 1039 [B]Pull up your socks[/B] If you aren't satified with someone and want them to do better, you can tell them to pull up their socks. 1040 [B]Pull your chain[/B] If someone pulls your chain, they take advantage of you in an unfair way or do something to annoy you. 1041 [B]Pull your finger out![/B] If someone tells you to do this, they want you to hurry up. 1042 [B]Pull your punches[/B] If you pull your punches, you don't do something as hard as you could, or don't criticise someone as much as you could. 1043 [B]Pull your punches[/B] If you pull your punches, you do not use all the power or authority at your disposal. 1044 [B]Pull your weight[/B] If someone is not pulling their weight, they aren't making enough effort, especially in group work. 1045 [B]Punching bag [/B] A punching bag (or punch bag) is a person who gets a lot of unfair criticism. 1046 [B]Pup's chance [/B] A pup's chance is no chance. 1047 [B]Push the envelope [/B] This means to go to the limits, to do something to the maximum possible. 1048 [B]Pushing up the daisies[/B] If someone is said to be pushing up the daisies, they are dead. 1049 [B]Put all your eggs in one basket[/B] If you put all your eggs in one basket, you risk everything on a single opportunity which, like eggs breaking, could go wrong. 1050 [B]Put or get someone's back up [/B] If you put or get someone's back up, you annoy them. 1051 [B]Put somebody's nose out of joint[/B] If you put someone's nose out of joint, you irritate them or make them angry with you. 1052 [B]Put your foot down [/B] When someone puts their foot down, they make a firm stand and establish their authority on an issue. 1053 [B]Put your foot in it [/B] If you put your foot in it, you do or say something embarrassing and tactless or get yourself into trouble. 1054 [B]Putting the cart before the horse [/B] When you put the cart before the horse, you are doing something the wrong way round 1055 [B]Pyrrhic victory [/B] A Pyrrhic victory is one that causes the victor to suffer so much to achieve it that it isn't worth winning. |
idioms(Q...........Z)
[B]Queen of Hearts[/B] A woman who is pre-eminent in her area is a Queen of Hearts.
[B]Queer fish [/B] A strange person is a queer fish. [B]Queer Street [/B] If someone is in a lot of trouble, especially financial, they are in Queer Street. [B]Queer your pitch [/B] If someone queers your pitch, they interfere in your affairs and spoil things. [B]Queue jumping [/B] Someone who goes to the front of a queue instead of waiting is jumping the queue. [B]Quick as a flash [/B] If something happens quick as a flash, it happens very fast indeed. [B]Quick buck[/B] If you make some money easily, you make a quick buck. [B]Quick off the mark[/B] If someone is quick off the mark, they are very quick to use, start or do something new. [B]Quick on the trigger[/B] Someone who is quick on the trigger acts or responds quickly. [B]Quids in [/B] If somebody is quids in, they stand to make a lot of money from something. [B]Quiet as a mouse[/B] If someone's as quiet as a mouse, they make absolutely no noise. [B]Rack and ruin [/B] If something or someone goes to rack and ruin, they are utterly destroyed or wrecked. [B]Rags to riches[/B] Someone who starts life very poor and becomes rich, goes from rags to riches. [B]Raining cats and dogs [/B] When it is raining cats and dogs, it is raining very heavily. [B]Rainy day[/B] If you save something, especially money, for a rainy day, you save it for some possible problem or trouble in the future. [B]Raise Cain[/B] If someone raises Cain, they make a big fuss publicly, causing a disturbance. [B]Rake over old coals [/B] If you go back to old problems and try to bring them back, making trouble for someone, you are raking over old coals. [B]Rake someone over the coals[/B] If you rake someone over the coals, you criticize or scold them severely. [B]Rather you than me[/B] Rather you than me is an expression used when someone has something unpleasant or arduous to do. It is meant in a good natured way of expressing both sympathy and having a bit of a laugh at their expense. [B]Raw deal [/B] If you get a raw deal, you are treated unfairly. [B]Read someone the riot act[/B] If you read someone the riot act, you give them a clear warning that if they don't stop doing something, they will be in serious trouble. [B]Real trooper[/B] A real trooper is someone who will fight for what they believe in and doesn't give up easily. [B]Recipe for disaster[/B] A recipe for disaster is a mixture of people and events that could only possibly result in trouble. [B]Red herring [/B] If something is a distraction from the real issues, it is a red herring. [B]Red letter day [/B] A red letter day is a one of good luck, when something special happens to you. [B]Red light district[/B] The red light district is the area of a town or city where there is prostitution, sex shops, etc. [B]Red mist [/B] If someone sees red or the red mist, they lose their temper and self-control completely. [B]Red rag to a bull[/B] If something is a red rag to a bull, it is something that will inevitably make somebody angry or cross. [B]Red tape [/B] This is a negative term for the official paperwork and bureaucracy that we have to deal with. [B]Reinvent the wheel[/B] If someone reinvents the wheel, they waste their time doing something that has already been done by other people, when they could be doing something more worthwhile. [B]Rest is gravy [/B] If the rest is gravy, it is easy and straightforward once you have reached that stage. [B]Rest on your laurels [/B] If someone rests on their laurels, they rely on their past achievements, rather than trying to achieve things now. [B]Revenge is sweet [/B] When you are happy to be proved right, then you know that revenge is sweet. [B]Rewrite history [/B] If you rewrite history, you change your version of past events so as to make yourself look better than you would if the truth was told. [B]Rice missionary [/B] A rice missionary gives food to hungry people as a way of converting them to Christianity. [B]Rich as Croesus [/B] Someone who is as rich as Croesus is very wealthy indeed. [B]Right as rain [/B] If things are right as rain, then everything is going well in your life. [B]Right royal [/B] A right royal night out would be an extremely exciting, memorable and fun one. [B]Ring a bell [/B] If something rings a bell, it reminds you of something you have heard before, though you may not be able to remember it very well. A name may ring a bell, so you know you have heard the name before, but cannot place it properly. [B]Ringside seat [/B] If you have a ringside seat, you can observe something from a very close and clear position. [B]Rob Peter to pay Paul[/B] If you rob Peter to pay Paul, you try to solve one problem, but create another in doing so, often through short-term planning. [B]Rock the boat [/B] If you rock the boat, you destabilise a situation by making trouble. It is often used as advice; 'Don't rock the boat'. [B]Rocket science[/B] If something is not rocket science, it is not very complicated or difficult to understand. This idiom is normally used in the negative. [B]Rolling in the aisles [/B] If the audience watching something are laughing loudly, the show has them rolling in the aisles. [B]Rome was not built in a day[/B] This idiom means that many things cannot be done instantly, and require time and patience. [B]Rooted to the spot[/B] If someone is rooted to the spot, they canot move, either physically or they cannot think their way out of a problem. [B]Rough diamond[/B] A rough diamond is a person who might be a bit rude but who is good underneath it all. [B]Rough-hewn [/B] If something, especially something made from wood or stone, is rough-hewn, it is unfinished or unpolished. [B]Round the bend [/B] If someone has gone round the bend, they have stopped being rational about something. If something drives you round the bend, it irritates you or makes you angry. [B]Round the houses [/B] If you go round the houses, you do something in an inefficient way when there is a quicker, more convenient way. [B]Rub someone up the wrong way[/B] If you annoy or irritate someone when you didn't mean to, you rub them up the wrong way. [B]Ruffle a few feathers[/B] If you ruffle a few feathers, you annoy some people when making changes or improvements. [B]Rule of thumb [/B] Rule of thumb means approximately. [B]Run before you can walk[/B] If someone tries to run before they can walk, they try to do something requiring a high level of knowledge before they have learned the basics. [B]Run circles around someone [/B] If you can run circles around someone, you are smarter and intellectually quicker than they are. [B]Run out of gas [/B] If a campaign, project, etc, runs out of gas, it loses energy and momentum, and progress slows or halts. [B]Run rings around someone[/B] If you run rings around someone, you are so much better than them that they have no chance of keeping up with you. [B]Run the gauntlet[/B] If somebody is being criticised harshly by a lot of people, they are said to run the gauntlet. [B]Run the show[/B] If someone runs the show, they like to be in control and make all the decisions. [B]Run-of-the-mill [/B] If something is run-of-the-mill, there is nothing exceptional about it- it is ordinary or average. [B]Running on empty[/B] If you are exhausted but keep going, you are running on empty. [B]Russian roulette[/B] If people take a dangerous and unnecessary risk, they are playing Russian roulette. [B]Sacred cow [/B] Something that is a sacred cow is held in such respect that it cannot be criticised or attacked. [B]Safe and sound [/B] If you arrive safe and sound, then nothing has harmed you on your way. [B]Safe bet [/B] A proposition that is a safe bet doesn't have any risks attached. [B]Safe pair of hands [/B] A person who can be trusted to do something without causing any trouble is a safe pair of hands. [B]Sail close to the wind[/B] If you sail close to the wind, you take risks to do something, going close to the limit of what is allowed or acceptable. [B]Sail under false colours[/B] Someone who sails under false colours (colors) is hypocritical or pretends to be something they aren't in order to deceive people. [B]Salad days[/B] Your salad days are an especially happy period of your life. [B]Salt of the earth [/B] People who are salt of the earth are decent, dependable and unpretentious. [B]Save face [/B] If someone saves face, they manage to protect their reputation. [B]Save someone's bacon[/B] If something saves your bacon, it saves your life or rescues you from a desperate situation. People can also save your bacon. [B]Save your skin [/B] If someone saves their skin, they manage to avoid getting into serious trouble. [B]Saved by the bell[/B] If you are saved by the bell, you are rescued from a danger or a tricky situation just in time. [B]Saving grace [/B] If someone has some character defects, but has a characteristic that compensate for their failings and shortcomings, this is their saving grace. [B]Say when [/B] People say this when pouring a drink as a way of telling you to tell them when there's enough in your glass. [B]Say-so [/B] If you do something on someone else's say-so, you do it on the authority, advice or recomendation. [B]Scales fall from your eyes[/B] When the scales fall from your eyes, you suddenly realise the truth about something. [B]Scarlet woman [/B] This idiom is used as a pejorative term for a sexually promiscuous woman, especially an adulteress. [B]Scent blood [/B] If you can scent blood, you feel that a rival is having difficulties and you are going to beat them. [B]Scraping the barrel [/B] When all the best people, things or ideas and so on are used up and people try to make do with what they have left, they are scraping the barrel. [B]Scream blue murder [/B] If somone shouts very loudly in anger, or fear, they scream blue murder. [B]Screw loose[/B] If someone has a screw loose, they are crazy. [B]Searching question[/B] A searching question goes straight to the heart of the subject matter, possibly requiring an answer with a degree of honesty that the other person finds uncomfortable. [B]Second wind[/B] If you overcome tiredness and find new energy and enthusiasm, you have second wind. [B]See the light [/B] When someone sees the light, they realise the truth. [B]Seen better days[/B] If something's seen better days, it has aged badly and visibly compared to when it was new. The phrase can also be used to describe people. [B]Sell down the river [/B] If you sell someone down the river, you betray their trust. [B]Sell like hot cakes [/B] If a product is selling very well, it is selling like hot cakes. [B]Sell your birthright for a mess of pottage[/B] If a person sells their birthright for a mess of pottage, they accept some trivial financial or other gain, but lose something much more important.'Sell your soul for a mess of pottage' is an alternative form. [B]Sell your soul [/B] If someone sells their soul, their betray the most precious beliefs. [B]Send someone to Coventry [/B] If you send someone to Coventry, you refuse to talk to them or co-operate with them. [B]Separate the sheep from the goats[/B] If you separate the sheep from the goats, you sort out the good from the bad. [B]Separate the wheat from the chaff [/B] When you separate the wheat from the chaff, you select what is useful or valuable and reject what is useless or worthless. [B]Set in stone [/B] If something is set in stone, it cannot be changed or altered. [B]Set the wheels in motion[/B] When you set the wheels in motion, you get something started. [B]Set your sights on [/B] If you set your sights on someone or something, it is your ambition to beat them or to achieve that goal. [B]Seven sheets to the wind [/B] If someone is seven sheets to the wind, they are very drunk. [B]Seventh heaven [/B] If you are in seventh heaven, you are extremely happy. [B]Shades of meaning [/B] Shades of meaning is a phrase used to describe the small, subtle differences in meaning between similar words or phrases; 'kid' and 'youth' both refer to young people, but carry differing views and ideas about young people. [B]Shake a leg [/B] If you shake a leg, you are out of bed and active. [B]Shanks's pony [/B] If you go somewhere by Shanks's pony, you walk there. [B]Sharp cookie [/B] Someone who isn't easily deceived or fooled is a sharp cookie. [B]Shifting sands[/B] If the sands are shifting, circumstances are changing. [B]Shilly-shally[/B] If people shilly-shally, they can't make up their minds about something and put off the decision. [B]Shipshape and Bristol fashion[/B] If things are shipshape and Bristol fashion, they are in perfect working order. [B]Shoestring [/B] If you do something on a shoestring, you try to spend the absolute minimum amount of money possible on it. [B]Shoot yourself in the foot[/B] If you shoot yourself in the foot, you do something that damages your ambition, career, etc. [B]Shooting fish in a barrel[/B] If something is like shooting fish in a barrel, it is so easy that success is guaranteed. [B]Short Shrift [/B] If somebody gives you short shrift, they treat you rudely and brusquely, showing no interest or sympathy. [B]Shot in the dark [/B] If you have a shot in the dark at something, you try something where you have little hope of success. [B]Shotgun marriage[/B] A shotgun marriage, or shotgun wedding, is one that is forced because of pregnancy. It is also used idiomatically for a compromise, agreement or arrangement that is forced upon groups or people by necessity. [B]Shrinking violet [/B] A shrinking violet is a shy person who doesn't express their views and opinions. [B]Sick as a dog [/B] If somebody's as sick as a dog, they throw up (=vomit) violently. [B]Sick as a parrot[/B] If someone's sick as a parrot about something, they are unhappy, disappointed or depressed about it. [B]Sick to death[/B] If you are sick to death of something, you have been exposed to so much of it that you cannot take any more. [B]Sight to behold[/B] If something is a sight to behold, it means that seeing it is in some way special, either spectacularly beautiful or, equally, incredibly ugly or revolting, etc. [B]Silly season [/B] The silly season is midsummer when Parliament is closed and nothing much is happening that is newsworthy, which reduces the press to reporting trivial and stupid stories. [B]Silver surfer[/B] A silver surfer is an elderly person who uses the internet. [B]Since time immemorial[/B] If something has happened since time immemorialL, it's been going on for such a long time that nobody can remember a time without it. [B]Sing from the same hymn sheet[/B] If people are singing from the same hymn sheet, they are expressing the same opinions in public. [B]Sitting duck[/B] A sitting duck is something or someone that is easy to criticise or target. [B]Six of one and half-a-dozen of the other[/B] This is an idiom used when there is little or no difference between two options. [B]Sixes and sevens[/B] If something is all at sixes and sevens, then there is a lot of disagreement and confusion about what should be done. [B]Sixty-four-thousand-dollar-question [/B] The sixty-four-thousand-dollar-question is the most important question that can be asked about something. [B]Skeleton in the closet[/B] If someone has a skeleton in the closet, they have a dark, shameful secret in their past that they want to remain secret. [B]Slap on the wrist[/B] If someone gets a slap on the wrist, they get a very minor punishment when they could have been punished more severely. [B]Sleep like a baby[/B] If you sleep very well, you sleep like a baby. [B]Sleight of hand[/B] Sleight of hand is the ability to use your hands in a clever way, like a magician performing tricks you can't see. [B]Slim chance [/B] A slim chance is a very small chance. [B]Slippery customer[/B] A person from whom it is difficult to get anything definite or fixed is a slippery customer. [B]Slippery slope[/B] A slippery slope is where a measure would lead to further worse measures. [B]Slough of despond [/B] If someone is very depressed or in despair, they're in a slough of despond. [B]Small beer [/B] If something is small beer, it's unimportant. [B]Small fry [/B] If someone is small fry, they are unimportant. The term is often used when the police arrest the less important criminals, but are unable to catch the leaders and masterminds. [B]Smart Alec[/B] A smart Alec is a conceited person who likes to show off how clever and knowledgeable they are. [B]Smell a rat[/B] If you smell a rat, you know instinctively that something is wrong or that someone is lying to you. [B]Smoke and mirrors [/B] An attempt to conceal something is smoke and mirrors. [B]Smoke like a chimney[/B] Someone who smokes very heavily smokes like a chimney. [B]Smoke the peace pipe[/B] If people smoke the peace pipe, they stop arguing and fighting. [B]Smokestack industry[/B] Heavy industries like iron and steel production, especially if they produce a lot of pollution, are smokestack industries. [B]Smoking gun [/B] A smoking gun is definitive proof of someone's guilt. [B]Smooth as a baby's bottom[/B] If something is smooth as a baby's bottom, it has a regular, flat surface. [B]Snake in the grass[/B] Someone who is a snake in the grass betrays you even though you have trusted them. [B]Snake oil salesperson [/B] A person who promotes something that doesn't work, is selling snake oil. [B]So on and so forth[/B] And so on and so forth mean the same as etcetera (etc.). [B]Sod's law[/B] Sod's law states that if something can go wrong then it will. [B]Soft soap someone[/B] If you soft soap someone, you flatter them. [B]Some other time [/B] If somebody says they'll do something some other time, they mean at some indefinite time in the future, possibly never, but they certainly don't want to feel obliged to fix a specific time or date. [B]Something nasty in the woodshed [/B] Something nasty in the woodshed means that someone as a dark secret or an unpleasant experience in their past. [B]Sound as a bell [/B] If something or someone is as sound as a bell, they are very healthy or in very good condition. [B]Spanner in the works[/B] If someone puts or throws a spanner in the works, they ruin a plan.In American English, 'wrench' is used instead of 'spanner'. [B]Speak of the devil! [/B] If you are talking about someone and they happen to walk in, you can use this idiom as a way of letting them know you were talking about them. [B]Spend a penny [/B] This is a euphemistic idiom meaning to go to the toilet. [B]Spend like a sailor[/B] Someone who spends their money wildly spends like a sailor. [B]Spick and span[/B] If a room is spick and span, it is very clean and tidy. [B]Spill the beans[/B] If you spill the beans, you reveal a secret or confess to something. [B]Spinning a line[/B] When someone spins you a line, they are trying to deceive you by lying. [B]Spinning a yarn [/B] When someone spins you a yarn, they are trying to deceive you by lying. [B]Spirit of the law[/B] The spirit of the law is the idea or ideas that the people who made the law wanted to have effect. [B]Spit blood[/B] If someone is spitting blood, they are absolutely furious. [B]Spitting image[/B] If a person is the spitting image of somebody, they look exactly alike. [B]Split hairs[/B] If people split hairs, they concentrate on tiny and unimportant details to find fault with something. [B]Spot on [/B] If something is spot on, it is exactly right. [B]Spur of the moment [/B] If you do something on the spur of the moment, you do it because you felt like it at that time, without any planning or preparation. [B]Sputnik moment[/B] A Sputnik moment is a point where people realise that they are threatened of challenged and have to redouble their efforts to catch up. It comes from the time when the Soviet Union launched the first satellite, the Sputnik 1, and beat the USA into space. [B]Square Mile[/B] The Square Mile is the City, the financial area of London. [B]Square peg in a round hole[/B] If somebody's in a situation, organisation, etc, where they don't fit in and feel out of place, they are a square peg in a round hole. [B]Stand in good stead[/B] If something will stand you in good stead, it will probably be advantageous in the future. [B]Stars and stripes[/B] The stars and stripes is the American flag. [B]Stars in your eyes[/B] Someone who dreams of being famous has stars in their eyes. [B]State of the art[/B] If something is state of the art, it is the most up-to-date model incorporating the latest and best technology. [B]Status quo [/B] Someone who wants to preserve the status quo wants a particular situation to remain unchanged. [B]Steal someone's thunder[/B] If someone steals your thunder, they take the credit and praise for something you did. [B]Steer clear of [/B] If you steer clear of something, you avoid it. [B]Stem the tide[/B] If people try to stem the tide, they are trying to stop something unpleasant from getting worse, usually when they don't succeed. [B]Step up to the plate[/B] If someone steps up to the plate, they take on or accept a challenge or a responsibility. [B]Stick out like a sore thumb[/B] If something sticks or stands out like a sore thumb, it is clearly and obviously different from the things that are around it. [B]Stick to your guns[/B] If you stick to your guns, you keep your position even though people attack or criticise you. [B]Stick your neck out[/B] If you stick you neck out, you take a risk because you believe in something. [B]Stick-in-the-mud[/B] A stick-in-the-mud is someone who doesn't like change and wants things to stay the same. [B]Sticking point [/B] A sticking point is a controversial issue that blocks progress in negotiations, etc, where compromise is unlikely or impossible. [B]Sticky wicket[/B] If you are on a sticky wicket, you are in a difficult situation. [B]Stiff upper lip [/B] If you keep your emotions to yourself and don't let others know how you feel when something bad happens, you keep a stiff upper lip. [B]Stiff-necked[/B] A stiff-necked person is rather formal and finds it hard to relax in company. [B]Still in the game[/B] If someone is still in the game, they may be having troubles competing, but they are not yet finished and may come back. [B]Stitch in time saves nine[/B] A stitch in time saves nine means that if a job needs doing it is better to do it now, because it will only get worse, like a hole in clothes that requires stitching. [B]Stone dead[/B] This idiom is a way of emphasing that there were absolutely no signs of life. [B]Stool pigeon [/B] A stool pigeon is a police informer. [B]Storm in a teacup[/B] If someone exaggerates a problem or makes a small problem seem far greater than it really is, then they are making a storm in a teacup. [B]Straw that broke the camel's back[/B] The straw that broke the camel's back is the problem that made you lose your temper or the problem that finally brought about the collapse of something. [B]Streets ahead[/B] If people are streets ahead of their rivals, they are a long way in front. [B]Stroll down memory lane[/B] If you take a stroll down memory lane, you talk about the past or revisit places that were important to you in the past. [B]Strong as an ox [/B] Someone who's exceedingly strong physically is said to be as strong as an ox. [B]Stubborn as a mule[/B] Someone who will not listen to other people's advice and won't change their way of doing things is as stubborn as a mule. [B]Sure as eggs is eggs[/B] These means absolutely certain, and we do say 'is' even though it is grammatically wrong. [B]Swansong[/B] A person's swansong is their final achievement or public appearance. [B]Swear like a sailor [/B] Someone who is foul-mouthed and uses bad language all the time, swears like a sailor. [B]Swear like a trooper[/B] Someone who is foul-mouthed and uses bad language all the time, swears like a trooper. [B]Sweat blood [/B] If you sweat blood, you make an extraordinary effort to achieve something. [B]Sweep things under the carpet[/B] If people try to ignore unpleasant things and forget about them, they sweep them under the carpet. [B]Swim against the tide[/B] If you swim against the tide, you try to do something that is very difficult because there is a lot of opposition to you. [B]Swim with the fishes[/B] If someone is swimming with the fishes, they are dead, especially if they have been murdered.'Sleep with the fishes' is an alternative form. [B]Swimmingly [/B] If things are going swimmingly, they are going very well. [B]Take a leaf out of someone's book[/B] If you take a leaf out of someone's book, you copy something they do because it will help you. [B]Take a straw poll[/B] If you take a straw poll, you sound a number of people out to see their opinions on an issue or topic. [B]Take it on the chin[/B] If you take something on the chin, something bad happens to you and you take it directly without fuss. [B]Take someone down a peg[/B] If someone is taken down a peg (or taken down a peg or two), they lose status in the eyes of others because of something they have done wrong or badly. [B]Take someone for a ride[/B] If you are taken for a ride, you are deceived by someone. [B]Take someone to the woodshed[/B] If someone is taken to the woodshed, they are punished for something they have done. [B]Take the biscuit [/B] If something takes the biscuit, it is the absolute limit. [B]Take the bull by its horns[/B] Taking a bull by its horns would be the most direct but also the most dangerous way to try to compete with such an animal. When we use the phrase in everyday talk, we mean that the person we are talking about tackles their problems directly and is not worried about any risks involved. [B]Take the rough with the smooth[/B] People say that you have to take the rough with the smooth, meaning that you have to be prepared to accept the disadvantages as well of the advantages of something. [B]Taken as read[/B] If something can be taken as read, it is so definite that it's not necessary to talk about it. [B]Talk of the town[/B] When everybody is talking about particular people and events, they are he talk of the town. [B]Talk out of the back of your head [/B] If someone is talking out of the back of their head, they are talking rubbish. [B]Talk out of your hat [/B] If someone is talking out of their hat, they're talking utter rubbish, especially if compounded with total ignorance of the subject on which they are pontifcating. [B]Talk shop [/B] If you talk shop, you talk about work matters, especially if you do this outside work. [B]Talk the hind legs off a donkey [/B] A person who is excessively or extremely talkative can talk the hind legs off a donkey. [B]Tall order[/B] Something that is likely to be hard to achieve or fulfil is a tall order. [B]Tall story[/B] A tall story is one that is untrue and unbelievable. [B]Tally ho![/B] This is an exclamation used for encouragement before doing something difficult or dangerous. [B]Taste blood [/B] If someone has tasted blood, they have achieved something and are encouraged to think that victory is within their grasp. [B]Teething problems [/B] The problems that a project has when it's starting are the teething problems. [B]Test the waters [/B] If you test the waters, or test the water, you experiment to see how successful or acceptable something is before implementing it. [B]That is the way the cookie crumbles[/B] "That's the way the cookie crumbles" means that things don't always turn out the way we want. [B]The ball's in your court [/B] If somebody says this to you, they mean that it's up to you to decide or take the next step. [B]The be all and end all[/B] The phrase 'The be all and end all' means that a something is the final, or ultimate outcome or result of a situation or event. [B]The common weal[/B] If something is done for the common weal, it is done in the interests and for the benefit of the majority or the general public. [B]The grass is always greener[/B] This idiom means that what other people have or do looks preferable to our life. The complete phrase is 'The grass is always greener on the other side of the fence'. [B]The more the merrier[/B] The more the merrier means that the greater the quantity or the bigger the number of something, the happier the speaker will be. [B]The penny dropped[/B] When the penny drops, someone belatedly understands something that everyone else has long since understood. [B]The sands of time[/B] The sands of time is an idiom meaning that time runs out either through something reaching an end or through a person's death. It comes from the sand used in hourglasses, an ancient way of measuring time. [B]The short straw[/B] If you take the short straw, you lose a selection process, which means that you have to do something unpleasant. [B]The world and his wife[/B] If the world and his wife were somewhere, then huge numbers of people were present. [B]Their bark is worse than their bite[/B] If someone's bark is worse than their bite, they get angry and shout and make threats, but don't actually do anything. [B]There are many ways to skin a cat[/B] This is an expression meaning there are many different ways of doing the same thing. [B]There's no such thing as a free lunch[/B] This idiom means that you don't get things for free, so if something appears to be free, there's a catch and you'll have to pay in some way. [B]There's the rub[/B] The meaning of this idiom is 'that's the problem'. [B]Thick and fast[/B] If things are happening thick and fast, they are happening so fast they seemed to be joined together. [B]Thick as thieves[/B] If people are thick as thieves, they are very close friends who have no secrets from each other. [B]Thick-skinned[/B] If a person is thick-skinned, they are not affected by critisism. [B]Thin as a rake[/B] A rake is a garden tool with a long, thin, wooden handle, so someone very thin is thin as a rake. [B]Thin end of the wedge[/B] The thin end of the wedge is something small and seemingly unimportant that will lead to something much bigger and more serious. [B]Thin line[/B] If there's a thin line between things, it's hard to distinguish them- there's a thin line between love and hate. [B]Thin-skinned[/B] If somebody is thin-skinned, they are very sensitive to any sort of criticism. [B]Think the world of[/B] To hold something or someone in very high esteem. To love or admire immensely. [B]Third rail[/B] The third rail of something is dangerous to alter or change. Originally, the third rail is the one carrying the electricity for a train. [B]Those who live by the sword die by the sword [/B] This means that violent people will be treated violently themselves. [B]Three sheets to the wind[/B] If someone is three sheets to the wind, they are drunk. [B]Thrilled to bits[/B] If you are thrilled to bits, you are extremely pleased or excited about something. [B]Through thick and thin[/B] If someone supports you through thick and thin, they support you during good times and bad. [B]Throw a sickie[/B] If you pretend to be ill to take a day off work or school, you throw a sickie. [B]Throw down the gauntlet[/B] Throw down the gauntlet is to issue a challenge to somebody. [B]Throw in the towel[/B] If you throw in the towel, you admit that you are defeated or cannot do something. [B]Throw someone to the wolves[/B] If someone is thrown to the wolves, they are abandoned and have to face trouble without any support. [B]Throw the baby out with the bath-water[/B] If you get rid of useful things when discarding inessential things, you throw the baby out with the bath-water. [B]Throw the book at someone[/B] If you throw the book at someone, you punish them as severely as possible. [B]Throw your hat in the ring[/B] If someone throws their hat in the ring, they announce that they want to take part in a competition or contest. 'Toss your hat in the ring' is an alternative. [B]Thumb your nose at[/B] If you thumb your nose at something, you reject it or scorn it. [B]Thumbs down & thumbs up[/B] If something gets the thumbs up, it gets approval, while the thumbs down means disapproval. [B]Tie the knot[/B] When people tie the knot, they get married. [B]Tight ship[/B] If you run a tight ship, you control something strictly and don't allow people much freedom of action. [B]Tighten your belt[/B] If you have to tighten your belt, you have to economise. [B]Till you're blue in the face[/B] If you do something till you're blue in the face, you do it repeatedly without achieving the desired result until you're incredibly frustrated. [B]Tilt at windmills[/B] A person who tilts at windmills, tries to do things that will never work in practice. [B]Time of your life[/B] If you're having the time of your life, you are enjoying yourself very much indeed. [B]Time-honoured practice[/B] A time-honoured practice is a traditional way of doing something that has become almost universally accepted as the most appropriate or suitable way. [B]Tip of the iceberg[/B] The tip of the iceberg is the part of a problem that can be seen, with far more serious problems lying underneath. [B]Tipping point[/B] Small changes may have little effect until they build up to critical mass, then the next small change may suddenly change everything. this is the tipping point. [B]Tired and emotional[/B] This idiom is a euphemism used to mean 'drunk', especially when talking about politicians. [B]Tit for tat[/B] If someone responds to an insult by being rude back, it's tit for tat- repaying something negative the same way. [B]To a fault [/B] If something does something to a fault, they do it excessively. So someone who is generous to a fault is too generous. [B]To a man[/B] If a group of people does, believes, thinks, etc, something to a man, then they all do it. [B]To a T[/B] If something is done to a T, it is done perfectly. [B]To err is human, to forgive divine[/B] This idiom is used when someone has done something wrong, suggesting that they should be forgiven. [B]To little avail[/B] If something is to little avail, it means that, despite great efforts, something ended in failure, but taking comfort from the knowledge that nothing else could have been done to avert or avoid the result. [B]To the end of time[/B] To the end of time is an extravagant way of saying 'forever'. [B]To the ends of the earth[/B] If someone will go to the ends of the earth for something, no distance is too great for them they are so determined to get it. [B]Toe the line[/B] If someone toes the line, they follow and respect the rules and regulations. [B]Tomorrow's another day[/B] This means that things might turn out better or that there might be another opportunity in the future. [B]Toot you own horn[/B] If someone toot their own horn, they like to boast about their achievements. [B]Top dog[/B] The most important or influencial person is the top dog. [B]Top notch[/B] If something is top notch, it's excellent, of the highest quality or standard. [B]Touch wood[/B] If someone says 'Touch wood' before they do something, they are wishing for good luck. [B]Touch-and-go[/B] If something is touch-and-go, it is very uncertain; if someone is ill and may well die, then it is touch-and-go. [B]Tough cookie[/B] A tough cookie is a person who will do everthing necessary to achieve what they want. [B]Tough nut to crack[/B] Tread the boards When someone treads the boards, they perform on stage in a theatre. [B]Tread water[/B] If someone is treading water, they are making no progress. [B]Tried and tested[/B] If a method has been tried and tested, it is known to work or be effective because it has been successfully used long enough to be trusted. [B]True blue[/B] A person who is true blue is loyal and dependable, someone who can be relied on in all circumstances. [B]Truth will out[/B] Truth will out means that, given time, the facts of a case will emerge no matter how people might try to conceal them. [B]Turf war[/B] If people or organisations are fighting for control of something, it is a turf war. [B]Turn the other cheek[/B] If you turn the other cheek, you are humble and do not retaliate or get outwardly angry when someone offends or hurts you, in fact, you give them the opportunity to re-offend instead and compound their unpleasantness. [B]Turn the tables [/B] If circumstances change completely, giving an advantage to those who seemed to be losing, the the tables are turned. [B]Turn your nose up[/B] If someone turns their nose up at something, they reject it or look odwn on it because they don't think it is good enough for them. [B]Twenty-four seven[/B] Twenty-four seven or 24/7 means all the time, coming from 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. [B]Twinkling of an eye[/B] If something happens in the twinkling of an eye, it happens very quickly. [B]Twist someone's arm[/B] If you twist someone's arm, you put pressure on them to try to make them do what you want them to do. [B]Two left feet[/B] A person with two left feet can't dance. [B]Two-faced[/B] Someone who is two-faced will say one thing to your face and another when you're not there. [B]U-turn[/B] If a government changes its position radically on an issue, especially when they have promised not to do so, this is a U-turn. [B]Ugly duckling[/B] An ugly duckling is a child who shows little promise, but who develops later into a real talent or beauty. [B]Uncharted waters[/B] If you're in uncharted waters, you are in a situation that is unfamiliar to you, that you have no experience of and don't know what might happen. [B]Uncle Sam[/B] Uncle Sam is the government of the USA. [B]Under a cloud [/B] If someone is suspected of having done something wrong, they are under a cloud. [B]Under false colours[/B] If someone does something under false colours/colors, they pretend to be something they are not in order to deceive people so that they can succeed. [B]Under fire[/B] If someone is being attacked and cricised heavily, they are under fire. [B]Under the radar[/B] If something slips under the radar, it isn't detected or noticed. [B]Under the table[/B] Bribes or illegal payments are often described as money under the table. [B]Under the weather[/B] If you are feeling a bit ill, sad or lack energy, you are under the weather. [B]Under the wire[/B] If a person does something under the wire, they do it at the last possible moment. [B]Under your breath[/B] If you say something under your breath, you whisper or say it very quietly. [B]Under your nose[/B] If something happens right in front of you, especially if it is surpsising or audacious, it happens under your nose. [B]Unwavering loyalty[/B] Unwavering loyalty does not question or doubt the person or issue and supports them completely. [B]Up in the air[/B] If a matter is up in the air, no decision has been made and there is uncertainty about it. [B]Up sticks[/B] If you up sticks, you leave somewhere, usually permanently and without warning- he upped sticks and went to work abroad. [B]Up the ante[/B] If you up the ante, you increase the importance or value of something, especially where there's an element of risk as the term comes from gambling, where it means to increase the stake (the amount of money bet). [B]Up the creek[/B] If someone or something is up the creek, they are in real trouble. 'Up the creek without a paddle' is an alternative, and 'up shit creek (without a paddle)' is a ruder form. [B]Up the duff[/B] If a woman is up the duff, she's pregant. [B]Up the spout[/B] If something has gone up the spout, it has gone wrong or been ruined. [B]Up the stick[/B] If a woman is up the stick, she's pregant. [B]Up the wall[/B] If someone goes up the wall, they get very angry. [B]Up to scratch[/B] If something doesn't come up to scratch, it doesn't meet the standard required or expected. [B]Up to snuff[/B] If something isn't up to snuff, it doesn't meet the standard expected. [B]Up to speed[/B] If you bring someone up to speed, you update them on something. [B]Up to the neck[/B] If someone's in something up to the neck, they are very involved in it, especially when it's something wrong. [B]Upper crust[/B] The upper crust are the upper classes and the establishment. [B]Upper hand[/B] If you have the upper hand, you have the advantage. [B]Upset the apple cart[/B] If you upset the apple cart, you cause trouble and upset people. [B]Vale of tears[/B] This vale of tears is the world and the suffering that life brings. [B]Velvet glove[/B] This idiom is used to describe a person who appears gentle, but is determined and inflexible underneath. [B]Vicar of Bray[/B] A person who changes their beliefs and principles to stay popular with people above them is a Vicar of Bray [B]Vicious circle[/B] A vicious circle is a sequence of events that make each other worse- someone drinks because they are unhappy at work, then loses their job... 'Vicious cycle' is also used. [B]Virgin territory[/B] If something is virgin territory, it hasn't been explored before. [B]Waiting in the wings[/B] If someone is waiting in the wings, or in the wings, they are in the background, but nearby, ready to act on short notice. [B]Wake-up call[/B] A wake-up call is a warning of a threat or a challenge, especially when it means that people will have to change their behaviour to meet it. [B]Walk on eggshells [/B] If you have to walk on eggshells when with someone, you have to be very careful because they get angry or offended very easily. [B]Wallflower[/B] A woman politician given an unimportant government position so that the government can pretend it takes women seriously is a wallflower. [B]Warpath [/B] If someone is on the warpath, they are very angry about something and will do anything to get things sorted the way they want. [B]Warts and all[/B] If you like someone warts and all, you like them with all their faults. [B]Wash your hands of something[/B] If you wash your hands of something, you disassociate yourself and accept no responsibility for what will happen. [B]Waste not, want not [/B] If you don't waste things, you are less likely to end up lacking. [B]Watching paint dry[/B] If something is like watching paint dry, it is really boring. [B]Water off a duck's back[/B] If criticism or something similar is like water off a duck's back to somebody, they aren't affected by it in the slightest. [B]Water over the dam [/B] If something has happened and cannot be changed, it is water over the dam. [B]Water under the bridge[/B] If something belongs to the past and isn't important or troubling any more, it is water under the bridge. [B]Watering hole [/B] A watering hole is a pub. [B]Wear sackcloth and ashes[/B] If someone displays their grief or contrition publicly, they wear sackcloth and ashes. [B]Weather a storm[/B] If you weather a storm, you get through a crisis or hard times. [B]Wet behind the ears [/B] Someone who is wet behind the ears is either very young or inexperienced. [B]Wet blanket [/B] A wet blanket is someone who tries to spoil other people's fun. [B]What will be will be[/B] The expression what will be will be is used to describe the notion that fate will decide the outcome of a course of events, even if action is taken to try to alter it. [B]What's good for the goose is good for the gander[/B] This idiom means that the sexes should be treated the same way and not be subjected to different standards. [B]What's your take on that?[/B] This idiom is way of asking someone for their opinion and ideas. [B]When in Rome, do as the Romans[/B] This idiom means that when you are visiting a different place or culture, you should try to follow their customs and practices. [B]Where the rubber meets the road[/B] Where the rubber meets the road is the most important point for something, the moment of truth. An athlete can train all day, but the race is where the rubber meets the road and they'll know how good they really are. [B]Where there's a will, there's a way[/B] This idiom means that if people really want to do something, they will manage to find a way of doing it. [B]Whet your appetite[/B] If something whet your appetite, it interests you and makes you want more of it. [B]Which came first the chicken or the egg?[/B] This idiomatic expression is used when it is not clear who or what caused something. [B]While the cat's away, the mouse will play[/B] People whose behaviour is strictly controlled go over the top when the authority is not around, which is why most teenagers have parties when their parents have gone on holiday. The parents are the scary authority figures, but the cat's away and the kids are the mice partying and enjoying their freedom. [B]White as a sheet[/B] A bad shock can make somebody go as white as a sheet. [B]White elephant[/B] A white elephant is an expensive burden; something that costs far too much money to run, like the Millennium Dome in the UK. [B]Who wears the pants?[/B] The person who wears the pants in a relationship is the dominant person who controls things. [B]Who wears the trousers?[/B] The person who wears the trousers in a relationship is the dominant person who controls things. [B]Whole new ball game[/B] If something's a whole new ball game, it is completely new or different. [B]Wide berth[/B] If you give someone a wide berth, you keep yourself well away from them because they are dangerous. [B]Wide of the mark[/B] If something is wide of the mark, it is inaccurate or incorrect. [B]Will-o'-the-wisp[/B] Something that deceives by its appearance is a will-o’-the-wisp; it looks good, but turns out to be a disappointment. [B]Win by a nose[/B] If somebody wins by a nose, they only just beat the others. [B]Window dressing[/B] If something is done to pretend to be dealing with an issue or problem, rather than actually dealing with it, it is window dressing. [B]Winner takes all[/B] If everything goes to the winner, as in an election, the the winner takes all. [B]With a heavy hand[/B] If someone does something with a heavy hand, they do it in a strict way, exerting a lot of control. [B]With child [/B] If a woman's with child, she's pregnant. [B]With flying colours (colors)[/B] If you pass something with flying colours (colors), you pass easily, with a very high mark or grade. [B]Wither on the vine [/B] If something withers on the vine, it fails to get the intended result, doesn't come to fruition. [B]Wolf in sheep's clothing[/B] A wolf in sheep's clothing is something dangerous that looks quite safe and innocent. [B]Wood for the trees[/B] If someone can't see the wood for the trees, they get so caught up in small details that they fail to understand the bigger picture. [B]Word of mouth[/B] If something becomes known by word of mouth, it is because people are talking about it, not through publicity, etc. [B]Word of the law[/B] The word of the law means that the law is interpreted in an absolutely literal way which goes against the ideas that the lawmakers had wished to implement. [B]Words fail me[/B] If words fail you, you can't find the words to express what you are trying to say. [B]Work like a dog[/B] If you work like a dog, you work very hard. [B]Work your fingers to the bone [/B] If you work your fingers to the bone, you work extremely hard on something. [B]Work your socks off[/B] If you work your socks off, you work very hard. [B]World at your feet[/B] If everything is going well and the future looks full of opportunity, you have the world at your feet. [B]World is your oyster[/B] When the world is your oyster, you are getting everything you want from life. [B]Worm information[/B] If you worm information out of somebody, you persuade them to tell you something they wanted to keep from you. [B]Worm's eye view[/B] A worm's eye view of something is the view from below, either physically or socially. [B]Worse for wear [/B] If something's worse for wear, it has been used for a long time and, consequently, isn't in very good condition. A person worse for wear is usually drunk. [B]Worse things happen at sea[/B] This idiomatic expression is used as a way of telling someone not to worry so much about their problems. [B]Wouldn't touch it with a bargepole[/B] If you wouldn't touch something with a bargepole, you would not consider being involved under any circumstances.(In American English, people say they wouldn't touch it with a ten-foot pole) [B]Wouldn't touch it with a ten-foot pole[/B] If you wouldn't touch something with a ten-foot pole, you would not consider being involved under any circumstances. (In British English, people say they wouldn't touch it with a bargepole) [B]Wrench in the works[/B] If someone puts or throws a wrench, or monkey wrench, in the works, they ruin a plan.In British English, 'spanner' is used instead of 'wrench'. [B]Writ large[/B] If something is writ large, it is emphasised or highlighted. [B]Writing on the wall[/B] If the writing's on the wall for something, it is doomed to fail. [B]Written all over your face[/B] If someone has done something wrong or secret, but cannot hide it in their expression, it is written all over their face. [B]Wrong end of the stick[/B] If someone has got the wwrong end of the stick, they have misunderstood what someone has said to them. [B]Wrong foot[/B] If you start something on the wrong foot, you start badly. [B]X factor[/B] The dangers for people in the military that civilians do not face, for which they receive payment, are known as the X factor. [B] X marks the spot[/B] This is used to say where something is located or hidden. [B]X-rated [/B] If something is x-rated, it is not suitable for children. [B]Yah boo sucks[/B] Yah boo & yah boo sucks can be used to show that you have no sympathy with someone. [B]Yellow press[/B] The yellow press is a term for the popular and sensationalist newspapers. [B]Yellow streak[/B] If someone has a yellow streak, they are cowardly about something. [B]Yellow-bellied [/B] A yellow-bellied person is a coward. [B]Yen[/B] If you have a yen to do something, you have a desire to do it. [B]Yes-man[/B] Someone who always agress with people in authority is a yes-man. [B]Yesterday's man or Yesterday's woman[/B] Someone, especially a politician or celebrity, whose career is over or on the decline is yesterday's man or woman. [B]You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make it drink[/B] This idiom means you can offer something to someone, like good advice, but you cannot make them take it. [B]You can say that again [/B] If you want to agree strongly with what someone has said, you can say 'You can say that again' as a way of doing so. [B]You can't have your cake and eat it [/B] This idiom means that you can't have things both ways. For example, you can't have very low taxes and a high standard of state care. [B]You can't make a silk purse out of a sow's ear[/B] If something isn't very good to start with, you can't do much to improve it. [B]You can't make an omelette without breaking eggs[/B] This idiom means that in order to achieve something or make progress, there are often losers in the process. [B]You scratch my back and I'll scratch yours[/B] This idiom means that if you do something for me, I'll return the favour. [B]You what?[/B] This is a very colloquial way of expressing surprise or disbelief at something you have heard. It can also be used to ask someone to say something again. [B]Young blood [/B] Young people with new ideas and fresh approaches are young blood. [B]Young Turk[/B] A Young Turk is a young person who is rebellious and difficult to control in a company, team or organisation. [B]Your name is mud[/B] If someone's name is mud, then they have a bad reputation. [B]Zero hour [/B] The time when something important is to begin is zero hour. [B]Zero tolerance[/B] If the police have a zero tolerance policy, they will not overlook any crime, no matter how small or trivial. |
Idioms and their use in sentences
[SIZE=2][/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]A Bird In The Hand Is Worth Two In The Bush[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2]
[/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Dan has asked me to go to a party with him. What if my boyfriend finds out?" Reply: "Don't go. [B]A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]A Blessing In Disguise[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"My car broke down again, but maybe it was [B]a blessing in disguise[/B]; I've been wasting too much time driving around anyway."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]A Chip On Your Shoulder[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"What's bothering that guy?" Answer: "Nothing; he's just got [B]a chip on the shoulder[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]A Dime A Dozen[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I don't need friends like him; they are [B]a dime a dozen[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]A Drop In The Bucket[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I'd like to do something to change the world but whatever I do seems like [B]a drop in the bucket[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]A Fool And His Money Are Easily Parted[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Example: "Her husband can't seem to hold onto any amount of money; he either spends it or loses it. [B]A fool and his money are easily parted[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]A Penny Saved Is A Penny Earned[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I'm going to give you $20 but I want you to put it in the bank; [B]a penny saved is a penny earned[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]A Piece Of Cake[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Do you think you will win your tennis match today?" Answer: "It will be [B]a piece of cake[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]A Shot In The Dark[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"That was such a difficult question! How did you get it right?" Reply: "I just took [B]a shot in the dark[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]A Slap On The Wrist[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"He should be in jail for what he did, but he got off with just [B]a slap on the wrist[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]A Slip Of The Tongue[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Be careful talking to the police tomorrow; one [B]slip of the tongue[/B] could get us into big trouble."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]A Taste Of Your Own Medicine[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"It looks like she got [B]a taste of her own medicine[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]A Toss-Up[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Do you think they'll make it one time?" Answer: "I really don't know. It's [B]a toss-up[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]A Wolf In Sheep's Clothing[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Don't trust the salespeople at that store; they are all [B]wolves in sheep's clothing[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]About Face[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Do an [B]about face[/B], get back in that bathroom, and brush your teeth!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Absence Makes The Heart Grow Fonder[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"The time we spend apart has been good for us; [B]absence makes the heart grow fonder[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Actions Speak Louder Than Words[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Don't tell me how to do this; show me! [B]Actions speak louder than words[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Add Fuel To The Fire[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I would like to do something to help, but I don't want to [B]add fuel to the fire[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Against The Clock[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"We worked [B]against the clock[/B] all day to get this report done by 5PM."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Against The Grain[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I jog at this track everyday and there is always that one guy who has to go [B]against the grain[/B] and run in the opposite direction."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]All Bark And No Bite[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"The new manager threatened to fire me but I know he won't do it; he is [B]all bark and no bite[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]All Greek[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Did you understand what he just said?" Reply: "Nope. It was [B]all Greek[/B] to me."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]All In The Same Boat[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"We can't fight against each other; we need to work together. We're [B]all in the same boat[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]All That Glitters Is Not Gold[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Be careful when shopping for your new car; [B]all that glitters is not gold[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]All Thumbs[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Hey! You are pouring my coffee on the table!" Reply: "Oh, I'm so sorry! I have been [B]all thumbs[/B] today."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]An Arm And A Leg[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Be careful with that watch; it cost me [B]an arm and a leg[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]An Axe To Grind[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I have [B]an axe to grind[/B] with you." Answer: "Oh no; what did I do wrong?"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Arm In Arm[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"What a nice afternoon. We walked [B]arm in arm[/B] along the beach for hours."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Around The Block[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"You kids are too young to fall in love: Wait until you have been [B]around the block[/B] a time or two."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]As Blind As A Bat[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Without his glasses, my father is [B]as blind as a bat[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]As High As A Kite[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"The ball got stuck up there on the roof. It's [B]as high as a kite[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]As Light As A Feather[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Wow, you lift that box so easily!" Reply: "Oh, come on. It is [B]as light as a feather[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]At The Drop Of A Hat[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Would you travel around the world if you had the money?" Answer: "[B]At the drop of a hat[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]At Wit's End[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"We have been [B]at wit's end[/B] trying to figure out how we are going to pay our taxes."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Back To The Drawing Board[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"It looks like my plan to kill the weeds in the garden has failed. [B]Back to the drawing board[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Barking Up The Wrong Tree[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I have been trying to solve this math problem for 30 minutes but I think I've been [B]barking up the wrong tree[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Beat A Dead Horse[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"There's no use in [B]beating a dead horse[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Beating Around The Bush[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"If you want to ask me, just ask; don't [B]beat around the bush[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Bend Over Backwards[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"We [B]bent over backwards[/B] to help him, and he never even thanked us!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Better Late Than Never[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Sorry I was late for the meeting today; I got stuck in traffic." Answer: "That's okay; [B]better late than never[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Between A Rock And A Hard Place[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I'd like to help you but I am stuck [B]between a rock and a hard place[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Birds Of A Feather Flock Together[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Look; the volleyball players are eating at the same table together, as always." Answer: "[B]Birds of a feather flock together[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Bite Off More Than You Can Chew[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I thought I could finish this report within one month, but it looks like I have [B]bitten off more than I can chew[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Bite Your Tongue[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Whenever that professor says something I don't like, I have to [B]bite my tongue[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Blood Is Thicker Than Water[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"When my best friend and my brother got in a fight I had to help my brother; [B]blood is thicker than water[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Break Down[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Did your car [B]break down[/B] again?"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Break In[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"They [B]broke in[/B] to my apartment when I was gone, and they took everything!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Break The Tie[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Whoever wins in Florida will have enough votes to [B]break the tie[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Burn Your Bridges[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I wish you hadn't been rude to that man just now; he is very important in this town and you shouldn't go around [B]burning bridges[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Burning The Candle At Both Ends[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Ever since this new project started I have been [B]burning the candle at both ends[/B]. I can't take much more of it."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Burning The Midnight Oil[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Our son has been working hard preparing for his final exams!" Answer: "Yes, he's been up each night [B]burning the midnight oil[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Call It Off[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Tonight's game was [B]called off[/B] because of the rain."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Can't Cut The Mustard[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Bob dropped out of medical school; he couldn't [B]cut the mustard[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Cold Turkey[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I want to quit drinking right now. As of this moment, I am going [B]cold turkey[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Come Hell Or High Water[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Will you be at the family reunion next year?" Answer: "Yes- we'll be there, [B]come hell or high water[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Cross Your Fingers[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Let's [B]cross our fingers[/B] and hope for the best!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Cry Over Spilt Milk[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Let's not go [B]crying over spilt milk[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Cry Wolf[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"That kid on the other team just fell down; it looks like he might be hurt!" Answer: "He's not hurt; he's just [B]crying wolf[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Curiosity Killed The Cat[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Hey, I wonder what's down that street; it looks awfully dark and creepy." Answer: "Let's not try to find out. [B]Curiosity killed the cat[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Dead Heat[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"It looks like were going to have to find another way to decide a winner. That one was a [B]dead heat[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Dog-Eat-Dog[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I have been in this business for twenty years. It's [B]dog-eat-dog[/B]; the competition is always trying to steal your customers."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Don't Count Your Chickens Until They're Hatched[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Next Friday I will be able to pay you back that money I owe you." Answer: "I won't be [B]counting my chickens[/B]..."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Don't Look A Gift Horse In The Mouth[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"[B]Don't look a gift horse in the mouth[/B]! When you buy your own beers you can decide what brand you want."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Don't Put All Your Eggs In One Basket[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"The best way to gamble is to only bet small amounts of money and never [B]put all your eggs in one basket[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Down To The Wire[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"It looks like this race is going to come right [B]down to the wire[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Drastic Times Call For Drastic Measures[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Sales have been slow and we had to let go three of our employees; [B]drastic times call for drastic measures[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Dry Spell[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Sam is a great salesman, though lately he's been having a bit of [B]a dry spell[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Every Cloud Has A Silver Lining[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I found a new job after all and I like this one much better than the last!" Answer: "You see, [B]every cloud has a silver lining[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Everything But The Kitchen Sink[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Whenever we go camping my wife wants to bring [B]everything but the kitchen sink[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Fair And Fair Alike[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Michael stayed home to take care of your sister last night, so tonight it is your turn. [B]Fair and fair alike[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Finding Your Feet[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Don't worry about it. We will help you while you are [B]finding your feet[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Fixed In Your Ways[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Sometimes it is hard to accept that your parents are [B]fixed in their ways[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Flash In The Pan[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"What a great first year he had, but after that... nothing!" Answer: "Just another [B]flash in the pan[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]From Rags To Riches[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"My uncle is a real [B]rags to riches[/B] story."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Get Over It[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I was very sick yesterday, but I [B]got over it[/B] quickly."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Get Up On The Wrong Side Of The Bed[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Don't start yelling at me just because you [B]got up on the wrong side of the bed[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Give Him The Slip[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"My brother will be at the movie tonight. Afterwards, let's [B]give him the slip[/B] and go to a party."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Go For Broke[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"The way to be successful is to decide exactly what you want, then [B]go for broke[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Great Minds Think Alike[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I have decided that this summer I am going to learn how to scuba dive." Answer: "Me too! I have already paid for the course. [B]Great minds think alike[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Haste Makes Waste[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"You should always take your time when doing your taxes and check your numbers very carefully; [B]haste makes waste[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Have No Idea[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I can't find my keys. I [B]have no idea[/B] where I put them."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]He Lost His Head[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Okay- I'll tell you what happened. But don't [B]lose your head[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Head Over Heels[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I have been [B]head over heels[/B] about my girlfriend since the day I met her."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Icing On The Cake[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I've been accepted by the university, and they've offered me a position on the basketball team!" Answer: "That's wonderful! [B]Icing on the cake[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Idle Hands Are The Devil's Tools[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"It makes me nervous to see those kids outside just standing around; [B]idle hands are the devils tools[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]If It's Not One Thing, It's Another[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"First the car broke down, and now I can't find my keys! [B]If it's not one thing, it's another[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]In And Out[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I know this city [B]in and out[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]In Over Your Head[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Go ahead and lead the meeting today; I'll help you out if you get [B]in over your head[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]In The Dark[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Did you know that today was her birthday?" Answer: "No, I was [B]in the dark[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]In The Doghouse[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"You kids will be [B]in the doghouse[/B] with your mother after that mess you made in her garden!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]In The Heat Of The Moment[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Sorry about what I said; I got caught up [B]in the heat of the moment[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]It Takes Two To Tango[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Her husband is awful; they fight all the time." Answer: "[B]It takes two to tango[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]It's A Small World[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Hey, it's funny seeing you here." Reply: "[B]It's a small world[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Its Anyone's Call[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Who do you think will win this election?" Answer: "[B]Its anyone's call[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Keep An Eye On Him[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I have to run to the bathroom. Can you [B]keep an eye on[/B] my suitcase while I am gone?"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Labor Of Love[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Taking care of this dog is [B]a labor of love[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Lend Me Your Ear[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Friends, Romans, countrymen; [B]lend me your ear[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Let Bygones Be Bygones[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"You and I have had our disagreements; let's [B]let bygones be bygones[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Let Sleeping Dogs Lie[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I wanted to ask her what she thought of her ex-husband, but I figured it was better to [B]let sleeping dogs lie[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Let The Cat Out Of The Bag[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Bob didn't tell anyone that he was sick, but his wife [B]let the cat out of the bag[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Mad As A Hatter[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Everybody in my family knew that our uncle was [B]as mad as a hatter[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Method To My Madness[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Give me a moment to explain; there is [B]method to my madness[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Neck And Neck[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"They're coming around the final corner. They're [B]neck and neck[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Neither A Borrower, Nor A Lender Be[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Could you lend me twenty dollars?" Answer: "Sorry, [B]neither a borrower nor a lender be[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Never Bite The Hand That Feeds You[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"We have been your best customers for years. How could you suddenly treat us so rudely? You should [B]never bite the hand that feeds you[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Nose Out Of Joint[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"We were only joking; don't get your [B]nose out of joint[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Not A Chance[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Do you think you will be able to finish your report by five o'clock today?" Answer: "[B]Not a chance[/B]. I'll be busy in meetings all day."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Off Limits[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Guns are [B]off limits[/B] within New York City."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Off On The Wrong Foot[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Let's try to start on time tomorrow and get [B]off on the right foot[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Off The Hook[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"You're lucky; it turns out that Dad never heard you come in late last night." Answer: "Great, that means I'm [B]off the hook[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]On Pins And Needles[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Jean was [B]on pins and needles[/B] the whole time her father was in the hospital."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]On The Fence[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Has he decided whether he will take the job yet?" Answer: "No, he's still [B]on the fence[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]On The Same Page[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Before we make any decisions today, I'd like to make sure that everyone is [B]on the same page[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]On Top Of The World[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"What a great time we had that night; we were [B]on top of the world[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]On Your Last Leg[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I would be glad to sell you my car, but I must tell you that it is [B]on its last leg[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]On Your Mind[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"You have been [B]on my mind[/B] all day."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]One For The Road[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Bartender- I'll have one more whiskey [B]for the road[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Out And About[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Where have you been all day?" Answer: "Oh, [B]out and about[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Out Of Sight, Out Of Mind[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I meant to read that book, but as soon as I put it down, I forgot about it." Answer: "[B]Out of sight, out of mind[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Out Of The Blue[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Why did she do that?" Answer: "I have no idea. It was completely [B]out of the blue[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Out Of The Frying Pan And Into The Fire[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I didn't like that job because I was working too hard. Yet in this new job I work even harder!" Answer: "[B]Out of the frying pan and into the fire[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Out Of The Woods[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Joe was sick two weeks ago and we were very worried, but now it looks like he is [B]out of the woods[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Out Of Your Element[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"He is a great tennis player on the hard courts, but he is [B]out of his element[/B] on grass."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Out On A Limb[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I want this project to succeed just as much as you do, but I am not willing to [B]go out on a limb[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Out On The Town[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Do you want to join us tonight? We're going [B]out on the town[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Over My Dead Body[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"All of my friends are going out to the lake tonight and I'm going too!" Answer: "[B]Over my dead[/B] body you are!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Par For The Course[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I get sick every time I travel." Answer: "That's just [B]par for the course[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Penny-Wise, Pound-Foolish[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"We've worked so hard to save money that if we took a vacation now it would be [B]penny-wise, pound-foolish[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]People Who Live In Glass Houses Should Not Throw Stones[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Look at what time it is... you are late again!" Answer: "Hey, how often are you not on time? [B]People who live in glass houses should not throw stones[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Practice Makes Perfect[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"You see how quickly you are getting better at the piano! [B]Practice makes perfect[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Practice What You Preach[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Good managers always lead by example and [B]practice what they preach[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Preaching To The Choir[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"You don't need to tell me this project is important; you're [B]preaching to the choir[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Protest Too Much[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Do you think he is telling the truth?" Answer: "I think he [B]protests too much[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Pulling Your Leg[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I want to ask you a question and I would like an honest answer; no [B]pulling my leg[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Put Your Best Foot Forward[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I want you to get out on that field and [B]put your best foot forward[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Put Your Foot In Your Mouth[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Let's all be very careful what we say at the meeting tomorrow. I don't want anyone [B]putting their foot in their mouth[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Raise Cain[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Have you two boys been out [B]raising cain[/B] again?"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Rock The Boat[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Everybody wants to go except for you. Why do you have to [B]rock the boat[/B]?"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Roll Out The Red Carpet[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"We are all so excited about your coming home that we're going to [B]roll out the red carpet[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Rome Was Not Built In One Day[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"It is taking me a long time to write this computer program." Answer: "[B]Rome was not built in one day[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Round About[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Well, I know how to get there in a [B]round about[/B] way, but maybe we should check the map."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Rub Salt In An Old Wound[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Oh please, let's not [B]rub salt in old wounds[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Second Nature[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"It has always been [B]second nature[/B] for me to draw with both hands."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Shake A Leg[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"They are waiting outside in the car; let's [B]shake a leg[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Sick As A Dog[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I heard you were uncomfortable yesterday." Answer: "Uncomfortable? I was [B]as sick as a dog[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Sink Or Swim[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"When we interview new teachers, we just put them in with the students and see how they do. It's [B]sink or swim[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Six Of One, A Half-Dozen Of The Other[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Example: "I say she's a stewardess. She says she's a flight attendant. It's [B]six of one, a half-dozen of the other[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Skeletons In The Closet[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I had only known her for one week. How could I know what [B]skeletons she had in her closet[/B]?"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Split Down The Middle[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"The election is [B]split down the middle[/B] with no clear winner at the moment."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Start From Scratch[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"How are you going to build your business?" Answer: "Just like everyone else does: [B]starting from scratch[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]The Apple Of Your Eye[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Even when they were young, she was always [B]the apple of his eye[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]The Ball Is In Your Court[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"My uncle helped me to get an interview at his company, now [B]the ball is in my court[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]The Best Of Both Worlds[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"My wife and I bought one house in Paris and one in New York; it gives us [B]the best of both worlds[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]The Bigger They Are The Harder They Fall[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Are you worried that he might be too strong?" Answer: "No I'm not. He is big, but [B]the bigger they are, the harder they fall[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]The Devil Is In The Details[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I can sketch a basic outline of the plan for you and it may look very simple, but [B]the devil is in the details[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]The Early Bird Catches The Worm[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I always arrive at work 30 minutes early; [B]the early bird catches the worm[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]The Ends Justify The Means[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I agree with your goal, but [B]the ends do not justify the means[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]The Jury Is Out[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Its hard to say if what we did was the right thing. [B]The jury is still out[/B] on it."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]The Pot Calling The Kettle Black[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Here comes the guy who is always late for work." Answer: "Aren't you [B]the pot calling the kettle black[/B]?"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]The Pros And Cons[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I've considered [B]the pros and cons[/B] and I've decided: it is going to be expensive, but I still want to go to college."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]The Sky Is The Limit[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"After I graduate from business school, [B]the sky's the limit[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]The Straw That Broke The Camel's Back[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"You've been rude to me all day, and I've had it. That's [B]the last straw[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]The Writing On The Wall[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Can't you see [B]the writing on the wall[/B]?"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Third Wheel[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"You two go on ahead without me. I don't want to be [B]the third wheel[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Tie The Knot[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Did you hear about Dan and Jenny? They finally decided to [B]tie the knot[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]To Err Is Human, To Forgive Divine[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I will never forgive my mother for what she has done!" Answer: "Don't be angry at her. [B]To err is human, to forgive divine[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Tooth And Nail[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"That was a tough match; they fought us [B]tooth and nail[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Truer Words Were Never Spoken[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"The earlier I get up, the better the day I have." Answer:" [B]Truer words were never spoken[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Turn Over A New Leaf[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I'm [B]turning over a new leaf[/B]; I've decided to quit smoking."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Two Wrongs Don't Make A Right[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"That boy pushed me yesterday and I am going to get him back today!" Answer: "No you are not! [B]Two wrongs do not make a right[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Two's Company; Three's a Crowd[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Why did you have to bring your sister? [B]Two's company; three's a crowd[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Under The Gun[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Everyone at the office has been working [B]under the gun[/B] since the new manager arrived."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Under The Weather[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"What's wrong?" Answer: "I'm a bit [B]under the weather[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Up Against[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"We have been [B]up against[/B] stronger opponents in the past."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Up For Grabs[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Quick- that table is [B]up for grabs[/B]; let's get it before someone else does."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Variety Is The Spice Of Life[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Example: "We were originally planning to go to Mexico on our vacation this year - like we did last year - but we decided to go to Egypt instead. [B]Variety is the spice of life[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Water Under The Bridge[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Aren't you still angry about what he said?" Answer: "No, that was a long time ago. It's all [B]water under the bridge[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Wear Your Heart On Your Sleeve[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"My brother always lets you know how he feels; he [B]wears his heart on his sleeve[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]What They Don't Know Won't Hurt Them[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Don't tell your father what happened; [B]what he doesn't know won't hurt him[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]When In Rome, Do As The Romans Do[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Are you sure we should eat this with our hands?" Answer: "Why not? All of these people are eating it that way. [B]When in Rome, do as the Romans do[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]When It Rains, It Pours[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Sometimes we have no customers for two or three hours then suddenly we get 20 people all at once; [B]when it rains, it pours[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]When Pigs Fly[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Would you ever take her on a date?" Answer: "Sure- [B]when pigs fly[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Wine And Dine[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"That man is really is really crazy about my sister. He has been [B]wining and dining[/B] her all month."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]With Your Back Up Against The Wall[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"I'm sorry I can't help you; I've got my [B]back up against the wall[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Without A Doubt[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Are you going to watch the game tomorrow?" Answer: "[B]Without a doubt[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Word Of Mouth[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Where did you hear about that?" Answer: "Just [B]word of mouth[/B]."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]You Can't Judge A Book By Its Cover[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"He dresses in plain clothing and drives an ordinary car. Who would know he is the richest man in town? [B]You can't judge a book by its cover[/B]!"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][B][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]Your Guess Is As Good As Mine[/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Georgia][SIZE=2][COLOR=black]"Excuse me, what time does the bus arrive?" Answer: "[B]Your guess is as good as mine[/B]; I almost never take the bus."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=2] [/SIZE][FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][/SIZE][/FONT] |
no escape
:0 hello...when ever i visit this css forum..i become more afraid...i had crammed 1000 idioms and now u suggest few more...yes abt 2000 more
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Idioms
[CENTER][CENTER][B][U][FONT=Arial]IDIOMS[/FONT][/U][/B][B][U][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/U][/B][/CENTER][/CENTER]
[FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]1.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Above all [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](mainly, especially)[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]I like all my friends, but [I]above all[/I], Sahira.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]2.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Above board[/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial] (honest, open)[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]His business with others is [I]above board[/I].[/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]3.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Add fuel to fire [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](increase anger or feeling).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]He abused him, and to [I]add fuel to fire, [/I]he beat him.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]4.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]After all [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](in spite of everything; it must be remembered).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]She studied little, but passed [I]after all[/I].[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]5.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]After one’s own heart [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](to like someone because of common interests).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Sumaira is [I]after my own heart, [/I]we both like Eastern music.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]6.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]All and sundry [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](all things or people; everybody)[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]The rich man invited all [I]and study [/I]to the party.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]7.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]All in all [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](on the whole in the controlling position)[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]We have our joys and problems, [I]all in all [/I]we are happy.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]The officer is [I]all in all [/I]in that department, he can do anything he like.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]8.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Alpha and Omega [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](the begging and the end)[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Good work is really the [I]Alpha and Omega [/I]of life.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]9.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Apple of discord [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](any cause of dispute)[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]They both want to have the house, it is an [I]apple of discord [/I]between them.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]10.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Apple of one’s eyes [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](somebody or something dearly loved).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Aziz is apple of his father’s eyes.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]11.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Apple pie order ([/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial]perfect order)[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]This place is an [I]apple pie order, [/I]you can find all you want.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]12.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]As cool as a cucumber [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](unexcited).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]He is [I]as cool as a cucumber [/I]in all conditions.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [B][FONT=Arial][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]13.[/SIZE][/FONT] [/FONT][SIZE=3][FONT=Arial][I]At large [/I](free, at liberty)[/FONT][/SIZE][/B] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]The prisoners were freed, they are [I]at large.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]14.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]At length [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](finally).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]We waited, [I]at length[/I] the driver came and the bus started.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]15.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]At sixes and sevens [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](in confusion).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]His books were in [I]sixes and sevens[/I], all in disorder.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]16.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]At the conclusion [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](end of).[/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]At the conclusion [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial]of the match, everyone left for home.[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]17.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]At the eleventh hour [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](at the latest possible time).[/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]At the eleventh hour, [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial]the medicine reached him, and he was saved.[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]18.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]At times [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](occasionally).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]He is good to me, only [I]at times [/I]he is angry.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]19.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Bag and baggage [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](with all one has).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]The owner of the house asked him to leave the house [I]bag and baggage.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]20.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Beat about the bush [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](talk in an inexact way about a subject).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Do not [I]beat about the bush, [/I]come to the point.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]21.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Because of [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](as a result of).[/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Because of [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial]the heavy rains trains are running late.[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]22.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Bed of roses [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](happy comfortable condition).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]An important politician’s work is not a [I]bed of roses [/I]as he faces difficulties all the time.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]23.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Behind the scenes [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](in secret).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]We don’t know what is happening [I]behind the scenes.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]24.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Bell[/FONT][/I][I][FONT=Arial] the cat [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](do something dangerous in order to save others).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Everyone wants to have the officers removed, but who will [I]bell the cat?[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]25.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Bird’s eye-view [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](a general view).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]This book gives a [I]bird’s eye-view[/I] of history.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]26.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Black sheep [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](a person showing bad behaviour).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]The Government will dismiss all the [I]black sheep [/I]in this office.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]27.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Bone of contention [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](cause of quarrel). [/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Property is a [I]bone of contention [/I]between them.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]28.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Break the ice [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](start a talk when all others are silent).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]All the people were silent, [I]to break the ice [/I]I started talking about the weather.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]29.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Break the news [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](be the first to inform of something).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]I cannot [I]break the news[/I] of his failure to his mother[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]30.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Bring about [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](cause of happen).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]The new government will [I]bring about [/I]important political changes.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]31.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Burn one’s boats or bridges [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](do something making it impossible to change one’s plans).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Let us decide to leave this job and [I]burn our boats.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]32.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Burning question [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](a very important, urgent problem).[/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Arial]Kashmir[/FONT][FONT=Arial] is a [I]burning question [/I] in this part of the world.[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]33.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Burn the midnight oil [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](work or study till late at night).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Their examination is near, that is why they [I]burn the midnight oil.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]34.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]By all means [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](certainly; using every possible way).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Iqbal was [I]by all means [/I]a great.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]35.[/SIZE] [/FONT][/I][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]By and large [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](in general)[I].[/I][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]By and large [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial]honest people are liked every where.[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]36.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]By fits and starts[/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial] (not regularly).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]They study [I]by fits and starts[/I], and so may fail.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]37.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]By hook or by crook [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](by any means possible).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]He wants to get the [I]job by hook or by crook.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]38.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]By leaps and bounds [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](rapidly).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]The Chinese people have progressed [I]by leaps and bounds.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]39.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Call a spade a spade [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](describe facts clearly, without hiding anything).[/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Call a spade a spade, [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial][I]tell the truth without fear.[/I][/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/FONT] [B][FONT=Arial][I][FONT=Arial]40.[/FONT] [/I][/FONT][FONT=Arial][I]Call off [/I][I](decide to stop something).[/I][/FONT][/B] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]The workers will soon [I]call off [/I]their strike.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]41.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Call one names [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](abuse or insult).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Good student should not [I]call anyone [/I]names[I].[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]42.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Catch red-handed[/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial] (catch in the act of doing something wrong).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]See, he is stealing your money, [I]catch him red-handed.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]43.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Child’s play [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](something very easily done).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]It is not a [I]child’s play [/I]to write a book.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]44.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Cock and bull story [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](baseless and silly story).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Whatever he says is all wrong, only a [I]cock and bull story.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]45.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Cold war [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](open enmity between countries without fighting).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]There is still [I]cold war [/I]between America and Russia. [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]46.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Come or get to the point [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](speak about the most important part of the subject).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Now [I]come to the point[/I] and do not talk about other matters.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]47.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Come out [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](become known).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]How did it [I]come out [/I]that the enemy was planning to attack us?[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]48.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Come over [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](come from a distance; change sides or opinion).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]She will [I]come over [/I]to Lahore from Karachi to stay with her sister.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Some of our enemies may [I]come over [/I]to our side.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]49.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Come round or come around [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](agree).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Our friend will [I]come round [/I]to our way of thinking after some talk.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]50.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Come to an end [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](finish).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]The match may [I]come to an end [/I]late in the afternoon.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]51.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Crocodile’s tears [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](tears or sorrow that in insincere).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]She is not really sad at your failure, her sorrow is only [I]crocodile’s tears.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]52.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Cry for moon [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](demand something impossible).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]You want to be rich in a year, you only [I]cry for the moon.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]53.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Cry over spilt milk [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](cry over a loss that cannot be repaired).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Do not [I]cry over spilt milk, [/I]you cannot get back your lost property.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]54.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Day after day or day in and day out [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](continuously).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Day after [I]day (day in and day out) [/I]they visit this office with their papers.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]55.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Do away with [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](abolish, finish).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]We should [I]do away with [/I]all our useless laws.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]56.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Due to [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](caused).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Good health is [I]due to [/I]good food and exercise.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]57.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Eat one’s words [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](take back what one has said).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]She foolishly spoke against her teacher, later she had to [I]eat her words.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]58.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]End up in smoke [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](end in nothing).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]All their plans may [I]end up in smoke.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]59.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Fall out [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](quarrel).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]The two sisters may [I]fall out [/I]with each other over the division of their father’s property.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]60.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Fish out of water [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](uncomfortable in a strange place).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]He is new here, and so feels like a [I]fish out of water.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]61.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Flesh and blood [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](human nature with its weakness).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]It is [I]just flesh and blood [/I]to desire money and property.[/SIZE][/FONT] [CENTER][CENTER][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/CENTER][/CENTER] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]62.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]For a rainy day [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](for a time when money may be needed).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]He saves something from his salary each month for a [I]rainy day.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]63.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]For good [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](for ever).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]She left the city [I]for good.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]64.[/SIZE] [/FONT][I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]For the purpose of [/SIZE][/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3](with the intention). She studied Arabic [I]for the purpose of [/I]visiting the Arab countries.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]65.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]From hand to mouth [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](not saving any money, living with difficulty).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] They live from [I]hand to mouth [/I]because their income is low.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]66.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Get in or into hot water [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](get into trouble).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]If you trouble your teacher thus, you will [I]get into hot water.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]67.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Get rid of [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](free oneself from something unwanted).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]I want to [I]get rid of [/I]my useless friends.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]68.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Get through ([/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial]adv., to reach someone, especially by telephone…..)[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]She rang me up several times, but couldn’t [I]get through.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]69.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Get through [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](prep come successfully to the end of; finish).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]You need to work hard to [I]get through [/I]the examination.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]I [I]got through [/I]the work in the evening.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]70.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Get up [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](rise from bed in the morning; leave one’s bed after illness).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]I [I]get up [/I]early,and go to bed early too.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [B][FONT=Arial][FONT=Arial]71.[/FONT] [/FONT][FONT=Arial][I][I]Get up to [/I][/I](reach).[/FONT][/B] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Did you [I]get up [/I]to the people walking far ahead of you along the road? (or did you [I]catch up with ……)[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]72.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Give and take [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](co-operate with each other).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]There should be [I]give and take [/I]between the people living in a house if they want to live happily.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]73.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Give way [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](move back or away).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]The crowd had to [I]give way [/I]before the police.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]74.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Give way to [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](make concession).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]We cannot [I]give way to [/I]such wrong demands.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]75.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Go with [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](to match).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Let us buy some chairs that [I]go with [/I]the colour of the walls.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]76.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Golden age [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](period of time when art and literature were at their best).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Who can forget our [I]golden age [/I]when Haroon Rashid ruled?[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]77.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Golden opportunity [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](the best chance).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]You are getting a job in Dubai, it is a [I]golden opportunity.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]78.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Good-for-nothing [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](worthless; worthless person).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]He cannot do anything for you, he is [I]good-for-nothing.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]He is a [I]good-for-nothing [/I]fellow (a useless person).[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]79.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Hard nut to crack [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](a problem difficult to solve).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]To control prices is a [I]hard nut to crack.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]80.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Heart and soul [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](completely)[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]She is in love with him, [I]heart and soul.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]81.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Here and there [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](in various places).[/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Here and there [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial]I found flowers and trees in the park.[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]82.[/SIZE] [/FONT][/I][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Hold one’s tongue [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](keep silent, [I]check oneself from speaking).[/I][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Hold your tongue [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial]when you are in the mosque.[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]83.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Hope against hope [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](hoping when there is little chance of success).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]To think that we can pass without study is to [I]hope against hope.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]84.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]In a fix [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](not able to think or decide).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]He is [I]in a fix[/I], and so cannot decide what to do now.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]85.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]In a nutshell [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](in the fewest words).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Tell [I]in a nutshell [/I]the results of the Second World War.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]86.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]In black and white [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](in writing).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]I have all their plans in [I]black and white.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]87.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]In consequence of [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](as the result of ).[/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]In consequence of [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial]the heavy rains, the rivers are in flood.[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]88.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]In short [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](in brief).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]She is good, she is able, she is beautiful, [I]in short [/I]she is perfect.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]89.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]In the bad books of [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](not to be in favour with).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]He often fails, he is [I]in the bad books [/I]of his teachers.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]90.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]In the good books of [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](be in favour with).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]He often passes, he is i[I]n the good books of [/I]his teachers.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]91.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]In the long run [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](in the end).[/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]In the long run, [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial]we shall succeed. [/FONT][/SIZE] [CENTER][CENTER][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/CENTER][/CENTER] [B][FONT=Arial][FONT=Arial]92.[/FONT] [/FONT][FONT=Arial][I][I]In time for [/I][/I](about to get).[/FONT][/B] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Ali is [I]in time for [/I]the high post.( or will get it soon).[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]93.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]In view of [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](considering).[/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]In view of [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial]the good results of our college, the government has given special scholarship to its students.[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]94.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Ins and outs [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](all the details).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]I know all the [I]ins and outs [/I]of this scheme, I understand it well.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]95.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Jack of all trades [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](one who can do many different kind of work but none so well).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]A [I]jack of all trades [/I]is master of none.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]96.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Keep at arm’s length [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](keep at a distance).[/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Keep [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial]idle people [I]at arm’s length, [/I]they waste your time. [/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]97.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Keep on [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](continue to do it).[/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Keep on [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial]trying until you pass the examination well.[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]98.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Keep pace with [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](go forward together with).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Always [I]keep pace with [/I]the good students in class.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]99.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Kith and kin [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](friends and relatives).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]He left his [I]kith and kin [/I]and went to Germany.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]100.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Learn by heart [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](commit to memory).[/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Learn [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial]this poem [I]by heart.[/I][/FONT][/SIZE] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]101.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Leave in the lurch[/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial] (leave someone in difficulties).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]As your true friend, I cannot [I]leave you [/I]in [I]the lurch[/I].[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]102.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Let down [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](fail to help).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]He is your best friend, he will never [I]let you down.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]103.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Lion’s share [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](the greatest part).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Ali took the [I]lion’s share [/I]of the property.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]104.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Look down upon [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](consider inferior)[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]We should not [I]look down upon [/I]our poor friends.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]105.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Look forward to [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](expect with hope).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]We [I]look forward [/I]to meeting them as they are arriving soon.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]106.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Look into [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](investigate; examine).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]The government should [I]look into [/I]the records of corrupt officers.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]107.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Make both ends meet [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](cover one’s expenses with one’s income).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]They are poor and can hardly make [I]both ends meet.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]108.[/SIZE] [/FONT][/I][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Make fun of [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](ridicule).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]You are wearing a strange hat, the boys will [I]make fun of [/I]you[I].[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]109.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]More or less [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](nearly).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]They have [I]more or less [/I]built the house.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]110.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Narrow escape [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](an escape by a slight margins).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]He missed hitting the bus by a few inches, for him it was a [I]narrow escape [/I](OR ….. it was a close call or as close shave).[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]111.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Nip in the bud [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](finish at the start).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]The Principal will try to [I]nip [/I]the strike [I]in the bud. [/I]We should nip the evil of smoking in the bud.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]112.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Null and void [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](without force or effect in law).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Those rules are [I]null and void [/I]now.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]113.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Off and on [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](from time to time, occasionally).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]We go to the cinema [I]off and on.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]114.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]On Account of [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](because of, owing to, on the score of).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] We won the battle [I]on account of [/I]God’s help and our effort.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]115.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]On behalf of [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](for him or her).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] I Shall sign these letters on [I]behalf of [/I] my father.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]116.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]On occasion [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](from time to time, Occasionally).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]It is only [I]on accasion [/I] that we travel to other cities.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]117.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]On the air [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](on the radio or T.V).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Tonight the education minister will be [I]on demand.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]118.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]On the eve of [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](time just before any thing)[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]They met their old friends [I]on the eve of [/I]their departure for Algeria.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]119.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]On the whole[/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial] (generally).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]It has some weakpoints, but [I]on the whole [/I]the film is good.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]120.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]On top of [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](in addition to).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]He comes late to class, and [I]on top of [/I]it, he comes without his books.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]121.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Once in the blue moon [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](rarely or never).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]We see a film [I]once in a blue moon.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]122.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Out of date of out of fashion [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](not in fashion or style).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Most air force planes become [I]out of date [/I]in jut a few years.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]123.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Out of the question [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](impossible).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]For me, it is [I]out of the question [/I]to help my friend’s enemies.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]124.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Out-an-out [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](complete, through).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Ours is an [I]out-and-out [/I]success. It is an [I]out-and-out [/I]insult.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]125.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Over and above [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](besides, in addition to).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]She sold her lands [I]over and above [/I]her other property.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]126.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Part and parcel [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](most important part of).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Religion is a [I]part and parcel of [/I]our life.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]127.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Pass away [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](die).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]My dear friend, Azmar, [I]passed away [/I]this year.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]128.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Play with fire [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](take great risks).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Understand that to speak against him means to [I]play with fire.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]129.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Put down [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](write something down; defeat or control).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Please [I]put down your [/I]address on this piece of paper.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]The government can easily [I]put down [/I]the other political parties.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]130.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Read between the lines [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](find a meaning that is not clear).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]He writes he is ill, I have [I]read between the lines [/I]that he does not want to work.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]131.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Red carpet [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](special ceremonial welcome to guest).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]We gave the Saudi king a [I]red-carpet [/I]treatment. We [I]rolled out the red carpet [/I]when the king visited us..[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [B][FONT=Arial][FONT=Arial]132.[/FONT] [/FONT][FONT=Arial][I][I]Red letter day [/I][/I](a very happy day).[/FONT][/B] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]The 14th August is a [I]red letter day [/I] for all of us.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]133.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Red-handed [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](in the act of doing something wrong).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]They caught him [I]red-handed [/I]when he was stealing their money.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]134.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Run down [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](say unkind words about).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Do not [I]run down [/I]your friends before others.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [B][FONT=Arial][FONT=Arial]135.[/FONT] [/FONT][FONT=Arial][I][I]Safe and sound [/I][/I](unharmed).[/FONT][/B] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]The passengers came out of the plane [I]safe and sound [/I]after the force landing.[/SIZE][/FONT] [CENTER][CENTER][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/CENTER][/CENTER] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]136.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Send for [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](have one called).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Please send for the doctor as mother is ill. I have [I]sent for [/I]the carpenter.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]137.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Sick of[/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial] (tired of).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]They are really [I]sick of [/I]her daily visits to her.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]138.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]So far as [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](as far as ).[/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]So far as [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial] I know him, he is honest.[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]139.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Stand by [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](support, side with).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]As a true friend, he will always [I]stand by you.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]140.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Take a leap into the dark [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](do something the result of which cannot be [/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]seen).[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Do not go to any other country without getting a job, do not [I]take a leap into the dark.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]141.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Take after [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](look and behave like an older relative).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Sharma [I]takes after[/I] her mother, looks like her in many ways.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]142.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Take for [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](consider; mistake for).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]You speak Arabic so well, they may [I]take you for [/I]an Arab.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]143.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Take off [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](remove the clothes).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]We [I]take off [/I]our clothes before taking a bath.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]144.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Take off [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](rise into the air).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]The plane [I]take off [/I]early in the morning.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]145.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Take over [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](take control of).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Mr. Kamal will [I]take overs [/I]as the new Principal.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]146.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Take to task [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](speak harshly to someone for a mistake, scold).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]The officer will [I]take him to task [/I]for his absence from duty.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]147.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Thanks to [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](as the result of).[/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Thanks to [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial]the medicine, [I] feel very well now.[/I][/FONT][/SIZE] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]148.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]That is why [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](for this reason).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]We arrived late, [I]that is why [/I]we could not attend the class.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]149.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Through thick and thin [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](under any kind of conditions).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]He will be on your side [I]through thick and thin.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]150.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Throw [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](or shed) light on (make clear, explain).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Please [I]throw light on[/I] the political conditions of your country.[/SIZE][/FONT] [CENTER][CENTER][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/CENTER][/CENTER] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]151.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Time and tide [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](time and chance).[/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Time and tide [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial]wait for none.[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]152.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]To and fro [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](from side to side).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]They walked [I]to and fro, [/I]without knowing what to do.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]153.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Turn a deaf ear [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](refuse to listen).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]He is unkind, he may [I]turn a deaf ear [/I]to your request.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]154.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Turn down [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](not to accept).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]He may [I]turn down [/I]your request.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]155.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Turn out ([/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial]happen to be in the end).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]He is sincere, he will [I]turn out to [/I]be your great helper.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [B][FONT=Arial][FONT=Arial]156.[/FONT] [/FONT][FONT=Arial][I][I]Turn over a new leaf [/I][/I](begin different way of life).[/FONT][/B] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Let us [I]turn over a new leaf [/I]and begin living our life in a better way.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]157.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Up to date [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](modern, latest).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]They are trying to bring their book [I]up to date. [/I](this dictionary is [I]up-to-date).[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]158.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Up to the mark [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](equal to the required standard).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]His new book is surely [I]up to the mark.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]159.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Ups and downs [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](good and bad periods).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]Life has its [I]ups and downs [/I]for everyone.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]160.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Wear and tear ([/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial]damage done by use).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]It is an old bus, you can see the [I]wear and tear [/I]on it.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]161.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Wet blanket[/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial] (person who prevents others from enjoying themselves).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]He is a [I]wet blanket [/I]to us all as he always says that we might fail.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]162.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]White-elephant [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](costly or troublesome possession).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]To us this car is just a [I]white elephant.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]163.[/SIZE] [/FONT][/I][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]Wild goose chase[/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial] (foolishly useless activity).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]His search for the lost bicycle is only a [I]wild goose chase.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [I][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]164.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]With a view to [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](with the intention of).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]We went to the ground [I]with a view to [/I]seeing the match.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]165.[/SIZE] [/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial]With open arms [/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial](very gladly).[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Arial][SIZE=3]We welcomed our hockey team with [I]open arms.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][I][SIZE=3][/SIZE][/I][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][/FONT][I]:kiss [/I] |
idioms
ace: make an "A" on a test, homework assignment, project, etc.
"Somebody said you aced the test, Dave. That's great!" all right (1): expression of reluctant agreement. A: "Come to the party with me. Please!" B: "Oh, all right. I don't want to, but I will." all right (2): fair; not particularly good. A: "How's your chemistry class?" B: "It's all right, I guess, but it's not the best class I've ever had." all right (3): unharmed; in satisfactory condition. A: "You don't look normal. Are you all right?" B: "Yes, but I have a headache." and then some: and much more besides. A: "I'd guess your new computer cost about $2,000. " B: "It cost that much and then some because I also bought extra RAM and VRAM." antsy: restless; impatient and tired of waiting. "I hope Katy calls soon. Just sitting around and waiting is making me antsy." as easy as pie: very easy. "I thought you said this was a difficult problem. It isn't. In fact, it's as easy as pie." at the eleventh hour: at the last minute; almost too late. "Yes, I got the work done in time. I finished it at the eleventh hour, but I wasn't late. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- bad-mouth: say unkind, unflattering, embarrassing (and probably untrue) things about someone. A: "I don't believe what Bob said. Why is he bad-mouthing me?" B: "He's probably jealous of your success." be a piece of cake: be very easy. A: "Bob said the test was difficult, but I thought it was a piece of cake."" be all ears: be eager to hear what someone has to say. A: "I just got an e-mail message from our old friend Sally." B: "Tell me what she said. I'm all ears!" be broke: be without money. "No, I can't lend you ten dollars. I'm completely broke until payday." be fed up with (with someone or something): be out of patience (with someone or something); be very tired of someone or something. "Bill, you're too careless with your work. I'm fed up with apologizing for your mistakes!" be in and out: be at and away from a place during a particular time. "Could we postpone our meeting until tomorrow? I expect to be in and out of the office most of the day today." be on the go: be very busy (going from one thing or project to another). "I'm really tired. I've been on the go all week long." be on the road: be traveling. "You won't be able to contact me tomorrow because I'll be on the road." be over: be finished; end. "I can't see you until around 4 o'clock. My meetings won't be over until then." be up and running: (for a technological process) be operational; be ready to use . "Dave's ESL Cafe on the Web has been up and running since December 1995." be used to (+Ving/noun): be accustomed to; not uncomfortable with. "It won't be hard to get up at 5:00 AM. I'm used to getting up early." beat: exhausted; very tired (adj.). "This has been a long day. I'm beat!" beat around the bush: evade an issue; avoid giving a direct answer. "Quit beating around the bush! If you don't want to go with me, just tell me!" beat one's brains out: try very hard to understand or do something. "Can you help me with this problem? I've been beating my brains out with it, but I just can't solve it." Beats me: I have no idea. A: "What time's the party?" B: "Beats me!" before long: soon. A: "I'm really tired of working." B: "Just be patient. The weekend will be here before long." bent out of shape: needlessly worried about something. "I know you're worried about your job interview, but don't get bent out of shape. You'll do just fine." bite off more than one can chew: take responsibility for more than one can manage. "I'm really behind with my project. Can you help me? I'm afraid I bit off more than I could chew!" blabbermouth: a very talkative person--especially one who says things that should be kept secret. "Don't say anything to Bob unless you want the whole office to know. Bob's quite a blabbermouth." blow one's top: become extremely angry. A: "Was your father upset when you came home at 3 AM?" B: "He was more than upset. He blew his top!" boom box: portable cassette/CD player. "Don't forget to bring your boom box to the picnic!" the bottom line: the most essential information. "The discussion lasted many hours. The bottom line was that the XYZ Company isn't for sale." Break a leg!: Good luck! "I understand you have a job interview tomorrow. Break a leg!" break someone's heart: make someone feel very disappointed/discouraged/sad. "Joe broke his mother's heart when he dropped out of school." broke: without money. A: "Can you lend me 10 dollars?" B: "I'm afraid not. I'm broke." buck(s): dollar(s). "The cheapest tickets for the concert cost 25 bucks. Do you still want to go?" bug: annoy; bother. "I'm trying to concentrate! Don't bug me!" bull-headed: stubborn; inflexible. "Don't be so bull-headed. Why can't you admit that others' opinions are just as good as yours?" a bundle: a lot of money. A: "Your new car is really nice." B: "It should be. It cost me a bundle!" burn the midnight oil: study/work all night or until very, very late at night. "I'm not ready for the test tomorrow. I guess I'll have to burn the the midnight oil." bushed: very tired; exhausted. "I'm going to lie down for a while. I'm really bushed." by oneself: alone and without help. "I can't do this by myself. Can you help me?" by the skin of one's teeth: barely succeed in doing something. "I'll have to start earlier the next time. This time I only finished by the skin of my teeth." |
Scientific idioms
Get a t-shirt of "science"blind someone with science (British & Australian)
if you blind someone with science, you confuse them by using technical language that they are not likely to understand. I think he decided to blind us with science because he didn't want us asking any difficult questions. it's not rocket science it doesn't take a rocket scientist - if you say that it doesn't take a rocket scientist to understand something, you mean that it is obvious. We're talking basic common sense here - it isn't rocket science have something down to a science to be able to manage all the details of doing something very well. We have traffic management at the new stadium down to a science regards:blink: |
Idioms and Proverbs
If you say, “The cat's out of the bag” instead of “The secret is given away,” you're using an idiom. The meaning of an idiom is different from the actual meaning of the words used. “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” is a proverb. Proverbs are old but familiar sayings that usually give advice. Both idioms and proverbs are part of our daily speech. Many are very old and have interesting histories. See how many of these sayings you know.
[B]“An apple a day keeps the doctor away.”[/B] This proverb comes from the ancient Romans, who believed the apple had magical powers to cure illness. In fact, apples are filled with vitamin C, protein, pectin, natural sugars, copper, and iron. They do promote health. [B]To “climb on the bandwagon.”[/B] Long ago, bands on the platforms of traveling wagons played music to announce a parade or political speech. To show their support, people would often jump onto the platform and join the band. Today, this idiom usually refers to someone who hopes to benefit from supporting another person's idea. [B]“Saved by the bell.”[/B] In 17th-century England, a guard at Windsor Castle was accused of falling asleep at his post. He claimed he was wrongly accused and could prove it; he had heard the church bell chime 13 times at midnight. Townspeople supported his claim and he was not executed. Today we think of the bell that ends a round in boxing, often saving the boxer from injury, or the bell at the end of a class period, saving you from more work. Regardless, this idiom means rescue from a situation at the last possible moment. [B]“Bury the hatchet.”[/B] Native Americans used to bury weapons to show that fighting had ended and enemies were now at peace. Today, the idiom means to make up with a friend after an argument or fight. [B]To “have a chip on one's shoulder.”[/B] In nineteenth-century America, a boy who thought he was pretty tough would put a wood chip on his shoulder and dare anyone to knock it off. Today the idiom refers to anyone who is “touchy” or takes offense easily. Bakers once gave an extra roll for every dozen sold, so a baker's dozen is 13. [B]“A close shave.”[/B] In the past, student barbers learned to shave on customers. If they shaved too close, their clients might be cut or even barely escape serious injury. Today, we use this idiom if a person narrowly escapes disaster. [B]“Dot the i's and cross the t's.”[/B] When only handwritten documents were used, it was very important for the clerk to write everything properly, especially letters like i and t, which could easily be confused. The idiom has since come to mean paying attention to every little detail. [B]“He who pays the piper calls the tune.”[/B] In medieval times, people were entertained by strolling musicians. Whoever paid the price could choose the music. This proverb means that whoever pays is in charge. [B]“The pen is mightier than the sword.”[/B] In seventeenth-century England, a free press was banned by the government. This meant that people who disagreed with the government and printed their views were punished. In spite of this, people published their ideas and opinions in illegal pamphlets that were distributed to the public. The proverb means that the written expression of ideas cannot be stopped by physical force. [B]“The pot calling the kettle black.”[/B] In the seventeenth century, both pots and kettles turned black because they were used over open fires. Today, this idiom means criticizing someone else for a fault of one's own. [B]“Raining cats and dogs.”[/B] In Norse mythology, the dog is associated with wind and the cat with storms. This expression means it's raining very heavily. [B]To “shed crocodile tears.”[/B] Crocodiles have a reflex that causes their eyes to tear when they open their mouths. This makes it look as though they are crying while devouring their prey. In fact, neither crocodiles nor people who shed “crocodile” tears feel sorry for their actions. [B]“Clean bill of health.”[/B] When a doctor gives you a “clean bill of health,” you know that you’re perfectly healthy. In the past, when a ship left a port, it was given a Bill of Health if there were no epidemics in the area from which it left. [B]“Close but no cigar.”[/B] Years ago, cigars were often given as prizes in contests at fairs and carnivals. When a player almost won, the person running the game would say, “Close but no cigar.” [B]“Cut from the same cloth.”[/B] This means that a person is very similar to another. When making suits, tailors use fabric from the same piece of cloth to make sure the pieces match perfectly. [B]“Strike while the iron’s hot.”[/B] When you do this, you’re taking advantage of a good opportunity. Blacksmiths must shape iron into objects during the brief time it’s red-hot. [QUOTE]Note : Members are requested to post Idioms and Proverb under this thread.[/QUOTE] |
[B][U][CENTER][SIZE="5"]Common English Idioms[/SIZE][/CENTER][/U][/B]
The idioms and expressions below are some of the most common in English. The example sentences show how idioms are used in context. 1. [B]as easy as pie[/B] means "very easy" (same as "a piece of cake") Example: He said it is a difficult problem, but I don't agree. It seems as easy as pie to me! 2. [B]be sick and tired of [/B]means "I hate" (also "can't stand") Example: I'm sick and tired of doing nothing but work. Let's go out tonight and have fun. 3. [B]bend over backwards [/B]means "try very hard" (maybe too much!) Example: He bent over backwards to please his new wife, but she never seemed satisfied. 4. [B]bite off more than one can chew[/B] means "take responsibility for more than one can manage" Example: John is so far behind in his studies. Besides classes, he plays sports and works at a part-time job. It seems he has bitten off more than he can chew. 5. [B]broke[/B] means "to have no money" Example: I have to borrow some money from my Dad. Right now, I'm broke. 6. [B]change one's mind [/B]means "decide to do something different from what had been decided earlier" Example: I was planning to work late tonight, but I changed my mind. I'll do extra work on the weekend instead. 7. [B]Cut it out![/B] means "stop doing something bad" Example: That noise is really annoying. Cut it out! 8. [B]drop someone a line[/B] means "send a letter or email to someone" Example: It was good to meet you and I hope we can see each other again. Drop me a line when you have time. 9. [B]figure something out [/B]means "come to understand a problem" Example: I don't understand how to do this problem. Take a look at it. Maybe you can figure it out. 10. [B]fill in for someone[/B] means "do their work while they are away" Example: While I was away from the store, my brother filled in for me. 11. [B]in ages[/B] means "for a very long time" Example: Have you seen Joe recently? I haven't seen him in ages. 12. [B]give someone a hand[/B] means "help" Example: I want to move this desk to the next room. Can you give me a hand? 13. [B]hit the hay[/B] means "go to bed" (also "hit the sack") Example: It's after 12 o'clock. I think it's time to hit the hay. 14. [B]in the black[/B] means "the business is making money, it is profitable" Example: Our business is really improving. We've been in the black all year. 15. [B]in the red[/B] means "the business is losing money, it is unprofitable" Example: Business is really going poorly these days. We've been in the red for the past three months. 16. [B]in the nick of time[/B] means "not too late, but very close!" Example: I got to the drugstore just in the nick of time. It's a good thing, because I really need this medicine! 17. [I][B]keep one's chin up[/B][/I] means "remain brave and keep on trying" Example: I know things have been difficult for you recently, but keep your chin up. It will get better soon. 18. [B]know something like the back of your hand[/B] means "know something very, very well" Example: If you get lost, just ask me for directions. I know this part of town like the back of my hand 19. [B]once in a while[/B] means "sometimes, not very often" Example: Have you been to the new movie theater? No, only see movies once in a while. I usually stay home and watch TV. 20. [B]sharp[/B] means "exactly at a that time" Example: I'll meet you at 9 o'clock sharp. If you're late, we'll be in trouble! 21. [B]sleep on it [/B]means "think about something before making a decision" Example: That sounds like a good deal, but I'd like to sleep on it before I give you my final decision. 22. [B]take it easy[/B] means "relax" Example: I don't have any special plans for the summer. I think I'll just take it easy. 23. [B]to get the ball rolling[/B] means "start something, especially something big" Example: We need to get this project started as soon as possible. I'm hoping you will help me get the ball rolling. 24. [B]up to the minute [/B]means "the most recent information" Example: I wish I knew more about what is happening in the capital city. We need more up to the minute news. 25. [B]twenty-four/seven[/B] means "every minute of every day, all the time" Example: You can access our web site 24/7. It's very convenient! |
[U][B][CENTER][SIZE="6"]Another List Of 700 Idioms[/SIZE][/CENTER][/B][/U]
[B]a background check /a backgrounder [/B] We did a background check on him. He's clean. No prison record, outstanding warrants, that kind of stuff. [B]a ballpark figure[/B] Just give me the ballpark figure for the project, I don't need it down to the exact cent. [B]a big deal /a really big deal[/B] "So I blew my curfew, big deal," said the teenager. [B]a bitter pill[/B] After their winning streak, and intensive training schedule, the team's defeat was a bitter pill to swallow. [B]a box office hit/a blockbuster[/B] The movie was a great success, a box office hit, a blockbuster. [B]a breadbasket[/B] The Prairies are the breadbasket of Canada, they grow many of Canada's food products. [B]a breadwinner[/B] As the main wage earner, he is the breadwinner of the household. [B]a brief interlude[/B] After a brief interlude, they resumed their work. [B]a brief respite[/B] The shower offered a brief respite from the searing heat of August. [B]a calming influence[/B] This teddy bear is a calming influence for my toddler. [B]a case of mistaken identity[/B] They talked to me as though I were my twin sister. It was clearly a case of mistaken identity. [B]a change of habit[/B] Unless you show a change of habit, you will fail. [I]a combined total[/I] They added the subtotals of the two sections to arrive at the combined total. [B]a crime of passion[/B] He killed his lover. It was a crime of passion. [B]a crucial component[/B] Studying is a crucial component in academic success. A student cannot succeed without studying. [B]a day off /a week off /a month off / time off[/B] She wanted a week off, but her boss only gave her three days off. [B]a dirty trick/dirty tricks[/B] He played a dirty trick and deceived them. [B]a dog's breakfast[/B] The book covered too many things too quickly, it was a real dog's breakfast, a mixed up mess. [B]a fact-finding mission [/B] The diplomat went to the Middle East on a fact-finding mission. [B]a fait accompli [/B] It is too late to change your mind, the order has been shipped. It is a fait accompli, an accomplished fact. [B]a fat cat [/B] Some say that rich, privileged people are fat cats. [B]a feverish pace [/B] They rushed to complete the highway before the deadline. They had been working at a feverish pace. [B]a fitting memorial [/B] The sports scholarship fund was a fitting memorial to the famous athlete. [B]a flash in the pan [/B] He had high grades in his first semester, but quit school partway through his second semester. He was just a flash in the pan. [B]a flat out lie /a flat out guess [/B] She meant to deceive them, but they caught her, accusing her of a flat-out lie. He didn't win the count-the-pennies contest through skill, he just made a flat-out guess. [B]a foregone conclusion[/B] They predicted events would turn out like this. Everyone could see it coming. It was a foregone conclusion. [B]a gene pool [/B] He is a habitual criminal. So you can't say he made a positive contribution to the gene pool. [B]a habitual liar [/B] Why believe her? She's just a habitual liar. She lies as a habit, a lot of the time, about many things. [B]a half-baked idea[/B] His plan won't work. He hasn't thought about it enough yet. All it is is some half-baked scheme he has. [B]a hell-hole[/B] The hottest area of the combat zone was a real hell-hole. [B]a hidden agenda [/B] The union is accusing the management of having a hidden agenda, something they aren't willing to admit. [B]a hit and run accident[/B] The car struck the pedestrian and left. It was a hit and run accident. [B]a hope and a prayer [/B] He is an incompetent pilot. He flies on a hope and a prayer. [B]a key witness [/B] The success of the case rests on the testimony of the prosecution's key witness. [B]a level playing field [/B] Business is unfair to newcomers, who naively expect a level playing field, where everyone is treated equally. [B]a major threat [/B] Airport security considers passengers armed with weapons a major threat. [B]a make-up examination [/B] Since you were away for the test, you will have to write a make-up examination. [B]a manila envelope [/B] He carried the important papers in a plain brown manila envelope. [B]a marked improvement [/B] He is out of bed after the operation, and has made a marked improvement. [B]a matter of time [/B] They kept borrowing heavily, so it was just a matter of time before they ran out of credit. [B]a merciful solution [/B] Some Europeans feel euthanasia is a merciful solution to shorten the suffering of terminally ill patients. [B]a mission of mercy [/B] The aid workers flew in food and supplies to the war-torn country on a mission of mercy. [B]a near miss [/B] The planes came within 20 meters of each other, so it was a near miss. [B]a new kid on the block [/B] Since the boss has only been here one week, he doesn't know how things work. He's the new kid on the block. [B]a newcomer to the list [/B] As one of the nouveau riche, she was a newcomer to the elite list. [B]a niche market [/B] The successful company manufactured and sold scooters for seniors and captured a niche market. [B]a once in a lifetime opportunity [/B] Their participation in the Olympics was a once in a lifetime opportunity for the team members. [B]a passion for living /life [/B] Her obituary mentioned her great passion for life. [B]a person of interest [/B] The police are looking for him in connection with the beating death. He is a person of interest. [B]a pick-me-up [/B] A café latte is a great pick-me-up. It gives me so much energy when I am tired. (a picture is worth a thousand words) A picture is worth a thousand words. [B]a point-by-point breakdown [/B] The sportscaster gave a point-by-point breakdown of the game. [B]a pretty picture [/B] All this mud on the floor, clothes everywhere, empty chip bags and pop cans; such a pretty picture! [B]a priority list [/B] The provincial government took the women's centre off the spending priority list. [B]a public eyesore [/B] The rusted bench was ugly; it was a public eyesore. [B]a runaway success [/B] The movie sold out. The packed house proved it was a runaway success. [B]a scare tactic /scare tactics [/B] The older child bullied her younger sister. She used every scare tactic she could think of. [B]a scattergun approach [/B] The company mismanaged the affair by using a scattergun approach. It was all hit and miss. [B]a skeleton in the closet [/B] He's not telling you everything, bet he has a skeleton or two in the closet. [B]a slice of life [/B] Teenage school woes, parental pressure, dating nightmares, how's that for a slice of life? [B]a slippery slope [/B] Don't even start on that issue. Don't go there. It's a slippery slope. [B]a smash success /a smashing success [/B] The program was well received, a smashing success. [B]a smattering of applause [/B] The lukewarm speech received a smattering of applause. [B]a sore spot [/B] She's very sensitive and touchy on that issue. It's a real sore spot. [B]a speedy recovery [/B] We wish you a speedy recovery. Get well soon! [B]a splash of colour [/B] The red maple tree was a splash of colour on the bare lawn. [B]a square peg in a round hole[/B] He doesn't fit in this department. He's a square peg in a round hole. [B]a standing ovation [/B] The outstanding performance rated a standing ovation from the audience. Everyone stood up and clapped. [B]a state of affairs[/B] The roast was burning in the oven, the washer had gone off balance, and then the smoke alarm went off upstairs. What a pretty state of affairs! [B]a stitch in time saves nine [/B] Better think and act ahead; a stitch in time saves nine. [B]a sucker punch[/B] He came up from behind, grabbed his head, and landed a sucker punch, right to his face. [B]a sure thing [/B] The deal's done, I promise. It's a sure thing. [B]a sweet deal /a really sweet deal [/B] He gets plenty of perks with his job, it's a really sweet deal. [B]a symptom of a larger problem [/B] The inadequate level of English at the university level is just a symptom of a larger problem. [B]a tight schedule [/B] He had only thirty minutes between planes, it was a very tight schedule. [B]a tight spot [/B] If you get in trouble with the teacher, don't expect me to get you out of a tight spot. [B]a time slot [/B] Her school schedule was almost full. She had only one time slot left. [B]a toothy grin [/B] The witch's mask stared back with a toothy grin. [B]a trade-off [/B] I'll mend your pants if you will babysit. It will be a trade-off. [B]a train of thought [/B] She was sitting quietly, but he interrupted her and broke her train of thought. [B]a vintage car [/B] He had a pristine, restored, 1930's Packard, truly a beautiful vintage car. [B]a weather vane [/B] The wind whistled over the barn roof, spinning the weather vane around and around. [B]a welcome change [/B] The vacation was a welcome change from months of hard work. [B]a while ago /a short while ago [/B] He left work a short while ago. He has been gone about fifteen minutes. [B]a world of difference [/B] Your donation to our cause will make a world of difference in a child's life. [B]all of a sudden [/B] He had just gotten off his bike, when all of a sudden, he collapsed. [B]an economic disaster [/B] Their personal finances are nothing short of an economic disaster. They are flat broke all the time. [B]an eager beaver[/B] I gave him the project to work on, and he started right away. He's a real eager beaver. [B]an errand of mercy [/B] She took the pie to the sick man on an errand of mercy. [B]an instant success [/B] Sales took right off and the company's products became an instant success. [B]an open and shut case [/B] He was caught red-handed. There were plenty of credible witnesses. It was an open and shut case. [B]an opportunity for advancement [/B] The job ad promised the successful applicant opportunity for advancement, a chance for a promotion. [B]an unbiased opinion [/B] You say your girlfriend is very beautiful? Now isn't that an unbiased opinion! [B]an undisclosed source [/B] The news report was based on information from an undisclosed source. [B]as far as something /someone is concerned [/B] The father told his adult son, that as far as he was concerned, he could do anything he wanted. He trusted him. [B]at any (given) time [/B] We are finished here, so you are free to go at any time. (at the end of the day) When all was said and done, at the end of the day, the company was a success. [B]at the last minute /a last minute change [/B] He changed his mind at the last minute. [B]at this (moment in) time /at this (point in) time[/B] At this time, the Manager is on a business trip overseas. [B]aware /unaware of the discrepancy [/B] The bank staff seemed to be unaware of the discrepancy in our chequing account. [B]bear with me [/B] This is long, so please be patient and bear with me. [B]best of show [/B] The tiny dog in the pink collar won Best of Show. [B]better...or else[/B] You better do what he says, or else! [B]better and better [/B] She loved country life. It was better and better each passing year. [B]between a rock and a hard place [/B] He shouldn't have lied. As a result of his lie, he was caught between a rock and a hard place. [B]big bucks [/B] He's just dreaming if he thinks he is going to be making big bucks at that job. They don't pay much. [B]bread and butter [/B] The wife spends lots of time doing volunteer work, but her husband's job is their bread and butter. His job pays their bills. [B]break and enter [/B] All the doors were locked, so the police charged the burglar with Break and Enter. [B]breakneck speed [/B] The two motorcyclists raced down the street at breakneck speed. [B]but then again [/B] She could do that for you, but then again, why should she do it if she knows you don't like her? [B]can't make a silk purse out of a sow's ear [/B] Don't trust your confidences to a low class gossip. You can't make a silk purse out of a sow's ear. [B]can't see the forest for the trees[/B] He is way too close to the situation. He can't see the forest for the trees. [B]carry out attacks [/B] The army will carry out the attacks as planned. [B]cat got your tongue [/B] Are you in shock or something? What's the matter, cat got your tongue? You haven't said anything. [B]catch-as-catch-can [/B] She's a real free spirit. She has lived her life catch-as-catch-can. [B]cheek by jowl [/B] They built the houses without side yards. They were packed in cheek by jowl on the property. [B]come on [/B] Come on, hurry up, or we will be late. [B]command central [/B] The whole war is run out of Command Central. [B]cost effective [/B] It would be more cost effective to hire two hard workers than three lazy people. [B]couldn't care less [/B] She went on and on about it. I didn't tell her that I couldn't care less. [B]crack troops [/B] Some nations boast they have crack troops who are better than any others. [B]cutthroat competition [/B] After University, he encountered more cutthroat competition in the job market. He was even unemployed for a few months. [B]damage control [/B] The CEO sent his First Vice President to assess the situation and do damage control after the fiasco. [B]day in and day out [/B] He worked hard day in and day out to solve the problem, but had little success. [B]details have been forthcoming / details have not been forthcoming[/B] The government is silent on the issue. After last week's press release few details have been forthcoming. [B]difficult to find...a more [/B] It would be difficult to find a more dedicated employee. [B]Do you get it? (also past, Did you get it?) [/B] Did you understand what he said? Did you get it? [B]domestic violence [/B] That family is known for its domestic violence. The oldest brother beats up the little kids all the time. [B]don't give it a second thought [/B] It's okay if the vase broke. Don't give it a second thought. It is replaceable. [B]don't look a gift horse in the mouth [/B] You should be grateful for anything given to you. Don't look a gift horse in the mouth. [B]down and out [/B] The Great Depression ruined the fortunes of many people. They were quickly down and out. [B]dream on [/B] You think he will hire all your friends? Dream on! [B]dressed to kill [/B] She spent oodles of money on her prom dress. She was dressed to kill. Her father, when he found out the cost, was fit to be tied. [B]easy for you to say [/B] Just because you learned to water-ski in two hours, you think I can too? That's easy for you to say! [B]end over end [/B] The piano tumbled down the steps end over end, pulling one of the movers with it. [B]endless speculation [/B] Further discussion will only produce endless speculation. [B]every nook and cranny [/B] I looked high and low for that gold brooch, searching every nook and cranny of the house. [B]experts recommend[/B] Experts recommend rest, ice and elevation for a sprained ankle. [B]far-fetched[/B] She says she will be a millionaire by age forty, but everybody who knows her thinks that idea is far-fetched. [B]far-flung [/B] The fur trade spread to the far-flung corners of the Empire [everywhere]. [B]first in line[/B] We camped out all night to be first in line to buy a condo at the new development. [B]fishy /sounds fishy /looks fishy /smells fishy /seems fishy [/B] You think she is telling the truth? I don't. Every time I hear more of her story it sounds fishier and fishier to me. [B]fit to be tied [/B] He is so upset about his daughter's mistake, he is fit to be tied. [B]fly by night [/B] They won't be here long, They are just a fly by night operation. [B]fly off the handle [/B] Don't get angry at her. Why are you so quick to fly off the handle? [B]folks on the street [/B] The official story is that the project was a real money-loser, but the folks on the street know better. [B]for a song [/B] He sold the property for so little, you could say that it went for a song. [B]for hours /days /months on end [/B] I suppose now we will have to endure his whining for days on end? [B]for the birds [/B] That doesn't make sense! That's for the birds! [B]fresh out of something [/B] I'm sorry sir, the kitchen is fresh out of pie [we don't have any more]. [B]full of potential [/B] She is just wasting her life going out with him. She is so full of potential, why lose everything? Bad mistake! [B]fun to be with [/B] I really like her. She is a good conversationalist, and so fun to be with. [B]Get lost! [/B] They kept pestering him after he told them no, so he told them to get lost. [B](glass half full /glass half empty) [/B] An optimist sees the glass half full. A pessimist sees it half empty. [B]go to the dogs [/B] With all the break and enters, and other crime, this neighborhood is really going to the dogs. [B]Good riddance! [/B] He finally got kicked out of office by his own party? Good riddance! [B]Got a minute? [/B] I have something to show you. Got a minute? [B]hard hit by [/B] The area was hard hit, first by wildfires, then by flooding. [B]hard to come by [/B] A vase like that, in mint condition, could prove hard to come by [very hard to find anywhere else]. [B]hard to resist [/B] The marketing pitch proved hard to resist. So he bought the CD player. [B]hash it out among themselves [/B] If they have their differences, leave them to hash it out among themselves. They will work it out, eventually. [B]Haste makes waste. [/B] Don't run with that milk and spill it! Haste makes waste. [B]high time for a change [/B] The opposition party said it was high time for a change. [B]Hip, hip, hooray! [/B] The celebrating crowd shouted "Hip, hip, hooray!" [B]hit or miss [/B] It didn't seem well planned, it seemed hit or miss. [B]honourable mention[/B] First, second, and third prizes went to others, but her work received honourable mention [fourth best]. [B]I hear what you're saying [/B] I'm kind of tired of this argument, but I hear what you are saying [I am listening to you and understanding you, but I am upset]. [B]if push comes to shove [/B] We'll handle that if, and when, we have to; if push comes to shove. [B]in a round-about way [/B] He wasn't direct about anything, he always told a story in a round-about way. [B]in (actual) fact [/B] In fact, events were quite different. [B]in living memory[/B] There had never been such a large parade in the small town in living memory [even the oldest person there had never seen one]. [B]in no uncertain terms [/B] I told her off, and made it clear to her what the consequences would be in no uncertain terms. [B]in terms of [/B] In terms of physical mobility, he is doing okay. In terms of weight loss, he is not. [B]in the foreseeable future [/B] The government has budgeted no further funding for this project in the foreseeable future. [B]in the near future [/B] It won't happen tomorrow, but in the near future we expect another grant. [B]it just goes to show you [/B] It just goes to show you, you can't trust a habitual liar. [B]it's a deal /it's a done deal [/B] If you want that car for that price, then it's a done deal, by me. [B]it's all in a day's work [/B] I know I went out of my way to do that for you, but it is just all in a day's work. [B]it's not for someone to say [/B] It's not for her to say whether you get the job. She's not the Manager. [B]it's not rocket science [/B] The parents should have been able to figure out the toy assembly diagram; it's not rocket science. [B]it's such a tragedy [/B] Now three of his immediate family are gone. It's such a tragedy. They all died too young. [B]just in the nick of time [/B] She stopped the toddler from crossing the street alone just in the nick of time by quickly grabbing him by the collar. [B]let's get with it /let's get on with it [/B] Enough coffee break, guys. Now let's get on with the job. [B]long, long ago [/B] There were dinosaurs long, long ago [a long, long, time ago]. [B]made public [/B] Voters want the party's final expenses made public [announced so everyone will know]. [B]make it quick /better make it quick [/B] Yes, you can run and get your sweater, but better make it quick. We have to leave right now. [B]markets dry up [/B] He started a small manufacturing business, but events took a twist, and his markets dried up [there were no buyers for his product]. [B]missing in action [/B] Some soldiers who didn't return from the war were listed as missing in action. [B]money talks [/B] He was accused of bribery. His hallmark statement was that money talks [he used his money to bribe people]. [B]more than enough time [/B] Don't rush around so. We have more than enough time to get ready. [B]much to my surprise [or his/her/their] [/B] Much to our surprise, our children gave us a cruise to Greece for our anniversary. [B]navel-gazing [/B] They are so self-absorbed. That group practices and preaches a lot of navel-gazing. [B]neck and neck [/B] The two horses were even at the finish line, having gone 40 yards neck and neck. [B]net-savvy [/B] She may be a senior citizen, but she knows a lot about the computer. She is very net-savvy. [B]never a dull moment [/B] Four things went wrong in the office that day. There was never a dull moment. [B]next to nothing [/B] Shop at a thrift store and clothes will cost you next to nothing. [B]nice and soft /nice and warm [/B] My toddler says her blankie is nice and soft. [B]nip and tuck [/B] The students may barely make it through this semester sharing that house with all its expensive extras. It will be nip and tuck. [B]no less [/B] He wants forty dollars for that ratty looking old leather jacket, no less! [B]no rest for the weary [/B] Something else needs to be done after our long day of work? No rest for the weary, I guess. [B]no trespassing [/B] Stay off our property. No Trespassing [B]not a chance /small chance [/B] He's just dreaming if he thinks they will pay his way to go to the expensive management course. Small chance! [No way!] [B]not an issue at this time [/B] Whether the government will place the children with another family permanently is not an issue at this time [they are reserving judgment and not saying yet]. [B]not as (adjective) as everyone seems to think [/B] Such a heartthrob! Well, let me tell you, Mr. Muscles is not as strong as everyone seems to think. [B]not at all [/B] Don't bother to thank me for the favour. Don't mention it, not at all. [B]not at the moment [/B] "Do you have any cooked chickens?" she asked. "Not at the moment," he answered, " but we will have some in half an hour." [B]not by any stretch of the imagination [/B] Our family budget did not cover her extra expenses, not by any stretch of the imagination. (not) hardly Note, "not hardly" is used in some regions, but is incorrect because it is a double negative, it should always be "hardly" Do you really think that happened that way? Hardly! [B]not lose any sleep over [/B] It didn't work out this time, but it's not that important. Don't lose any sleep over it. [B]not worth the paper it's written on [/B] His guarantee is not worth the paper it is written on [useless]. [B]not worth talking about [/B] She won't even discuss it. She says it is not worth talking about. [B]nothing ventured, nothing gained [/B] Sure, take the risk and do it. You know what they say, nothing ventured, nothing gained. [B]nuts to you [/B] I don't believe you, and I don't want to talk about it. Nuts to you! of one kind or another We will find you a suitable replacement of one kind or another. oh, my /oh, my dear Look at all this mess. Oh, my dear! (on a) daily/weekly/monthly (basis) He checks the rain gauge daily. (on a month-to-month basis) Bank statements should be reviewed monthly. [B]on a need-to-know basis[/B] Please distribute this confidential information on a need-to-know basis only [don't tell everyone]. [B]on condition of anonymity [/B] She provided key details to the reporter, on condition of anonymity, asking that her identity remain hidden. [B]on notice about [/B] The company put the gardener on notice about his sloppy grounds keeping. He had to change or risk being fired. [B]on the money /right on the money [/B] That bet you placed at the racetrack yesterday sure paid off. You were right on the money! [B]on the run [/B] She usually skips a sit-down breakfast and eats on the run. [B]on the run from the law [/B] The three convicts escaped from prison, and are on the run from the law. [B]on the table /on the table during discussions [/B] The issue of contracting-out should be on the table during discussions [negotiable]. [B]on-again, off-again [/B] Their love affair is on-again, off-again, come and go, up and down. [B]once and for all [/B] Let me tell you, when he talks to the Service Rep, he will straighten him out once and for all. [B]Once burned, twice shy. [/B] After his disastrous experience hang-gliding he will probably stay on the ground. Once burned, twice shy. [B]once upon a time [/B] The phrase "Once upon a time..." begins many children's stories. [B]one of a kind [/B] That work of art will never be repeated. It is one of a kind. [B]open for business [/B] Today, they are still setting up the kitchen, but tomorrow the restaurant will be open for business. [B]out of place [/B] He wasn't used to wearing a suit and tie, and felt quite out of place at the cocktail party. [B]Out of sight, out of mind. [/B] The toddler fretted over the broken toy until her mother removed it, saying "Out of sight, out of mind." [B]out of step with /in step with [/B] When he goes off on those wild tangents, he shows he is out of step with the rest of the management board. [B]Out of the frying pan, into the fire. [/B] They moved from a rental to a very old house that soon needed major structural repairs. Out of the frying pan, into the fire. [B]outstanding in [one's] field [/B] She is an excellent teacher, positively outstanding in her field. [B]over and done with [/B] Don't cry over the past. It is over and done with. [B]over, and over again [/B] He covered the same material thoroughly, rewording it over and over again. [B]over the moon about [/B] Wow are they ever in love! She is just over the moon about him. [B]over-the-counter [/B] Rather than use a prescription drug, the doctor recommended an over-the-counter drug, easily available at the pharmacy. [B]paid a pittance [/B] We think we got a good deal on that used bike. We bought it at a thrift shop and paid a pittance. [B]part and parcel of [/B] His story is part and parcel of the entire fraud. They cannot be separated. [B]peace of mind [/B] Only when she knew her daughter was taken care of did she have peace of mind. [B]poised to take action [/B] The entrepreneur is poised to take action if she sees an opening in the market. [B]prepared to offer[/B] Perhaps the buyers are prepared to offer a slightly higher price on the property. [B]pretty good [/B] You did just fine, kid. That was pretty good for a beginner. [B]pretty straightforward [/B] The terms of the deal seem to be clear. Everything looks pretty straightforward. [B]prices plunge [/B] The company will lose too much money on current stock if prices plunge. [B]pros and cons [/B] The government is weighing its options before it decides. There are both benefits and drawbacks, pros and cons. [B]quiet reflection [/B] Facing a hectic afternoon, she paused for a moment of quiet reflection in the small courtyard garden. [B]rapt attention [/B] The toddler was watching the cartoon show with rapt attention, just fascinated. [B]ready.....at all times [/B] The troops were ready to face the enemy at all times. [B]ready for action [/B] The troops were armed and ready for action. [B]ready for business[/B] The water was mopped up, and the gutter unblocked. The store was ready for business again three hours after the rain storm. [B]ready to party [/B] Exams are over, and every student is ready to party. [B]reverse engineering [/B] A foreign company stole the patented design by taking apart the design through reverse engineering. [B]right now [/B] Come on, we have to leave right now! [B]right this minute [/B] Come here, now, right this minute! [B]ripe for the kill [/B] He is sure that the market for his new product is ready, ripe for the kill [B]risk management [/B] The company plans very carefully, showing careful risk management to maximize profits and cut losses. [B]sales are down /up[/B] The housing market is soft right now. Sales are down. [B]sales decline [/B] Sales of that product declined last year for the first time following ten years of steady gain. [B]sales fall off [/B] It was a very hot market until recently, when sales fell off. [B]scout's honour [/B] I promise it will be delivered tomorrow. Scout's Honour! [B]severance pay [/B] When he was laid off, he made a special trip to the office to collect his severance pay [final pay]. [B]share and share alike [/B] Here's the pizza, kids. Now nobody hogs it, okay? It will be share and share alike. [B]six of one, half a dozen of the other [/B] Both options are equal; six of one, half a dozen of the other. [B]someone has such a hard life [/B] Oh you poor girl! Only two cookies and not three. You have such a hard life! [B]someone's heart is in the right place [/B] When she was in the hospital, the office sent her flowers. Someone's heart was in the right place. [B]someone's luck ran out [/B] The death was just a freak accident. They say his luck ran out. [B]someone's standing in the polls [/B] That politician has recently enjoyed a high standing in the polls. He is really popular. [B]sound effects [/B] The performers added sound effects to the song, tooting like train whistles at the end. [B]speaking of which [/B] We have been talking about food all morning, speaking of which, would you like to go get some lunch? [B]split down the middle [/B] The voters returned a 51.1, 49.9 split down the middle for the incumbent. [B]split half-and-half [/B] It doesn't make sense to buy two of these huge drinks for two children. Why not get an extra glass and split one half-and-half? [B]strange bedfellows [/B] Politics makes strange bedfellows. People whom you don't expect to work together, do. [B]stream-of-consciousness [/B] He just spoke whatever came to his mind. It was a stream-of-consciousness speech. [B]strictly speaking [/B] I will let you have that for free, but strictly speaking, we aren't allowed to give them away [don't tell the boss]. [B]such is life [/B] So you didn't win the lottery after all? Such is life. [B]sugar-coated [/B] He was so polite to the angry customer; his story was sugar-coated. [B](sure to please) [/B] We will decide for you which colour to send when you order. Our selection is sure to please. [B]survival of the fittest [/B] The competition was fierce. It was survival of the fittest. [B]survival tactics [/B] The rescue guides trained the skiers in avalanche survival tactics. [B]thanks to [/B] Thanks to quick thinking on his part, the car fire did not spread to the gas tank. [B]the backbone of a plan [/B] The government now has in place the backbone of a plan to handle further political setbacks in that area. the biggest loser If you cheat on an exam, even if you pass, the biggest loser will be you, not anyone else. the bottom line They expected huge financial losses, but the bottom line did not look bad. the final curtain call The actors came back for one final curtain call at the end of the play. the heart of an issue That's more like it. Now that he is being honest, we are getting to the heart of the issue. the hit parade Few songs are big sellers, finding a place on the hit parade. the onus falls on The onus falls on the parents to care for the child. It is their responsibility. the pot calling the kettle black But she is like that too, and even more so! When she says that, it's just the pot calling the kettle black. the real world You thought you would get rich by winning the lottery? Welcome back to the real world! the right to die There has been a public debate in Canada regarding the issue of euthanasia, or the right to die. the school of hard knocks He had a rough life, but learned much in the school of hard knocks. The show's not over until the fat lady sings. I guess we'll wait and see what happens. I am reserving judgment. The show's not over until the fat lady sings. the survival of the fittest The market competition in realty is stiff. It's a case of the survival of the fittest. the turn of the century At the turn of the last century, parts of Europe were untouched by recent active warfare. That was soon to change. the will to live The elderly woman's health declined when she lost her will to live. the wraps come off Once the new building is unveiled and the wraps come off, we may consider leasing some space. these are exciting times /to live in exciting times "John is involved in so many sports, and now he has this girlfriend," said the teenager's mother. "We sure live in exciting times." things look bad/good/better/worse Things are looking better outside our house, now that we have the new gardens planted. Everything looked pretty bad for a while. thinly veiled Her distaste for the decorator's choice of fabrics was thinly veiled. time for a change The premier of that province has been in office too long. It is time for a change. time for action Come on, boys, coffee break is over. It's time for action. to just get by We just get by on my pay rate. to accept change Some people are very much creatures of habit; it is very hard for them to accept change. to add up to Everything you are buying adds up to forty dollars. Yes, you are right it is expensive. It sure adds up, doesn't it? to address an issue The politician refused to address the issue. to apply for a job I applied for a job in computer science yesterday. to assess information Once we have read the company's application, and assessed the information, we will contact them. to avoid responsibility He was gone from home long hours in order to avoid the responsibility of caring for his young son. to barely survive The cat barely survived the accident with the car. to be a lemon That vehicle had three major repairs in the first two years we owned it. It has turned out to be a real lemon. to be an item Did you know she is dating the courier driver? That's right, they are an item. to be at stake We can't lose this game because the whole championship is at stake. We won't advance to the finals if we lose. to be based on information Part of the news report was based on information from an unnamed source. to be beyond belief Have you seen what she did to her hair? It's beyond belief. [You will be shocked.] to be called to account for /to account for The school called him to account for the way he had spent the last three weeks. to be derelict in one's duty Parents who neglect their children are derelict in their duty. to be honest /to be honest with you /to be perfectly honest I am truly confused. To be perfectly honest, I don't know. To be honest with you, I don't know the first thing about how to do this assignment. to be in the hole They spent fifty bucks on the supplies, but only charged forty bucks for the stuff they sold. So, they went [are] in the hole ten bucks. to be knee deep in something The farmer waded into the flooded field to rescue the horse until he was nearly knee deep in mud. to be marginalized by society The couple felt that they were being left out of every group, because of their circumstances. They believed they were marginalized by society. to be no fun "I don't want to go to the doctor," wailed the six-year-old, "that will be no fun!" to be no stranger to Those people are no strangers to success, they have had two gold medalists in their family. to be no surprise /to come as no surprise It should come as no surprise that their teenage daughter has racked up yet another awesome credit card bill. to be on call for The emergency room physician was on call for the weekend. He had his cell phone turned on and with him at all times. to be reduced to tears When the toddler grabbed the books from her sister's arms, her sister was reduced to tears. to be sick and tired of I'm sick and tired of you two children fighting. to be sitting pretty If they sell that house for the list price, they will be sitting pretty. to be there for someone I know you are having a hard time right now, but I'll be there for you [support you] when you need me. to be tied down The mother of the baby triplets was tied down to a schedule of diaper changes, bottles, laundry and naps. to be true to oneself If you speak up for what you believe in, you are being true to yourself. to be willing to negotiate Union and management were both willing to negotiate a deal to avert a strike or lockout. to be worried sick Ever since her daughter had failed the test, the mother had been worried sick about her future. to bend over backwards The salesperson bent over backwards to be helpful when they bought the car. to blank out /to draw a blank about something She couldn't find the right words. She just blanked out. When they asked the postal code at her last address, she drew a blank. to brace for the worst There is a hurricane warning, and residents of Atlantic Canada are bracing for the worst. to break even The business is making as much as it has spent, so it is breaking even. It is viable. to break every rule in the book The dishonest company made the sale, but in the process, it broke every rule in the book. to break into The thief broke into the store through the back window, and stole the computer. to break open The little girl broke the chocolate egg open and pulled out the prize. to break the bank If our son spends any more on fancy cars, he'll break the bank. We just can't afford it. to bring to bear on They brought all the facts to bear on the case and solved it. to bring to justice The criminals were brought to justice. They will all be doing time behind bars. to burn the candle at both ends He has committed far too much of his available time. He's only sleeping five hours at night; burning the candle at both ends. to burst the bubble The man was quite attracted to the woman until she mentioned her husband and burst the bubble. to buy off Rumours are that they have bought off half the team. It's all rigged. to call the shots /to call all the shots In that family, Dad makes the money, but Mom calls all the shots. to call to someone's attention / to call someone's attention to something Someone walking by their car called their attention to the flat tire. to carve out a niche That company is trying to carve out a niche in the interior design market. to cause quite a stir Her engagement is causing quite a stir at work, since she has dated several men there. to cave in Dad caved in and bought his oldest daughter a car for her graduation. to celebrate a victory /birthday The winning team went out to a pub to celebrate their victory. to chicken out He dared his sister to a roller blade race, but she chickened out at the last minute. to chill out The weary mother told her screaming toddler to settle down and chill out. to clean up a mess The cat got sick [threw up, vomited, up-chucked, barfed] on the rug and Dad had to clean up the mess. to coast to victory They worked hard during the beginning of the campaign, and then at the end seemed to coast to victory without much effort. to come away with something There were several consolation prizes, so even though they didn't win a first or second prize, they came away with something. to come in contact with If you work at a hospital laundry, you will come in contact with a variety of communicable diseases. to come to grief Better not try to cheat on that exam, or you will come to grief. to come to mind She thought very hard about where the lost papers could be, but nothing came to mind. to come to nothing /nought The family worried about the bullying, but the issue disappeared, and it came to nought. to come to terms with She is still coming to terms with her mother's death. to come under the influence of During his time at that university, he came under the influence of some right-wing thinkers. to come undone After her boyfriend ended their relationship, she collapsed. She couldn't take it, she just came undone. to conduct a study The research group is conducting a study of their new product. to convey a message /the convey the message that The official wanted to convey the message that the family had not been forgotten in their sorrow. to cramp someone's style She's an actress, and he is so straight-laced, he just cramps her style. to create a disturbance The gang members gathered often at the club, broke bottles and yelled, and generally created a disturbance. to create confusion When the accident blocked both exits, that created confusion for commuters. to cross one's heart and hope to die "I promise I won't break it," yelled the little boy, grabbing the toy boat, "cross my heart and hope to die." to crow about something He just won the thousands on the lottery, so now he really has something to crow about. to cry in one's soup It's all doom and gloom with that family, they are always crying in their soup over something or other. to cry over spilled milk It's too late to cry over spilled milk. to cut a deal The two companies cut a deal and merged. to cut to the chase He stopped further discussion, and cut to the chase, calling for a decision from the board. to defend a decision She defended her decision to become a lawyer, saying she had wanted to bring justice in society. to deliver on one's promise The company performed the service repair on the car for free. They really delivered on their promise. to derive a list He took the directory and derived a list of prospective clients. to deserve praise for a job well done Today, we are honouring our longest-serving volunteer, who certainly deserves praise for a job well done. to distance oneself from The politician refused to be drawn into the discussion, distancing herself from the issue by claiming it was another minister's department. to disturb the peace The police warned him about using the bullhorn to disturb the peace. to do a favor "Do me a favor, please, and be quiet while I am on the phone," the mother told her little girl. to do a snow job They believed him alright, he really did a snow job and conned them all. Wait until they find out he lied! to down drink /food Because it was so hot, and he was so thirsty, he downed three glasses in a row, then stopped to talk. to draw attention to something The store would like to draw your attention to the specials in the women's shoe department. to draw a conclusion The students will be asked to draw a conclusion from the information presented in live debate. to dredge up something Don't dredge up anything from a past relationship to poison a new one. to drive someone around the bend The toddler's lengthy temper tantrums nearly drove her mother around the bend. to drive someone up the wall When he got a busy signal repeatedly after calling the company all afternoon, it really drove him up the wall. to drop a hint What she really wanted for Valentine's Day was a diamond ring from her boyfriend, so she dropped a hint or two. Now they are engaged. to earn a living He earns a living as a customer service representative. to earn brownie points The man earned brownie points from his wife every time he mopped the kitchen floor. She was pleased and surprised. to eke out an existence During the Depression, Prairie farmers barely eked out an existence, as soil blew away from their farms. to exacerbate a condition Don't get him involved in this argument, that will just exacerbate the condition. It will get much worse fast. to face off against someone The two teams faced off against each other on centre ice, and the game began. to fare better /worse /well overall He didn't do very well on Part III of the exam, but he fared well overall, earning a higher grade than twenty of his classmates. to feast one's eyes on She entered the small boutique and feasted her eyes on the pleasant display of soaps and perfumes. to feed someone a line You don't really believe what that guy told you, do you? He was just feeding you a line. to feel for someone "Oh, you work so hard," said the girl to her older brother who had just gotten his first job. "I really feel for you!" to feel like a million dollars "Wow," said the senior citizen, "now that the Doctor put me on that new medicine, I feel like a million dollars!" to fiddle with Don't fiddle with that TV remote, you will screw up the channel selections. There's been some fiddling with the financial figures for the organization, and some money is apparently missing. to fight fire with fire The company finally rearranged their sales tactics, and began to make more money. They were gaining over the competition by fighting fire with fire [a response appropriate to the threat]. to figure it out I just can't understand these instructions, the girl said. She hoped her father could figure it out. to fill someone's shoes He is a valuable employee. When he retires from the company, it will be hard to fill his shoes. to fill in for She was gone from work Friday so a co-worker filled in for her. to find a way to make it happen Don't worry about money, the parent promised. If you want to go to college, son, we will find a way to make it happen. to find common ground The two sides were able to solve the labour dispute by finding common ground about benefits and contracting out. to find the time "Come see me next week if you manage to find the time in your busy schedule," the mother told her daughter. to fix up with She wants to fix me up with some cousin of hers, but I really don't want to start dating again. to flex one's muscles We don't think he is serious about threatening to sue, he's just flexing his muscles. to float a loan The son was able to able to enlist two relatives to help him and floated a loan from his father in order to buy the new car. to foil a plot The company foiled a plot by hackers to break into their client database. to forge ahead The research arm of the corporation didn't let the failure hold them back. They just forged ahead with new work in a related area. to funnel money The thugs funneled money through a series of bank accounts until they reached their source of supply. to gather information /intelligence According to the information the investigators have gathered, he is very deeply involved in the smuggling ring. to get one's nose out of joint "Oh don't get your nose out of joint," the mother told her toddler, "I'm sorry I spilled juice on your pants." to get hooked on They fed the kid marshmallows, and now she is hooked on candy, a real "sugarholic." to get off someone's back The employee had an abusive boss who wouldn't get off his back about the new performance standards. to get over someone She broke up with her boyfriend yesterday, but it may take a couple of weeks for her to get over him. to get the ax That government program will either get the ax or get more money. to get the ball rolling The new company opened on time with plenty of publicity to get the ball rolling. to get to the bottom of We are waiting to see it they will investigate far enough to get to the bottom of it. to get up on the wrong side of the bed She was very crabby. He told her she must have gotten up on the wrong side of the bed that morning. to give credit for /to The awards ceremony emcee gave credit to the organizers of the gala for the fine job they did on the food and entertainment. to give someone something to think about The time he spent in jail gave the drunk driver something to think about. to give someone the heebie-jeebies That horror flick gave me the heebie-jeebies. I'll be scared of the dark, now. to go around in circles They don't know what to do now that they haven't heard from their son. They are just going around in circles. to go from crisis to crisis That couple seems to live their lives going from crisis to crisis. to go hungry "If you don't eat your peas, you will just have to go hungry," said the father to his toddler. to go to bat for someone We are pretty sure he will make the team. His former team coach is going to bat for him to get him a spot. to hand over the goods /money "Please hand over the CD player," the angry teenager told his little brother. to hang on She is still hanging on to the hope that they might be able to buy the more expensive house. to hang out He hangs out with some tough-looking kids at the coffee shop. to harbour a secret The diary harbored a secret the family had never known. to have a chance to "I wish we had a chance to buy a new toy, Mama," said the little girl. to have a change of heart He told her no, but then had a change of heart and bought the new bicycle anyway. to have a hole in one's head Why is he crossing six lanes of highway outside of the crosswalk? Does he have a hole in his head? to have a knack for /to have an eye for /to have a flare for She has a knack for crafts. She knits the most fabulous sweaters. She really has an eye for colour and a flare for design. to have a reputation for That company has a reputation for fine service. to have a ripple effect He thinks his actions won't hurt anyone, but it will have a ripple effect. People he doesn't even know will be damaged. to have been saying that all along "I knew that would happen," the father told his son. "Haven't I been saying that all along?" to have gone missing / went missing I can't find my red shoe, it's gone missing. It went missing yesterday, I think. to have mixed feelings about something She had mixed feelings about dating him. Sometimes he just didn't seem to be her type. to have the world by the tail If he wins the lottery, he'll have the world by the tail. to have unfinished business He returned to his homeland to sell his home. This wrapped up his unfinished business. to head out for They were heading out for a camping trip when they got the news about the tornado. to hit a home run The last batter connected with the ball so well that he rounded all the bases before the catcher caught the ball. It was a home run. to hold the dubious distinction of He holds the dubious distinction of changing departments more often than anyone else in our company. to hope for the best The cat was very injured, but the vet operated on her and they all hoped for the best. to horse around The kids were horsing around in the water, getting everybody wet. to hunker down During the thunderstorm, we just lit some candles and hunkered down in the cabin. to identify a group /target /trigger He has identified the preschool children as his target audience for his magician's act. to increase /decrease dramatically Spending has increased dramatically over the last two decades. to issue a directive The company issued a directive to its middle management to cut back on all non-essential training expenses. to jump to a conclusion She looked at the way he was dressed and jumped to the conclusion that he had money. to keep afloat They hoped the extra loan from the bank would keep the business afloat during the mill strike. to keep an eye on Keep an eye on the beans I put on to cook so they don't burn, while I go take the wash out of the dryer. to keep an account of We will have to keep a good account of the money we spend on extras, because the mortgage is going to take a pretty big chunk out of our pay. to keep it under your hat She says not to tell anybody she is expecting a baby again. Just keep it under your hat. to keep under wraps The company president kept the new plan under wraps until the funding was all worked out. to kick the bucket Sometime during the night, the sick frog kicked the bucket. They buried it's body this morning. to knock one's socks off He did a really good job on the public relations work. It just knocked off our socks to see how hard he worked. to land a job He's sure happy. He landed the job he has always wanted. to launch an investigation The police launched an investigation into the killings. to lead to misunderstanding Too many careless remarks like that will lead to misunderstanding. to leave (all) one's options open If you take a broad variety of courses in the first two years of university, you can leave your options open for a career choice. to leave high and dry She lost her wallet at the bus depot. It left her high and dry for cash to get a ride home. to let someone know If you don't want to come next week, please let me know. to limit out They caught several fish this morning, and limited out for the day. to live on the growing edge That's my son, he's into high tech. He loves to live on the growing edge. to look at the ramifications Before you change neighborhoods, look at all the ramifications of your children changing schools. to look down on Among other things, multiculturalism teaches us not to look down on anyone because of their ethnic background. to look down the road That plan won't work for our community. They should be able to see that if they just look down the road a few years. to look like a joke After I had been gardening, my new shoes were so dirty they looked like a joke. to look up to The small girl really looked up to her aunt and uncle. She just adored them. to lose out on If you don't get back to the tour bus on time, you will lose out on the explanation the tour guide is giving about the next stop. to lose the scent The dog tracked the rabbit through the bushes, and then lost the scent. to lose track of She enjoyed the new book so much, she lost track of time and two hours went by before she realized it. to make one's mark He has really made his mark in the art world and now sells his work for many thousands of dollars a piece. to make a good /bad showing The junior soccer team is making a good showing, winning three games so far this season. to make a mockery of In that trial, the acquittal of the accused makes a mockery of justice. to make a mountain out of a molehill "Don't make such a fuss," said the parent to her toddler, "you are making a mountain out of a molehill." to make a pact The seven-year-old girls made a pact to start a secret club where no boys would be allowed. to make amends for The young offender will have to make amends for the damage he caused. Some are suggesting community service would be appropriate. to make an effort I know you can pass the exam if you apply yourself to studying the material and really make an effort. to make ends meet Between the two of them, her parents make enough money to make ends meet. to make it to the top of a list She made it to the top of the list of post-doctoral candidates they were interviewing for the job. to make the most of an opportunity In order to make the most of the opportunity, you must act now, before all the units are sold. to maximize your return Certain investments will do better than others, maximizing your return on the dollars you invest. to meet the criteria for He met all the criteria for entrance to the elite school. He met all their entrance requirements. to mess around Do it right, don't just mess around. Don't mess around with that cat now, or he will claw you. to milk something dry He renewed the business contract until the hiring company ran out of money for his project. He had milked them dry. to miss the action /to miss all the action If she comes to the party two hours late, she is going to miss all the action. to miss out (on) Three people showed up at the Canada Day Celebrations an hour after the last of the cake was gone. They missed out on a very good cake. to miss the boat If she waits too late to apply for that school, she will miss the boat and not get in. to miss the mark He was aiming for a bank balance of $5,000 this month, but it's only about $4,500. So, he missed the mark by about $$500. to mix metaphors Parts of two different metaphors should not be used together. For instance, "to pull the wool out from under (someone's) feet" and "to pull the rug over (someone's) eyes," are both incorrect. They are mixed metaphors. The correct metaphors are "to pull the rug out from under (someone's) feet," and "to pull the wool over {someone's}eyes." to muddy the waters The professor asked the class if they understood his explanation, or whether it had only muddied the waters and made things worse. to name a panel The firm named a panel of distinguished members to lead the public discussions. to need a crutch He does just fine in his third language, but his mother still needs a crutch, so she takes an a dictionary everywhere. to opt for "I'll opt for the blue sports car," the game show contestant said. "That's my choice." to opt out of They opted out of the undercoating for their new car, because the local road maintenance crews use sand, not salt. So they reasoned the car wouldn't rust. to owe a debt of gratitude She saved our son's life when he was drowning, so we owe her a debt of gratitude. to paint the town red The old fashioned song said they would have a really good time partying, painting the town red. to pass on the savings We were able to get a very good deal on the wholesale price of these computers, so we are passing on the savings to you, our customers. to pass up a deal They could not pass up the deal and bought the house when it dropped in price by ten percent. to pay attention to "Will you stand up straight, and pay attention to what you are doing?" the crabby mother asked her jiggling toddler. to pay the piper He won't get away with what he did. He'll have to pay the piper someday. to pay through the nose She made the mistake of trusting her new friend with her purse, and the "friend" took some money from her. Now she is paying through the nose for her ignorance. to pin down The politician evaded their questions. He was hard to pin down. to pinch hit for The Principal is unexpectedly gone today, so the Vice Principal is pinch hitting for him. to pinch pennies Neither of them makes much money, so they really have to pinch pennies or they will be in debt. to play around with The cat just played around with the snake, and then left it. to play hooky He is gone when he is supposed to be here. Why does he always play hooky on Friday's? to play with fire You should know better than to get involved in that scheme. Don't play with fire or you will get burned. to plow through In their search, they ploughed through hundreds of job applications before they found a suitable applicant. to polish off He finished the apple pie and congratulated himself that he had polished off the whole meal. to pop into one's mind /head It just popped into the student's head that the answer to question number three was "were" not "was." to pose a problem That leak in the roof poses quite a problem for us if we want to go on vacation during wet weather. to post a notice She posted a rental-wanted notice on the Library bulletin board. to present a basis for The first person giving the talk will present the basis for our argument. to present a threat to The militant groups present a threat to cross-country travel in that country. to press one's luck You already have one freebie this visit, don't press your luck to get another one. to prove to be someone's salvation The web site proved to be his salvation on the essay part of his homework. to pull a fast one /to pull a fast one on someone I can hardly believe they got away with what they did. They cheated us. They really pulled a fast one. to pull a stunt He got away with too much. Next time someone pulls that kind of stunt, call us. to pull someone's leg You don't believe his story, do you? He is just pulling your leg. to pull the plug on The government pulled the plug on the funding program, causing the clinic to shut down. to pull the rug out from under They changed their minds at the last minute and decided not to rent the suite to her. They pulled the rug out from under her feet, and left her with nowhere to go. to pull the wool over someone's eyes That company is not telling you truth. They are just pulling the wool over your eyes. to push the envelope If the company wants to keep growing, they have to keep pushing the envelope, staying ahead of market trends. to put a spin on something She isn't telling you all of the story, just her side. You know she always likes to put her own spin on things, and twist them. to put on hold The bank put a hold on his account so he could not make debit transactions because he was bouncing so many cheques. to put on the back burner She wanted to marry him, but after meeting his family, and finding out she didn't like them, she decided to put the idea on the back burner for a while. to put one's money where one's mouth is Your promises are all empty. Why don't you put your money where you mouth is? to put /place the blame on Without placing any blame, we can state that someone made a very big mistake here. to put something behind oneself She tried hard to put the loss of her friends behind her and concentrate on the future at the new school. to rain on someone's parade I hate to rain on your parade, but it won't be as simple as you think. The solution is much more complicated. to reach an agreement The union and management reached an agreement over the terms of the new contract. to reject an idea She quickly saw he was very tired, and rejected her earlier idea that they would go out this evening. to rely solely on /upon The pilots will be relying solely on their instruments when the plane takes off in this much fog. to remain calm "Please remain calm," said the teacher. I am sure the laptop cord is here somewhere. It can't be too far away. We will find it. to render ineffective He took a second medication in addition to the first, and it rendered the first ineffective, cancelling it out. to return a favour /the favour I really appreciate your link to our web site. How can I return the favour? to reveal (the) specifics He has some plan or other to work things out, but he won't reveal the specifics to his wife. to reverse a negative trend Housing sales have picked up again, reversing the negative trend from last year. Realtors say the increase in sales is welcome. to review the matter The committee has promised to take another look at the finances in order to keep the school open. After they review the matter, they will contact us. to run a risk If you eat undercooked hamburger, you run the risk of getting e-coli. to run for cover The fox ran for cover when the dogs approached. to run with an idea / to take an idea and run with it That company is very successful. They act quickly when they enter new markets. They really take an idea and run with it. to save face He needs to keep his dignity, so you better not mention his mistake. Just let him save face, for once. to save the best for last Wow! Chocolate torte after that super dinner? You sure saved the best for last. to save the day That take-out food really saved the day for our volunteer movers. They were so hungry after all that work. to say the least /at the very least It wasn't right that you didn't know your financial manager made an expensive mistake. He should have contacted you about the error, to say the least. to scramble to come up with After the flash flooding, the disaster relief agency had to scramble to come up with fresh water and food for the victims. to screw up /to be screwed up The car repair place screwed up and cancelled the wrong appointment. It's all screwed up now. to scrimp and save If she scrimps and saves, she can make a down payment on the condo. to see no end in sight The toddler's parents saw no end of the temper tantrums in sight, but fortunately, they were wrong. to sell off He is going to sell off all his possessions and move to Canada. to sell someone down the river It is too late for them to back out now, they have too much invested. That lawyer really sold them down the river with his advice. to sell someone short Don't sell him short, he may be able to produce what he has promised. to serve as a reminder The cenotaph in the park serves as a reminder of the veterans. to set the stage for Her success at gymnastics set the stage for her success later in synchronized swimming. to settle a score His former roommate stole $300 from him. We hope they will find a peaceful way to settle the score. to settle an argument The mother walked into the room and asked her daughters if they needed help to settle their argument. to shake a leg Come on, we don't have much time to get there. We will really have to shake a leg or we will be late. to shake on it Let's stop the bargaining and declare the deal final. Would you like to shake on it? to share information We would like the school to share more information with us about our daughter's progress in reading. to shed a few pounds /some pounds She was overweight, so she started running every other day, and shed a few pounds. to shed light on You must know something about this. Please tell us what you know and shed some light on the matter. to shell out The father shelled out a cool ten grand ($10,000.00) for his oldest daughter's wedding. to shoot off one's mouth He doesn't know what he is talking about. He is just shooting off his mouth. to shoot the rapids Some drivers weave through rush hour traffic like rafters shooting the rapids. to show cause If he has evidence we need to hear that he was wronged by the tenants' group, then he should tell us. Come on, show cause. to sign off on The school secretary signed off on the courier package delivery. to siphon off money The tutoring service is siphoning off money as it passes from the student to the tutor. Everybody wants a piece of the pie. to skirt around Don't you think she is just skirting around the issue? Or is she really dealing with every part of the argument? to smarten up "Don't mess in that mud," the father told his son. "When you wear good clothes, you have to smarten up and stay clean or Mom will be angry." to smell a rat There is something not right about her explanation. I think I smell a rat. to sort out in the end I am sure we will sort it all out in the end, although it seems very confused now. to spend a bundle The mother spent a bundle on their back-to-school clothes this year, so she wants the school to begin requiring school uniforms, instead. to spill the beans The little girl told her brother Dad had gotten him a camera for his birthday. She ruined the surprise, and spilled the beans. to spot a fake A jeweler can spot a fake diamond. A customs officer should be able to spot a fake passport. A merchant should learn to spot a fake $20 bill. to square away Settle the debts you have and get squared away, and then contact me again about buying the boat. to squeeze in /into We can just squeeze one more word into your classified ad. to squeeze out She applied to medical school, but got squeezed out by the competition. She will try again, I guess. to squelch a rumor /rumors The minister responsible for that portfolio squelched the rumor that the funds had been mishandled. to stage an attack The rebels staged an attack at night and took the town. to stand by We can't just stand by and watch, we want to be involved. to stand in for The bride's brother walked her down the aisle, standing in for her absent father. to stand in the gap The call to patriotism in some countries involves a call to stand in the gap against "evil forces." to stand up for He is capable of standing up for what he believes. to step up the action They stepped up the action in the war, fighting more battles with more troops. to stick to a plan If they would pick a good plan and just stick to it, they would be out of debt soon. to stretch the truth The little boy was very good at fibbing, stretching the truth into little lies. to strike out They really struck out in that game. It is game over and they are out of the playoffs. to string someone along He won't be able to hire all those people. He is just stringing them along. to suffer withdrawal symptoms She suffered withdrawal symptoms when she gave up coffee, but soon the headaches were over. to support an agenda The parents seem to support the principal's agenda about the discipline in the school. to suss out something He is very clever about sussing out the truth when he researches that kind of topic. to swear by something Parents usually swear by a certain brand of diaper that it prevents leaks. to sweep an issue under the carpet He may be a successful politician, but sometimes he does sweep an issue under the carpet, and not answer our questions directly. to sweeten the pot /to sweeten the deal Can I offer you free car mats to sweeten the deal on the sports model? to switch horses in midstream Switching majors in the third year of university is like switching horses midstream. to take a chance They bought the house, even though they knew they were taking a chance that the roof would soon need to be replaced. to take a crack at Want to go to Reno and take a crack at winning something on the slots? to take a decision The decision has been taken about the school. It will remain open for the time being. to take a second look Can we come back to the house you showed us last week and take a second look? We may want to buy it. to take action The police are taking action against auto theft and using bait cars that videotape thieves stealing the cars. to take issue with He wants to take issue with anyone who asks any questions about his son's behavior. to take measures They will take measures to secure the borders of the country if the government falls. to take off (on someone) The toddler was right with his parents in the boys clothing, but his mother let go of his hand and he just took off on them. to take over She said she would take over the payments on the car. to take steps The doctor is taking steps to stop the progression of the disease. to take the fall The two boys pulled the stunt together, buy only one boy was caught. He took the fall for it. to take the heat She resigned from the minister's portfolio because she could not take the heat about the scandal. to take the plunge Are you ready to take the plunge from engagement into marriage? to take something to heart I promise I won't do it again. I will really take your advice to heart next time, and resist. to target individuals The new tax law targets individuals earning between $80,000 and $100,000 a year. to tell it like it is She is sometimes too honest, always trying to tell it like it is. to tell one's own version He wants to tell us his version of events, so we should be quiet and listen. to tend to exaggerate /to tend not to exaggerate She tends not to exaggerate, so I would be surprised if she is wrong about the affair. to test a response That party is testing the public response to their platform in the polls. to think outside the box The youngest members of that company seem to be the best at innovations and thinking outside the box. to tighten controls The corporation has tightened controls on executive expense accounts in order to save money. to tighten one's belt He lost his job last week, but has already found work starting next week. They just have to tighten their belts and spend less for a couple of weeks. to trace ancestry He can trace his ancestry back to the first settlers in that area. to trade places I might complain, but I wouldn't trade places with you for anything in the world. to turn over a new leaf She has practiced the piano every day this month. She seems to be turning over a new leaf and really applying herself for a change. to uncover a plan The R.C.M.P. has uncovered a plan by a theft ring to fence bank card with stolen account numbers. to undermine the process When they aren't honest with the police, they just undermine the process of investigation. to underscore the need to /for The beggars on the streets underscore the need for more social programs. to understand how to best help If is difficult for parents in that situation to understand how to best help their child. to use as a measuring stick The tutor uses her marked work as a measuring stick to customize lesson plans for the student. to volunteer for a job The teenagers volunteered to do a variety of cleaning jobs for the senior citizens. to wander away from The older man wandered away from the group and became disoriented in the large mall. to want it yesterday They are in too much of a hurry for that job to be done. He told me he wants it yesterday. to warm up to After about an hour of chat, he was just warming up to his topic. No one knew how to stop him to wash one's hands of I'm not involved. I wash my hands of the whole affair. to waste an opportunity She is just wasting the opportunity to get a higher degree if she quits school to work now. to water down Don't water down the story too much or there won't be any fun left. to wear out one's welcome Her aunt stayed a very long three months with them, so she had really worn out her welcome when she left. to weasel out of They promised to fix the steering by Friday, but they had too many service jobs to handle. Now they are trying to weasel out of their promise. Now that's bad management. What a shame! Did you just say that she fell and broke her leg yesterday? What a shame! to wimp out The third student wimped out on the other two and left them stranded at the work party. He was too tired to work hard, so he just left. to wish someone well We are sorry to hear you are leaving the company. We will really miss you, We certainly wish you well in your new position. to wish upon a star The toddler was learning from the storybook all about how to wish upon a star, the stuff of magic and fairy tales. to wolf down (food) The two boys stopped hiking just long enough to wolf down a cheese sandwich, and two chocolate bars each and drink two bottles of water. to work in cooperation with The police are working in cooperation with the parents to keep the school ground safe. to work up a sweat The painters were out in the hot sun scraping the fence boards, really working up a sweat. to work without a net Because he is self-employed, he doesn't have the unemployment benefits he used to have. Now he is really working without a net. to worry about nothing The small girl said she stayed awake afraid of the dark. Her mother reminded her that she was worrying about nothing. to wrap up a deal They agreed on the final price for the vehicle and wrapped up the deal. to yield insight into The government report yields a little insight into the financial problems of that organization. to zip around She bought a tiny little two-seater to zip around town. too wonderful for words Your gifts to our daughter were too wonderful for words. totally awesome "All right," the teenager gloated, "a new car, totally awesome!" touch base Every couple of weeks or so, please touch base with the district manager to let him know how you are doing. [B]trumped up charges[/B] The family felt the charges against their son had been manufactured. He was in jail in another country on trumped up charges. [B]trying to perfect [/B] The corporation has been trying to perfect their customer support web site for months. [B]twenty-four/seven, 24/7 [/B] If you need help, we provide that 24 hours a day, seven days a week. That's right, 24/7. [B]under pressure [/B] He works so well under pressure, they ought to promote him. [B]under the weather [/B] She got sick yesterday, and is still under the weather this morning. [B]unmitigated disaster [/B] The toddler's playroom was an unmitigated disaster, toys scattered everywhere, juice and cookies ground into the carpet, and the drapes pulled down. [B]up and over[/B] The father boosted his son up and over the bars of the jungle gym. [B]up in arms [/B] The girls were up in arms about being excluded from the sports team. [B]up in the air [/B] We don't know what is going on. Our whole trip is in jeopardy since the travel company declared bankruptcy. Everything is up in the air. [B]up one's sleeve [/B] The Dad had so many tricks up his sleeve, his young daughter was often spellbound as he performed for her. [B]up-to-date[/B] He has old information. The new web site is much more up-to-date. [B]up-to-the minute [/B] Their live coverage will give you up-to-the minute coverage of the election results as they are received. [B]vastly overrated [/B] That hot sauce is vastly overrated. It isn't hot at all. [B]very much so [/B] Would you like to have a copy of your last examination results? Yes please, very much so. [B]Walk softly and carry a big stick. [/B] The strategy to win over the competition without them realizing what you have done is to walk softly and carry a big stick. [B]way cool /so cool /cool dude [/B] Oh, he is so cool, so way cool. Even his sister calls him one cool dude. [B]way to go [/B] Another goal! Way to go, team! [B]welcome back [/B] Boy did we ever miss you. We worked so hard when you were gone. Welcome back. [B]what goes around, comes around [/B] She got what she deserved. You know what they say, what goes around comes around. [B]What world do you live in? [/B] He is not being realistic. What world does he live in? [B]What's the matter? [/B] Oh, sweetheart, you look so depressed. Is something the matter? What is it? What's the matter? (when all is said and done) When all is said and done, when it is final, then we will know the result. [B]When the cat's away, the mice will play[/B]. The boys had a loud party when their parents were away for the night. When the cat's away, the mice will play. [B]Where there's a will, there's a way. [/B] It looks like there is no solution, but where there's a will, there's a way. [B]which way the wind is blowing[/B] We need to do some market testing to find out which way the wind is blowing before we launch our new product. [B]winners and losers [/B] In every contest, there are winners and losers. Don't feel badly if you don't win this time. [B]with all due respect [/B] With all due respect to the Honourable Member, I don't believe his facts are correct. [B]with reckless abandon [/B] She spent the last of her inheritance with reckless abandon, buying a large diamond and a sports car. [B]worth a try [/B] We don't know if this medical treatment will work, but at this stage, it is worth a try. [B]worthy of merit [/B] Also worthy of merit was the fine work done by our newest quilting club member. [B]written in stone [/B] You can always choose new parameters afterwards, nothing is written in stone. [B]you do what you have to do [/B] When you are as desperate as I am, you do what you have to do to change the situation. [QUOTE][B]Note :[/B] many of these expressions are far too informal for formal writing. If you are not familiar with an expression you see here, and need to know if you may use it in formal written work. Decisions about the use of idioms in formal writing are often decided on a case-by-case basis, one at a time. I have not had time to make these decisions and mark acceptability partly because there would be 700 decisions to be made! [/QUOTE] [QUOTE][B]Ref:[/B] [url]www.speak-read-write.org[/url] Copyright 2004-2007 Sally Jennings[/QUOTE] |
A Bird In The Hand Is Worth Two In The Bush
"Dan has asked me to go to a party with him. What if my boyfriend finds out?" Reply: "Don't go. A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush." A Blessing In Disguise "My car broke down again, but maybe it was a blessing in disguise; I've been wasting too much time driving around anyway." A Chip On Your Shoulder "What's bothering that guy?" Answer: "Nothing; he's just got a chip on the shoulder." A Dime A Dozen "I don't need friends like him; they are a dime a dozen." A Drop In The Bucket "I'd like to do something to change the world but whatever I do seems like a drop in the bucket." A Fool And His Money Are Easily Parted Example: "Her husband can't seem to hold onto any amount of money; he either spends it or loses it. A fool and his money are easily parted." A Penny Saved Is A Penny Earned "I'm going to give you $20 but I want you to put it in the bank; a penny saved is a penny earned!" A Piece Of Cake "Do you think you will win your tennis match today?" Answer: "It will be a piece of cake." A Shot In The Dark "That was such a difficult question! How did you get it right?" Reply: "I just took a shot in the dark." A Slap On The Wrist "He should be in jail for what he did, but he got off with just a slap on the wrist." A Slip Of The Tongue "Be careful talking to the police tomorrow; one slip of the tongue could get us into big trouble." A Taste Of Your Own Medicine "It looks like she got a taste of her own medicine." A Toss-Up "Do you think they'll make it one time?" Answer: "I really don't know. It's a toss-up." A Wolf In Sheep's Clothing "Don't trust the salespeople at that store; they are all wolves in sheep's clothing!" About Face "Do an about face, get back in that bathroom, and brush your teeth!" Absence Makes The Heart Grow Fonder "The time we spend apart has been good for us; absence makes the heart grow fonder." Actions Speak Louder Than Words "Don't tell me how to do this; show me! Actions speak louder than words." Add Fuel To The Fire "I would like to do something to help, but I don't want to add fuel to the fire." Against The Clock "We worked against the clock all day to get this report done by 5PM." Against The Grain "I jog at this track everyday and there is always that one guy who has to go against the grain and run in the opposite direction." All Bark And No Bite "The new manager threatened to fire me but I know he won't do it; he is all bark and no bite." All Greek "Did you understand what he just said?" Reply: "Nope. It was all Greek to me." All In The Same Boat "We can't fight against each other; we need to work together. We're all in the same boat!" All That Glitters Is Not Gold "Be careful when shopping for your new car; all that glitters is not gold!" All Thumbs "Hey! You are pouring my coffee on the table!" Reply: "Oh, I'm so sorry! I have been all thumbs today." An Arm And A Leg "Be careful with that watch; it cost me an arm and a leg." An Axe To Grind "I have an axe to grind with you." Answer: "Oh no; what did I do wrong?" Arm In Arm "What a nice afternoon. We walked arm in arm along the beach for hours." Around The Block "You kids are too young to fall in love: Wait until you have been around the block a time or two." As Blind As A Bat "Without his glasses, my father is as blind as a bat." As High As A Kite "The ball got stuck up there on the roof. It's as high as a kite." As Light As A Feather "Wow, you lift that box so easily!" Reply: "Oh, come on. It is as light as a feather." At The Drop Of A Hat "Would you travel around the world if you had the money?" Answer: "At the drop of a hat." At Wit's End "We have been at wit's end trying to figure out how we are going to pay our taxes." Back To The Drawing Board "It looks like my plan to kill the weeds in the garden has failed. Back to the drawing board." Barking Up The Wrong Tree "I have been trying to solve this math problem for 30 minutes but I think I've been barking up the wrong tree." Beat A Dead Horse "There's no use in beating a dead horse." Beating Around The Bush "If you want to ask me, just ask; don't beat around the bush." Bend Over Backwards "We bent over backwards to help him, and he never even thanked us!" Better Late Than Never "Sorry I was late for the meeting today; I got stuck in traffic." Answer: "That's okay; better late than never." Between A Rock And A Hard Place "I'd like to help you but I am stuck between a rock and a hard place." Birds Of A Feather Flock Together "Look; the volleyball players are eating at the same table together, as always." Answer: "Birds of a feather flock together." Bite Off More Than You Can Chew "I thought I could finish this report within one month, but it looks like I have bitten off more than I can chew." Bite Your Tongue "Whenever that professor says something I don't like, I have to bite my tongue." Blood Is Thicker Than Water "When my best friend and my brother got in a fight I had to help my brother; blood is thicker than water." Break Down "Did your car break down again?" Break In "They broke in to my apartment when I was gone, and they took everything!" Break The Tie "Whoever wins in Florida will have enough votes to break the tie." Burn Your Bridges "I wish you hadn't been rude to that man just now; he is very important in this town and you shouldn't go around burning bridges." Burning The Candle At Both Ends "Ever since this new project started I have been burning the candle at both ends. I can't take much more of it." Burning The Midnight Oil "Our son has been working hard preparing for his final exams!" Answer: "Yes, he's been up each night burning the midnight oil." Call It Off "Tonight's game was called off because of the rain." Can't Cut The Mustard "Bob dropped out of medical school; he couldn't cut the mustard." Cold Turkey "I want to quit drinking right now. As of this moment, I am going cold turkey." Come Hell Or High Water "Will you be at the family reunion next year?" Answer: "Yes- we'll be there, come hell or high water!" Cross Your Fingers "Let's cross our fingers and hope for the best!" Cry Over Spilt Milk "Let's not go crying over spilt milk." Cry Wolf "That kid on the other team just fell down; it looks like he might be hurt!" Answer: "He's not hurt; he's just crying wolf." Curiosity Killed The Cat "Hey, I wonder what's down that street; it looks awfully dark and creepy." Answer: "Let's not try to find out. Curiosity killed the cat." Dead Heat "It looks like were going to have to find another way to decide a winner. That one was a dead heat." Dog-Eat-Dog "I have been in this business for twenty years. It's dog-eat-dog; the competition is always trying to steal your customers." Don't Count Your Chickens Until They're Hatched "Next Friday I will be able to pay you back that money I owe you." Answer: "I won't be counting my chickens..." Don't Look A Gift Horse In The Mouth "Don't look a gift horse in the mouth! When you buy your own beers you can decide what brand you want." Don't Put All Your Eggs In One Basket "The best way to gamble is to only bet small amounts of money and never put all your eggs in one basket." Down To The Wire "It looks like this race is going to come right down to the wire!" Drastic Times Call For Drastic Measures "Sales have been slow and we had to let go three of our employees; drastic times call for drastic measures." Dry Spell "Sam is a great salesman, though lately he's been having a bit of a dry spell." Every Cloud Has A Silver Lining "I found a new job after all and I like this one much better than the last!" Answer: "You see, every cloud has a silver lining." Everything But The Kitchen Sink "Whenever we go camping my wife wants to bring everything but the kitchen sink!" Fair And Fair Alike "Michael stayed home to take care of your sister last night, so tonight it is your turn. Fair and fair alike." Finding Your Feet "Don't worry about it. We will help you while you are finding your feet." Fixed In Your Ways "Sometimes it is hard to accept that your parents are fixed in their ways." Flash In The Pan "What a great first year he had, but after that... nothing!" Answer: "Just another flash in the pan." From Rags To Riches "My uncle is a real rags to riches story." Get Over It "I was very sick yesterday, but I got over it quickly." Get Up On The Wrong Side Of The Bed "Don't start yelling at me just because you got up on the wrong side of the bed." Give Him The Slip "My brother will be at the movie tonight. Afterwards, let's give him the slip and go to a party." Go For Broke "The way to be successful is to decide exactly what you want, then go for broke." Great Minds Think Alike "I have decided that this summer I am going to learn how to scuba dive." Answer: "Me too! I have already paid for the course. Great minds think alike!" Haste Makes Waste "You should always take your time when doing your taxes and check your numbers very carefully; haste makes waste." Have No Idea "I can't find my keys. I have no idea where I put them." He Lost His Head "Okay- I'll tell you what happened. But don't lose your head." Head Over Heels "I have been head over heels about my girlfriend since the day I met her." Icing On The Cake "I've been accepted by the university, and they've offered me a position on the basketball team!" Answer: "That's wonderful! Icing on the cake." Idle Hands Are The Devil's Tools "It makes me nervous to see those kids outside just standing around; idle hands are the devils tools!" If It's Not One Thing, It's Another "First the car broke down, and now I can't find my keys! If it's not one thing, it's another!" In And Out "I know this city in and out." In Over Your Head "Go ahead and lead the meeting today; I'll help you out if you get in over your head." In The Dark "Did you know that today was her birthday?" Answer: "No, I was in the dark." In The Doghouse "You kids will be in the doghouse with your mother after that mess you made in her garden!" In The Heat Of The Moment "Sorry about what I said; I got caught up in the heat of the moment." It Takes Two To Tango "Her husband is awful; they fight all the time." Answer: "It takes two to tango." It's A Small World "Hey, it's funny seeing you here." Reply: "It's a small world." Its Anyone's Call "Who do you think will win this election?" Answer: "Its anyone's call." Keep An Eye On Him "I have to run to the bathroom. Can you keep an eye on my suitcase while I am gone?" Labor Of Love "Taking care of this dog is a labor of love." Lend Me Your Ear "Friends, Romans, countrymen; lend me your ear." Let Bygones Be Bygones "You and I have had our disagreements; let's let bygones be bygones." Let Sleeping Dogs Lie "I wanted to ask her what she thought of her ex-husband, but I figured it was better to let sleeping dogs lie." Let The Cat Out Of The Bag "Bob didn't tell anyone that he was sick, but his wife let the cat out of the bag." Mad As A Hatter "Everybody in my family knew that our uncle was as mad as a hatter." Method To My Madness "Give me a moment to explain; there is method to my madness." Neck And Neck "They're coming around the final corner. They're neck and neck!" Neither A Borrower, Nor A Lender Be "Could you lend me twenty dollars?" Answer: "Sorry, neither a borrower nor a lender be." Never Bite The Hand That Feeds You "We have been your best customers for years. How could you suddenly treat us so rudely? You should never bite the hand that feeds you." Nose Out Of Joint "We were only joking; don't get your nose out of joint." Not A Chance "Do you think you will be able to finish your report by five o'clock today?" Answer: "Not a chance. I'll be busy in meetings all day." Off Limits "Guns are off limits within New York City." Off On The Wrong Foot "Let's try to start on time tomorrow and get off on the right foot." Off The Hook "You're lucky; it turns out that Dad never heard you come in late last night." Answer: "Great, that means I'm off the hook!" On Pins And Needles "Jean was on pins and needles the whole time her father was in the hospital." On The Fence "Has he decided whether he will take the job yet?" Answer: "No, he's still on the fence." On The Same Page "Before we make any decisions today, I'd like to make sure that everyone is on the same page." On Top Of The World "What a great time we had that night; we were on top of the world!" On Your Last Leg "I would be glad to sell you my car, but I must tell you that it is on its last leg." On Your Mind "You have been on my mind all day." One For The Road "Bartender- I'll have one more whiskey for the road." Out And About "Where have you been all day?" Answer: "Oh, out and about." Out Of Sight, Out Of Mind "I meant to read that book, but as soon as I put it down, I forgot about it." Answer: "Out of sight, out of mind." Out Of The Blue "Why did she do that?" Answer: "I have no idea. It was completely out of the blue." Out Of The Frying Pan And Into The Fire "I didn't like that job because I was working too hard. Yet in this new job I work even harder!" Answer: "Out of the frying pan and into the fire." Out Of The Woods "Joe was sick two weeks ago and we were very worried, but now it looks like he is out of the woods." Out Of Your Element "He is a great tennis player on the hard courts, but he is out of his element on grass." Out On A Limb "I want this project to succeed just as much as you do, but I am not willing to go out on a limb." Out On The Town "Do you want to join us tonight? We're going out on the town." Over My Dead Body "All of my friends are going out to the lake tonight and I'm going too!" Answer: "Over my dead body you are!" Par For The Course "I get sick every time I travel." Answer: "That's just par for the course." Penny-Wise, Pound-Foolish "We've worked so hard to save money that if we took a vacation now it would be penny-wise, pound-foolish." People Who Live In Glass Houses Should Not Throw Stones "Look at what time it is... you are late again!" Answer: "Hey, how often are you not on time? People who live in glass houses should not throw stones." Practice Makes Perfect "You see how quickly you are getting better at the piano! Practice makes perfect!" Practice What You Preach "Good managers always lead by example and practice what they preach." Preaching To The Choir "You don't need to tell me this project is important; you're preaching to the choir." Protest Too Much "Do you think he is telling the truth?" Answer: "I think he protests too much." Pulling Your Leg "I want to ask you a question and I would like an honest answer; no pulling my leg." Put Your Best Foot Forward "I want you to get out on that field and put your best foot forward!" Put Your Foot In Your Mouth "Let's all be very careful what we say at the meeting tomorrow. I don't want anyone putting their foot in their mouth." Raise Cain "Have you two boys been out raising cain again?" Rock The Boat "Everybody wants to go except for you. Why do you have to rock the boat?" Roll Out The Red Carpet "We are all so excited about your coming home that we're going to roll out the red carpet." Rome Was Not Built In One Day "It is taking me a long time to write this computer program." Answer: "Rome was not built in one day." Round About "Well, I know how to get there in a round about way, but maybe we should check the map." Rub Salt In An Old Wound "Oh please, let's not rub salt in old wounds!" Second Nature "It has always been second nature for me to draw with both hands." Shake A Leg "They are waiting outside in the car; let's shake a leg!" Sick As A Dog "I heard you were uncomfortable yesterday." Answer: "Uncomfortable? I was as sick as a dog!" Sink Or Swim "When we interview new teachers, we just put them in with the students and see how they do. It's sink or swim." Six Of One, A Half-Dozen Of The Other Example: "I say she's a stewardess. She says she's a flight attendant. It's six of one, a half-dozen of the other." Skeletons In The Closet "I had only known her for one week. How could I know what skeletons she had in her closet?" Split Down The Middle "The election is split down the middle with no clear winner at the moment." Start From Scratch "How are you going to build your business?" Answer: "Just like everyone else does: starting from scratch." The Apple Of Your Eye "Even when they were young, she was always the apple of his eye." The Ball Is In Your Court "My uncle helped me to get an interview at his company, now the ball is in my court." The Best Of Both Worlds "My wife and I bought one house in Paris and one in New York; it gives us the best of both worlds." The Bigger They Are The Harder They Fall "Are you worried that he might be too strong?" Answer: "No I'm not. He is big, but the bigger they are, the harder they fall." The Devil Is In The Details "I can sketch a basic outline of the plan for you and it may look very simple, but the devil is in the details." The Early Bird Catches The Worm "I always arrive at work 30 minutes early; the early bird catches the worm!" The Ends Justify The Means "I agree with your goal, but the ends do not justify the means." The Jury Is Out "Its hard to say if what we did was the right thing. The jury is still out on it." The Pot Calling The Kettle Black "Here comes the guy who is always late for work." Answer: "Aren't you the pot calling the kettle black?" The Pros And Cons "I've considered the pros and cons and I've decided: it is going to be expensive, but I still want to go to college." The Sky Is The Limit "After I graduate from business school, the sky's the limit!" The Straw That Broke The Camel's Back "You've been rude to me all day, and I've had it. That's the last straw!" The Writing On The Wall "Can't you see the writing on the wall?" Third Wheel "You two go on ahead without me. I don't want to be the third wheel." Tie The Knot "Did you hear about Dan and Jenny? They finally decided to tie the knot!" To Err Is Human, To Forgive Divine "I will never forgive my mother for what she has done!" Answer: "Don't be angry at her. To err is human, to forgive divine." Tooth And Nail "That was a tough match; they fought us tooth and nail!" Truer Words Were Never Spoken "The earlier I get up, the better the day I have." Answer:" Truer words were never spoken." Turn Over A New Leaf "I'm turning over a new leaf; I've decided to quit smoking." Two Wrongs Don't Make A Right "That boy pushed me yesterday and I am going to get him back today!" Answer: "No you are not! Two wrongs do not make a right." Two's Company; Three's a Crowd "Why did you have to bring your sister? Two's company; three's a crowd!" Under The Gun "Everyone at the office has been working under the gun since the new manager arrived." Under The Weather "What's wrong?" Answer: "I'm a bit under the weather." Up Against "We have been up against stronger opponents in the past." Up For Grabs "Quick- that table is up for grabs; let's get it before someone else does." Variety Is The Spice Of Life Example: "We were originally planning to go to Mexico on our vacation this year - like we did last year - but we decided to go to Egypt instead. Variety is the spice of life!" Water Under The Bridge "Aren't you still angry about what he said?" Answer: "No, that was a long time ago. It's all water under the bridge." Wear Your Heart On Your Sleeve "My brother always lets you know how he feels; he wears his heart on his sleeve." What They Don't Know Won't Hurt Them "Don't tell your father what happened; what he doesn't know won't hurt him." When In Rome, Do As The Romans Do "Are you sure we should eat this with our hands?" Answer: "Why not? All of these people are eating it that way. When in Rome, do as the Romans do!" When It Rains, It Pours "Sometimes we have no customers for two or three hours then suddenly we get 20 people all at once; when it rains, it pours!" When Pigs Fly "Would you ever take her on a date?" Answer: "Sure- when pigs fly!" Wine And Dine "That man is really is really crazy about my sister. He has been wining and dining her all month." With Your Back Up Against The Wall "I'm sorry I can't help you; I've got my back up against the wall." Without A Doubt "Are you going to watch the game tomorrow?" Answer: "Without a doubt!" Word Of Mouth "Where did you hear about that?" Answer: "Just word of mouth." You Can't Judge A Book By Its Cover "He dresses in plain clothing and drives an ordinary car. Who would know he is the richest man in town? You can't judge a book by its cover!" Your Guess Is As Good As Mine "Excuse me, what time does the bus arrive?" Answer: "Your guess is as good as mine; I almost never take the bus." |
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Idioms index A to Z list of the most popular idioms Idioms quiz This page lists the most popular idioms from A to Z GoEnglish.com Most Popular Idioms page Add to Favorites -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A Bird In The Hand Is Worth Two In The Bush "Dan has asked me to go to a party with him. What if my boyfriend finds out?" Reply: "Don't go. A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush." A Blessing In Disguise "My car broke down again, but maybe it was a blessing in disguise; I've been wasting too much time driving around anyway." A Chip On Your Shoulder "What's bothering that guy?" Answer: "Nothing; he's just got a chip on the shoulder." A Dime A Dozen "I don't need friends like him; they are a dime a dozen." A Drop In The Bucket "I'd like to do something to change the world but whatever I do seems like a drop in the bucket." A Fool And His Money Are Easily Parted Example: "Her husband can't seem to hold onto any amount of money; he either spends it or loses it. A fool and his money are easily parted." A Penny Saved Is A Penny Earned "I'm going to give you $20 but I want you to put it in the bank; a penny saved is a penny earned!" A Piece Of Cake "Do you think you will win your tennis match today?" Answer: "It will be a piece of cake." A Shot In The Dark "That was such a difficult question! How did you get it right?" Reply: "I just took a shot in the dark." A Slap On The Wrist "He should be in jail for what he did, but he got off with just a slap on the wrist." A Slip Of The Tongue "Be careful talking to the police tomorrow; one slip of the tongue could get us into big trouble." A Taste Of Your Own Medicine "It looks like she got a taste of her own medicine." A Toss-Up "Do you think they'll make it one time?" Answer: "I really don't know. It's a toss-up." A Wolf In Sheep's Clothing "Don't trust the salespeople at that store; they are all wolves in sheep's clothing!" About Face "Do an about face, get back in that bathroom, and brush your teeth!" Absence Makes The Heart Grow Fonder "The time we spend apart has been good for us; absence makes the heart grow fonder." Actions Speak Louder Than Words "Don't tell me how to do this; show me! Actions speak louder than words." Add Fuel To The Fire "I would like to do something to help, but I don't want to add fuel to the fire." Against The Clock "We worked against the clock all day to get this report done by 5PM." Against The Grain "I jog at this track everyday and there is always that one guy who has to go against the grain and run in the opposite direction." All Bark And No Bite "The new manager threatened to fire me but I know he won't do it; he is all bark and no bite." All Greek "Did you understand what he just said?" Reply: "Nope. It was all Greek to me." All In The Same Boat "We can't fight against each other; we need to work together. We're all in the same boat!" All That Glitters Is Not Gold "Be careful when shopping for your new car; all that glitters is not gold!" All Thumbs "Hey! You are pouring my coffee on the table!" Reply: "Oh, I'm so sorry! I have been all thumbs today." An Arm And A Leg "Be careful with that watch; it cost me an arm and a leg." An Axe To Grind "I have an axe to grind with you." Answer: "Oh no; what did I do wrong?" Arm In Arm "What a nice afternoon. We walked arm in arm along the beach for hours." Around The Block "You kids are too young to fall in love: Wait until you have been around the block a time or two." As Blind As A Bat "Without his glasses, my father is as blind as a bat." As High As A Kite "The ball got stuck up there on the roof. It's as high as a kite." As Light As A Feather "Wow, you lift that box so easily!" Reply: "Oh, come on. It is as light as a feather." At The Drop Of A Hat "Would you travel around the world if you had the money?" Answer: "At the drop of a hat." At Wit's End "We have been at wit's end trying to figure out how we are going to pay our taxes." Back To The Drawing Board "It looks like my plan to kill the weeds in the garden has failed. Back to the drawing board." Barking Up The Wrong Tree "I have been trying to solve this math problem for 30 minutes but I think I've been barking up the wrong tree." Beat A Dead Horse "There's no use in beating a dead horse." Beating Around The Bush "If you want to ask me, just ask; don't beat around the bush." Bend Over Backwards "We bent over backwards to help him, and he never even thanked us!" Better Late Than Never "Sorry I was late for the meeting today; I got stuck in traffic." Answer: "That's okay; better late than never." Between A Rock And A Hard Place "I'd like to help you but I am stuck between a rock and a hard place." Birds Of A Feather Flock Together "Look; the volleyball players are eating at the same table together, as always." Answer: "Birds of a feather flock together." Bite Off More Than You Can Chew "I thought I could finish this report within one month, but it looks like I have bitten off more than I can chew." Bite Your Tongue "Whenever that professor says something I don't like, I have to bite my tongue." Blood Is Thicker Than Water "When my best friend and my brother got in a fight I had to help my brother; blood is thicker than water." Break Down "Did your car break down again?" Break In "They broke in to my apartment when I was gone, and they took everything!" Break The Tie "Whoever wins in Florida will have enough votes to break the tie." Burn Your Bridges "I wish you hadn't been rude to that man just now; he is very important in this town and you shouldn't go around burning bridges." Burning The Candle At Both Ends "Ever since this new project started I have been burning the candle at both ends. I can't take much more of it." Burning The Midnight Oil "Our son has been working hard preparing for his final exams!" Answer: "Yes, he's been up each night burning the midnight oil." Call It Off "Tonight's game was called off because of the rain." Can't Cut The Mustard "Bob dropped out of medical school; he couldn't cut the mustard." Cold Turkey "I want to quit drinking right now. As of this moment, I am going cold turkey." Come Hell Or High Water "Will you be at the family reunion next year?" Answer: "Yes- we'll be there, come hell or high water!" Cross Your Fingers "Let's cross our fingers and hope for the best!" Cry Over Spilt Milk "Let's not go crying over spilt milk." Cry Wolf "That kid on the other team just fell down; it looks like he might be hurt!" Answer: "He's not hurt; he's just crying wolf." Curiosity Killed The Cat "Hey, I wonder what's down that street; it looks awfully dark and creepy." Answer: "Let's not try to find out. Curiosity killed the cat." Dead Heat "It looks like were going to have to find another way to decide a winner. That one was a dead heat." Dog-Eat-Dog "I have been in this business for twenty years. It's dog-eat-dog; the competition is always trying to steal your customers." Don't Count Your Chickens Until They're Hatched "Next Friday I will be able to pay you back that money I owe you." Answer: "I won't be counting my chickens..." Don't Look A Gift Horse In The Mouth "Don't look a gift horse in the mouth! When you buy your own beers you can decide what brand you want." Don't Put All Your Eggs In One Basket "The best way to gamble is to only bet small amounts of money and never put all your eggs in one basket." Down To The Wire "It looks like this race is going to come right down to the wire!" Drastic Times Call For Drastic Measures "Sales have been slow and we had to let go three of our employees; drastic times call for drastic measures." Dry Spell "Sam is a great salesman, though lately he's been having a bit of a dry spell." Every Cloud Has A Silver Lining "I found a new job after all and I like this one much better than the last!" Answer: "You see, every cloud has a silver lining." Everything But The Kitchen Sink "Whenever we go camping my wife wants to bring everything but the kitchen sink!" Fair And Fair Alike "Michael stayed home to take care of your sister last night, so tonight it is your turn. Fair and fair alike." Finding Your Feet "Don't worry about it. We will help you while you are finding your feet." Fixed In Your Ways "Sometimes it is hard to accept that your parents are fixed in their ways." Flash In The Pan "What a great first year he had, but after that... nothing!" Answer: "Just another flash in the pan." From Rags To Riches "My uncle is a real rags to riches story." Get Over It "I was very sick yesterday, but I got over it quickly." Get Up On The Wrong Side Of The Bed "Don't start yelling at me just because you got up on the wrong side of the bed." Give Him The Slip "My brother will be at the movie tonight. Afterwards, let's give him the slip and go to a party." Go For Broke "The way to be successful is to decide exactly what you want, then go for broke." Great Minds Think Alike "I have decided that this summer I am going to learn how to scuba dive." Answer: "Me too! I have already paid for the course. Great minds think alike!" Haste Makes Waste "You should always take your time when doing your taxes and check your numbers very carefully; haste makes waste." Have No Idea "I can't find my keys. I have no idea where I put them." He Lost His Head "Okay- I'll tell you what happened. But don't lose your head." Head Over Heels "I have been head over heels about my girlfriend since the day I met her." Icing On The Cake "I've been accepted by the university, and they've offered me a position on the basketball team!" Answer: "That's wonderful! Icing on the cake." Idle Hands Are The Devil's Tools "It makes me nervous to see those kids outside just standing around; idle hands are the devils tools!" If It's Not One Thing, It's Another "First the car broke down, and now I can't find my keys! If it's not one thing, it's another!" In And Out "I know this city in and out." In Over Your Head "Go ahead and lead the meeting today; I'll help you out if you get in over your head." In The Dark "Did you know that today was her birthday?" Answer: "No, I was in the dark." In The Doghouse "You kids will be in the doghouse with your mother after that mess you made in her garden!" In The Heat Of The Moment "Sorry about what I said; I got caught up in the heat of the moment." It Takes Two To Tango "Her husband is awful; they fight all the time." Answer: "It takes two to tango." It's A Small World "Hey, it's funny seeing you here." Reply: "It's a small world." Its Anyone's Call "Who do you think will win this election?" Answer: "Its anyone's call." Keep An Eye On Him "I have to run to the bathroom. Can you keep an eye on my suitcase while I am gone?" Labor Of Love "Taking care of this dog is a labor of love." Lend Me Your Ear "Friends, Romans, countrymen; lend me your ear." Let Bygones Be Bygones "You and I have had our disagreements; let's let bygones be bygones." Let Sleeping Dogs Lie "I wanted to ask her what she thought of her ex-husband, but I figured it was better to let sleeping dogs lie." Let The Cat Out Of The Bag "Bob didn't tell anyone that he was sick, but his wife let the cat out of the bag." Mad As A Hatter "Everybody in my family knew that our uncle was as mad as a hatter." Method To My Madness "Give me a moment to explain; there is method to my madness." Neck And Neck "They're coming around the final corner. They're neck and neck!" Neither A Borrower, Nor A Lender Be "Could you lend me twenty dollars?" Answer: "Sorry, neither a borrower nor a lender be." Never Bite The Hand That Feeds You "We have been your best customers for years. How could you suddenly treat us so rudely? You should never bite the hand that feeds you." Nose Out Of Joint "We were only joking; don't get your nose out of joint." Not A Chance "Do you think you will be able to finish your report by five o'clock today?" Answer: "Not a chance. I'll be busy in meetings all day." Off Limits "Guns are off limits within New York City." Off On The Wrong Foot "Let's try to start on time tomorrow and get off on the right foot." Off The Hook "You're lucky; it turns out that Dad never heard you come in late last night." Answer: "Great, that means I'm off the hook!" On Pins And Needles "Jean was on pins and needles the whole time her father was in the hospital." On The Fence "Has he decided whether he will take the job yet?" Answer: "No, he's still on the fence." On The Same Page "Before we make any decisions today, I'd like to make sure that everyone is on the same page." On Top Of The World "What a great time we had that night; we were on top of the world!" On Your Last Leg "I would be glad to sell you my car, but I must tell you that it is on its last leg." On Your Mind "You have been on my mind all day." One For The Road "Bartender- I'll have one more whiskey for the road." Out And About "Where have you been all day?" Answer: "Oh, out and about." Out Of Sight, Out Of Mind "I meant to read that book, but as soon as I put it down, I forgot about it." Answer: "Out of sight, out of mind." Out Of The Blue "Why did she do that?" Answer: "I have no idea. It was completely out of the blue." Out Of The Frying Pan And Into The Fire "I didn't like that job because I was working too hard. Yet in this new job I work even harder!" Answer: "Out of the frying pan and into the fire." Out Of The Woods "Joe was sick two weeks ago and we were very worried, but now it looks like he is out of the woods." Out Of Your Element "He is a great tennis player on the hard courts, but he is out of his element on grass." Out On A Limb "I want this project to succeed just as much as you do, but I am not willing to go out on a limb." Out On The Town "Do you want to join us tonight? We're going out on the town." Over My Dead Body "All of my friends are going out to the lake tonight and I'm going too!" Answer: "Over my dead body you are!" Par For The Course "I get sick every time I travel." Answer: "That's just par for the course." Penny-Wise, Pound-Foolish "We've worked so hard to save money that if we took a vacation now it would be penny-wise, pound-foolish." People Who Live In Glass Houses Should Not Throw Stones "Look at what time it is... you are late again!" Answer: "Hey, how often are you not on time? People who live in glass houses should not throw stones." Practice Makes Perfect "You see how quickly you are getting better at the piano! Practice makes perfect!" Practice What You Preach "Good managers always lead by example and practice what they preach." Preaching To The Choir "You don't need to tell me this project is important; you're preaching to the choir." Protest Too Much "Do you think he is telling the truth?" Answer: "I think he protests too much." Pulling Your Leg "I want to ask you a question and I would like an honest answer; no pulling my leg." Put Your Best Foot Forward "I want you to get out on that field and put your best foot forward!" Put Your Foot In Your Mouth "Let's all be very careful what we say at the meeting tomorrow. I don't want anyone putting their foot in their mouth." Raise Cain "Have you two boys been out raising cain again?" Rock The Boat "Everybody wants to go except for you. Why do you have to rock the boat?" Roll Out The Red Carpet "We are all so excited about your coming home that we're going to roll out the red carpet." Rome Was Not Built In One Day "It is taking me a long time to write this computer program." Answer: "Rome was not built in one day." Round About "Well, I know how to get there in a round about way, but maybe we should check the map." Rub Salt In An Old Wound "Oh please, let's not rub salt in old wounds!" Second Nature "It has always been second nature for me to draw with both hands." Shake A Leg "They are waiting outside in the car; let's shake a leg!" Sick As A Dog "I heard you were uncomfortable yesterday." Answer: "Uncomfortable? I was as sick as a dog!" Sink Or Swim "When we interview new teachers, we just put them in with the students and see how they do. It's sink or swim." Six Of One, A Half-Dozen Of The Other Example: "I say she's a stewardess. She says she's a flight attendant. It's six of one, a half-dozen of the other." Skeletons In The Closet "I had only known her for one week. How could I know what skeletons she had in her closet?" Split Down The Middle "The election is split down the middle with no clear winner at the moment." Start From Scratch "How are you going to build your business?" Answer: "Just like everyone else does: starting from scratch." The Apple Of Your Eye "Even when they were young, she was always the apple of his eye." The Ball Is In Your Court "My uncle helped me to get an interview at his company, now the ball is in my court." The Best Of Both Worlds "My wife and I bought one house in Paris and one in New York; it gives us the best of both worlds." The Bigger They Are The Harder They Fall "Are you worried that he might be too strong?" Answer: "No I'm not. He is big, but the bigger they are, the harder they fall." The Devil Is In The Details "I can sketch a basic outline of the plan for you and it may look very simple, but the devil is in the details." The Early Bird Catches The Worm "I always arrive at work 30 minutes early; the early bird catches the worm!" The Ends Justify The Means "I agree with your goal, but the ends do not justify the means." The Jury Is Out "Its hard to say if what we did was the right thing. The jury is still out on it." The Pot Calling The Kettle Black "Here comes the guy who is always late for work." Answer: "Aren't you the pot calling the kettle black?" The Pros And Cons "I've considered the pros and cons and I've decided: it is going to be expensive, but I still want to go to college." The Sky Is The Limit "After I graduate from business school, the sky's the limit!" The Straw That Broke The Camel's Back "You've been rude to me all day, and I've had it. That's the last straw!" The Writing On The Wall "Can't you see the writing on the wall?" Third Wheel "You two go on ahead without me. I don't want to be the third wheel." Tie The Knot "Did you hear about Dan and Jenny? They finally decided to tie the knot!" To Err Is Human, To Forgive Divine "I will never forgive my mother for what she has done!" Answer: "Don't be angry at her. To err is human, to forgive divine." Tooth And Nail "That was a tough match; they fought us tooth and nail!" Truer Words Were Never Spoken "The earlier I get up, the better the day I have." Answer:" Truer words were never spoken." Turn Over A New Leaf "I'm turning over a new leaf; I've decided to quit smoking." Two Wrongs Don't Make A Right "That boy pushed me yesterday and I am going to get him back today!" Answer: "No you are not! Two wrongs do not make a right." Two's Company; Three's a Crowd "Why did you have to bring your sister? Two's company; three's a crowd!" Under The Gun "Everyone at the office has been working under the gun since the new manager arrived." Under The Weather "What's wrong?" Answer: "I'm a bit under the weather." Up Against "We have been up against stronger opponents in the past." Up For Grabs "Quick- that table is up for grabs; let's get it before someone else does." Variety Is The Spice Of Life Example: "We were originally planning to go to Mexico on our vacation this year - like we did last year - but we decided to go to Egypt instead. Variety is the spice of life!" Water Under The Bridge "Aren't you still angry about what he said?" Answer: "No, that was a long time ago. It's all water under the bridge." Wear Your Heart On Your Sleeve "My brother always lets you know how he feels; he wears his heart on his sleeve." What They Don't Know Won't Hurt Them "Don't tell your father what happened; what he doesn't know won't hurt him." When In Rome, Do As The Romans Do "Are you sure we should eat this with our hands?" Answer: "Why not? All of these people are eating it that way. When in Rome, do as the Romans do!" When It Rains, It Pours "Sometimes we have no customers for two or three hours then suddenly we get 20 people all at once; when it rains, it pours!" When Pigs Fly "Would you ever take her on a date?" Answer: "Sure- when pigs fly!" Wine And Dine "That man is really is really crazy about my sister. He has been wining and dining her all month." With Your Back Up Against The Wall "I'm sorry I can't help you; I've got my back up against the wall." Without A Doubt "Are you going to watch the game tomorrow?" Answer: "Without a doubt!" Word Of Mouth "Where did you hear about that?" Answer: "Just word of mouth." You Can't Judge A Book By Its Cover "He dresses in plain clothing and drives an ordinary car. Who would know he is the richest man in town? You can't judge a book by its cover!" Your Guess Is As Good As Mine "Excuse me, what time does the bus arrive?" Answer: "Your guess is as good as mine; I almost never take the bus." -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- GoEnglish.com teaches the meaning of English idioms and phrases. For native and non-native English speakers of all ages. To start (or stop) receiving the GoEnglish.com Weekly Preview of English Idioms at any time please use the form above or send an email to Subscribe<at>GoEnglish.com (or Unsubscribe<at>GoEnglish.com). We always respect your privacy by never sharing an email address. All content is copyrighted by GoEnglish.com, illustrations by Rita Tseng, written by Adam Sullivan. Adam is an experienced English teacher with a degree in English from Cornell University. Your questions are welcome. Thanks, Adam<at>GoEnglish.com 2649 sessions are open now on GoEnglish.com -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- [url]http://www.goenglish.com/[/url] Check the idioms This website is very helpful for the idoms |
link for some proverbs
aoa here is the link to the site with the interpretation of some english proverbs:
[url]http://www.syvum.com/cgi/online/serve.cgi/ffzt_proverbs/proverbs_1e.html?question_hide[/url] Good luck to all aspirants :) |
website for idioms
[url]http://www.idiomconnection.com/aquiz.html[/url]
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Is it enough to solve all past papers from 75 till 2013? Thanks...
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Idiom in Native language
Idioms in English to sound like a native English speaker? Americans and other native English speakers are using a lot of English idioms in daily life. And for a Non-English, it gets confused sometimes. Because they don’t make sense when you translate them word to word. So you just have to know the meanings that stand behind those phrases.
1: Beat around the bush. If you again translated the word into word, it means like beating something and run around bushes or like that. But actually mean is not speaking directly. It is like avoiding the main topic. A good Example is. Sometime When you watching the video by some blogger and he names the video ” I got married”. But in the video, he is talking anything but his marriage. And you say like ” come on stop beating around the bush”. 2: Best of Both Worlds. Sometimes if you go to some famous restaurant. People say ” it has the best of both worlds”. So it has the best food. Mean of this Idiom is ” it has all the advantages”. 3: Bite off more than you can chew. It means taking up A lot A lot of responsibilities that you can not really handle. Like sometimes I feel I am biting more than I can chew. I have studied, and a job, I have a blog then I have household things, nd many other things to do. 4: Next in our Idioms is “blessing in disguise” It means that something is bad at first sight but it’s actually good. A good example of that is. Imagine that you are not accepted into the university of your dreams, you cry about it. But then in two months, you got a job of your dreams. Which is even better because you go into practical life. 5: Can’t judge a book by its cover. It’s mean that doesn’t judge the people by their look. For example, you meet a guy, wearing very cheap clothes or dust on his hairs. You judge him a poor man. But when you ask him about his job or business and he replies ” I own 2000 Sheeps”. The appearance is not the main factor that you should use. You can not judge a person by his appearance. 6: Give the benefit of the doubt. This means believing somebody stated without any proof. For example, when you fall in love you tend to believe “you’re loved one, and you don’t look for any proof. You can always use this phrase with many other idioms in an English country. 7: In the Heat of a Moment. Doing something in the heat of a moment means. Like You are overwhelmed by what’s going on around you. You do something stupid and you regret it. But then you have an excuse because you were in the heat of a moment. Something was going on and you couldn’t help. So your action was the need of that specific moment. 8: Kill two birds with one stone. This is one of my favourite idioms in every language. It means to do something in such a way that you cam getting another extra benefit along that thing. 9: Let the Cat out of the bag. This means, reveal information that was previously concealed. For example, your brother comes home and you see him excited as he has something to tell you. But he is playing around with the words and making you more curious. Or he is hiding something which you want to know. Then suddenly that secret leaks out by anyway or accidentally by himself. It means he let the cat out of the bag. He just let the information spread. Learn English and become Advance English Speaker. 10: Miss the Boat. This means ” miss the chance”. For example, you had an opportunity to go somewhere or do something. But you became late or for any other reason, you couldn’t reach that opportunity. It is like you missed the boat. 11: Once in a Blue moon. We can say this about an event that happens really rarely. For example, meeting your favourite celebrity suddenly. It happens very rarely that you meet a person you always dreamed to meet. You don’t even see those celebrities walking around. 12: Take with a Grain of Salt. This means, not taking something that somebody says too seriously. For example, somebody tells you ” you will never get into the university of your dreams”. Take this with a Grain of Salt. Because those people are just critics. They don’t even know what they are talking about. It’s up to you. Great things happen and believe in yourself. 13: Be up in the Air. Be uncertain or unsure. You thought you might be going to the cinema with your friends but it is still up in the air. Because all of your friends yet not agreed. They might be busy with their homes or with their job. So you are not sure whether you are going to the cinema or not. 14: Stab someone in the back. This means that somebody was in your circle. He was a good friend of you. Then you betrayed him when he wasn’t looking and he was trusting you. It is a bad thing to do so don’t stab someone in his back. 15: Lose Your Touch. It means losing your ability or talent to deal with certain things the way you used to deal before. For example, someone was a good singer. But then his voice just disappeared. So you can say ” he’s lost his touch in singing “. Link below [url]http://globepk.com/2018/11/29/idioms-english/[/url] |
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