| 1 |
zonk out this idiom means to fall asleep very promptly. after a hard working day, i zonked out. |
| 2 |
zip your lip this idiom means to keep your mouth shut. it is often shortened to "zip it". will you zip your lip about what you've just seen? |
| 3 |
zip past this idiom means to move past someone or something very fast. the woman just zipped past me in the queue today. |
| 4 |
zip it up this is an informal way to tell somebody to be quiet. zip it up! i have some things to solve. |
| 5 |
zero-sum game this expression means to be in a situation where the outcomes can either be to win or to lose. the budget division is a zero-sum game. |
| 6 |
zero tolerance if an activity or a certain type of behaviour is given zero tolerance, it will not be accepted, not even once. the authorities have announced zero tolerance to drugs. |
| 7 |
zero in on something if you zero in on something, you focus all your attention on that particular thing. the manager zeroed in on the financial analysis. |
| 8 |
zero hour this idiom refers to the particular time when a crucial act is supposed to take place. the military forces were waiting for the zero hour to start the operation. |
| 9 |
your wish is my command this is a humoristic way of saying that you are willing to do whatever the other person asks. do you want breakfast in bed? sure, darling. your wish is my command! |
| 10 |
your sins will find you out this expression means that things you do wrong will become known. he usually cheats his customers by selling duplicate material. his sins will find him out one day. |
| 11 |
your memory serves you well if your memory serves you well, you remember correctly. we've met this year, if my memory serves me well. |
| 12 |
your guess is as good as mine when you talk to another person and say "your guess is as good as mine", it means that neither of you knows the answer. what happened between them? have they broken apart? your guess is as good as mine! |
| 13 |
young turk this idiom refers to a young person who has many new ideas and wants a reform. it can also refer to a young person eager for rigorous reorder to the established order. he was a young turk within the organization. |
| 14 |
young blood this idiom refers to new members that provide various new schemes and ideas for the organization. he managed to succeed because he is open to bringing young blood in the company. |
| 15 |
you've made your bed, now lie in it this idiom means to make a decision and to accept the consequences of it. they are your mistakes! you've made your bed, now lie in it. |
| 16 |
you've got to be kidding this expression implies that something that someone said is a joke. you want me to drive to tokyo now? you've got to be kidding me! |
| 17 |
you're on this idiom is used to accept a challenge or bet. i challenge you to join me in my run. you're on! |
| 18 |
you wish this idiom is used to make a sardonic comment. i might win the big prize. oh, you wish! |
| 19 |
you rock this means that someone is great. thanks for the invitation, steve. you rock! |
| 20 |
you know better than that this idiom is used to express disappointment when someone makes a mistake which they probably shouldn't have done. you know better than that. go and do your homework properly. |
| 21 |
you don't know the half of it this expression is used to tell someone that they know some of the facts but they don't know how bad the situation is. you don't know the half of it! he beat her two days ago and that was the last straw. |
| 22 |
you can't win them all this expression indicates the reality that it is not possible to always succeed. oh well, don't be sad. you can't win them all! |
| 23 |
you can't unring a bell this expression means that you cannot undo what has been done, so you must live with the consequences of your actions. you should move on. you can't unring a bell! |
| 24 |
you can't teach an old dog new tricks this expression means that someone who is used to doing things in a certain way will find it difficult to change their habits. my grandmother will never use a laptop. you can't teach an old dog new tricks. |
| 25 |
you can't take it with you this expression is a suggestion that you should spend money and live life now as it will be no use to you after you die. you should buy that car that you like. you can't take it with you, remember? |
| 26 |
you can't judge a book by its cover this expression means that you should not form an opinion about something from its appearance only. she leads a simple life but in fact she's quite wealthy. you can't judge a book by its cover. |
| 27 |
you can say that again this idiom means "that's true, i agree". she is a beautiful woman. you can say that again! |
| 28 |
you can lead a horse to water but you can't make him drink this idioms is exactly as it is written. sometimes it's not possible to change somebody like her. remember, you can lead a horse to water but you can't make him drink. |
| 29 |
you bet this idiom means "for sure". am i going to the party? you bet! |
| 30 |
you are what you eat this expression means that what you eat affects you health. be careful how you plan your meals. you are what you eat! |
| 31 |
yoke around one's neck an obligation, commitment or restraint that becomes an oppressive burden is called a yoke around one's neck. when i lost my job, the loan became a yoke around my neck. |
| 32 |
yesterday's man this idiom refers to someone especially a politician whose career is finished. the officer is retiring next month. soon enough, he will be a yesterday's man. |
| 33 |
yes-man a yes-man is someone who always agrees with a person in authority in order to please them. he's a typical yes-man. nobody likes him. |
| 34 |
year-round this idiom refers to something that happens in continuation throughout the whole year. the local council provides free food for orphans year-round. |
| 35 |
year in, year out we used this idiom for something that happens every year for many years in a row. year in, year out we go to the same holiday resort. |
| 36 |
year dot this idiom literally means "a long time back". i've been living in this house since the year dot. |
| 37 |
yarn bombing this idiom refers to the adorning of public buildings with knitted or crocheted material – either for fun or to make a political point. they wanted to draw attention to the trees that the local council planned to cut down, so they found some people to yarn bomb on their behalf. |
| 38 |
yada yada this phrase is a disparaging response, indicating that something previously said was predictable, repetitive or tedious. i had to listen to the usual yada yada about road safety. |
| 39 |
xerox subsidy this term refers to the habit of using the photocopier at work for personal use. the main percentage of photocopies are in fact xerox subsidies. |
| 40 |
x marks the spot this is said of a location that indicates something significant – like a pirate's mark on a treasure map. she said the restaurant was across from the yellow street sign and here it is. i guess x marks the spot. |
| 41 |
x factor this idiom refers to an outstanding extraordinary ability. it may also refer to a variable in a given situation that could have the most significant impact on the outcome. investing in gold and real estate may turn out to be the x factor. |
| 42 |
written all over your face when somebody's feelings or thoughts are very clear, you can say that they are written all over their face. his love for her was written all over his face. |
| 43 |
writing on the wall this expression refers to a situation where there are signs showing that a problem is going to occur. we knew that something bad was about to happen. we saw the writing on the wall. |
| 44 |
wreak havoc this idiom means to cause great damage. a tornado wreaked havoc on our city. |
| 45 |
wrapped up in cotton wool somebody who is wrapped up in cotton wool is over-protected from dangers and risks. their child is kept wrapped up in cotton wool, which is not good in my opinion. |
| 46 |
wrapped up in if you are wrapped up in an activity, you are totally concentrated on it. i was so wrapped up in my work that i didn't realize they had gone. |
| 47 |
wouldn't touch with a barge-pole this expression is said of something or someone so unappealing that one wouldn't want to go anywhere near. no, i wouldn't touch that thing with a barge-pole. |
| 48 |
wouldn't dream of this idiom means not occur to one, not consider. even if it were lying on my desk, i wouldn't dream of taking another person's smartphone. |
| 49 |
would you adam and eve it? this is a slang question for "would you believe it?". he scored three goals. would you adam and eve it? |
| 50 |
worth your while if something is worth your while, it is a useful thing to do and deserves the time spent on it. it will be worth your while to attend the meeting. |
| 51 |
worth one's salt someone who deserves respect because they do their job well is a person who is worth their salt. any police officer worth their salt would have checked the papers carefully. |
| 52 |
worth its weight in gold someone or something that is worth their weight in gold is considered to be of great value. we couldn't run the business without her. she is worth her weight in gold. |
| 53 |
worm's eye view to offer a worm's eye view of a situation is to give your opinion based on what you see at close range from an inferior position, so it is therefore not a general view. i can only offer you a worm's eye view if that's all right for you. |
| 54 |
worm one's way out of something if a person worms their way out of something, they use artful or devious means in order to avoid participating in it. you're not going to worm your way out of this project! |
| 55 |
worlds apart when two people or things are very different, they are worlds apart. we liked each other but we were worlds apart. |
| 56 |
world of difference when comparing two things or situations, the expression a world of difference means that there is a vast difference between them. an air conditioner would make a world of difference in this room. |
| 57 |
work your fingers to the bone a person who works their fingers to the bone is extremely hardworking. i deserve my success because i have worked my fingers to the bone. |
| 58 |
work to rule during a conflict, when employees decide to do only the minimum amount of work required by company rules, and refuse any overtime, they work to rule. all employees decided to work to rule, which was somehow normal. |
| 59 |
work the system people who work the system learn how a state or public organisation works in order to benefit as much as possible from the system. it took me some time to work the system in this country, but now we can start doing business. |
| 60 |
work something out this idiom means to find a solution to a problem. it will all work out in the end. |
| 61 |
work out this idiom may either mean to calculate using arithmetic or to take exercise (also spelled work out). 1. we decided to split the cost. my part worked out to 20 euros. 2. i've enjoyed the gym session. my plan is to work out five times a week. |
| 62 |
work like a charm if something such as a product or method works like a charm, it functions very well or has the desired effect. i tried cleaning it with lemon juice and it worked like a charm. |
| 63 |
work in progress this idiom means that the work continues. the highway is closed for repair. the work is in progress. |
| 64 |
work for peanuts this idiom means to work for very little money. i used to work for peanuts two years ago. |
| 65 |
words fail me this expression is often used when somebody is so shocked, surprised or touched by something that they don't know what to say. what do you think about her performance? words fail me, sorry. |
| 66 |
word for word this idiom refers to an exact, precisely corresponding to, copy of another's words. i made sure that the police took a word for word copy of my report of it. |
| 67 |
word association this is a method sometimes used in psychoanalysis in which the person being treated says the first word they think of when a particular word is said, which may help to discover how parts of the mind work. let's try word association this session. what do you think? |
| 68 |
wool-gathering a person who is wool-gathering is daydreaming and is not concentrating on what is happening. she spent the whole day wool-gathering. she must be in love. |
| 69 |
wooden spoon the person who finishes last in a race or competition receives an imaginary prize called the wooden spoon. i've got the wooden spoon in this year's tournament. |
| 70 |
wonders will never cease this saying is used to express pleasure or surprise at something. she finally called me! wonders will never cease! |
| 71 |
women and children first this is the seafaring command that women and children be the first to board the lifeboats when a ship is abandoned. don't panic! women and children first! |
| 72 |
wolf in sheep's clothing to describe somebody as a wolf in sheep's clothing means that although they look harmless, they are really very dangerous. be careful what you speak. she's a wolf in sheep's clothing. |
| 73 |
woe is me this phrase is said to express how unhappy you are. i am cold and i have to walk all the way home. woe is me! |
| 74 |
woe betide somebody this phrase is said when there will be trouble for someone or someone will be punished if they do a particular thing. this is the second time she has been sent home, so woe betide her if it happens again! |
| 75 |
without so much as a by-your-leave this phrase means without asking for permission. she walked in without so much as a by-your-leave and picked some books. |
| 76 |
without let or hindrance this idiom means without impediment. i've obtained the driving license without let or hindrance. |
| 77 |
without a hitch if something happens without a hitch, it takes place exactly as planned, without any difficulties. the conference went off without a hitch. |
| 78 |
without a doubt this idiom means for certain. without a doubt, she has stolen the keys. |
| 79 |
within earshot this idiom means to be able to hear something or someone. she was within earshot when you started discussing her cooking abilities. |
| 80 |
wither on the vine if something withers on the vine, it comes to an end or ceases to exist because people do not support or encourage it. in the end my project withered on the vine. |
| 81 |
with your eyes wide open if you do something with your eyes wide open, you are fully aware of what you are doing. i took the mission with my eyes wide open so i'm not complaining. |
| 82 |
with one voice two or more groups or organisations who are in complete agreement are said to speak with one voice. the local council and local stores are speaking with one voice. |
| 83 |
with no strings attached an offer with no strings attached is an offer made without conditions or restrictions, and requires nothing in return. i managed to get a car loan with no strings attached. |
| 84 |
with might and main this phrase means with all of one's strength. i will complete this mission with might and main. |
| 85 |
with flying colours to achieve something with flying colours means to do it very successfully. i passed the entrance exams with flying colours. |
| 86 |
with bells on if you go somewhere with bells on, you are delighted and eager to go there. of course i'll be at the party – with bells on! |
| 87 |
witch hunt this idiom refers to an attempt to blame and punish people who hold unpopular views and opinions, often under the guise of some other investigation. their witch hunt against the terrorists has sparked a civil war. |
| 88 |
wishful thinking it means believing that something that you want to happen is really happening or will happen, even though it is neither true nor likely. i think the weather will be fine, but perhaps that's just wishful thinking. |
| 89 |
wish the ground would swallow you up when you are so embarrassed by something that you would like to disappear, you wish the ground would swallow you up. when i realized what i had done, i wished the ground would swallow me up. |
| 90 |
wise after the event when somebody understands, after something has happened, what could have been done to prevent it from happening, they are wise after the event. there are people that find it very hard to be wise even after the event. they simply don't understand. |
| 91 |
wipe the slate clean if you wipe the slate clean, you make a fresh start and forget all past offences, disagreements or mistakes. as brothers, we have to wipe the slate clean in order to build something profitable. |
| 92 |
wipe that smile off this expression is often used by parents or people in authority to indicate that the situation is not amusing at all. this is an intricate mission so wipe that smile off your face! |
| 93 |
win-win the term refers to a situation or proposition where both or all parties benefit from the outcome. it was the best version of the contract – it was a win-win situation. |
| 94 |
winter drawers on this is a british euphemistic joke. autumn is over and my clothes aren't keeping the cold out – winter drawers on i suppose. |
| 95 |
wing it it means to improvise or to deal with a situation without preparation. she didn't expect to be questioned so she had to wing it. |
| 96 |
wine and dine this idiom means to entertain someone by giving them food and drinks, in a high class restaurant. the whole period we were wined and dined every night for free. |
| 97 |
window on the world when something provides an opportunity to observe and learn about people and life in other countries, it is called a window on the world. the internet is the best window on the world. |
| 98 |
wind up in the wrong hands if something winds up in the wrong hands, it comes into the possession of someone undesirable, for example an opponent or a competitor. be careful with the plans. we don't want them to wind up in the wrong hands. |
| 99 |
win the day this idiom means to win a war, a fight or a competition. our team win the day in the debate. |
| 100 |
win by a nose when there is a very slight difference between the winner and the other competitors, victory is won by a nose. i was lucky! i won by a nose. |
| 101 |
willy-nilly if something happens willy-nilly, it happens even if the people who are involved do not want it to happen. both countries were drawn, willy-nilly, into war. |
| 102 |
wild goose chase if someone is sent on a wild goose chase, they waste their time looking for something that there is little chance of finding. i tried to find out who sent the anonymous letters, but it was a wild goose chase. |
| 103 |
wild card this refers to something or someone that adds an unexpected twist to an activity or situation. they added us as a wild card just to make the game more interesting. |
| 104 |
wild and woolly this expression refers to someone or something without order or control. we have a wild and woolly love affair. |
| 105 |
wiggle room this idiom refers to the space, time or freedom to make changes as needed. we must leave ourselves some wiggle room when we negotiate the deal. |
| 106 |
widow's peak a v-shaped point formed by the hair in the centre of the forehead is called a widow's peak. have you noticed that he has a widow's peak? |
| 107 |
wide off the mark if something is or falls wide off the mark, it is incorrect or inadequate, or it is not what was expected. your price offer is wide off the mark. |
| 108 |
wide berth if you give someone or something a wide berth, you stay at a prudent distance from them in order to avoid unwanted consequences. the only way to be there on time is by giving the town centre a wide berth. |
| 109 |
whys and wherefores to talk about the whys and wherefores means to discuss the reasons. we should discuss the whys and wherefores of this failure. |
| 110 |
why keep a dog and bark yourself? this expression means that if someone or something can do a task for you, there's no reason to do it yourself. my wife has an electric mixer but she continues to make cakes by hand. why keep a dog and bark yourself? |
| 111 |
why buy a cow when you can get milk for free? this refers to not paying for something that you can obtain for free. sometimes it refers to a decision not to marry when you can have the benefits of marriage without any commitment. rent is very high so i'm still living with my parents. why buy a cow when you can get milk for free? |
| 112 |
whole nine yards this expression means everything, all of it. send in the whole nine yards against them. we will destroy them! |
| 113 |
whole new ball game to refer to something as a whole new ball game means that it is a completely different situation due to a new set of circumstances. facebook and instagram have made business communication a whole new ball game. |
| 114 |
whizz-kid a whiz kid is someone, usually young, who is very talented and successful at doing something. the intern is whiz-kid from i've heard. |
| 115 |
whitewash something if you whitewash something, you cover up or gloss over faults or wrongdoings. the government was accused of trying to whitewash the scandal over stolen funds. |
| 116 |
white lie if you tell a white lie, you say something which is not true in order to protect someone or to avoid hurting their feelings. i prefer to tell my wife a white lie so as to avoid useless discussions. |
| 117 |
white elephant if you call something a white elephant, you consider it useless although it may have cost a lot of money. the new council building is a white elephant. |
| 118 |
white collar this is a term used for office workers that traditionally wear white shirts with a collar. we have a lot of vacancies for white-collar workers. |
| 119 |
white christmas a white christmas is when it snows at christmas and the ground is white. finally, the weather forecaster said that this year we would have a white christmas. |
| 120 |
whistling dixie if somebody is whistling dixie, they talk about things in a more positive way than the reality. this idiom is mainly used in the us. even if they know the truth, they are still whistling dixie. |
| 121 |
whistle-stop tour when somebody visits a number of places quickly, only stopping at each for a short period of time, it is called a whistle-stop tour. we're going to visit her family but it will only be a whistle-stop tour. |
| 122 |
whistle-blower this idiom refers to a person who tells someone in authority about something illegal that is happening, especially in a government department or a company. brian is supposed to be the whistle-blower. |
| 123 |
whistle in the dark if you whistle in the dark, you try to hide your fear and pretend to be brave in a scary or dangerous situation. steven seemed confident but we all knew he was whistling in the dark. |
| 124 |
whistle for it if someone says this to you, it means they are determined to ensure that you don't get what you are after. you can whistle for it as much as you like. you won't get it. |
| 125 |
whistle down the wind this phrase means to send away or abandon. promise me that you will never whistle me down the wind. |
| 126 |
whistle and flute this is a slang term for suit. i can't meet with you. i just have time to run home and put on my whistle and flute. |
| 127 |
whip-round this idiom refers to a collection of money made by a group of people that is then given to a particular person or used to but a present for them. we have a whip-round at work for people who are leaving. it's the best way to say goodbye. |
| 128 |
whipping boy this idiom refers to someone or something that is blamed or punished for problems that are caused by someone or something else. brian is our whipping boy. |
| 129 |
whipper snapper this idiom refers to a child or impertinent youth. we can't lose again! let's show those whipper snapper who we are! |
| 130 |
while the going is good if you take action while the going is good, you do something before the situation changes and it is no longer possible. there's a 10% discount on the laptop i want. i will buy it while the going is good. |
| 131 |
which is which this phrase is often expressed as a question, asking for help in distinguishing two similar things or people. can you tell me which is which? |
| 132 |
whet somebody's appetite this expression refers to a stimulation that causes you to want additional of something, mostly food. these advertisements are meant to whet your appetite. |
| 133 |
where there's muck there's brass this expression means that dirt and muddle are evidence of products being manufactured and money (brass) being made. that time, the business was brisk – where there's muck there's brass. |
| 134 |
where there's a will, there's a way this expression means that willpower will defeat any difficulty. i drove through five countries in my car. where there is a will, there is a way. |
| 135 |
where the shoe pinches when people talk about where the shoe pinches, they are referring to an area that is often a source of problems or difficulties. he thinks public transport system works fine, but he'll find out where the shoe pinches soon. |
| 136 |
where the rubber meets the road this idiom refers to the point in a process where there are challenges, issues or problems. we have identified the main area of dissent. this is where the rubber meets the road. |
| 137 |
when the shit hits the fan this phrase refers to the moment when the disastrous consequences of something become public. our organisation hates it when the shit hits the fan. |
| 138 |
when the rubber hits the road the moment when you put a theory into practice, or actually apply what you have learned, is when the rubber hits the road. the plan sounds really good. i'll be there when the rubber hits the road. |
| 139 |
when the going gets tough, the tough get going when faced with a difficult or dangerous situation, and the going gets tough, strong people take action to solve the problem. he is a strong man. he strongly believes that when the going gets tough, the tough get going. |
| 140 |
when pigs fly this means that something will never happen. i will buy you a new car when pigs fly. |
| 141 |
when in rome, do as the romans do this expression means that you should adopt the customs of the people or country you are visiting and behave in the same way. pay attention when visiting brazil. don't forget: when in rome, do as the romans do! |
| 142 |
when hell freezes over this expression is an impolite way of saying "it will never happen". she will forgive you when hell freezes over. |
| 143 |
when all is said and done this phrase means when everything is finished and settled; when everything is considered. when all is said and done, i believe she loved me. |
| 144 |
wheels fall off when a situation gets out of control and everything starts to go wrong, the wheels fall off. the wheels fell off his career when he started taking drugs. |
| 145 |
wheeling and dealing someone accused of wheeling and dealing is thought to be involved in complicated, if not dishonest deals in business or politics. there has been a lot of wheeling and dealing this year due to election campaign. |
| 146 |
whatever floats your boat although you don't quite agree with someone, it's their choice and you think they should do whatever makes them happy. are you going fishing? well, whatever floats your boat. |
| 147 |
what's sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander this saying means that what is appropriate for one person should also be appropriate for the other person concerned. a woman should earn the same salary as a man for the same job. what's sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander! |
| 148 |
what's not to like this is a rhetorical question, suggesting that what is being spoken of is without fault. this car is perfect for your needs. what's not to like? |
| 149 |
what you see is what you get this phrase is said to show that there is nothing hidden. all for 199 dollars. what you see is what you get. |
| 150 |
what part of no do you not understand? this phrase means "i am plainly saying no and i mean just that". you are not allowed here. what part of no do you not understand? |
| 151 |
what makes someone tick when you try to understand what motivates someone or makes them behave the way they do, you want to know what makes them tick. she's a strange woman. it's hard for me to figure out what makes her tick. |
| 152 |
what goes around comes around this expression means that if you do something bad, something bad will happen to you eventually. i felt guilty and i knew that one day i would be hurt. what goes around comes around. |
| 153 |
what are you up to this is another way to ask someone "what are you doing?". hello, marry! what are you up to? |
| 154 |
what are you like? this rhetorical question is asked of someone who has done something stupid or outrageous. the point being that it is quite obvious what the person in question is like. you got fired. what are you like? |
| 155 |
whale of a time when people have a whale of a time, they enjoy themselves a lot. i had a whale of a time that night. |
| 156 |
wet your whistle this means to drink something alcoholic. would you like to join us tonight and wet your whistle? |
| 157 |
wet the baby's head this expression means to have a drink so as to celebrate the birth of a baby. our colleague invited us to a local bar to wet the baby's head. |
| 158 |
wet behind the ears someone who is wet behind the ears is inexperienced or immature. i wouldn't give that job to her. she's still wet behind the ears. |
| 159 |
well-to-do this idiom means rich and of good social status. most well-to-do people drive luxury cars. |
| 160 |
well hung this idiom refers to a man with large genitals. the legend is that he was well hung. |
| 161 |
well heeled this idiom means rich. out family is well heeled. |
| 162 |
well begun is half done this idiom means that getting a good start is important. i like the project introduction. well begun is half done. |
| 163 |
weigh your words if you weigh your words, you choose your words carefully in order to express exactly what you means and avoid any misunderstanding. during the press conference i had to weigh my words. |
| 164 |
weigh the pros and cons if you weigh the pros and cons, you consider the advantages and disadvantages, the arguments for or against something. we have to weigh the pros and cons for this merger. |
| 165 |
wee-wee this idiom refers to urine and is either a noun or a verb. do you need to do a wee-wee before we go? |
| 166 |
wee hours this idiom refers to the early hours of the morning, between twelve o'clock at night and the time when the sun rises. i was up until the wee hours trying to finish the project. |
| 167 |
weather the storm if you weather the storm, you succeed in surviving a difficult period or situation. given the current economic conditions, our company is weathering the storm. |
| 168 |
weasel words this idiom refers to something that someone says either to avoid answering a question clearly or to make someone believe something that is not true. i don't need weasel words. i need an answer! |
| 169 |
weasel out this idiom means to squeeze one's way out of something; to evade or avoid a job or responsibility. they tried to weasel out of the deal later. |
| 170 |
wear thin something that is wearing thin is decreasing or losing its interest. this excuse is wearing thin! |
| 171 |
wear out one's welcome if someone wears out their welcome, they stay too long as a guest, causing inconvenience to their host. they invited me to stay for a few days, but i didn't want to wear out my welcome. |
| 172 |
wear more than one hat this idiom means to have more than one set of responsibilities or to hold more than one office. the financial manager is currently responsible for marketing too. he is wearing more than one hat. |
| 173 |
wear many hats someone who wears many hats has to do many different types of tasks or play a variety of roles. being a small company, our employees wear many hats. |
| 174 |
weal and woe this expression refers to the good and bad times, the joys and sorrows, or prosperity and misfortune. everybody gets their share of weal and woe in life. |
| 175 |
we were robbed this is a phrase used to express that a defeat was unjust, possibly due to an injustice committed by someone else. after the goal was cancelled, the coach shouted: we were robbed! |
| 176 |
we know where you live this phrase is a threat of violence. don't do that! we know where you live! |
| 177 |
ways and means the ways and means of achieving something are the methods and other things needed to make it happen. nowadays we all have the ways and means to communicate no matter the distance. |
| 178 |
way round this idiom refers to a way of dealing with or avoiding a problem. the only way around this is that we get married without their blessings. |
| 179 |
way around this idiom means to find an alternative for something or someone or to perform a task. i don't see any way around this problem. |
| 180 |
wax lyrical when you wax lyrical about something, you speak enthusiastically about it in a poetic or sentimental way. suddenly he started to wax lyrical about good old days. |
| 181 |
wave a dead chicken when faced with a serious problem, if you take steps that you know in advance will be futile, to show that you made an effort, you wave a dead chicken. the laptop was damaged, but the technician decided to wave a dead chicken to satisfy the customer before announcing the bad news. |
| 182 |
water under the bridge if something difficult or unpleasant took place in the past but is no longer important, it is referred to as water under the bridge. as a couple, we had a serious disagreement but that's water under the bridge today. |
| 183 |
water down if you water down something such as a report, declaration or proposal, you try to make it weaker or less likely to cause anger. i tried to water down her negative feedback. |
| 184 |
watch your step if you tell someone to watch their step, you are advising them to be careful how they behave in order to avoid getting into trouble. there is no tolerance for bad behaviour within this company, so watch your step. |
| 185 |
watch someone like a hawk if you watch someone like a hawk, you keep your eyes on them or watch them very carefully. for two hours i watched the children like a hawk. |
| 186 |
watch from the sidelines this idiom refers to a position where someone is observing a situation rather than being directly involved in it. you have never been there for me. you have always watched from the sidelines. |
| 187 |
waste not, want not this expression means that if you don't waste things, you will always have enough. my motto? waste not, want not. |
| 188 |
washed up this idiom may refer to something deposited on a beach by the tide or to something finished and failed, with no further chance of success. 1. there's a whale washed up on the beach. 2. she was a great actress before she started to drink. now she's all washed up. |
| 189 |
wash your hands of something if you wash your hands of a problem or context, you refuse to deal with it any longer. you can't wash your hands of this project! it is you who made it! |
| 190 |
wash one's dirty linen in public to wash one's dirty linen in public means to talk about unpleasant personal matters in the presence of others. hey! shut up! you shouldn't wash your dirty linen in public. |
| 191 |
wash hands of this idiom means to abandon taking responsibility for someone or something. i can't wash my hands of my best friend during his difficult times. |
| 192 |
warts and all this idiom means "describing or including all the bad qualities in a person's character, with no attempt to hide them". he tried to paint the lady as she really was, warts and all. |
| 193 |
warm-hearted this idiom means to be kind and loving. he is a warm-hearted man. you will like him. |
| 194 |
wardrobe malfunction this idiom is used to refer to an item of clothing slipping out of place to expose a part of the body. he said it was a wardrobe malfunction but i think it was deliberate. |
| 195 |
ward off this idiom means to prevent something from harming you. don't forget to take your umbrella to ward off the rain! |
| 196 |
want somebody's head on a platter if someone makes you so angry that you want them to be punished, you want their head on a platter. she was so angry when she read the article about her company that she wanted the journalist's head on a platter. |
| 197 |
walking papers if you are given your walking papers, your contract or a relationship has ended. after causing the accident, i was given the walking papers. |
| 198 |
walking on air this expression means to be very happy. marry has been walking on air since getting engaged last week. |
| 199 |
walking encyclopaedia this term refers to a person who is very knowledgeable about a lot of subjects. ask tim – he's a walking encyclopaedia. |
| 200 |
walk the talk this idiom means to do the things you have said you would do, especially when you reach a position of power. business groups are waiting to see if the new president will walk the talk. |
| 201 |
walk the plank this phrase refers to a form of execution in which victims were forced to walk, often blindfold and with hands tied, off a plank of wood and into the sea. many crew members died. they were forced to walk the plank. |
| 202 |
walk out on somebody if you walk out on somebody, you leave your partner and end the relationship. she has certainly walked out on him. |
| 203 |
walk on eggshells with someone if you walk on eggshells with someone, you are careful not to hurt or offend them. i don't want to offend maria, so i walk on eggshells with her. |
| 204 |
walk on air when you are happy or excited because of a pleasant event that makes you feel as if you were floating, you are walking on air. since my project was implemented i have been walking on air. |
| 205 |
walk of life a person's profession or position in society is known as their walk of life. in the room were people from all walks of life. |
| 206 |
walk into lion's den if you walk into the lion's den, you find yourself in a difficult situation in which you have to face unfriendly or aggressive people. after the failure of my project i had no other thing to do than walk into lion's den. |
| 207 |
walk free this idiom means to be released from a criminal charge without punishment or not receive the expected or deserved punishment. bob managed to walk free owing to his lawyer. |
| 208 |
walk and chew gum if you can walk and chew gum (at the same time), you are able to do more than one thing at a time. keep in mind that this expression is often used negatively. she can't walk and chew gum at the same time! i don't know why she has been hired. |
| 209 |
walk all over someone if one person walks all over another, they treat them very badly or unkindly, especially by showing no consideration for their cares or needs. you must learn to express your opinion. don't let her walk all over you! |
| 210 |
walk a tightrope if a person is walking a tightrope, they are in a difficult situation where they must act carefully. the middle management is walking a tightrope to keep the costs down. |
| 211 |
wake-up call this idiom refers to an event that triggers a sense of urgency or the motivation to make a change. her chest pain was the wake-up call she needed to see a doctor. |
| 212 |
waiting in the wings if someone is waiting in the wings, they are waiting for an opportunity to take action, especially to replace someone else in their job or position. there are many students waiting in the wings ready to prove themselves. |
| 213 |
waiting for a raindrop in the drought when someone is waiting for a raindrop in the drought, they are waiting and hoping for something that has little chance of happening. for many people, finding a well-paid job nowadays is like waiting for a raindrop in the drought. |
| 214 |
wait for the cat to jump if you wait for the cat to jump, or wait to see which way the cat jumps, you delay taking action until you see how events will turn out. waiting for the cat to jump was the best thing we could do. |
| 215 |
wag the dog this idiom is used to indicate that attention is purposely being diverted from something of greater importance to something of lesser importance. he's wagging the dog to keep you from discovering the truth about the woman. |
| 216 |
vote with one's feet if you vote with your feet, you show your dislike or disapproval of something by leaving. if this year's conference is boring, people will vote with their feet. |
| 217 |
vorsprung durch technik this german phrase is usually translated into english as "progress through technology". vorsprung durch technik is their motto. |
| 218 |
volte face this idiom means to suddenly change beliefs from something to its complete opposite. i've never seen you volte face before this. what's going on? |
| 219 |
voice in the wilderness if you are the only person to express a warning or an opinion on a matter which is ignored by most others, you are a voice in the wilderness. i was a voice in the wilderness regarding economic crisis which was about to come. |
| 220 |
visit the ladies' room this idiom is an euphemism for going to the lavatory. john is visiting the ladies' room. |
| 221 |
virtue is its own reward the knowledge that you have done the right thing, or that you have acted in a moral way, is a sufficient reward and you should not expect more. i'm glad that you've helped the poor man. virtue is its own reward! |
| 222 |
viper in bosom this idiom refers to a person who deceives you after receiving help from you. do you know that all these years you have been nursing a viper in his bosom? he is a terrorist! |
| 223 |
vicious circle when the solution to a problem creates another problem similar to the original, or makes it worse, so that the process starts all over again, the situation is called a vicious circle. be careful how much money you borrow. you might enter a vicious circle. |
| 224 |
vice versa this idiom refers to a reverse in position. i don't like my brother's wife and vice versa. |
| 225 |
vested interest if you have a vested interest in a situation or event, you expect to benefit or gain an advantage from it. i have a vested interest in this company. i hope to get a job in it. |
| 226 |
vertically challenged this term is a humoristic way of referring to someone who is not very tall. basketball is not a game for vertically challenged people. |
| 227 |
vent your spleen when you vent your spleen, you release or express all your anger about something. from time to time, it's good for you to vent your spleen. |
| 228 |
veg out this idiom means to stop working hard or to take things slow and easy. after a hard week, i like to veg out during the weekend. |
| 229 |
vatican roulette this idiom refers to the rhythm method of birth control. i know she is a catholic and that condoms aren't allowed, but i don't want kids and vatican roulette is way too risky. |
| 230 |
variety is the spice of life this expression means that life is more interesting when you try to do different things. you should try more sports. variety is the spice of life. |
| 231 |
van gogh's ear for music this expression is used to describe someone who is tone deaf. my audition was a disaster. the conductor said i had van gogh's ear for music. |
| 232 |
vale of years this idiom refers to the decreasing time of a individual's life. you shouldn't leave your parents during their vale of years. |
| 233 |
use your noodle if you use your noodle, you use your brain or your common sense. how have i solved the problem? i've used my noodle! |
| 234 |
us versus them this idiom denotes the enmity between two opposing groups. don't forget! it's us versus them tonight! |
| 235 |
up-to-the-minute something that is up-to-the-minute is the very latest or most recent version available. this video processing software is up-to-the-minute. |
| 236 |
upside-down this idiom means "turned so that the upper surface becomes the lower". after the accident, the car was upside down. |
| 237 |
upset the apple cart if you upset the apple cart, you do or say something to spoil a satisfactory plan or situation. i hope cristina doesn't participate to this meeting; she could upset the apple cart. |
| 238 |
ups and downs this idiom refers to good times and bad times. every relationship has its ups and downs and ours makes no exception. |
| 239 |
upper crust this term refers to the higher levels of society, the upper class or the aristocracy. she pretend to be from the upper crust. |
| 240 |
up to the hilt when someone does something up to the hilt, they do it completely, fully or to the maximum degree. they were involved in the mission up to the hilt. |
| 241 |
up to speed this idiom means to be updated, to not be behind, to have all the current information. i'm going to bring you up to speed with the latest developments. |
| 242 |
up to snuff this phrase means to be up to the required standard. we need a million dollars to get the facility up to snuff. |
| 243 |
up to par if something is up to par, it meets the required standard. she didn't get the management position because her english wasn't up to par. |
| 244 |
up to no good when someone is up to no good, they are doing or planning something bad or wrong. the moment i saw them hiding behind a car, i suspected they were up to no good. |
| 245 |
up the wooden hill to bedfordshire this phrase was uttered to children in the uk when it was time to go upstairs to prepare for bed. the expression is now rather archaic and little-used. seeing her yawn, ann told the little girl to go up the wooden hill to bedfordshire. |
| 246 |
up the pole this phrase means mad. in this country taxes can be enough to drive you up the pole. |
| 247 |
up the duff this phrase is a euphemism for pregnant. it is used most commonly, although not exclusively, to describe unplanned pregnancy. have you heard? marry is up the duff. |
| 248 |
up the ante this idiom means to increase the demands or risks to obtain better results. the protesters upped the ante by refusing to work until their demands were satisfied. |
| 249 |
up shit creek without a paddle this idiom means to be in deep trouble with no solution. when he saw the police he knew that he was up shit creek without a paddle. |
| 250 |
up in the air if something, such as a plan or decision, is up in the air, it has not been decided or settled yet. i don't know what to say. the project is still up in the air. |
| 251 |
up for grabs if something is up for grabs, it is available for anyone who wants to compete for it. let's enter the competition – there's about $10000 up for grabs. |
| 252 |
up and running if a business or a project is up and running, it has started and is fully operational. finally, the local store is up and running. |
| 253 |
up and about if someone is up and about, they are out of bed or have recovered after an illness or an injury. she is up and about now. you can visit her. |
| 254 |
up a tree this idiom means "in a difficult situation". if the company doesn't pay for the damage, i'll be up a tree. |
| 255 |
up a gum tree if someone is up a gum tree, they are in a very difficult situation. if another member of staff leaves, we'll really be up a gum tree. |
| 256 |
up a blind alley if you go up a blind alley, you follow an ineffective course of action which leads nowhere or produces no results. the suspects' declarations lead the police up a blind alley. |
| 257 |
unvarnished truth if you present someone with plain facts, without trying to embellish or soften the reality, you give them the unvarnished truth. tell me how it happened. i want the unvarnished truth. |
| 258 |
until hell freezes over if you tell someone that they can do something until hell freezes over, you mean that they can do it forever but they won't obtain what they want. you can ask until hell freezes over. i won't buy you a new car. |
| 259 |
unsung hero this idiom refers to a person who makes a substantive, yet unrecognized contribution. they are the unsung heroes of the revolution. |
| 260 |
unmitigated disaster an unmitigated disaster is a complete failure or a total catastrophe. the storm caused an unmitigated disaster. |
| 261 |
unlucky in love this idiom means refers to a person who wasn't able to find a long-term romantic partner. it's quite clear. i'm unlucky in love. |
| 262 |
university of life this idiom refers to the daily life and work where you learn more than you would by going to university. my grandfather learnt everything from the university of life. |
| 263 |
union jack this is the popular name of the national flag of the united kingdom. they wanted to buy one union jack for the parade. |
| 264 |
under your thumb if someone is under your thumb, they are completely under your control of influence. the leader has all citizens under his thumb. |
| 265 |
under the wire this idiom means "barely in time, at the last moment". i finished the report under the wire. |
| 266 |
under the weather if you are under the weather, you are not feeling very well. i'm a little bit under the weather today, so please excuse me. |
| 267 |
under the radar this idiom means going unnoticed, avoiding unnecessary attention. let's keep this mission under the radar. |
| 268 |
under someone's thumb this idiom means under someone's control. she has got the board firmly under her thumb. |
| 269 |
under someone's roof this idiom means in a home that belongs to someone. while you're under my roof, you have to live by common sense rules. |
| 270 |
under siege this idiom means to be under attack. the manager came under siege for his decisions. |
| 271 |
under one's wing this idiom means "in or into one's protective care". the little boy has been taken under her wing. |
| 272 |
under one's belt if you have something under your belt, you have acquired experience or have satisfactorily achieved something. you've got to have a lot of experience under your belt before you can get a well-paid job. |
| 273 |
under no illusions this idiom means to be completely conscious of the real status of situation. i am under no illusion that living in that country is hard. |
| 274 |
under fire this idiom means "being shot at". we are under fire! request help! |
| 275 |
under false pretences if you obtain something under false pretences, you deceive others by lying about your identity, qualifications, financial or social position, in order to get what you want. steve obtained the job under false pretences. |
| 276 |
under close scrutiny someone or something that is under close scrutiny is being watched or examined carefully. the police are keeping the terrorism suspects under close scrutiny. |
| 277 |
under a cloud this idiom means under suspicion. it may also mean to become out of favour or to be in trouble. until proven innocent, every employee is under a cloud. |
| 278 |
uncle tom cobley and all this expression is used to denote a long list of people (in british english). entrepreneurs, politicians, uncle tom cobley and all have been invited to the reception. |
| 279 |
uncle tom this is a derogatory term for a black man who is servile towards white men. he never stands up for us, the black. in the old days we'd have called him an uncle tom. |
| 280 |
uncle dick this is a slang term for sick. sorry, i can't participate today. i'm feeling uncle dick. |
| 281 |
uncharted waters if you are in uncharted waters, you are in a situation that you have never experienced before, so you don't know what's going to happen. nuclear fusion took physicists into uncharted waters some time ago. |
| 282 |
two-time someone if one person two-times another, they cheat on their partner by having a romantic relationship with another person at the same time. she left me when she discovered that i was two-timing her. |
| 283 |
two-faced someone who is two-faced is deceitful or insincere; they will say one thing to your face and something else when you are not there. i don't trust mona. i find her two-faced. |
| 284 |
two's company, three's a crowd this is said of two people, particularly lovers, who would prefer to be alone together rather than to have someone else with them. thank you for inviting me, but i have to decline it. you know, two's a company, three's a crowd. |
| 285 |
two wrongs don't make a right this expression refers to the fact that responding to a negative situation in the same manner will not make things better in any sense. you can't leave him because he was a little bit rude to you. two wrongs don't make a right. |
| 286 |
two of a kind people who are two of a kind are similar in character, attitude or tastes. mike and anna are two of a kind. they enjoy skiing and skating. |
| 287 |
two heads are better than one this idiom means that having more than one participant in an activity makes it better. let's ask for his help. two heads are better than one. |
| 288 |
two can play at that game you say this to tell someone that you can behave towards them in the same unpleasant way that they have behaved towards you. you should reconsider your behaviour. don't forget that two can play at that game. |
| 289 |
twist someone's arm if you twist someone's arm, you make them do something, without using physical force. i had to twist her arm so as to accept my offer. |
| 290 |
twist of fate this idiom means to experience a change in circumstances. the movie had a strange twist of fate. |
| 291 |
twist in the wind if someone is left to twist in the wind, they are left to face a difficult situation without any assistance or support. after the meeting, i left my assistant manager to twist in the wind. |
| 292 |
twiddle your thumbs a person who twiddles their thumbs has nothing to do, or is doing nothing useful. come and help me! you can't twiddle your thumbs all day. |
| 293 |
twenty-three skidoo this expression is an invitation to go away. get off my garden, you idiots – twenty-three skidoo! |
| 294 |
twenty-four-seven this term refers to something which is available or happens twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. there are many twenty-four-seven stores in this town. |
| 295 |
twelve good men and true this phrase refers to a jury of upright, honest, trustworthy people. juries were once composed solely of men and so this phrase has begun falling into disuse. i know the evidence is weak, but we have to convince twelve good men and true beyond a shadow of a doubt that she isn't guilty. |
| 296 |
turning point this idiom refers to the point after which things become better. the turning point of her life was when she found that she was pregnant. |
| 297 |
turn up your nose at something if you turn up your nose at something, you reject it because you think it is not good enough for you. she's out of work and still turns up her nose at job offers. |
| 298 |
turn up like a bad penny if someone turns up like a bad penny, they appear at a place or event where they are not welcome or not wanted. wherever i go she turns up like a bad penny. |
| 299 |
turn turtle if a boat turns turtle, it capsizes or turns upside down in the water. last time we went fishing, our boat turned turtle. |
| 300 |
turn the tide this phrase means to change a situation, especially so that you begin to win instead of losing. local authorities have decided to turn the tide against drugs. |
| 301 |
turn the tables if you turn the tables on a person or organisation, you reverse the situation so as to be in a position of superiority. the success of our new car has turned the tables. |
| 302 |
turn the corner this phrase means to pass the critical point and start to improve. after five months of poor sales we've finally turned the corner. |
| 303 |
turn over a new leaf if a person turns over a new leaf, they decide to change their behaviour and lead a better life. when tim left prison, he was decided to turn over a new leaf. |
| 304 |
turn on the waterworks if someone turns on the waterworks, they start to cry, especially to obtain something. she is so spoilt! if she doesn't get what she want, she immediately turns on the waterworks. |
| 305 |
turn of phrase this idiom refers to a way of saying or describing something. that was a nice turn of phrase. congrats! |
| 306 |
turn back the hands of time this idiom means to go back to the past, usually in moments of reminiscence or regret. if you could turn back the hands of time, would you do anything differently? |
| 307 |
turn back on this idiom means to choose not to do what has been committed. the customer has been given a commitment so we cannot turn back on the project now. |
| 308 |
turn a deaf ear a person who turns a deaf ear to something such as a request or a complaint refuses to pay attention to it. i tried to explain the report to my manager but she turned a deaf ear. |
| 309 |
turn a blind eye if you turn a blind eye to something, you pretend not to notice what someone is doing. i turn a blind eye when i see children taking apples from my garden. |
| 310 |
tunnel vision if a person has tunnel vision, they focus on only one aspect of something, or they are unable to see more than one way of doing things. their boss has tunnel vision. he doesn't see any reason to change the marketing policy. |
| 311 |
tug at the heartstrings something or someone who tugs at the heartstrings causes others to feel a great deal of pity or sadness. the hospital's plea for funds tugged at the heartstrings of people. |
| 312 |
tucker out this idiom means to cause someone to become very tired. raking all the leaves tuckered us out. |
| 313 |
try someone's patience if you find it difficult to be patient with someone because of their irritating attitude or behaviour, you can say that they are trying your patience. you constant interruptions are trying my patience. |
| 314 |
truth will out this expression means that despite efforts to conceal the facts, the truth cannot be hidden forever. it's just a matter of time. truth will out eventually. |
| 315 |
truth is stranger than fiction this phrase is said when you want to emphasize that real events or things are sometimes stranger than imaginary ones. have you heard about their sexual adventure? well, truth is stranger than fiction. |
| 316 |
trumpet something this idiom means to deliberately broadcast some news so everyone can hear, with the intent to boast about something. for three weeks i will trumpet our promotion. |
| 317 |
true-blue this idiom means loyal and unwavering on one's opinion or support for a cause. you don't need to worry about her – she's true-blue. |
| 318 |
trouble and strife this is a slang term for wife. we've been married for ten year now, the trouble and strife and myself. |
| 319 |
trip the light fantastic this idiom means to dance, especially in an imaginative or fantastic manner. let's trip the light fantastic! i like this song! |
| 320 |
trilemma the term is used for a situation which is even more difficult than a dilemma, because a choice must be made between three options that seem equally undesirable. this is a trilemma, so we have to call all board members and ask for advice. |
| 321 |
tried and tested if a method is tried and tested, it can be trusted because it has been used successfully in the past and is known to work. trust me. this method is tried and tested. |
| 322 |
tricks of the trade this term refers to a clever or expert way of doing things, especially a job. she is a good negotiator; she knows the tricks of the trade. |
| 323 |
trick or treat this idiom refers to the ultimatum given to householders by children who call on houses to solicit gifts at halloween. kids are going trick-or-treating tomorrow night. |
| 324 |
trials and tribulations this idiom refers to troubles and events that cause suffering. she speaks about the trials and tribulations of marriage. |
| 325 |
trial and error attempting to achieve a satisfactory result by testing and eliminating various methods until the best one is found, is called trial and error. some of the best marketers learn by trial and error. |
| 326 |
treat like dirt this idiom means to behave very badly and without respect. the manager treats all his employees like dirt. he won't last any longer. |
| 327 |
treasure trove this idiom refers to a priceless or valuable discovery. finding the ruins of the old city was his treasure trove. |
| 328 |
tread water if you are treading water, your situation remains stationary in spite of your efforts, with no sign of any progress. i've been treading water this year, trying to find a better job. |
| 329 |
travel the highways and byways if you travel the highways and byways, you take large and small roads to visit every part of the country. she travelled the highways and byways of the united kingdom. |
| 330 |
travel light when you travel light, you travel with as little luggage as possible. if you go trekking, travel light. it will be better. |
| 331 |
train of thought a sequence of connected ideas is called a train of thought. i was considering buying a new laptop when the rain broke my train of thought. |
| 332 |
trade secret this term refers to secrecy of a company's production methods but is often used teasingly. can you give me the recipe for this delicious cake? no, it's a trade secret. |
| 333 |
toy-boy this idiom refers to a woman's much younger male lover. she set up house with a 22-year-old toy-boy. that's strange, isn't it? |
| 334 |
toy with the idea if you consider something without giving it serious thought, you toy with the idea. i toyed with the idea of moving abroad. |
| 335 |
tower of strength this term is used to describe a person who is very helpful and supportive during difficult times. my brother has always been a tower of strength. |
| 336 |
tout for business this idiom means "to stop or speak to many people in order to try to persuade them to buy your goods or services". hundreds of taxis tot for business in our city. |
| 337 |
tout de suite this idiom means at once. you have to call her tout de suite. |
| 338 |
tour de force this expression means a feat of strength power or skill. she managed to lift the back off that car – a real tour de force. |
| 339 |
tough cookie a person who is a tough cookie is someone with a strong and determined character who is not easily intimidated, discouraged or defeated. i'm not worried about her future at all. she's a tough cookie! |
| 340 |
touchy-feely this idiom means "kind and loving, especially by touching and holding people more than is usual, often in a way that makes other people uncomfortable". he has a touchy-feely approach which i don't like. |
| 341 |
touch-and-go if something is touch-and-go, the outcome or result is uncertain. his life is out of danger now, but it was touch-and-go after the accident. |
| 342 |
touch off this idiom means to make someone angry by inciting a thought. the presentation touched off a very important point. |
| 343 |
touch base with someone if you touch base with someone, you make contact or renew communication with them. i'll try to touch base with her next week. |
| 344 |
toss-up when there are two options or possibilities to choose from, and both are equally good, the choice between the two is called a toss-up. both athletes are in excellent condition. it's a toss-up. |
| 345 |
topsy-turvy this idiom means "in a state of being confused, not well organized or giving importance to unexpected things". people are not happy about the government's topsy-turvy priorities. |
| 346 |
top-drawer this idiom means of the best quality; of the highest social standing. the manager brought together a team of top-drawer designers and engineers. |
| 347 |
top notch to say that something is top notch means that it is of the highest possible quality or standard. the hotel was amazing and the service was top notch. |
| 348 |
top dog to say that a person, group or country is top dog means that they are better or more powerful than others. she's a top dog in fashion industry. |
| 349 |
top brass this idiom refers to the person or people with the most authority, power or influence in a group or organization. you'll obtain the answer only if you talk to the top brass. |
| 350 |
top banana this idiom refers to a leader, boss, chief person in a group or the head of a project. ask him about this. he's the top banana here. |
| 351 |
toot your own horn if you toot your own horn, you like to boast about your abilities and achievements. i am discreet about my books. i don't toot my own horn. |
| 352 |
toodle-oo this idiom means goodbye. we'll see you later, toodle-oo! |
| 353 |
too much of a good thing the fact that something pleasant becomes unpleasant because you have or do too much of it. you can have too much of a good thing, |
| 354 |
too much like hard work an activity or task that requires too much effort is too much like hard work. it's so hot today and i have so many things to do in the garden. that's too much like hard work. |
| 355 |
too much free time on one's hands this expression is used when someone has too much free time and not enough things to do. i have too much free time on my hands at the moment. do you need help? |
| 356 |
too many cooks spoil the broth this idiom means to fail because of too many opinions on how to do something. the organization had too many decision makers. no wonder it was closed since too many cooks spoil the broth. |
| 357 |
too many chiefs, not enough indians this expression refers to a situation where there are too many people giving instructions and not enough people doing the work. the company wasn't successful. there were too many chiefs and not enough indians. |
| 358 |
too little, too late this idiom means "not enough of something that should have been provided earlier". the official described the aid for the refugees as too little, too late. |
| 359 |
too close to call this idiom refers to a margin that is too close to determine a winner. this match is too close to call, but i trust that my team will win. |
| 360 |
too close for comfort this idiom means to make people worried or frightened by being too close. you are too close for comfort. |
| 361 |
too big for one's britches this idiom means overconfident in one's importance, skill or authority; behaving as if one is more important or influential than one actually is. since she won the championship she has become too big for her britches. |
| 362 |
too big for one's boots a person who is getting too big for their boots is behaving as if they were more important than they really are. simon is really getting too big for his boots since he got a promotion. |
| 363 |
tongue-tied if you are tongue-tied, you have difficulty in expressing yourself because you are nervous or embarrassed. at the beginning of the date i was tongue-tied. |
| 364 |
tongue in cheek if you describe a remark as "tongue in cheek", you mean that it is not meant to be taken seriously; it is meant to be gunny or ironic. my remark was taken seriously, even if it was supposed to be tongue in cheek. |
| 365 |
tomorrow's another day this expression means that even if everything is not satisfactory at present, there will be opportunity for things to improve. don't be sad about this little thing. tomorrow's another day. |
| 366 |
token gesture to make a token gesture means to show a small sign of appreciation. as a token gesture for his advice, i gave him a renowned bottle of wine. |
| 367 |
toing and froing someone who is toing and froing is either repeatedly going from one place to another and coming back, or is constantly changing their mind about something. after several months of toing and froing, the agreement was signed. |
| 368 |
toffee-nosed people who are toffee-nosed consider themselves to be better than other people, especially than people of a lower social class. she's a toffee-nosed single woman. |
| 369 |
toe-curling this idiom refers to something that makes you feel extremely embarrassed and ashamed for someone else. their performance was absolutely toe-curling. |
| 370 |
toe the line if someone toes the line, they obey the rules and accept the principles laid down by a person, group or organisation. if you want to stay in this company, you'll have to toe the line. |
| 371 |
to your heart's content if you do something to your heart's content, you do it as much and for as long as you want. when my wife is away, i can watch television to my heart's content. |
| 372 |
to travel hopefully is a better thing than to arrive this phrase means that hope and anticipation are often better than reality. you should continue your relationship as things should be fine. to travel hopefully is a better thing than to arrive. |
| 373 |
to the nth degree this idiom means to the utmost degree; without limit. he tests the cars to the nth degree. |
| 374 |
to the letter if you follow instructions or directions to the letter, you do exactly as is told or written. much as i followed the instruction to the letter, i couldn't get the device to work. |
| 375 |
to the gills this phrase is used in expressions to mean completely full. by the time the fifth course was served, i was stuffed to the gills. |
| 376 |
to the core this idiom means totally, fully, completely, utterly. the news of his sudden death shocked her to the core. |
| 377 |
to the best of your ability when someone does something to the best of their ability, they do it as well as they possibly can. i felt anxious all through the interview, but i replied to the questions to the best of my ability. |
| 378 |
to see the red light if you see the red light, you recognise approaching danger. the red light is referred to as a danger signal. when she had a minor heart attack, she saw the red light and realised that she had to quit smoking. |
| 379 |
to make a big deal of something this expression means to exaggerate a situation, put a lot of focus on something or someone or build up the importance of something. don't make a big deal of my words. i was a little bit nervous. i'm sorry. |
| 380 |
to have something coming out of your ears this expression means to have a lot of something. i've been studying english all morning so i've got idioms coming out of my ears. |
| 381 |
to have one too many somebody who has had one too many has drunk too much alcohol. i think she has had one too many. |
| 382 |
to have a yellow streak this expression is used to refer to someone who has cowardice in their character. andrew has always had a yellow streak running down his back. |
| 383 |
to have a one-track mind if you have a one-track mind, you have a tendency to think about only one subject. the girl has a one-track mind; all she thinks about is dancing. |
| 384 |
to have a face like a bulldog chewing a wasp to say that someone has a face like a bulldog chewing a wasp means that you find them very unattractive because they have a screwed-up ugly expression on their face. i don't like him. he has a face like a bulldog chewing a wasp. |
| 385 |
to go red in the face this expression means to become embarrassed. i went red in the face when the manager scolded me. |
| 386 |
to go in one ear and out the other this expression means to not remember something or to not listen to something. it's always the same with you! in on ear and out the other! |
| 387 |
to give something a facelift if you give something a facelift (a building, a room, an office etc.) you do something to improve its appearance. they've given their kitchen a facelift. |
| 388 |
to give somebody a big head this expression means to praise somebody so much that they start thinking very highly of themselves. don't tell her she's good-looking. you'll give her a big head. |
| 389 |
to gatecrash if someone gatecrashes, they attend a private social event without being invited. how do i plan to go to their party? it's simple! i'll gatecrash. |
| 390 |
to fit the bill if someone or something fits the bill, they are exactly right for a particular situation. she wanted a quiet place to relax. my country inn fitted the bill, so i invited her. |
| 391 |
to even the score when a person decides to even the score, they try to get their revenge on someone who has cheated or done them harm. when i found out that my wife had cheated, i was decided to even the score. |
| 392 |
to each their own this idiom means that other people are free to like different things or have different preferences. i don't care about tennis, but to each their own. |
| 393 |
to cast the first stone this idiom means to be the first to attack a sinner. why do you always want to cast the first stone? |
| 394 |
to be up in arms if you are up in arms, you are very angry about something and protest very strongly. the people were up in arms over the demolition of the old church. |
| 395 |
to be stumped if you are stumped, you are unable to proceed, often regarding being confounded by some intellectual puzzle. i will speak to you later. now i'm stumped. |
| 396 |
to be shown the red card this expression derives from football terminology and means tot be dismissed from your job. the financial manager was shown the red card yesterday. |
| 397 |
to be out on your ear this expression means to be thrown out – often of a workplace or home. if you don't start working, you'll be out on your ear. |
| 398 |
to be out of the red this expression means to be out of debt. our company if finally out of the red now! |
| 399 |
to be on the home stretch to say that you are on the home stretch means that you are approaching the end of something such as a task, a race or a journey. don't give up now – you are on the home stretch now! |
| 400 |
to be on last legs if you are on your last legs, you are in a very weak condition or about to die. i'm sorry to inform you that our grandmother is on her last legs. |
| 401 |
to be led by the nose somebody who is led by the nose is dominated or controlled by a person or group who makes them do exactly what they want. she has always been led by the nose by her mother. |
| 402 |
to be in tune with somebody if you are in tune with somebody it means that you completely understand them and you can speak to each other without words. i like my girlfriend because i was in tune with her from the very first moment. |
| 403 |
to be green this expression is used for describing someone who is immature or inexperienced. she can be green sometimes. i don't think she's ready to be promoted. |
| 404 |
to be chuffed to bits this means to be pleased and happy. thank you for the present! i'm chuffed to bits. |
| 405 |
to be big on something this expression means to be interested in something, to enjoy something a lot or to think something is particularly important. make sure you thank her. she's big on politeness. |
| 406 |
to be big of someone if an actions is big of someone, it's good, kind or helpful. however, this idiom is usually used sarcastically when the person using it thinks that the other person could do a lot more. it was big of marry to spare a whole minute for you yesterday. |
| 407 |
to be big hearted if someone is big hearted, they are kind, caring and compassionate. my mother is too big hearted for her own good. |
| 408 |
to be big headed if you are big headed, you are conceited or arrogant. he's big headed and that's why i don't like him at all. |
| 409 |
to be at large this idiom means "free". ten prisoners are at large following a series of escapes. |
| 410 |
to be an item to say that two people are an item means that they are involved in a romantic relationship. so dave and nicole are an item, are they? |
| 411 |
to be a law unto yourself this expression means to behave in a way that is independent and does not follow the usual rules for a situation. she never fills in the record forms but she's a law unto herself. |
| 412 |
to be a hop, skip and a jump away from to say that a thing or place is only a hop, skip and a jump away from another, it means that they are very close to each other. the church is a hop, skip and a jump away from our house. |
| 413 |
to be a big shot this expression is used to refer to an important, successful or influential person. however, it can have negative connotation and is often used sarcastically. i heard you had become a big shot in the city. i'm surprised you still have time for me. |
| 414 |
to be a big mouth this expression is used to describe an aspect of a person's personality. it means that they tell people things they shouldn't, for example secrets. don't trust her. she's a big mouth. |
| 415 |
to be a big deal this expression is used to refer to an important person, especially in a specific area of work. i heard that she's a big deal in criminal law nowadays. |
| 416 |
to a fault to say that someone has a good quality to a fault, it means that they have a lot or even too much of that quality. he is generous to a fault. |
| 417 |
tit for tat this idiom refers to actions done intentionally to punish other people because they have done something unpleasant to you. he strongly believes in tit for tat and will do the same thing to you if you do something wrong to him. |
| 418 |
tipping point this idiom refers to the time at which a change or an effect cannot be stopped. the earth has already passed the tipping point in terms of pollution. |
| 419 |
tip the scales this idiom means to cause a particular situation to happen or a particular decision to be made, when other situations or decisions are possible. three quick goals from rooney tipped the scales in favour of england. |
| 420 |
tip of the iceberg the tip of the iceberg is the part that is known of a problem or situation which is thought to be much more serious. your report on corruption examines the tip of the iceberg. |
| 421 |
time-honoured practice a custom that is universally respected or a traditional way of doing something, is called a time-honoured practice. we were greeted according to a time-honoured practice. |
| 422 |
time off this means to take a holiday or a break from work or other commitments. i need some time off for next week, please. |
| 423 |
time is ticking away this expression can be used when you see the minutes or seconds going by as the clock ticks, especially when you are waiting anxiously for something to happen. we need to decide before it's too late. time is ticking away. |
| 424 |
time is of the essence this expression can be used in a situation where timing and meeting any deadlines are essential and required. we must finish this draft. time is of the essence. |
| 425 |
time is money this famous expression means that your time is a valuable commodity and that you should put it to good use, otherwise you'll lose more than you gain. we have waited enough for her. let's go! time is money! |
| 426 |
time for a change to stop what you are doing and start doing something different with your life. after working for the same institution for 25 years, i felt like it was time for a change. |
| 427 |
time flies when you're having fun this idiom means that you don't notice how long something lasts when it's fun. look how late it is. time flies when you're having fun! |
| 428 |
time flies this is a very common idiom that means time passes very quickly. it's funny how time flies when you're in love. |
| 429 |
time and tide wait for no man this phrase means that no one is so powerful that they can stop the march of time. do what you want! time and tide wait for no man! |
| 430 |
time after time if you do something time after time, you do it repeatedly or on many occasions. time after time he gets involved in relationships with married women. |
| 431 |
tilt at windmills this idiom means to fight enemies who do not really exist. no, he doesn't have anything against you! you are tilting at windmills! |
| 432 |
till the cows come home to say that a person could do something till the cows come home means that they could do it for a long time. you can ask me till the cows come home but i'm not buying you a car! |
| 433 |
till doomsday this idiom means for a very long time. you could try to convince her till doomsday, but she won't agree. |
| 434 |
tight-lipped this expression refers to someone who is unwilling to speak about an event. she is quite tight-lipped when it comes to speaking about her job. |
| 435 |
tighten one's belt if you need to tighten your belt, you must spend less money or be careful how you spend it because there is less available. another car problem? i'll have to tighten my belt this month! |
| 436 |
tight squeeze if you are in a tight squeeze, you are in a cramped or crowded situation. i managed to get to the market but it was a tight squeeze. |
| 437 |
tight spot someone who is in a tight spot is in a very difficult situation. the recent crisis has put the company in a tight spot. |
| 438 |
tied to someone's apron strings if one person is tied to another's apron strings, they remain dependent at an age when they should be independent. all her decisions are influenced by her mother. she is still tied to her apron strings. |
| 439 |
tie yourself up in knots if you tie yourself up in knots, you become totally confused or confuse others when trying to explain something. he tied himself up in knots trying to explain the rules of the mission. |
| 440 |
tie up loose ends this phrase means to take care of issues that are not critical but have remained outstanding. i'm almost ready to move, but i need to tie up some loose ends with my family. |
| 441 |
tie the knot when two people tie the knot, they get married. tim and sarah are going to tie the knot! |
| 442 |
tide someone over if you tide someone over, you support them through a difficult period for a certain length of time. i have enough food to tide you over for two days. |
| 443 |
tickled pink if you are tickled pink, you are very pleased about something. i was tickled pink when i was asked to announce the winner. |
| 444 |
tickle the ivories this is a humorous way of talking about playing the piano. my wife loves playing the piano; she tickles the ivories whenever she can. |
| 445 |
tick the right boxes when something ticks all the right boxes, it is perfect for you because it meets your entire list of criteria. the house i've visited today ticks all the right boxes. |
| 446 |
tick all the boxes this idiom means to satisfy or fulfill everything that is necessary or desired. this new game ticks all the boxes. |
| 447 |
throw your weight around this phrase means to act as if you have a lot of power or authority. the local manager came to our office and tried to throw his weight around. it was in vain. |
| 448 |
throw the baby out with the bathwater this expression refers to getting rid of something valuable while trying to get rid of something considered worthless. olivia quitting her job because her ex started working there is an example of throwing the baby out with the bathwater. |
| 449 |
throw something together if you throw something together, you make or produce something quickly and without effort. would you like to stay for dinner? i'll throw something together. |
| 450 |
throw something over the wall if somebody throws something over the wall, they deal with part of a problem or project, then pass the responsibility to another person or department without any communication or coordination. you can't throw this project over the wall. you've promised to finish it. |
| 451 |
throw pearls to pigs this expression means that it is wasteful to offer something valuable or useful to someone who does not understand or appreciate it. the kid had a trained voice but the audience didn't listen – talk about throwing pearls to pigs! |
| 452 |
throw money at something if you throw money at something, you try to solve a problem by spending money on it, without using any other method. the refugee situation can't be solved by throwing money at it. |
| 453 |
throw in the towel if you throw in the towel, you admit that you cannot succeed. after some minutes, he threw in the towel. |
| 454 |
throw in a curveball this idiom means to surprise someone by doing something unexpected. they threw in a curveball and said i had to take another aptitude test. |
| 455 |
throw good money after bad someone who spends additional money on something that was already considered a bad investment is said to throw good money after bad. buying a second-hand laptop and then spending money to have it repaired is throwing good money after bad. |
| 456 |
throw dust in someone's eyes if you throw dust in someone's eyes you prevent them from seeing the truth by misleading them. he threw dust in the lady's eyes by pretending to be a single man, when he was actually married. |
| 457 |
throw caution to the wind if you throw caution to the wind, you start taking risks and stop worrying about the danger involved. i decided to throw caution to the wind and join army. |
| 458 |
throw a wrench in the works this idiom means to do something that prevents a plan or activity from succeeding. the funding was withdrawn, which has thrown a wrench in the works. |
| 459 |
throw a tantrum if a person, especially a child, throws a tantrum, they become angry and behave in an unreasonable way. her child is always throwing tantrums – he's so spoilt! |
| 460 |
throw a hissy fit this idiom means to throw a tantrum. you shouldn't throw a hissy fit for such a trivial thing. |
| 461 |
throw a bone if you throw somebody a bone, you say something kind or reward them in some way to make them feel good. jane can't help very much but i throw her a bone to keep her happy. |
| 462 |
through thick and thin if someone does something through thick and thin, they do it in spite of all the difficulties and problems. i will help you through thick and thin. |
| 463 |
thrilled to bits someone who is thrilled to bits is extremely pleased about something. she was thrilled to bits when she was selected for the final. |
| 464 |
three strikes and you are out this slogan was used by us president clinton to publicize his plans for mandatory life sentences for those convicted of a third violent offence. keep in mind! three strikes and you are out in this country! |
| 465 |
three score and ten this idiom refers to the nominal span of a human life. in the days that this expression was coined that span was considered to be seventy years. she hopes to exceed three score and ten. |
| 466 |
three cheers for this idiom means good for, congratulations to or hurrah for. three cheers for your newly born baby! |
| 467 |
those who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones this idiom means that people who are morally questionable shouldn't criticize others. she has no right to say that. those who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones. |
| 468 |
those who can, do; those who can't, teach this is a very famous phrase for teachers everywhere, but perhaps not for the right reasons. the phrase implies that teachers only do their profession because they weren't good enough to do it as their main job. no wonder she's a teacher. those who can, do; those who can't, teach. |
| 469 |
those three little words i love you. she hasn't said those three little words yet. |
| 470 |
thorny issue if you are faced with a thorny issue, you have to deal with a difficult or unpleasant problem. content duplication is a thorny issue nowadays. |
| 471 |
thorn in your side if you say that someone is a thorn in your side, you mean that they continually irritate or annoy you. anna finds her father-in-law a real thorn in her side. |
| 472 |
third time's the charm this expression means that the third try is often successful. this time you will be successful! don't forget – third time's the charm! |
| 473 |
third time lucky this expression is said when trying something for the third time. two divorces and now i'm planning to engage again. it's third time lucky! |
| 474 |
thinly veiled if something such as a feeling or reaction is thinly veiled, it is barely hidden. her disappointment was thinly veiled when she saw the gift. |
| 475 |
think the world of someone if you think the world of someone, you like or admire them very much. she's a good teacher – the children think the world of her. |
| 476 |
think the sun rises and sets on someone if you consider someone to be the most wonderful person in the world, you think the sun rises and sets on them. i adore my wife – i think the sun rises and sets on her. |
| 477 |
think outside the box people who think outside the box try to find innovative ideas or solutions. we should try to think outside the box with regard to this project. |
| 478 |
think on one's feet a person who thinks on their feet is capable of making good decisions without previous thinking or planning. you need to be able to think on your feet if you want this job. it's not easy to be a lawyer. |
| 479 |
think big this expression means to be ambitious. in order to achieve great things in life you have to think big. |
| 480 |
think better of if you think better of something, you decide not to do what you intended doing. i intended to go shopping, but when i saw the crowded car parking, i though better of it. |
| 481 |
think again if you tell someone to think again, you advise them to reconsider the situation and perhaps change their decision. your house is well located. you should think again before renting it. |
| 482 |
things that go bump in the night this phrase refers to frightening but imagined supernatural events. don't be scared! this is just one of those things that go bump in the night. |
| 483 |
things are looking up this expression means that the situation is improving and you feel more positive about the future. i've got three job interviews next week so things are looking up. |
| 484 |
thing of the past something which no longer exists or is rarely used today is a thing of the past. video cassettes are a thing of the past. |
| 485 |
thin on the top if somebody, usually a man, is thin on the top, they are losing their hair or going bald. my grandfather is thin on the top. |
| 486 |
thin end of the wedge to refer to an event or action as the thin end of the wedge means that it is thought to be the beginning of something that will become more serious. economists say that outsourcing is just the thin end of the wedge. |
| 487 |
they got stuck in this idiom refers to a team whose players showed a lot of determination to succeed. they got stuck in and truly deserved to win. |
| 488 |
there's one born every minute this expression means that there are many people in the world who are stupid or easily fooled. did she believe that? there's one born every minute! |
| 489 |
there's nothing to it if you say that there's nothing to it, you mean that something is very simple or easy to do. i'll show you how to make fries. there's nothing to it! |
| 490 |
there's no such thing as a free lunch this expression means that nothing is free. if somebody helps you, they always expect some form of payment in return. if you accept it, she will ask some favours in time. there's no such thing as a free lunch! |
| 491 |
there's no place like home this idiom means to have an affinity for one's home over every other place. the woman always tells her children that for her, there's no place like home. |
| 492 |
there's more than one way to skin a cat this expression means that there are many different ways of achieving something. you should try another method. there's more than one way to skin a cat. |
| 493 |
there's an r in the month this idiom refers to the months when the weather is cold. it's december, so there's an r in the month. |
| 494 |
there will be the devil to pay this is a way of announcing that there will be trouble if something happens. please take care! there'll be the devil to pay if you fall off the motorcycle. |
| 495 |
there wasn't a soul to say that there wasn't a soul means that there was nobody. we thought the cinema would be crowded but there wasn't a soul. |
| 496 |
there is no such thing as bad publicity this expression is the notion that all mentions in the media aid a person's cause, even if they put them in a bad light. it's not the best advertisement, but there's no such thing as bad publicity. |
| 497 |
there for the taking if something is there for the taking, it is easy to obtain. when they went out of business, the market was there for the taking. |
| 498 |
there are other fish in the sea this expression means that it's ok to miss an opportunity. others will arise. oh, don't be so sad! there are other fish in the sea. |
| 499 |
there are clouds on the horizon this idiom means that trouble is coming. haven't you spoken with her? there are clouds on the horizon. |
| 500 |
the yellow peril this phrase refers to the political or military threat regarded as being posed by the chinese or by the people of se asia. there are some citizens scared of the yellow peril. |
| 501 |
the writing is on the wall this phrase is used whenever an inevitable result or imminent danger has become apparent. they have officially declared war on us. the writing is on the wall. |
| 502 |
the worse for wear if someone or something is the worse for wear, they are in poor condition, either worn, damaged or tired. after several months, the truck drivers were looking the worse for wear. |
| 503 |
the world is your oyster this expression means that you are free and able to enjoy the pleasures and opportunities that life has to offer. she left university feeling that the world was her oyster. |
| 504 |
the whole shebang this idiom means all of it; the whole thing. i've got money and i want the whole shebang! |
| 505 |
the wheels have come off this expression is said when a previously promising enterprise goes irretrievably wrong. it was pretty easy to get a loan that period, but soon the wheels came off the world banking system. |
| 506 |
the usual suspects this phrase refers to people habitually suspected or arrested in response to a crime. the phrase is usually used in regard to scapegoats rather than actual perpetrators of the crime in question. the browns are the usual suspects in this hood. |
| 507 |
the triumph of hope over experience this is a literal view of the subject of remarriage. he still believes in the triumph of hope over experience. |
| 508 |
the town bike this idiom means promiscuous woman. they call her the town bike. do you imagine why? |
| 509 |
the toast of the town this idiom refers to a person who is widely admired. bobby is now the toast of the town. |
| 510 |
the time of somebody's life this idiom is used when someone enjoys themselves very much. thank you for inviting me to that party! i had the time of my life! |
| 511 |
the time is ripe this expression is used when it is the right moment to do something. i managed to sell the house when the time was ripe. |
| 512 |
the tide has turned when a trend has changed from one thing to another, the tide has turned. people wanted to live in an apartment; now the tide has turned and everybody wants to live in a house. |
| 513 |
the squeaky wheel gets the grease this idiom means that to get something fixed, it is required to make a noise so as to get attention. in this competitive industry you should know that only the squeaky wheels gets the grease. |
| 514 |
the sound of leather on willow this expression refers to the sound of the ball on the bat in cricket. i enjoy watching the match and the sound of leather on willow. |
| 515 |
the smallest room in the house this is a euphemistic reference to a lavatory. i have to visit the smallest room in the house. |
| 516 |
the small hours this term means after midnight or the very early hours of the day. i worked until the small hours on my project. |
| 517 |
the sky is the limit to say the sky's the limit means that there is no limit to the possibility of success or progress for someone or something. keep in mind that in this profession the sky is the limit. |
| 518 |
the show must go on regardless of all the bad things that happen and the things that go wrong, an event or show that is planned must continue. this is what people mean when they say this expression. i know she's sick, but the show must go on. we should find a replacement. |
| 519 |
the shoe is on the other foot when the circumstances have reversed and one person is now doing what the other did in the past, you can say that the shoe is on the other foot. as a team leader i used to advise her what to do. now, the shoe is on the other foot. |
| 520 |
the ship has sailed this idiom means that a particular opportunity has passed by and now it is too late. she waited too long to apply for this well-paid job and now the ship has sailed. |
| 521 |
the seven-year itch this idiom refers to the inclination to become unfaithful after seven years of marriage. she's got the seven-year itch. |
| 522 |
the rub of the green this phrase refers to good fortune, especially as determining events in a sporting match. they didn't get the rub of the green. they lost. |
| 523 |
the road less travelled this idiom refers to the unconventional or uninvestigated option. to solve this problem, i think we should take the road less travelled. |
| 524 |
the rest is history this is a way of saying that there is need to finish a story because everyone knows what happened next. this car was launched in 2007 and was initially restricted to japanese market. the rest is history. |
| 525 |
the real mccoy this idiom means the real thing – not a substitute. i've got you the smartphone and it's the real mccoy. |
| 526 |
the quick and the dead this idiom refers to all souls – alive or dead. the quick and the dead be blessed! |
| 527 |
the proof of the pudding is in the eating this expression means that something new can only be judged after it has been tested. i'm going to try out my new laptop. the proof of the pudding is in the eating. |
| 528 |
the prime of one's life the prime of one's life is the time in a person's life when they are most successful or in their best physical condition. at the age of 18, i wasn't in the prime of my life. |
| 529 |
the powers that be this idiom refers to the authorities. the powers that be are assessing the crisis. |
| 530 |
the power behind the throne someone with no apparent authority who has great influence over the person officially in charge is said to be the power behind the throne. women are generally though of as the power behind the throne in some societies. |
| 531 |
the pits if something is referred to as the pits, it is considered to be absolutely the worst. the hotel we stayed in was the pits. |
| 532 |
the penny drops when a person has difficulty understanding or realizing something, and then the penny drops, they finally understand. they continued for some time until the penny dropped and the woman understood that it was a joke. |
| 533 |
the pen is mightier than the sword this expression means that words and communication have greater effect than war and fighting. the final treaty put an end to the conflict – the pen is mightier than the sword. |
| 534 |
the party is over to say that the party is over means that a period of happiness and enjoyment is over and life is going to return to normal. we had a wonderful time here but the party is over. |
| 535 |
the mutt's nuts this idiom means excellent – the highest quality. this car is definitely the mutt's nuts! |
| 536 |
the moving finger writes this phrase expresses the notion that whatever one does in one's life is one's own responsibility and cannot be changed. it's your decision. don't forget: the moving finger writes! |
| 537 |
the more the merrier this phrase means the more people who are present, the better an occasion or situation (especially a party) will be. it's perfect that you will be able to join us! the more the merrier! |
| 538 |
the mind boggles the expression is used as a reaction to something you find amazing or difficult to understand. he crossed the atlantic all alone – can you imagine that? my mind boggles! |
| 539 |
the milk of human kindness someone who has or is full of the milk of human kindness, is naturally kind and compassionate to others. they like my wife – she's full of the milk of human kindness. |
| 540 |
the love that dare not speak its name this is a reference to homosexual love, although oscar wilde denied this in his defense of the charge of gross indecency. have you heard about their relationship? the love that daren't speak its name... |
| 541 |
the light of one's life this idiom refers to a much loved person. have i ever told you that you are the light of my life? i love you! |
| 542 |
the letters k and g this means $1000. a new citroen costs about 20 gs. |
| 543 |
the lay of the land this idiom refers to the particular state, arrangement or condition of something or the way a situation exists or has developed. it would be prudent to understand the lay of the land before we agree to invest. |
| 544 |
the law is an ass this phrase means that the legal system or a particular law is wrong or not good enough and should be changed. i got fined for parking there. the law is an ass! |
| 545 |
the late unpleasantness this idiom refers to a war that took place recently. the late unpleasantness could have been avoided by our leaders. |
| 546 |
the last thing i want this expression refers to something that one clearly doesn't want. the last thing i want is to hurt you! |
| 547 |
the last straw this expression means that this is the latest unpleasant event and that you cannot tolerate the situation any longer. last night quarrel was the last straw for me. |
| 548 |
the land of nod this is a mythical land where we travel to so as to sleep. please be quiet. she's in the land of nod now. |
| 549 |
the jury is still out to say that the jury is still out means that something is under consideration but no decision has been reached yet. the jury is still out as concerns the location of the new mall. |
| 550 |
the honeymoon is over to say that the honeymoon is over means that the initial period of friendship and cooperation between people, groups or organisations has ended. i don't understand. she was elected only two months ago and now the honeymoon is over. |
| 551 |
the heavens open when the heavens open, it suddenly starts to rain heavily. as soon as the final competition started, the heavens opened and the runners were soaked. |
| 552 |
the hairy eyeball this phrase refers to a glance made with partially lowered eyelashes. this usually indicates suspicion or hostility, but may signal other emotions too. she gave me the hairy eyeball. |
| 553 |
the green-eyed monster this idiom means jealousy. when she saw my car, she turned into a green-eyed monster. |
| 554 |
the great unwashed this idiom refers to the common, lower classes. nobody cares about the great unwashed. |
| 555 |
the god squad this idiom refers to enthusiastic christian believers. every friday when the doorbell rings it's the god squad. |
| 556 |
the goalkeeper made a howler this idiom is used when the goalkeeper makes a very basic mistake and probably lets the other team score a goal. oh no! the goalkeeper made a howler. |
| 557 |
the gloves are off this expression is used when there are signs that a fight is about to start. they have insulted each other and now the gloves are off. |
| 558 |
the glorious twelfth this expression refers to 12th of august – the start of the british grouse shooting season. just one week to go! bring on the glorious twelfth. |
| 559 |
the game is up this phrase means "we have been through your tricks – your deceit is exposed". we've reached a conclusion. the game is up! |
| 560 |
the game is afoot this idiom means that the process is underway. the whistle has just been blown – the game is afoot. |
| 561 |
the fog of war this idiom refers to the confusion caused by the chaos of battle. after the bombing raid we had no idea where the enemy were. that's to be expected in the fog of war. |
| 562 |
the final nail in the coffin this phrase refers to an event which causes the failure of something that had already started to fail. this latest shred of evidence could be the final nail in the coffin for her case. |
| 563 |
the fat hits the fire when trouble breaks out or a situation deteriorates as a result of something said or done, it is said that the fat hits the fire. the context was tense indeed, but the fat hit the fire when she admitted cheating. |
| 564 |
the end of the earth this phrase refers to the furthest reaches of the land. i will follow you until the end of the earth. |
| 565 |
the empty chair this expression refers to the perceived absence of someone who is recently deceased. some days i see the empty chair and the grief comes back. i miss her! |
| 566 |
the emperor's new clothes this idiom is used when many people believe something that is not true. i don't believe her. it's like the emperor's new clothes. |
| 567 |
the early bird gets the worm this idiom means that the first people who arrive will get the best stuff. you must be there as soon as possible. the early bird gets the worm. |
| 568 |
the door swings both ways if you say that the door swings both ways, you mean that the same principle or argument applies to both sides of a situation. i had enough of this conversation. i don't want to speak to you anymore. the door swings both ways, bye! |
| 569 |
the done thing the correct way to behave in a particular social situation is called the done thing. wearing jeans at an informal party is the done thing. |
| 570 |
the dog's bollocks this idiom is used for something or someone that you think is extremely good. this business is the dog's bollocks. |
| 571 |
the die is cast to say the die is cast means that an irrevocable decision has been made that will determine the future. from the moment the peace negotiations failed, the die was cast. |
| 572 |
the dice are loaded against someone if everything seems to work to your disadvantage and you are not likely to succeed, the dice are loaded against you. i applied for the job, but being over fifty, the dice were loaded against me. |
| 573 |
the devil take the hindmost this expression means that you should think of yourself and not worry about other people. every one for himself and the devil take the hindmost. |
| 574 |
the devil makes hard work for idle hands this expression means that people who do not have enough to do are often tempted to do something wrong. it's not good for a kid to have nothing to do; the devil makes hard work for idle hands. |
| 575 |
the devil is in the details this expression refers to a task or a job which appears simple but is in fact more difficult to accomplish. farming looks easy but the devil is in the details. |
| 576 |
the devil is beating his wife this expression refers to raining while the sun is shining. today, the devil is beating his wife in our city. |
| 577 |
the devil incarnate this phrase refers to the devil in human form. he seems to be the devil incarnate. |
| 578 |
the darling buds of may this idiom is an appreciation of what is fresh and new. a man loves the darling buds of may. |
| 579 |
the darkest hour the darkest hour is the time when bad events are at their worst and most dispiriting. judging by the its seriousness, this is the darkest hour. |
| 580 |
the dark side this phrase refers to the evil and malevolent aspect of human personality or society, often referred to in a lighthearted or comic context. come to the dark side! we have cookies! |
| 581 |
the customer is always right this is a trading slogan that states a company's keenness to be seen to put the customer first. the implied suggestion is that the company is so customer-focused that they will say the customer is right, even if they aren't. at least for this year, we all have to act accordingly to the slogan: "the customer is always right". |
| 582 |
the crapper this idiom refers to the lavatory. do you know where the crapper is? |
| 583 |
the crack of doom this phrase refers to the sound that heralds the day of the last judgment, when god will decree the fates of all men according to the good and evil of their earthly lives. the crack of doom is near! be aware! |
| 584 |
the course of true love never did run smooth this idiom means that people in love often have to overcome difficulties in order to be with each other. i hate being in a long distance relationship. the course of true love never did run smooth. |
| 585 |
the corridors of power this expression refers to the offices of the powerful leaders or the higher echelons of government. it's utterly hard to get inside the corridors of power. |
| 586 |
the collywobbles this idiom refers to an uncomfortable feeling in the stomach caused by feelings of nervousness or slight fear. i've got the collywobbles about the exam. |
| 587 |
the chattering classes this expression refers to educated people who like to discuss and give their opinions about political and social matters. that subject has become a trendy topic among the chattering classes. |
| 588 |
the camera cannot lie this phrase has a literal meaning. it's obvious that you are in the picture. the camera cannot lie! |
| 589 |
the bull in the bowler hat this idiom is a jokey term for artificial insemination. leaving things to nature hasn't worked on our farm. we need a visit from the bull in the bowler hat. |
| 590 |
the buck stops here this expression is said by someone who is responsible for making decisions and who will be blamed if things go wrong. i agree to it and if something goes wrong, the buck stops here! |
| 591 |
the bubble has burst to say that the bubble has burst means that the success of an idea, a product or a situation has suddenly stopped. starcraft ii was a phenomenal success but the bubble has burst. |
| 592 |
the bread of life this idiom is used by christians to denote jesus christ. he is referred to as the bread of life. |
| 593 |
the bowels of the earth this idiom refers to the dark interior of the earth. i will find you even in the bowels of the earth and i will have my revenge! |
| 594 |
the blind leading the blind the expression describes a person with very little ability trying to help or guide a person with no ability. don't ask maria to translate it. she barely speaks a word of russian herself. it would be a case of the blind leading the blind. |
| 595 |
the bitter end this idiom means to the limit of one's efforts – to the last extremity. i remained determined to the bitter end to finish this book on time. |
| 596 |
the birds and the bees this phrase means to coy explanations of basic information about sex and reproduction to children. the little boy knew what the birds and the bees were. |
| 597 |
the bigger they are, the harder they fall this idiom means that while the bigger and stronger opponent might be a lot more difficult to beat, when you do they suffer a much bigger loss. it's hard, but not impossible to defeat them. don't forget: the bigger they are, the harder they fall! |
| 598 |
the big pond this is the nickname of the atlantic ocean between the uk and the usa. i'm planning to hop the big pond and have a weekend in las vegas. |
| 599 |
the big picture if you talk about the big picture, you refer to the overall situation, or the project as a whole rather than the details. while each aspect is extremely important, please try not to miss the big picture. |
| 600 |
the big easy this phrase refers to new orleans, usa. tomorrow she will travel to the big easy. |
| 601 |
the big apple this phrase refers to new york, usa. i love traveling to the big apple. |
| 602 |
the best things in life are free this idiom means that things that cost money should not be prioritized over free things like family and friends. my daughter, don't ever forget that the best things in life are free. |
| 603 |
the best of both worlds if a person has the best of both worlds, they have the benefits and advantages of two different things. i live in the centre of town, but only 7 minutes from the tram station. i have the best of both worlds. |
| 604 |
the best is yet to come this expression means that whatever is happening now will be surpassed by something better in the future. i'm glad that you are enjoying this period. the best is yet to come! |
| 605 |
the beau monde this expression refers to the rich and fashionable society. he has no interest in the glittering beau monde. |
| 606 |
the bare bones this idiom refers to basic or essential facts. they gave us the bare bones of their difficult issues. |
| 607 |
the balance of trade this idiom refers to the difference between the value of the imports and exports that a nation makes. last year we had a positive balance of trade, which is good. |
| 608 |
the balance of power this expression refers to the distribution of power between nations in such a way that no single state has dominance over the others. we are far from achieving a real balance of power. |
| 609 |
the back door this expression means to take indirect or unofficial route to get something done. i managed to slide the contract through the back door. |
| 610 |
the author of your own misfortune this idiom means that you are to blame for your own problems. he ended up in hospital –he was the author of his own misfortune. |
| 611 |
the apple of your eye a person, usually a child, who is the apple of your eye is one for whom you have great affection. "my grandson is the apple of my eye", she said quietly. |
| 612 |
the apple doesn't fall far from the tree this phrase means that a child usually has a similar character or similar qualities to his or her parents. his boy soon showed his talent, proving that the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. |
| 613 |
that's the way the cookie crumbles to say that's the way the cookie crumbles means that is the way things are and nothing can be done about it – that's life! she's dead and you can't do anything about it. that's the way the cookie crumbles. |
| 614 |
that's the way the ball bounces! this expression means that things don't always work out as planned, and there's nothing we can do about it – that's life. she didn't get the job she expected. that's the way the ball bounces! |
| 615 |
that's going too far! if you go too far, you do something that is considered extreme or unacceptable. lying is bad, but lying to them is going too far! |
| 616 |
that's all she wrote this phrase is used to convey that there is or was nothing more to be said about a matter. every month, you have to pay 400 dollars and that's all she wrote. |
| 617 |
that's all folks! this is the catchphrase on the banner shown at the end of looney tunes cartoons and it means that the episode it's over. that was the story. that's all folks! |
| 618 |
that will teach somebody! this idiom refers to getting revenge or getting even with somebody who has done something bad in the past. ha! i'm glad she refused him. that will teach him! |
| 619 |
that sucks! this may either be an expression of sympathy or be said of something that the speaker rates very low. 1. i heard your child has health problems. that sucks! 2. i didn't like the show. the whole performance sucked! |
| 620 |
that ship has sailed this expression means that a particular opportunity has passed by and now it's too late. sorry, that ship has sailed – you missed the promotion this year. |
| 621 |
that makes two of us! this expression indicates agreement with what has just been said. i find the speech rather mundane. that makes two of us! |
| 622 |
that friday feeling this idiom refers to the anticipation of the weekend after a hard working week. i'm ready for a few beers at the pub – i've got that friday feeling. |
| 623 |
that figures! this expression is used to say that something seems logical or is as expected. i'll have to get a bicycle support after it arrives. that figures! |
| 624 |
thank your lucky stars when someone says they can thank their lucky stars, they are expressing heartfelt gratitude or feeling particularly fortunate. i can thank my lucky stars that i wasn't in the car. |
| 625 |
text-walking this term refers to a recently-developed and somewhat dangerous habit of walking while texting a message on a mobile phone, completely unaware of what is happening around you. serious accidents involving text-walkers are more and more common. |
| 626 |
test the waters if you test the waters, you try to find out how acceptable or successful something is before becoming involved in it. you should test the waters first. |
| 627 |
tempest in a teapot this idiom refers to a small or insignificant event that is over-reacted to, as if it were of considerably more consequence. oh, move on! it's just a tempest in a teapot. |
| 628 |
tell tales out of school this means to gossip or spread rumours. i wish steve wouldn't tell tales out of school. |
| 629 |
tell someone a thing or two if you tell someone a thing or two, you express your thoughts (usually criticism) very clearly. i will tell her a thing or two. this situation cannot go on. |
| 630 |
tell me about it! this idiom is used to say that you feel the same way or have had the same experience. she's driving me crazy with her ways. tell me about it! |
| 631 |
tell it to the marines this phrase is a scornful response to a tall and false story. i don't believe that she has died in the end. tell it to the marines! |
| 632 |
teething problems the difficulties encountered during the initial stage of an activity or project are called teething problems. we had some teething problems when we opened the local store. |
| 633 |
teeth chattering if your teeth are chattering, you are extremely cold. my teeth were chattering that day! |
| 634 |
technicolour yawn this idiom refers to an act of vomiting. he looked as if he was about to do the technicolour yawn. |
| 635 |
tech savvy people who are tech savvy have sufficient technical knowledge and skills to be comfortable using computers and other electronic devices. many people are tech savvy nowadays. |
| 636 |
tear-jerking this idiom refers to a story that is purposefully sentimental. this movie is a total tear-jerking. |
| 637 |
tear your hair out if someone is tearing their hair out, they are extremely agitated or distressed about something. she's been tearing her hair out all day trying to contact him. |
| 638 |
tear a strip off if you tear a strip off someone, you reprimand them severely for doing something wrong. the professor tore a strip off the student for not doing his homework. |
| 639 |
team player this refers to someone who works well with others to achieve a common goal. i am an excellent team player. |
| 640 |
teacher's pet this expression is used to refer to the teacher's favourite student. nobody likes her because she's teacher's pet. |
| 641 |
teach somebody a lesson if you teach somebody a lesson, you do something to punish them for behaving badly and make them understand that they should not do it again. i'm sorry but i have to teach her a lesson. |
| 642 |
tea leaf this is a slang term for thief. keep your purse safe when you go to the market – there are plenty of tea leaves. |
| 643 |
tawdry this idiom means "looking bright and attractive but in fact cheap and of low quality". i don't like the way she is dressed. her purse is rather tawdry. |
| 644 |
tasted blood this idiom means to have achieved a small victory which has made you believe you can win a more important victory. their team tasted blood in the local championship and now they want more. |
| 645 |
tar with the same brush when a person is tarred with the same brush, they are regarded as having the same faults or bad qualities as those they associate with. you shouldn't hang around with them. you might be tarred with the same brush. |
| 646 |
tar baby this term refers to a sticky situation or problem for which it is virtually impossible to find a solution. don't involve in this situation because it is considered a tar baby issue. |
| 647 |
tall story a tall story is a story or statement which is difficult to believe because it sounds unlikely. this really sounds like a tall story. |
| 648 |
talk turkey this idiom means to discuss something honestly and directly. ok, let's talk turkey! what do you want from me? |
| 649 |
talk to the hand (because the face ain't listening) this phrase means to shut up, because no one has an interest in hearing what you've got to say. i've had enough of your story. talk to the hand! |
| 650 |
talk through one's hat this idiom means to talk nonsense; especially on a subject that one professes to be knowledgeable about, but in fact is ignorant of. she sometimes talks through her hat about business administration. |
| 651 |
talk the hind leg off a donkey this expression is used to describe a very talkative person. i avoid talking to her because she can talk the hind off a donkey. |
| 652 |
talk shop if you talk shop, you talk about your work or business in a social situation with someone you work with, and thus you make the conversation boring for the others present. we ended up talking shop at the date. |
| 653 |
talk nineteen to the dozen someone who talks nineteen to the dozen speaks very quickly. she was talking nineteen to the dozen so i lost the thread. |
| 654 |
talk a blue streak if somebody talks a blue streak, they talk very much and very rapidly. the woman next to me talked a blue streak all day. |
| 655 |
take your mind off something if an activity takes your mind off something that is worrying you, it helps you to stop thinking about it for a while. fishing takes my mind off unimportant problems. |
| 656 |
take your life into your hands to say that someone is taking their life in their hands means that they are taking the risk of being killed. if you drive on this dangerous road, you will be taking your life into your hands. |
| 657 |
take your cue from someone when you take your cue from someone, you wait for a signal or follow someone's example, so as to know what to do yourself or when to act. the waiter took his cue from steve and started serving the food. |
| 658 |
take your courage in both hands if you take your courage in both hands, you make yourself do something very brave. when i saw the children in the burning house, i took my courage in both hands and rescued them. |
| 659 |
take with a grain of salt to say that certain information should be taken with a grain of salt means that you doubt its accuracy. i heard that taxes will be reduced, but you should take it with a grain of salt. |
| 660 |
take up the cudgels this idiom means to argue strongly in support or against somebody or something. the whole country has taken up the cudgels for the three suspects. |
| 661 |
take up or throw down the gauntlet this idiom means to accept or issue a challenge. a price war looks likely now that a leading competitor has thrown down the gauntlet to its adversaries. |
| 662 |
take under your wing if you offer guidance and protection to someone younger or less experienced, you take them under your wing. i am very grateful to you for taking me under your wing. |
| 663 |
take unawares if something takes you unawares, it surprises you because you weren't expecting it. her reaction took me unawares. |
| 664 |
take umbrage this phrase means to be displeased or offended by the actions of others. she takes umbrage against anyone who criticises her. |
| 665 |
take turns this idiom means to alternate doing something. we are going to take turns working weekends. |
| 666 |
take to something like a duck to water if you take to something like a duck to water, you do it naturally and easily, without fear or hesitation. when i first tried skiing, i took it like a duck to water. |
| 667 |
take the words out of someone's mouth if you say exactly what someone else was going to say, you take the words out of their mouth. you have taken the words out of my mouth. |
| 668 |
take the wind out of one's sails if someone or something takes the wind out of your sails, they make you feel less confident by doing or saying something that you do not expect. the leader's rejection of our financial strategy took the wind out of our sails. |
| 669 |
take the sting out of something if you take the sting out of something, you manage to reduce the severity or unpleasantness of something. a relaxing voice can take the sting out of bad news. |
| 670 |
take the rough with the smooth if you take the rough with the smooth, you accept what is unpleasant or difficult as well as what is pleasant or easy. life isn't easy; you have to learn to take the rough with the smooth. |
| 671 |
take the rap if you take the rap for something, you accept blame or punishment for it, even if you have not done it. the whole team had to take the rap. |
| 672 |
take the plunge if you take the plunge, you finally decide to venture into something you really want to do, in spite of the involved risks. i finally took the plunge and opened a local store. |
| 673 |
take the mickey out of someone if you take the mickey out of someone, you tease them or make fun of their behaviour, sometimes in an unkind way. my last girlfriend used to take the mickey out of me. |
| 674 |
take the law into your own hands if you act personally against someone who has done something wrong, you take the law into your own hands. i took the law into my own hands and hit the thief. |
| 675 |
take the gilt off the gingerbread this phrase means to remove an item's most attractive qualities. without that blue headlights, this car looks as if somebody took the gilt off the gingerbread. |
| 676 |
take the floor when someone takes the floor, they rise to make a speech or presentation. marry, please, take the floor. |
| 677 |
take the edge off this idiom means to reduce the impact of something. have this drug – it will take the edge off the pain. |
| 678 |
take the easy way out if you take the easy way out, you choose the easiest way to deal with a difficult situation, even if it is not the best solution. she took the easy way out and cancelled her appointment. |
| 679 |
take the cake this idiom means to be the most remarkable or foolish of its kind. he won every match. he will take the cake. |
| 680 |
take the bull by the horns this expression means that a person decides to act decisively in order to deal with a difficult situation or problem. the bar owner took the bull by the horns and called the police. |
| 681 |
take the bread out of somebody's mouth if you take the bread out of somebody's mouth, you take away their means of earning a living. the decision took the bread out of the mouths of many people. |
| 682 |
take the bloom off something if an incident or event takes the bloom off something, it spoils it or makes it less enjoyable. their argument took the bloom off the party. |
| 683 |
take the bitter with the sweet this phrase means to accept both the good and the bad that happens. you should be prepared to take the bitter with the sweet if you intend to get married. |
| 684 |
take the bit between your teeth this idiom means to take control of a situation. it's enough for them. you should take the bit between your teeth. |
| 685 |
take the biscuit if something takes the biscuit, it is very irritating, annoying or exasperating. after waiting for more hours, we were told that there were no tickets left. that really took the biscuit! |
| 686 |
take stock of a situation if you take stock of a situation you assess all the aspects in order to form an opinion. i took time to take stock of the situation before taking a decision. |
| 687 |
take steps if you take steps, you start a course of action in order to accomplish something. the government is taking steps to improve social security. |
| 688 |
take something with a pinch of salt to say that a piece of information should be taken with a pinch of salt means that the information may not be accurate or true. he tends to exaggerate. i take everything he says with a pinch of salt. |
| 689 |
take something lying down if you take something lying down, you suffer as a result of an offensive act without reacting or protesting. i won't take this accusation lying down! |
| 690 |
take something in your stride when, in a difficult situation, you take things in your stride, you deal with the situation calmly and without any special effort. when the accident was announced, john stayed calm and took it in his stride. |
| 691 |
take someone to the cleaners if someone is taken to the cleaners, they lose a lot of money in an unfair way, usually by being robbed or cheated. when the company went bankrupt, she realized that she had been taken to the cleaners. |
| 692 |
take someone down a peg if you take someone down a peg, you make that person understand that they are not as important as they think they are. she is far too proud. somebody has to take her down a peg. |
| 693 |
take sides this idiom means to support one person or stand against another, in a dispute or contest. i'm not taking sides. you are at fault in my opinion. |
| 694 |
take shape when something such as a plan or project begins to take shape, it starts to become organised and acquire a definite form. our new office has begun to take shape. |
| 695 |
take pot luck this idiom refers to anything that is available or is found by chance, rather than something chosen, planned or prepared. i had no idea which hotel would be best, so i took pot luck with the first one. |
| 696 |
take pains to do something if you take pains to do something, you try very hard or make a special effort to do it as well as possible. it took pains to secure the building. |
| 697 |
take offline if you suggest that a subject be taken offline (during a meeting for example), you consider that it is a separate issue and should be discussed at another time. maria, you are confusing things. let's take that issue offline for now. |
| 698 |
take name in vain this idiom means to use someone's name in a way that shows a lack of respect. after being scolded by the manager, she started taking his name in vain. |
| 699 |
take matters into your own hands if you take matters into your hands, you take action yourself rather than waiting for others to invervene. when i saw the lack of progress, i took the project into my own hands. |
| 700 |
take leave of your senses to ask someone if they have taken leave of their senses means that you think their behaviour is crazy. you're going fishing in such weather? have you taken leave of your senses? |
| 701 |
take it upon yourself if you take something upon yourself, you do it without asking for permission or agreement. my colleague took it upon himself to rearrange the office. |
| 702 |
take it on the chin when you take it on the chin, you are brave and accept adversity, criticism or defeat without complaining. you have mistaken. take it on the chin! |
| 703 |
take it from me this is a good expression to show expertise about a certain subject or speak with authority. take it from me, i used to be like you until i realized that constant learning is the key. |
| 704 |
take it easy when you relax or do things at a comfortable pace, you take it easy. it's utterly nice to slow down and take it easy at the weekend. |
| 705 |
take into account this idiom means to bear in mind or to consider something. the young student hoped his teacher would take into account the fact that he had been ill. |
| 706 |
take in good part a person who takes something in good part reacts to it in a good-humoured way, without taking offence. she got a lot of teasing about her project but she took it in good part. |
| 707 |
take heart this idiom means to stay confident and positive. take heart my friend! everything will be all right. |
| 708 |
take french leave if you leave an official or social event without notifying the person who invited you, you take french leave. i don't see him anymore. has he taken french leave? |
| 709 |
take for granted this idiom means to underestimate the value of something or someone. i took for granted that they would pay their part. i was wrong! |
| 710 |
take for a ride to take someone for a ride means to cheat or deceive them. the service operator charged me double the normal price. he really took me for a ride! |
| 711 |
take effect this idiom literally means "to be enforced". the notice takes effect immediately and so you have to vacate the building. |
| 712 |
take cover when someone takes cover, they hide from a danger or bad weather, in a place where they find protection. as soon as gun shots were heard, people ran to take cover. |
| 713 |
take breath away this idiom means to cause someone to be out of breath because of shock or surprise. the view took my breath away. |
| 714 |
take as read something that does not need to be discussed because it is already understood or agreed upon can be taken as read. we're going on holiday and please take it as read that you are all invited. |
| 715 |
take aback this idiom means to be surprised or confused by something unexpected. we were all taken aback by his decision. |
| 716 |
take a turn for the worse if a person who is ill takes a turn for the worse, their illness becomes more serious. unfortunately, she has taken a turn for the worse. |
| 717 |
take a stand if you take a stand, you adopt a firm position on an issue and publicly declare whether or not you support it. the liberal politician was asked to take a stand on that measure. |
| 718 |
take a soft option if you choose the easiest course of action available, which is usually not very effective, you take a soft option. i will take a soft option and talk to her. |
| 719 |
take a rain check to say that you take a rain check means that you cannot accept an invitation or offer now, but you will be happy to accept it later. i'm afraid i'll take a rain check on your invitation. i don't have much time to finish the project. |
| 720 |
take a nosedive if something takes a nosedive, it drops or decreases in value very rapidly. the stock market took a nosedive. |
| 721 |
take a hike this idiom literally means "go away". i've had enough of you! take a hike! |
| 722 |
take a fancy to if you take a fancy to someone or something, you develop a fondness for them or begin to like them. i think she has recently taken a fancy to chinese food. |
| 723 |
take a dim view of something if you take a dim view of something, you dislike or disapprove of it. my future boss takes a dim view of wearing smart casual clothes to work. |
| 724 |
take a chance if you take a chance on something, you take action in the hope of success even though you know that the result may be negative. i may not be able to be there on time, but i'll take a chance. |
| 725 |
take a butchers this expression means to take a look. there's a rainbow over there. if you don't believe me, take a butchers yourself. |
| 726 |
take a beating this idiom means to lose a considerable amount of money or to get punished for something not done right. the younger sibling never takes a beating. |
| 727 |
take a back seat if you take a back seat you choose to have a less important function and become less involved in something. i decided that it was time to take a back seat for the rest of the day. |
| 728 |
tail wagging the dog this expression refers to a situation where there is a reversal of roles, with the small or minor element having a controlling influence on the most important element. if you let your kid decide on important matters, it will be a case of the tail wagging the dog! |
| 729 |
tackle a problem this idiom means to attack a problem with a lot of effort so as to resolve it. we can tackle this problem if we work together. |
| 730 |
swishing party swishing is the name given to a recent fashion phenomenon – a party organised to swap second hand clothes. she has organised a swishing party for tomorrow. |
| 731 |
swipe right or left this idiom refer to the online dating app tinder. it indicates that one finds someone attractive or unattractive by moving one's finger to the right or left across an image of them on a touchscreen. i like her, so i swipe right. |
| 732 |
swings and roundabouts what you lose on the swings you gain on the roundabouts. this expression means that there are as many advantages as there are disadvantages. the more you earn, the more tax you pay. it's swings and roundabouts. |
| 733 |
swing the lead this idiom means to shirk one's labour; to malinger. i will swing the lead this time. it's too difficult for me this task. |
| 734 |
swing by this idiom means to drop in for a visit. hey, steve! why don't you swing by around 8.30? |
| 735 |
sweetheart deal the term is used to refer to an abnormally lucrative arrangement between two parties. critics say the contract was awarded to the builder as part of a sweetheart deal. |
| 736 |
sweet tooth someone who has a sweet tooth enjoys eating sweet things like sugar, pastries, chocolate etc. marry will be delighted if you bring her chocolates – she has a sweet tooth. |
| 737 |
sweet nothings pleasant but unimportant words that lovers say to each other are called sweet nothings. she whispered sweet nothings in his ear as they danced. |
| 738 |
swan song this expression is used to describe a final act before dying or ending something. this project was my swan song. i'm going to resign. |
| 739 |
swallow your words if you swallow your words, you admit that you were wrong. you were right. now, i swallow my words. |
| 740 |
swallow your pride if you swallow your pride, you accept something humiliating or embarrassing, for example having to admit that you are wrong, or that you have less knowledge than you thought. when i failed the exam, i had to swallow my pride and repeat the course. |
| 741 |
swallow the bait if you swallow the bait, you accept an offer made especially to persuade you to do something. when they see a special offer sign, they usually swallow the bait. |
| 742 |
suss out something if you suss out something, such as a problem or a situation, you examine it and manage to understand it. i've finally sussed out this problem. let me explain it. |
| 743 |
suspension of disbelief this idiom refers to the temporary acceptance as believable of events or characters that would ordinarily be seen as incredible. just an hour of suspension of disbelief. that's what you need to see the other perspective. |
| 744 |
survival of the fittest the survival of the fittest means that the most able or those best capable of adapting to particular conditions will survive. don't forget the nature laws. it's the survival of the fittest. |
| 745 |
surgical strike this idiom means to cause injury or damage to the intended targets. the american army have carried out many surgical strikes lately. |
| 746 |
surf and turf this idiom refers to a type of cuisine that combines both meat and seafood or restaurants that serve such cuisine. i know a surt and turf restaurant. shall we go there? |
| 747 |
sure as god made little green apples this phrase means absolutely certain. i'm sure as god made little green apples that she's the one. |
| 748 |
suited and booted this idiom refers to someone who is formally dressed or well dressed. even the babies at that party were suited and booted. |
| 749 |
suit every pocket this term refers to the amount of money you are able to spend or the price you can afford. the store offers a wide range of phones at prices to suit every pocket. |
| 750 |
sugar the pill if you sugar the pill, you try to make some unpleasant news more acceptable by saying something pleasant at the same time. she tried to sugar the pill by telling me that she would be home at weekends. |
| 751 |
suck it up this idiom means to accept a bad situation. she will never come back. suck it up and move on. |
| 752 |
such is life this phrase refers to the acceptance of the unpredictable fortunes of existence, often spoken with an air of weary resignation. don't be so sad. after all, such is life. |
| 753 |
stupid o'clock this expression refers to a time of the day that is extremely early or late. i have to get up at stupid o'clock tomorrow morning. |
| 754 |
stuff and nonsense this idiom means rubbish, nonsense. it is also used, although less often in recent years, as an exclamation of incredulity. she keeps saying stuff and nonsense. |
| 755 |
stubborn as a mule if someone is as stubborn as a mule, they are very obstinate and unwilling to listen to reason or change their mind. i've talked to her, but she won't change her mind. she is as stubborn as a mule. |
| 756 |
struck dumb if someone is struck dumb, they are unable to speak because they are so surprised, shocked or frightened by something. the suspect was struck dumb when the verdict was announced – life imprisonment. |
| 757 |
strong-arm this idiom means to use force and threats to make people do what you want. i never strong-armed anybody. |
| 758 |
strive to do this idiom means to try very hard to achieve something. i'm striving to achieve my goals. |
| 759 |
string someone along if you string someone along, you deliberately mislead them about your intentions. i had to string her along. i couldn't tell her the truth. |
| 760 |
strike while the iron is hot if you strike while the iron is hot, you act immediately because now is the ideal time to do it. the price of property has slumped. you should strike while the iron is hot. |
| 761 |
strike the right note with somebody if you strike the right note, you say or do something suitable or appropriate. she struck the right note with her boyfriend when she bought him a book on fitness. |
| 762 |
strike one's fancy this idiom means to seem interesting or pleasing to oneself. i have enough money to buy anything that strikes my fancy. |
| 763 |
strike it lucky when someone strikes it lucky, they run into good luck. i had a sunny weekend at home – i struck it lucky! |
| 764 |
strike home when somebody's comments or remarks strike home, they make you fully understand the situation. the seriousness of her arguments struck home as he listened to her. |
| 765 |
strike gold if you strike gold, you find exactly what you need: satisfaction, wealth, happiness etc. i struck gold this time with my new job. |
| 766 |
strike a false note if you strike a false note, you do something wrong or inappropriate. i struck a false note when i told that to her. |
| 767 |
strike a chord in somebody this expression is used to describe something that is familiar to you, reminds you of something or is connected to you somehow. that text really truck a chord in me. |
| 768 |
strictly business an appointment or event that is entirely devoted to business, with no leisure or relaxation, is called strictly business. we had dinner together but it was strictly business. |
| 769 |
stretch the truth when you stretch the truth, you exaggerate the facts or say things that are not exactly true. some politicians are tempted to stretch the truth about their skills or work experience. |
| 770 |
streets ahead if a person or organisation is streets ahead of another, they are much better or more advanced. in measures regarding pollution reduction, the scandinavians are streets ahead of us. |
| 771 |
stranger things have happened this idiom is said when the feasibility of some unlikely event is questioned. i don't believe her, but there's not a problem. stranger things have happened. |
| 772 |
stranger danger this is a slogan, intended to alert children to the risks posed by people they do not know. stranger danger! keep this in mind, mike. |
| 773 |
strange bedfellows this expression refers to the unusual or unlikely association of two or more people, companies or states. a priest and a politician – strange bedfellow don't you think? |
| 774 |
strait-laced this idiom means excessively rigid in matters of conduct; narrow or over-precise in one's behaviour or moral judgement. our new manager is a strait-laced man. |
| 775 |
strait and narrow this idiom refers to a conventional and law-abiding course. i want to open a new factory in china and i want the whole process to be strait and narrow. |
| 776 |
strain at the leash to strain at the leash is to be enthusiastic to free oneself from the restrictions that bar one's progress. we are straining at the leash to get away. help us! |
| 777 |
straight from horse's mouth if you learn something straight from the horse's mouth, the information is given to you by someone who is directly involved in that situation. i got this straight from the horse's mouth – the police officer told me. |
| 778 |
straight face if you keep a straight face, you look serious although you really want to laugh. she said such a foolish thing that i could barely keep a straight face. |
| 779 |
straight as an arrow someone who is as straight as an arrow is a morally upright person who is extremely honest. you can leave the money here. he's as straight as an arrow. |
| 780 |
straight as a ramrod someone who is as straight as a ramrod is a person who keeps a straight back and looks very serious. when mike invited us for dinner, he used to sit as straight as a ramrod at the table. |
| 781 |
stormy relationship if you have a stormy relationship with someone, you have a lot of arguments and disagreements. we decided to separate. it was a stormy relationship. |
| 782 |
storm in a teacup to refer to something as a storm in a teacup means that people are making a lot of unnecessary fuss or getting excited about something unimportant. it's just a storm in a teacup. they don't truly argue. |
| 783 |
stop the rot when you prevent a situation from deteriorating, especially in business or politics, you stop the rot. a new marketing manager has been appointed to stop the rot. |
| 784 |
stop dead in one's tracks if you stop dead in your tracks, you stop suddenly because you are frightened or totally surprised. when i saw the alligator, i stopped dead in my tracks. |
| 785 |
stop by this idiom means to meet someone or go somewhere in a brief and informal manner. you should stop by sometime. |
| 786 |
stop at nothing someone who would stop at nothing would do anything, even something illegal or immoral, to obtain what they want. i would stop at nothing if there were a possibility of getting that car. |
| 787 |
stony-hearted this idiom refers to someone who is cruel and unfeeling. she married a stony-hearted man. |
| 788 |
stitch up this idiom means to put someone in difficulty, often by making it appear that they are to blame for a misdemeanour. she hid the money in my jacket, so she stitched me up for the crime. |
| 789 |
stir up a hornet's nest if you stir up a hornet's nest, you do something which causes a commotion and provokes criticism and anger. my letter to nicole stirred up a hornet's nest. |
| 790 |
stinking rich this idiom means extremely, offensively rich. she is stinking rich and that's why so many people hate her. |
| 791 |
stink to high heaven if something has a very strong unpleasant smell, it stinks to high heaven. take off your socks – they stink to high heaven! don't you smell?! |
| 792 |
sting someone for an amount of money if you sting someone for an amount of money, you make them pay for something, usually in a deceitful manner. not only was the date boring but i was stung for $30. |
| 793 |
still waters run deep this expression means that a quiet person may have deep feelings or an interesting personality when one gets to know them. though she barely speaks in the meetings, still waters run deep. |
| 794 |
stiffen the sinews this idiom means to become resolute and purposeful by one's own efforts. the sinews are the fibrous cords that connect bone to muscle – we stiffen them when we prepare for action. she decided to stiffen the sinews and change her job. |
| 795 |
sticky fingers someone who has sticky fingers has a tendency to steal. it is rumored that she has sticky fingers, so be careful. |
| 796 |
sticks and stones may break my bones this phrase is a response to an insult, implying that "you might be able to hurt me by physical force but not by insults". you are so stupid! sticks and stones may break my bones... |
| 797 |
stickler for the rules someone who is a stickler for the rules is a disciplinarian who demands strict observance of the rules and procedures. make sure that you use the proper document. she is a stickler for the rules. |
| 798 |
sticking point a sticking point is a controversial issue that causes an interruption or blocks progress in discussions or negotiations. the choice of gas distributor was a sticking point in the negotiations. |
| 799 |
stick your nose into something this idiom means to try to discover things that are not really related to you. i wish she'd stop sticking her nose into my business. |
| 800 |
stick to your last if you tell someone to stick to their last, you are asking them to restrict their intervention or comments to an area where they have knowledge and experience, and to keep away from areas where they know nothing. stick to your last and let me paint this part. |
| 801 |
stick to your guns if you stick to your guns, you show determination when faced with opposition. i stick to my guns in spite of your opinion. |
| 802 |
stick something out if you stick something out, you continue to endure it in spite of the difficulties or unpleasant aspects of the situation. life is difficult in this city, but i stick it out because i am determined to succeed. |
| 803 |
stick out like a sore thumb if something sticks out like a sore thumb, it is very obvious or visible in an unpleasant way. the old house sticks out like a sore thumb among the modern buildings. |
| 804 |
stick out a mile if something sticks out a mile, it is very obvious or very easy to see. this car has had a facelift – it sticks out a mile! |
| 805 |
stick one's neck out if a person sticks their neck out, they draw attention to themselves by saying or doing something that others are afraid to do. i stuck my neck out and said that the sales target would be impossible to reach. |
| 806 |
stick in the mud this idiom refers to a narrow-minded or unprogressive person; one who lacks initiative. i don't want her in my team because she's just a stick in the mud. |
| 807 |
stick in one's throat if something sticks in your throat, it is very difficult to accept it and it makes you angry or resentful. the way she treats me sticks in my throat. i think about resigning. |
| 808 |
stepping stone this idiom refers to an event or experience that helps you achieve something else. i see this job just as a stepping stone to better things. |
| 809 |
step up your game this expression means to start performing better. if you want to get the job, you'll have to step up your game. |
| 810 |
step up to the plate this idiom means to take action in response to an opportunity or crisis. we have to step up to the plate and make the most of this mission. |
| 811 |
step up to the mark this idiom means to mark yourself ready to take responsibility. you need to step up to the mark and show the management what you are worth. |
| 812 |
step out of line if you step out of line, you do something unacceptable or break the rules. be careful not to step out of line! |
| 813 |
step on the gas if someone tells you to step on the gas, they are encouraging you to accelerate or hurry up in order to get something done quickly. we need the report in one hour. let's step on the gas! |
| 814 |
step on someone's toes if you annoy or irritate someone by intervening in a situation that is their responsibility, you step on their toes. i can offer some advice, but i'm afraid of stepping on someone's toes. |
| 815 |
step into someone's shoes if you step into someone's shoes, you take over a job or position held by someone else before you. i have been trained to step into my father's shoes when he retires. |
| 816 |
stem the tide of something if you stem the tide of something, you stop the development of something bad or undesirable. the authorities seem unable to stem the tide of violence in the outskirts. |
| 817 |
steer clear this idiom means to avoid someone or something. steer clear of the manager today – he's yelling at everyone he sees. |
| 818 |
steamed up if someone gets steamed up about something, they become very angry, excited or enthusiastic about it. please, calm down. there's no need to get steamed up. |
| 819 |
steal the show a person who steals the show gets more attention or praise than the other participants. the german competitor stole the show at the olympic games. |
| 820 |
steal someone's thunder if you steal someone's thunder you take their idea or plan and draw attention and praise away from them by presenting it first. she has developed a plan to reduce marketing costs but the manager stole her thunder. |
| 821 |
steal a march on someone if you steal a march on someone, you do something in an unexpected or secret way that enables you to gain an advantage over them. we are able to steal a march on other competitors by offering a discount. |
| 822 |
stay one jump ahead if you stay one jump ahead, you keep an advantage over others by making sure you are better informed or taking action before they do. she's a successful police officer because she always stays one jump ahead of the criminals. |
| 823 |
status quo this idiom refers to an existing condition. these countries are now trying to maintain a status quo with regard to their nuclear arsenal. |
| 824 |
state of the art if something is described as state-of-the-art, it is the most advanced model currently available, incorporating the latest and best technology. this state-of-the-art laptop doesn't cost so much. |
| 825 |
starter marriage a starter marriage is a short-lived first marriage that ends in divorce with no kids, no property and no regrets. john really knows what starter marriage is. |
| 826 |
start from scratch if you start from scratch, you do it all over again from the beginning. i'm sorry about it, but you've got something wrong. we need to start from scratch. |
| 827 |
stars in your eyes if someone has stars in their eyes, they are looking extremely happy. having won, she had stars in her eyes. |
| 828 |
stark raving mad to say that someone is stark raving mad means that they are completely crazy. you're stark raving mad to go fishing in this weather. |
| 829 |
star-crossed lovers this idiom refers to unlucky lovers. they really are star-crossed lovers. they have a lot to fight with in order to keep their relationship. |
| 830 |
stand-up guy this idiom refers to an honest and straightforward man of good character. claudio is a real stand-up guy! |
| 831 |
stands to reason this expression means to reach a logical conclusion. it stands to reason that you will reach home in 10 minutes since there is no traffic. |
| 832 |
standing on the shoulders of giants this phrase means to use the understanding gained by major thinkers who have gone before in order to make intellectual progress. standing on the shoulders of giants, she discovered a new formula. |
| 833 |
stand your ground if you stand your ground you maintain your position and refuse to yield or give way. we have to stand our ground at all costs. |
| 834 |
stand you in good stead to say that a skill, an ability or experience will stand you in good stead means that it will be beneficial to you in the future. being able to speak german will stand you in good stead. |
| 835 |
stand up for someone when you defend or support a person, a belief or an idea, you stand up for them. a growing number of citizens are standing up for civil rights. |
| 836 |
stand the test of time if something stands the test of time, people continue to find it valuable or useful after many years. this teaching method has stood the test of time. |
| 837 |
stand on your own two feet if you stand on your own two feet, you are independent and need no help from anyone. seven years ago i started to stand on my own two feet. |
| 838 |
stand on ceremony when people stand on ceremony, they behave in a very formal way. don't stand on ceremony! it's not necessary. |
| 839 |
stand like greyhounds in the slips this phrase means that you are ready and anxious to depart. let's go! i see you stand like greyhounds in the slips. |
| 840 |
stand and deliver! this phrase was said in the past by highwaymen when they stopped a carriage on a road to demand objects of value from the travellers. "stand and deliver!" shouted the highwayman and the poor man gave him something. |
| 841 |
stand a chance this expression means to have a possibility or a hope of success. if funding is withdrawn, this school won't stand a chance. |
| 842 |
stack the deck this idiom means to be against someone or something. the manager has stacked the deck against me. |
| 843 |
stab you in the back if someone stabs you in the back, they betray you by doing something harmful to you when you thought you could trust them. she stabbed me in the back and i won't ever forget that! |
| 844 |
squeaky-bum time this idiom refers to the tense, final stages of a competition. it's squeaky-bum time and he's so depressed. his favourite team is losing the game. |
| 845 |
square meal when people talk about a square meal, they mean a substantial and satisfying meal. do you know a place where i can get a square meal? |
| 846 |
square deal a transaction that is fair and honest or an equitable arrangement, is called a square deal. i use this supplier because i always get a square deal. |
| 847 |
spring to life this idiom means to suddenly become very active or busy. with this contract i have springed to life. |
| 848 |
spring forward, fall back this is a mnemonic relating to daylight saving time, indicating that clocks are moved forward an hour in spring and back an hour in autumn. it's simple! spring forward, fall back! |
| 849 |
spread yourself too thin if you spread yourself too thin, you do too many things at the same time and can't do any of them well. don't spread yourself too thin! |
| 850 |
spread your wings when someone spreads their wings, they become independent, begin to use their abilities and develop their interests. there comes a time when you have to spread your wings. |
| 851 |
spread like wildfire if something such as news, rumours or gossip spread like wildfire, it becomes widely known very fast. as soon as she married him, the news spread like wildfire. |
| 852 |
spoon-feed someone if a person is spoon-fed, they are helped too much rather than encouraged to think by themselves or use their own initiative. some parents tend to spoon-feed their children. |
| 853 |
sponge off someone if you sponge off someone, you live at the expense of another person, accepting their hospitality without sharing the costs or doing something in return. i didn't like her because she tried to sponge off me. |
| 854 |
spoiler alert this expression, is said or printed, as a warning that the following will give away the ending or important plot development of a drama. i've just seen the movie. spoiler alert – the lady dies. |
| 855 |
split hairs people who split hairs pay too much attention to differences that are very small or unimportant. i don't like her because she always splits hairs. |
| 856 |
splash out on something if you splash out on something, you spend a lot of money on it. her parents really splashed out on her birthday party. |
| 857 |
spitting in the wind if you spend time trying to do something that is impossible to achieve, you are said to be spitting in the wind. you'll never make me change my mind. you're just spitting in the wind. |
| 858 |
spitting image if one person is the spitting image of another, they look exactly like each other. steve is the spitting image of his father. |
| 859 |
spit in someone's eye if you spit in someone's eye, you treat that person with disrespect or contempt. your parents raised you as best as they could. don't spit in their eyes! |
| 860 |
spiral out of control when difficulties or costs spiral out of control, they get worse or increase continuously, creating a situation that becomes difficult to manage. this year we should be careful not to let the costs spiral out of control. |
| 861 |
spine-tingling this idiom means to bring a tingling effect to the spine because of how scary something is. i never imagined such a spine-tingling end to her life. |
| 862 |
spinach cinema films that are neither exciting nor interesting but are considered educational or uplifting, in the same way as certain foods are good for your health, are referred to as spinach cinema. the spinach cinema industry is rising. |
| 863 |
spin doctor a spin doctor is a press agent or a public relations officer employed to promote a favourable interpretation of events in business or politics. i think we need to hire a spin doctor. |
| 864 |
spin a yarn if you spin a yarn, you tell a story, usually a long improbable one, with distorted truths. she failed the exam and spun a yarn about it. |
| 865 |
spill the beans if you spill the beans, you reveal a secret or talk about something private. come on! spill the beans! what did she say? |
| 866 |
spick and span to refer to something, usually a place, as spick and span means that it is very clean, neat and tidy. the flat must be spick and span before we rent it. |
| 867 |
spend a penny this phrase means to use a public lavatory. well, i need to spend a penny. can you wait for me? |
| 868 |
spelling-bee this idiom refers to a spelling contest. we have been invited to a spelling-bee. |
| 869 |
spell trouble if something spells trouble, it signifies possible problems in the future. this weather spells trouble for this year's harvest. |
| 870 |
spell out this idiom means to explain something in a very clear way with details. they have refused to spell out their plans so far. |
| 871 |
speed networking this term refers to a relatively new urban trend which consists in making a potential business contact by briefly taking to a series of people at an organised event and exchanging contact details. tom, have you tried speed networking for promoting your idea? |
| 872 |
special relationship this phrase refers to the relationship between the united kingdom and the usa. this decision is based on the special relationship. |
| 873 |
speak your mind if you speak your mind you express your opinion very frankly. she always speaks her mind and this might upset you. |
| 874 |
speak volumes if something speaks volumes, it expresses a reaction or opinion very clearly, with no need for words. her smile when she opened the gift spoke volumes about my choice. |
| 875 |
speak too soon this expression means to say something with the belief that it will be right and then it is later found out to be untrue. she always speaks too soon and ends up apologizing. |
| 876 |
speak soon this expression means "talk to you soon". thank you sandra, speak soon. |
| 877 |
speak softly and carry a big stick if you speak softly and carry a big stick, you express your views in a quite non-aggressive manner, but you make it clear that you are in a position to use force if necessary. i was recommended to use the speak softly and carry a big stick method. |
| 878 |
speak same language if two or more people speak the same language, they have similar opinions or ideas, so they understand each other very well. we work very well together because we speak the same language. |
| 879 |
speak out of turn if someone speaks out of turn, either they intervene at the wrong moment or they say something tactless or inappropriate. at the first meetings i was afraid of speaking out of turn. |
| 880 |
speak off the cuff if you speak off the cuff, you say something without any previous thought or preparation. i handle off-the-cuff interviews very well. |
| 881 |
speak ill of someone if you speak ill of someone, you say bad or unkind things about them. i like him because he refuses to speak ill of his colleagues. |
| 882 |
sparrow fart this expression is a jokey term for the early morning. isn't 3am too soon to be getting up? it isn't even sparrow fart yet... |
| 883 |
spare-part surgery spare-part surgery refers to a surgery in which a diseased or non-functioning organ is replaced with a transplanted or artificial organ. she urgently needs a spare-part surgery. |
| 884 |
spare the rod and spoil the child this phrase means that children will only flourish if chastised, physically or otherwise, for any wrongdoing. you should do something! spare the rod and spoil the child! |
| 885 |
sow your wild oats a person, usually a man, who sows their wild oats, goes through a period of carefree pleasure-seeking while they are young. i advised him to sow his wild oats before he got married. |
| 886 |
sow the seeds of suspicion if someone's behaviour or something they say, sows the seeds of suspicion, it leads people to suspect that they are guilty. the fact that the woman spent a lot of money after the robbery sowed the seeds of suspicion. |
| 887 |
southpaw this idiom refers to a person who uses their left hand to do most things. she is a southpaw but her brother isn't. |
| 888 |
sour grapes to say that someone's attitude is sour grapes means that they are trying to make others believe that something they cannot have is of no importance. when she failed in obtaining the job, she said she wasn't that interested in it, but that's just sour grapes! |
| 889 |
sound hollow if an explanation, apology or promise sounds hollow, it seems false or insincere. her apology sounded hollow to me. i don't believe she was sorry. |
| 890 |
sound bite this idiom refers to a short and easily remembered line, intended by the speaker to be suitable for media repetition. "have trust in yourself!"; that's my sound bite. |
| 891 |
so-so this idiom means average – neither bad and nor good. the new restaurant is so-so. |
| 892 |
sore point a sore point is a subject to be avoided because it causes anger or embarrassment. don't talk about weight – that's a sore point for her. |
| 893 |
sooner or later this expression is used when one is certain that something will happen, but is unsure exactly when. she will call me sooner or later. |
| 894 |
son of a gun this idiom refers to a rogue. they were always up to mischief at school – sons of a gun! |
| 895 |
son of a bitch this phrase describes an unpleasant man. i will beat that son of a bitch one day! |
| 896 |
something nasty in the woodshed this idiom refers to a traumatic but unspecified incident in someone's experience or something shocking or distasteful that has been kept secret. she clearly has something nasty in the woodshed. |
| 897 |
something for the weekend sir? this is a coy query asking if a customer wanted to buy a condom. apart from the beer, would you like something for the weekend sir? |
| 898 |
someone is walking over my grave this idiom is a response to a sudden unexplained shudder or shivering. what was that? well, i think someone is walking over my grave. |
| 899 |
somebody's two cents' worth this idiom refers to one's spoken opinion on a particular matter. ok, i'll just throw in my two cents' worth. |
| 900 |
sold someone on something this idiom means to convince someone of something because you were persuasive. you've sold me on going to the party with you. |
| 901 |
sold somebody out this idiom means to snitch on someone or let their secret out. i can't believe you sold me out! i trusted you! |
| 902 |
soften the blow when someone tries to soften the blow, they do something to make an unpleasant event or action easier to accept. in spite of the extra payment given to soften the blow, the loss of my job was a catastrophe for me. |
| 903 |
soap-dodger this idiom refers to a scruffy or dirty person; one who washes rarely. can't you smell? he's a soap-dodger! |
| 904 |
so-and-so this idiom is used in the place of someone's name, indicating that the person is of little importance. he is always telling us how he met so-and-so during his travels. |
| 905 |
so sue me this phrase is a defiant challenge for an adversary to escalate a dispute. you don't like my work? so sue me! |
| 906 |
so far so good this expression means that things are going well so far. we have received the pieces and the instructions. so far so good! |
| 907 |
snowed under someone who is snowed under has so many things to do, usually work, that they are unable to cope with it all. doctors and nurses are completely snowed under these days. |
| 908 |
snow under this idiom means to bury or cover something or somebody in snow, literally. it can also mean to overwhelm something or someone especially beyond their capacity to handle or deal with it. i felt snowed under with all the tasks. |
| 909 |
snow job this idiom refers to an elaborate cover up of something. the company has to release the financial statements and i'm afraid that it's a snow job. |
| 910 |
sniff test this idiom means to sniff an item of clothing or food to check if it might be suitable to wear or eat. i wore this t-shirt two days ago. i gave it the sniff test and it was okay to be worn again. |
| 911 |
sneak peek this idiom refers to an opportunity to see something before it is officially available. the company is offering a sneak peek at the new product. |
| 912 |
snatch victory from the jaws of defeat if you manage to win something such as a match or a contest, when you are on the verge of losing, you snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. with this goal, they snatched victory from the jaws of defeat. |
| 913 |
snail mail this term refers to the standard system of mail delivery or postal service, considered very slow compared to electronic mail. i won't use snail mail anymore. |
| 914 |
smooth the path for something to smooth the path for something means to make progress easier or enable it to happen. speaking the same language smoothed the path for negotiations. |
| 915 |
smooth someone's ruffled feathers if you smooth someone's ruffled feathers, you make that person feel less angry or offended. come here, darling. let me smooth your ruffled feathers... |
| 916 |
smokestack industries industries involved in heavy manufacturing such as the production of iron and steel, especially if they cause a lot of pollution, are called smokestack industries. smokestack industries are no longer allowed near cities. |
| 917 |
smoke signals to say that there are smoke signals means that there are indications that something is probably going to happen. all the smoke signals seem to indicate that the business is going to be bankrupt soon. |
| 918 |
smoke like a chimney someone who smokes a large amount of tobacco on a regular basis is said to smoke like a chimney. my father smokes like a chimney. |
| 919 |
smoke and mirrors an attempt to conceal or distort the truth (like a magician) in order to confuse people is called smoke and mirrors. the politician used smoke and mirrors to make the situation look better. |
| 920 |
smell a rat if you smell a rat, it means that you suspect that something is wrong or that someone is doing something dishonest or incorrect. the organisation hasn't performed well of late. i smell a rat. |
| 921 |
smash hit a very successful performance in music, films, theatre etc., is called a smash hit. their last movie was a smash hit. |
| 922 |
smart casual this idiom refers to smart but informal clothing. conforming to a dress code but not uncomfortably so. i like to dress smart casual. |
| 923 |
smart alec a smart alec is an annoying self-assertive person who tries to show off how clever they are. some smart alec interrupted the quiz. |
| 924 |
small potatoes something that is small potatoes is considered to be unimportant or insignificant. my first publication was considered small potatoes. |
| 925 |
small fry people or organisations that are considered unimportant can be referred to as small fry. the police seized a large quantity of drug and some small fry. |
| 926 |
small dog, tall weeds this expression is used to refer to someone who does not have the ability or the resources necessary to perform a task. it might be too difficult for her – small dog, tall weeds! |
| 927 |
smack dab in the middle if something is smack dab in the middle, it is right in the centre. i couldn't hide the stain on my suit. it was smack dab in the middle. |
| 928 |
slush fund a slush fund is an account or fund in politics or business where money is set aside for various unofficial purposes, often unethical or even illegal. we should make a slush fund for hard times. |
| 929 |
slow day this expression refers to a day in which not much happens, so it feels like it is taking very long to pass. i'm so bored. it was a slow day at work. |
| 930 |
slow and steady wins the race this expression means that reliability is more important than speed. it doesn't matter when we arrive. slow and steady wins the race. |
| 931 |
sloane rangers this idiom refers to upper class and fashion-conscious but conventional young people, living in the more expensive parts of west london. there is a group of sloane rangers. |
| 932 |
slippery slope this idiom refers to a bad situation or habit that, after it has started, is likely to get very much worse. you're on a slippery slope when you start lying. |
| 933 |
slip your mind if something has slipped your mind, you have forgotten about it. it slipped my mind that the local store is closed today. |
| 934 |
sling mud at somebody to say that someone is slinging mud at another person means that they are trying to damage that person's reputation by saying bad things about them. candidates often sling mud at each other. |
| 935 |
sleight of hand this idiom refers to the skilful hiding of the truth in order to win an advantage. it can also refer to speed and skill of the hand when performing tricks. by some statistical sleight of hand the government has produced figures showing that everything is fine. |
| 936 |
sleep tight this is an affectionate way of wishing someone a good night's sleep. i'm going to bed now. good night, sleep tight. |
| 937 |
sleep on it if you take time until the next day to think something over before making a decision, you sleep on it. i don't know the answer now. can i sleep on it? |
| 938 |
sleep on a clothesline this idiom means to sleep very soundly. nicole is now sleeping on a clothesline. |
| 939 |
sleep like a top this idiom means to sleep very soundly. mike is sleeping like a top after drinking some whisky. |
| 940 |
sleep like a log if you sleep like a log, you sleep deeply or soundly. after a fishing day, i sleep like a log. |
| 941 |
slam dunk this is a basketball term which means that success or victory will be easily achieved. my lawyer will win this case easily. it's a slam dunk! |
| 942 |
skin someone alive if you are angry and threaten to skin someone alive, you mean that you are going to punish them severely. if those kids damage my car again, i'll skin them alive! |
| 943 |
skin and blister this is a rhyming slang for one's sister. my skin and blister will come too. |
| 944 |
skid row this idiom refers to the rundown area of a city inhabited by the destitute. lost my job, she left me, started taking drugs – soon i was on skid row. |
| 945 |
skating on thin ice if you are skating on thin ice, you are doing or saying something risky, or something that could cause trouble. i advise you not to say that. you may be skating on thin ice. |
| 946 |
sixth sense this idiom refers to an imaginary intuitive facility. my sixth sense is telling me that today it's going to be a good day. |
| 947 |
six of one and half a dozen of the other this expression means that there is no real difference between two choices; both are equally good or equally bad. i didn't know who to vote for last year. it was six of one and half a dozen of the other. |
| 948 |
sitting shotgun this idiom means to provide active aid to someone. the local politician is a sitting shotgun for his sister's company. |
| 949 |
sitting pretty someone who is sitting pretty is in a good or fortunate situation, especially compared to others who are not so lucky. she sold her shares at the perfect time so she's now sitting pretty. |
| 950 |
sits up and takes notice a person who sits up and takes notice become alert and attentive. the announcement of their wedding made everyone sit up and take notice. |
| 951 |
sit tight this idiom means to wait and not do anything until the time is right for action. you'll be promoted. just sit tight and do your job well. |
| 952 |
sit on the fence if you sit on the fence, you avoid taking sides in a discussion or argument. we need your opinion. you can't continue to sit on the fence! |
| 953 |
siphon off if someone siphons something off, they transfer something from one place to another, often illegally. she siphoned off money from the business. |
| 954 |
sink teeth into something if you sink your teeth into something, you do it with a lot of energy and enthusiasm. after i was promoted, i immediately sank my teeth into my job. |
| 955 |
sink or swim if someone has to sink or swim, they have to do something alone, and their success or failure depends entirely on their own efforts. this sink-or-swim attitude in the organisation can be very difficult for new employees. |
| 956 |
sink one's differences if people or organisations sink their differences, they decide to forget their disagreements. we must sink our differences and build a strong team. |
| 957 |
single-file this refers to a line of people with one person standing behind another. everyone was eager to get an autograph from the band, but they waited patiently in single-file. |
| 958 |
sing your heart out this idiom comes from the fact that most people like to sing, even though they do not always sing well. if you power through your nerves and fear and sign out loud anyways, you sing your heart out. do what you really enjoy. sing your heart out! |
| 959 |
since time immemorial if something has existed since time immemorial, it has been there for such a long time that nobody can recall a time without it. i don't know when the school was built. it's been there since time immemorial. |
| 960 |
simplicity itself something that is simplicity itself is extremely easy to do. using the cooler is simplicity itself; just turn it on and adjust the temperature. |
| 961 |
simmer down this idiom means to calm down after anger or excitement. let it go and simmer down now! it's over. |
| 962 |
silver-tongued a silver-tongued person is a smooth talker who speaks so convincingly that they manage to persuade others to do what they want. a silver-tongues salesman persuaded my father to buy a new laptop. |
| 963 |
silver threads amongst the gold this expression refers to blonde hair that is turning grey. she's going grey or as she prefers to say silver threads amongst the gold. |
| 964 |
silver surfer a silver surfer is an elderly person who uses the internet. after intense explanations, my grandfather was ready to join the silver surfers. |
| 965 |
silver screen this expression means "the film industry". these are the stars of the silver screen. |
| 966 |
silver fox this idiom refers to a handsome grey-haired man. richard gere is a real silver fox these days. |
| 967 |
silver bullet this term refers to an extremely effective or magical solution to a difficult problem. there is no silver bullet that will put an end to corruption. |
| 968 |
silence is golden this expression means that it is often better to say nothing at all. this will stay between us, ok? silence is golden. |
| 969 |
significant other the term refers to a person, such as a spouse, partner or lover, with whom you have a long-term relationship. he usually makes no decision without consulting his significant other. |
| 970 |
signed, sealed and delivered when an argument, contract or treaty is signed, sealed and delivered, all the legal documents are in order. i hope that the contract will be signed, sealed and delivered before the end of the day. |
| 971 |
sign your own death warrant if you do something that causes your own downfall or prevents you from being successful, you sign your own death warrant. by doing that, you have signed your own death warrant. |
| 972 |
sign on the dotted line if you sign on the dotted line, you formally give your consent to something by signing an official document. i wasn't sure so i took legal advice before signing on the dotted line. |
| 973 |
side boob this idiom refers to the side of a female breast revealed by skimpy clothing. she's showing a lot of side boob with that t-shirt on. |
| 974 |
sick puppy this phrase refers to someone who behaves oddly, as a sick puppy might; for example, a lovesick person who pines after their beloved. she on a business trip and he's a sick puppy these days. |
| 975 |
sick as a dog this idiom means to be very sick, with the flu or a cold. i don't feel good at all. i'm as sick as a dog. |
| 976 |
siamese twins this phrase refers to two people with the same mother who were born at the same time, with some parts of their bodies joined together. john and steve are siamese twins. |
| 977 |
shut your pie hole this is a rude way to tell someone to be quiet. shut your pie hole and mind your business! |
| 978 |
shut your cake hole this idiom means to be quiet. we are in a meeting so please shut your cake hole! |
| 979 |
shut the stable door after the horse has bolted if you shut the stable door after the horse has bolted, you try to prevent something bad from happening when it is already too late. i decided to insure my car after the accident. now that's shutting the stable door after the horse has bolted. |
| 980 |
shuffle off this moral coil this idiom means to die. at the age of 90 she shuffled off this mortal coil. |
| 981 |
shrug something off if you shrug something off, you dismiss it as being unimportant. i was aware of the danger but i just shrugged it off. |
| 982 |
show your mettle this idiom means to demonstrate your true character. in difficult times you can show your mettle. |
| 983 |
show the door this idiom means to make it clear that somebody must leave. it's enough! please, show her the door. |
| 984 |
show somebody the ropes if you show somebody the ropes, you teach or explain to them how to do a particular job. oh, i'm sorry. the team leader is busy showing the ropes to the new trainee. |
| 985 |
show of hands a show of hands is a method of voting where people give their opinion by raising a hand. how many of you agree to this plan? could we have a show of hands, please? |
| 986 |
shovel ready this idiom refers to a building project in which all the preliminaries have been arranged. the project is finally shovel ready. |
| 987 |
shoulder surfing the practice of looking over somebody's shoulder when they are using a computer, cash dispenser or other electronic device, in order to obtain personal information is called shoulder surfing. i dared him to shoulder surfing. |
| 988 |
shotgun approach if you use a shotgun approach, you cover a wide range in a non-selective, haphazard and inefficient manner. we must get rid of this shotgun approach. |
| 989 |
short and sweet something that is short and sweet is brief but pleasant. our conversations was short and sweet. |
| 990 |
shopping therapy this term refers to the idea that buying things can make you feel better. a little shopping therapy might help you. |
| 991 |
shop till you drop if you shop till you drop, you go shopping for a very long time, until you are exhausted. if you go to berlin with her, you'll shop till you drop. |
| 992 |
shop around if you shop around, you visit a number of shops selling similar articles in order to compare the prices. i like shopping around because this way i save money. |
| 993 |
shooting fish in a barrel this idiom refers to something that is too easy. for him, changing a tyre is like shooting fish in a barrel. |
| 994 |
shoot yourself in the foot if you shoot yourself in the foot you do or say something which is against your own interests. be careful not to shoot yourself in the foot during this interview. |
| 995 |
shoot through this idiom means to leave or abscond. when i got up this morning ann had gone. she shot through without a word. |
| 996 |
shoot the breeze this idiom means to spend time talking useless things. instead of shooting the breeze, they should get to work. |
| 997 |
shoot straight this idiom means to talk or deal honestly. i've worked with her for ten years and i had no reason to doubt her words. she always shoots straight. |
| 998 |
shoot from the hip this expression means to speak directly. i prefer you to shoot from the hip next time we speak. |
| 999 |
shoot down in flames this idiom means to destroy an argument or theory. they sent their proposal. it was all nonsense and it was shot down in flames. |
| 1000 |
shoo-in this idiom refers to someone who is certain to win an election or a competition. she's a shoo-in for the white house. |
| 1001 |
shoddy this idiom refers to inferior goods or workmanship. it can also refer to disrespectful behavior. they are manufacturing shoddy clothes. |
| 1002 |
shiver me timbers this phrase is an exclamation of surprise or annoyance. shiver me timbers! what a woman! |
| 1003 |
shit-for-brains this idiom refers to an extremely stupid person. that new kid on the block is a real shit-for-brains. |
| 1004 |
shipshape this idiom means neat and with everything in its correct place. now that the party is over, it'll take a while to get things shipshape again. |
| 1005 |
shilly-shally if you shilly-shally, you hesitate a lot about something and have difficulty reaching a decision. stop shilly-shallying and make a decision now! |
| 1006 |
shifting sands this expression refers to something that is constantly changing, often making a person feel uncertain. i've had trouble maintaining a job in the shifting sands of the economy. |
| 1007 |
shelf life if something such as food, drink or medicine has a particular shelf life, it must be used or sold before the end of that period of time. dairy products have a short shelf life. |
| 1008 |
shed light if you shed light on something, you help to explain it or make it easier to understand. i hoped that her testimony would shed light on the circumstances of the car crash. |
| 1009 |
sharp practice trying to achieve something by using underhand, deceitful or dishonourable means, that are barely within the law, is called sharp practice. the company is under investigation for sharp practice. |
| 1010 |
share and share alike this idiom means to give equal shares to all. the inheritance will be shared and shared alike. |
| 1011 |
shape up or ship out this expression is used to warm someone that if they do not improve, they will have to leave their job. when she started neglecting the customers, she was told to shape up or ship out. |
| 1012 |
shape of things to come if something, such as a trend or fashion, is the shape of things to come, it is a sign of what is likely to be used or enjoyed by many people in the future. do you think that electric cars are the shape of things to come? |
| 1013 |
shake like a leaf if you shake like a leaf, you tremble with fear or nervousness. at the beginning of the interview i was shaking like a leaf. |
| 1014 |
shake a leg this idiom is used to tell someone to hurry or act more quickly. come on, marry, shake a leg or we'll be late. |
| 1015 |
shaggy-dog story this idiom refers to a long, rambling story or joke, typically one that is amusing only because it is absurdly inconsequential or pointless. that was a shaggy-dog story. |
| 1016 |
shades of grey this idiom refers to a situation where things are not really clear. people should avoid getting involved in deals that have different shades of grey. |
| 1017 |
sex and shopping this idiom refers to a type of novel where the plot revolves around the affluent consumer lifestyle and sexual encounters of the characters. it's just another sex and shopping novel. |
| 1018 |
settle a score to settle a score means to retaliate against someone or take revenge for a past wrong. i've made an appointment with my lawyer – i need to settle a score with my neighbour. |
| 1019 |
set you back the sum of money something sets you back is the amount it costs you. changing the car will set us back about 10000 dollars. |
| 1020 |
set up shop this idiom means to start your own business. she set up shop in 1995. |
| 1021 |
set the wheels in motion this idiom means to do something that will cause a series of actions to start. it's the manager's task to set the wheels in motion. |
| 1022 |
set the stage if you set the stage for an event or a development, you create conditions that allow it to happen. the agreement set the stage for our business relations. |
| 1023 |
set the pace this expression means to establish the pace or speed of something. the runner set the pace for the others during the race. |
| 1024 |
set someone's teeth on edge this idiom mean to cause someone to feel intense discomfort or irritation. the horrible sound set my teeth on edge. |
| 1025 |
set one's cap at this is said of a woman who determines to gain the affections of a man. she set her cap at a man with a greater sense of charm and decency. |
| 1026 |
set in your ways a person who is set in their ways is unable or unwilling to change their ideas, habits or methods, often because they are old. my grandparents have the same routine daily. they are set in their ways. |
| 1027 |
set in stone when something is set in stone, it is permanent and cannot be changed in any way. you should be aware that you are not set in stone in these management positions! |
| 1028 |
set great store by something when you consider something to be very important or valuable, you set great store by it. she is setting great store by this job interview – i only hope she gets it. |
| 1029 |
set a good example this idiom means to be an example to children or students whenever possible. i like our leader because he sets a good example every time he has the chance. |
| 1030 |
serve somebody right if you say that something bad serves someone right, you mean that that person deserves it. he injured me! it serves you right! you deserve it! |
| 1031 |
separate the wheat from the chaff this phrase means to separate things or people that are of high quality or ability from those that are not. the first test really separates the wheat from the chaff. |
| 1032 |
separate the sheep from the goats if you separate the sheep from the goats, you examine a group of people and decide which are suitable and which not. examining job applications for our organisation is the first stage in separating the sheep from the goats. |
| 1033 |
sent to coventry this idiom means to be ignored or ostracised. this behaviour often takes the form of pretending that the shunned person, although conspicuously present, can't be seen or heard. they sent the little boy to coventry. |
| 1034 |
sense of humour this expression refers to the ability to enjoy funniness. pete has a dry sense of humour. |
| 1035 |
senior citizen this idiom refers to an elderly person; one who is past the age of retirement. this city doesn't have many senior citizens. |
| 1036 |
send up a trial balloon if you test something such as an idea, a project or a product, to see how people respond to it, you send up a trial balloon. the product seemed excellent, but after they launched it, the sales didn't rise. |
| 1037 |
send someone packing if you send someone packing, you tell them to leave, in a very forceful and unfriendly way. when my last girlfriend discovered that i was unfaithful, she sent me packing. |
| 1038 |
send someone about their business if you tell someone, in an irritated or unfriendly way, to go away, you send them about their business. a bank representative keeps calling on my father, but i told him to send him about his business. |
| 1039 |
send a shiver down your spine if something sends a shiver down your spine, it makes you feel anxious, nervous or excited. that beautiful song always sends a shiver down her spine! |
| 1040 |
sell your soul this is a humorous way of saying that you would be willing to do something morally or legally wrong to obtain what you want. he would sell his soul to get a promotion. |
| 1041 |
sell someone out this idiom means to betray someone's confidence. they have been sold out by their government in the negotiation. |
| 1042 |
sell someone down the river if you sell someone down the river, you betray a person who trusts you. i have been sold down the river by her. |
| 1043 |
sell one's soul to the devil this phrase means to abandon one's values or morals in return for some highly desired benefit, typically success, power, wealth etc. we'll have to sell our soul to the devil if we want to succeed. |
| 1044 |
sell like hot cakes things that sell like hot cakes sell quickly or in large quantities. brian is a very successful author. his books always sell like hot cakes. |
| 1045 |
sell ice to eskimos this expression is used to describe a person who has the ability to persuade someone to accept something totally unnecessary or useless. it's not a surprise that michele was named the saleswoman of the year. she can sell ice to eskimos! |
| 1046 |
self-made man this idiom refers to someone who achieves the success with his own hard work. i am a self-made man! |
| 1047 |
seen better days if something has seen better days, it has aged visibly in comparison with when it was new. this car has seen better days. |
| 1048 |
seeing is believing this expression means that when you see something you can be sure it exists. it can also mean that what you have been told is really true. steve says cherries grow in his garden, but seeing is believing. |
| 1049 |
see you on the big drum this is a goodnight phrase used for children. it's time you were in bed. see you on the big drum. |
| 1050 |
see the light of day this idiom means to be made available or be known about, appear for the first time. their new electric car will see the light of day in one week. |
| 1051 |
see the light this idiom means to realize or understand something. after his terrible grade in economics, the student saw the light and started working harder. |
| 1052 |
see the error of one's ways when someone sees the error of their ways, they understand that what they are doing is wrong and accept to change their behaviour. she talked to a psychologist who tried to make her see the error of her ways. |
| 1053 |
see the colour of somebody's money if you want to see the colour of somebody's money, you want to be sure that the person in question has enough money to pay you before you accept to do something. i want to see the colour of your money before shipping the goods to you. |
| 1054 |
see something in a new light if you see something in a new light, you view it in a way that makes you change the opinion you had before. after listening to her, i began to see their problem in a new light. |
| 1055 |
see somebody's true colours if you see somebody's true colours, you understand their actual character, often for the first time. i thought that i knew her well, but during the mission i saw her true colours. |
| 1056 |
see red if someone sees red, they suddenly become very angry or annoyed. lies make me see red. |
| 1057 |
see light at the end of the tunnel if you see the light at the end of the tunnel, you see signs of hope for the future after a long period of difficulty. we're beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel in this situation. |
| 1058 |
see eye to eye if you see eye to eye with somebody, you agree with them. i'm glad that we see eye to eye on the choice of car colour. |
| 1059 |
security blanket this idiom refers to a small familiar blanket or other soft fabric item carried by a child for reassurance. it can also refer to all-encompassing military and political security measures. this country needs a security blanket and we will do it for the sake of our nation! |
| 1060 |
second-guess this idiom means to criticize and offer advice, with the benefit of hindsight. it can also means to foresee the actions of others before they have come to a decision themselves. it doesn't help to second-guess their decision. |
| 1061 |
second to none something that is second to none is excellent or much better than any other. the food was second to none. thank you! |
| 1062 |
second nature if something you do is second nature to you, it is something that you do easily or automatically because you have done it so often or for so long. cycling is second nature to me. |
| 1063 |
second a motion during a meeting, if you second a motion, you formally agree with a proposal. i seconded the motion to introduce flexible working hours. |
| 1064 |
season of mists and mellow fruitfulness this idiom refers to autumn. the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness has arrived. |
| 1065 |
sealed with a kiss this idiom means written and sent with love and care. she wrote a letter to him and sealed it with a kiss. |
| 1066 |
seal of approval if a project or contract receives a seal of approval, it receives formal support or approval from higher authorities. we can't make the deal without the manager's seal of approval. |
| 1067 |
sea legs a person who has or finds their sea legs is used to walking on a moving ship or has the ability to adjust to a new situation. usually, it takes a while in a new job to find your sea legs. |
| 1068 |
scrub up this idiom means to make an effort to present oneself well-dressed and smartly turned out. she was amazed by me. it's true that i scrubbed up that night. |
| 1069 |
scrimp and save if you scrimp and save, you spend as little as possible over a certain period of time in order to save money. i scrimped and saved for two years so that i could buy a car. |
| 1070 |
screw your courage to the sticking place this idiom means to be firm and resolute. you should screw your courage to the sticking place! you will inspire others by doing so! |
| 1071 |
screw loose if someone has a screw loose, their behaviour is strange and they appear slightly mad. the man wears a fur coat in the summer – i think he has a screw loose! |
| 1072 |
scream blue murder people who scream blue murder shout or complain very loudly as if something very serious has happened. the crowd started screaming blue murder when the match was interrupted. |
| 1073 |
scratch the surface when you only scratch the surface of a problem or subject, you deal with only a small part of it. some countries are only scratching the surface of their economic problems. |
| 1074 |
scrape together this idiom means to manage, with difficulty, enough of what is needed – especially money. three of us managed to scrape together ten dollars for a taxi. |
| 1075 |
scrape the bottom of the barrel if you scrape the bottom of the barrel, you use the worst or the least satisfactory ideas, things or people because you have no choice. when they started to recruit, they had to scrape the bottom of the barrel because the salary was low. |
| 1076 |
score an own goal this expression refers to an act that unintentionally harms one's own interests. she scored an own goal by quitting her job. |
| 1077 |
schoolboy error this refers to a very basic or foolish mistake. i made a schoolboy error yesterday, but in the end everything was fine. |
| 1078 |
school someone in something this means to train, discipline or coach someone in something. i will school you in english. |
| 1079 |
school of thought this idiom refers to a particular philosophy or a way of thinking about something. there are various definitions, each corresponding to a school of thought. |
| 1080 |
school of hard knocks someone who goes through the school of hard knocks learns through the positive and negative experiences of life rather than through a formal classroom education. she didn't go to college but the school of hard knocks made her a shrewd businesswoman. |
| 1081 |
scarper this idiom means to leave very quickly, often to avoid getting into trouble. they are coming! we'd better scarper. |
| 1082 |
scared stiff someone who is scared stiff is so frightened that they are unable to move. my father is scared stiff of heights. |
| 1083 |
scare the living daylights out of someone if something scares the living daylights out of you, it terrifies you. the screaming scared the living daylights out of me. |
| 1084 |
scare out of one's wits if something scares you out of your wits, it makes you very frightened or worried. the feeling that the house was haunted scared maria out of her wits. |
| 1085 |
scarce as hen's teeth to say that something is as scarce as hen's teeth stresses the fact that it is extremely rare, to the point of non-existence. water is as scarce as hen's teeth where we're going. take enough supplies. |
| 1086 |
scapegoat this idiom refers to someone else who takes the blame for something. steve did it, but he searched for a scapegoat and found tim. |
| 1087 |
scales fall from your eyes when the scales fall from your eyes, you finally understand the truth about something. it was only when my neighbour was arrested for theft that the scales fell from my eyes and i understood where his money came from. |
| 1088 |
say what this idiom is used when asking someone to repeat what they have said. please hand me that glass. say what? |
| 1089 |
say cheese this idiom refers to a photographer's instruction just before taking a picture, in order to make people smile. say cheese! and so, the photograph was taken. |
| 1090 |
say a mouthful if you make an important or lengthy remark, you say a mouthful. the customer said a mouthful when he described his dissatisfaction. |
| 1091 |
savoir-faire this idiom refers to the ability to do and say the right thing in any social situation. olivia possesses great savoir-faire. |
| 1092 |
saving grace a person who has a saving grace has a quality that prevents them from being totally bad. he's a horrible person but he has one saving grace, his passion for plants. |
| 1093 |
saving for a rainy day this expression means to save money for later. i'm not a stingy man. i'm just saving for a rainy day. |
| 1094 |
saved by the bell if you are saved by the bell, something happens at the last minute to rescue you from a difficult situation. a friend arrived just when i needed help. saved by the bell! |
| 1095 |
save your breath if you tell someone to save their breath, you are telling them not to waste their time speaking because their words will have no effect. i've spoken to her so you might save you breath. |
| 1096 |
save time this means to do something the quick way, in order to allow time for other things. if we take the plane, we'll save time. |
| 1097 |
save the day if you find a solution to a serious problem and ensure the success of something that was expected to fail, you save the day. sheila saved the day by figuring out the problem. |
| 1098 |
save somebody's bacon if you save someone's bacon, you rescue them from a dangerous or difficult situation. i knew she needed my help and i saved her bacon. |
| 1099 |
save face when someone saves face, they manage to avoid humiliation or embarrassment and preserve their dignity and the respect of others. they allowed her to save face by taking collective responsibility. |
| 1100 |
same old story this expression refers to an unpleasant situation that frequently occurs in the same way as before. it's the same old story: she borrows money from me and "forgets" to pay me back. |
| 1101 |
salt of the earth to describe someone as the salt of the earth means that they are kind, honest and reliable. she is the salt of the earth, always ready to give a helping hand. |
| 1102 |
salad days this idiom refers to the days of one's youthful inexperience and enthusiasm. i'm too old to believe these stories. i am well past my salad days. |
| 1103 |
sail under false colours if you sail under false colours you pretend to be something that you are not. he seems to be sailing under false colours. i don't think that he is an expert. |
| 1104 |
sail through something if you sail through something, for example a test or an exam, you succeed in doing it without difficulty. the english test was no problem for me. i sailed through it. |
| 1105 |
sail close to the wind if you sail close to the wind, you do something dangerous or act just within the limits of what is legal or acceptable. they seem to invest their money well, although they often sail close to the wind. |
| 1106 |
safety in numbers this expression means that being part of a group makes people feel more secure and more confident when taking action. we went sightseeing in group, knowing there was safety in numbers. |
| 1107 |
safe sex what is usually meant by this phrase is sexual activity where precautions are taken against the transmission of diseases. safe sex is more and more a common thing. |
| 1108 |
safe bet to say that something is a safe bet means that it is very likely to happen. it's a safe bet that you'll get a good job if you graduate from this university. |
| 1109 |
saddled with debt if you are saddled with debt, the amount of money that you owe is a financial burden. if we buy an apartment that is too expensive, we could be saddled with debt for many years. |
| 1110 |
sad-ass this idiom is a reference to an inept or undesirable person or thing. no, i don't like him. he's a real sad-ass. |
| 1111 |
rushed off your feet if you are rushed off your feet, you are extremely busy. i would like to date you but these days i am being rushed off my feet. |
| 1112 |
runs in the family this refers to a physical or moral characteristic that is common to many members of a family. blonde hair and green eyes – the combination runs in the family. |
| 1113 |
run-of-the-mill if something is described as such, there is nothing special about it; it's just ordinary or average. the story wasn't very interesting – just a run-of-the-mill. |
| 1114 |
running on fumes this expression means to continue to stay awake when feeling exhausted. i haven't slept for twenty hours and i'm running on fumes. |
| 1115 |
run with the hare and hunt with the hounds if you run with the hare and hunt with the hounds, you want to stay on friendly terms with both sides in a quarrel. i want to keep everyone happy within the organisation but this time i can't run with the hare and hunt with the hounds. |
| 1116 |
run the show if you run the show, it means that you are in charge of every part of it. it has been decided that i am to run the show with this project. |
| 1117 |
run the gauntlet this idiom means to have to deal with a lot of people who are criticizing or attacking you. every day we had to run the gauntlet of hostile journalists. |
| 1118 |
run the gamut of something if you run the gamut of something, you cover the entire range of what is possible. he has run the gamut of hotel work, from porter to owner of a large chain of hotels. |
| 1119 |
run round in circles people who run round in circles have difficulty in achieving something because of lack of organisation. running round in circles will lead you nowhere! you need to conceive a plan and follow it. |
| 1120 |
run riot if people run riot, they behave in a wild, uncontrolled manner, running around in all directions. i don't like when she comes to my place with her kids – she always allows them to run riot. |
| 1121 |
run out of steam if you say that a person, a process or an organised event is running out of steam, you mean that there is a loss of impetus, energy or enthusiasm. the movement seems to be running out of steam. |
| 1122 |
run of the mill this phrase means "lacking unusual or special aspects; ordinary". i've had enough of this run of the mill job. |
| 1123 |
run like the wind this idiom refers to somebody who runs very fast. have you seen the athlete? he runs like the wind. |
| 1124 |
run into the sand this idiom means to fail to achieve a result. the initiative seems to be running into the sand. |
| 1125 |
run for cover this idiom means to seek shelter. we ran for cover as soon as the bombing began. |
| 1126 |
run down a person who is run down is in poor physical condition. they boy is completely run down from lack of food. |
| 1127 |
run around like a headless chicken if a person rushes about like a headless chicken, they act in a disorderly way, without thinking or analyzing the situation carefully. as soon as the store opened, my brother started running around like a headless chicken, searching for a laptop. |
| 1128 |
run a mile someone who is anxious, runs a mile to avoid something. he said he would run a mile if he saw her in the area. |
| 1129 |
rumpy-pumpy this idiom refers to sexual intercourse, especially that of a casual and saucy nature. we had a rumpy-pumpy. |
| 1130 |
rule the roost if you rule the roost, you are the most important and powerful person in a group or community. officially, she runs the company, but it's her father who rules the roost. |
| 1131 |
rule out this idiom means to exclude out something. the new drug claimed to rule out the pain. |
| 1132 |
rule of thumb a rule of thumb is a general rule which is a handy way of measuring or calculating something. a good rule of thumb is that a consistent portion of rice is two handfuls. |
| 1133 |
rue the day if you rue the day, you did something during the day and you bitterly regret. she will rue the day that she bought that car. |
| 1134 |
rub the wrong way this idiom means to be rude to someone and cause a tiff or a fight. the guy rubbed me in such a wrong way that i don't want to see him again. |
| 1135 |
rub shoulders with someone if you rub shoulders with someone, you have an opportunity to meet and talk to that person, especially someone wealthy, famous or distinguished. as a journalist, she sometimes rubs shoulders with famous people. |
| 1136 |
rub salt into the wound if you are in a difficult or unpleasant situation and somebody rubs salt into the wound, they do or say something to make things worse. mentioning her ex just rubbed salt into the wound. |
| 1137 |
route one football this idiom refers to a style of playing football in which a team attacks by kicking the ball high and long towards an opponent's goal rather than passing the ball forward. i don't like this match. it's route one football! |
| 1138 |
round-robin this idiom refers to a competition in which everyone competes at least once against each other competitor. it may also refer to a letter sent to a lot of people. i was invited to a round-robin tennis tournament. |
| 1139 |
rough justice treatment or justice that does not seem fair or is too severe, is called rough justice. the way the politician was treated by the media was rough justice. |
| 1140 |
rough and ready something which is rough and ready is adequate but rather rudimentary or unrefined. the chalet is rough and ready but the landscape is fantastic! |
| 1141 |
rotten apple this term refers to a person who is considered to be dishonest or immoral and had a bad influence on others in the group. in any group there is always a rotten apple. |
| 1142 |
rosie lea this is a slang term for tea. she would love a nice cup of rosie lea. |
| 1143 |
rooted to the spot if you are so shocked, surprised or scared that you are rooted to the spot, your reaction is so strong that you are unable to move. nicole stood rooted to the spot as the plane landed abruptly. |
| 1144 |
root and branch if an action is performed thoroughly or completely, it is done root and branch. the causes of the security incident must be eliminated root and branch. |
| 1145 |
rome wasn't built in one day this idiom means that major and important projects take time. the highway won't be finished for another ten years. rome wasn't built in on day, the authorities say. |
| 1146 |
rolling in money someone who is very wealthy or has access to great amounts of money is rolling in money. they don't have any financial problem. their parents are rolling in money. |
| 1147 |
roll with the punches when someone has to roll with the punches, they have to deal with a difficult situation by being flexible. the atmosphere has become aggressive. we have to roll with the punches. |
| 1148 |
roll up your sleeves when you roll up your sleeves, you get ready for hard work. the house is a mess. we have to roll up our sleeves and start cleaning. |
| 1149 |
roll the dice this expression means to gamble or take a chance on something or someone. i decided to roll the dice and use the money for playing a poker game. |
| 1150 |
roll out the red carpet to roll out the red carpet means to give special treatment to an important visitor. the general manager is going to roll out the red carpet. |
| 1151 |
rob the cradle if you rob the cradle, you have a romantic relationship with someone who is much younger than yourself. my aunt is dating a twenty-year-old boy. that's really robbing the cradle. |
| 1152 |
rob peter to pay paul if someone robs peter to pay paul, they pay one debt with money borrowed from someone else, thus creating another debt. she borrowed from a friend to pay her overdraft. that's a typical case of robbing peter to pay paul. |
| 1153 |
road to recovery this idiom refers to the procedure of becoming healthy again. the road to recovery from cancer is a long and draining one. |
| 1154 |
road rage aggressive driving habits sometimes resulting in violence against other drivers is called road rage. many accidents are a direct result of road rage. |
| 1155 |
road hog this expression refers to a dangerous or inconsiderate driver, someone who drives carelessly and selfishly. there is no way to overtake that road hog in front of us, even if he's driving slowly. |
| 1156 |
road apples this idiom refers to horse dung. be careful about these road apples! |
| 1157 |
rite of passage this idiom refers to an event or activity often performed or experienced as part of passing from one stage of life to another. getting lost while trying to find their classrooms is a rite of passage for freshmen at this university. |
| 1158 |
risk life and limb if you risk life and limb, you are in danger of death or serious injury. this mission is dangerous; you risk life and limb if you go by car. |
| 1159 |
rise to the occasion if you rise to the occasion, you manage to do something successfully in difficult circumstances. i had to sit in for my colleague and take some important decisions. fortunately, i rose to the occasion. |
| 1160 |
rise and shine this expression means to get out of bed and get ready for work. good morning! rise and shine, children! |
| 1161 |
ripple effect when an action has an effect on something, which in turn effects something else, it is said to have a ripple effect. an increase in the price of electricity will have a ripple effect on the economy as a whole. |
| 1162 |
rinky-dink this idiom refers to something that is worn out, cheap or insignificant. to give someone the rinky-dink means to cheat them. their family business is a rinky-dink one. |
| 1163 |
ring-fenced this term refers to a protected budget and only able to be used for a particular purpose. without a ring-fenced budget it is hard to implement these projects. |
| 1164 |
ring the changes on this idiom means to do something in a different way in order to make it more interesting. let's ring the changes on packed lunches. |
| 1165 |
ring out the old year and ring in the new this expression means to announce and celebrate the end of one year and the beginning of the next. ladies and gentlemen, let's ring out the old year and ring in the new! |
| 1166 |
ring a bell if something rings a bell, it is vaguely familiar to you, but you can't remember the exact details. daniel smith? the name rings a bell but i don't remember him. |
| 1167 |
right two and eight this is a slang term for state (upset, worry). she clearly was in a right two and eight that morning. |
| 1168 |
right on the button this idiom means just right; exactly on target or at exactly the right time. she was right on the button when she said that. |
| 1169 |
riff-raff this idiom refers to people with a bad reputation or of a low social class. he says that charging high prices will keep the riff-raff out. |
| 1170 |
riding high someone who is riding high is enjoying a period of success or popularity. the actress has been riding high since the last movie. |
| 1171 |
ride someone's coattails if you use your connections with someone successful in order to achieve fame or success for yourself, without any personal effort, you ride their coattails. she rode her uncle's coattails in the hope of being hired. |
| 1172 |
ride shotgun this idiom means to ride in the front passenger seat of a car. i prefer to drive but i have drunk. i have to ride shotgun now. |
| 1173 |
ride it out or ride out the storm if you manage to survive a dangerous or very unpleasant situation, like a ship sailing through a storm, you ride it out. our business was hit by the recession but we managed to ride out the storm. |
| 1174 |
ride high this expression is used when someone is very successful. you've won the big prize. now you're riding high! |
| 1175 |
richard of york gave battle in vain this is a mnemonic aid to recall the colours of the rainbow: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet. you can you this mnemonic to recall the colours: richard of york gave battle in vain. |
| 1176 |
revenge porn this idiom refers to the malicious posting of sexual images online to harm the reputation of an ex partner. she posted some nasty pictures of him from when they were together. it's revenge porn, obviously. |
| 1177 |
rest up this idiom means to take a break from your efforts. you did well to get this far in the marathon. rest up now. |
| 1178 |
rest on one's laurels this idiom means to be satisfied with one's past success and to consider further effort unnecessary. if you want to become a manager you shouldn't rest on your laurels. |
| 1179 |
remains to be seen if something is still unknown or a decision has not yet been taken, it remains to be seen. the construction of a new shopping mall has been voted, but the location remains to be seen. |
| 1180 |
reinvent the wheel this idiom means to waste a great deal of time or effort in creating something that already exists. you can use the existing blueprints. there's no need to reinvent the wheel. |
| 1181 |
regain your feet if you regain your feet, you stand up again after stumbling or falling. this expression can also mean that you are once again financially solvent after a difficult period. i helped my family to regain their feet. |
| 1182 |
regain your composure if you regain your composure, you calm down and control your emotions again after a stressful or upsetting event. it took me a while to regain my composure after hearing all she had to say. |
| 1183 |
refresh someone's memory this expression means that you remind someone of facts they seem to have forgotten. let me refresh your memory – you've missed two classes. |
| 1184 |
reduce to tears if your behaviour or attitude makes someone cry, you reduce them to tears. the criticism of his project was so harsh that he was reduced to tears. |
| 1185 |
redress the balance an effort to redress the balance is an attempt to make things equal. with too few women applying for public jobs, the authorities declared that an effort would be made to redress the balance. |
| 1186 |
red-light district an area of a town or city where there is a concentration of sex, shops, prostitution, strip clubs etc. is known as the red light district. a photograph of her taken in a red-light district caused the scandal. |
| 1187 |
red-eye this term is used to refer to a journey that leaves late at night and arrives early in the morning. i had to catch the red-eye bus last night and i'm completely exhausted now. |
| 1188 |
red tape the term refers to official rules and bureaucratic paperwork that prevent things from being done quickly. but for red tape, the company would be operating now. |
| 1189 |
red letter day this idiom refers to a day of significance, like a birthday or anniversary. tomorrow is his red letter day. he always celebrates it with a big party. |
| 1190 |
red in tooth and claw this idiom is a reference to the sometimes violent natural world, in which predatory animals unsentimentally cover their teeth and claws with the blood of their prey as they kill and devour them. this is nature, red in tooth and claw. |
| 1191 |
red hot this expression is used for describing something new and exciting, creating much demand. the new movie is red-hot. some fans have been waiting outside cinemas for hours. |
| 1192 |
red herring a red herring is a fact or argument introduced into a discussion which draws attention away from the main point. procedures are a red herring. the crisis is important at this moment. |
| 1193 |
red flag to a bull to say that s statement or action is like a red flag to a bull means that it is sure to make someone very angry or upset. don't mention that issue today. it would be like a red flag to a bull! |
| 1194 |
recipe for disaster if you refer to a plan or idea as a recipe for disaster, you think it is likely to produce bad results. our children together for christmas? sounds like a recipe for disaster. |
| 1195 |
recharge one's batteries when you recharge your batteries, you take a break from a tiring or stressful activity in order to relax and recover your energy. she needs a holiday to recharge her batteries. |
| 1196 |
rear its ugly head if something unpleasant reappears after lying dormant for some time, it rears its ugly head. it is feared that communism is rearing its ugly head again. |
| 1197 |
reap the harvest if you reap the harvest, you benefit or suffer as a direct result of past actions. when she won the championship, she reaped the harvest of all hard training. |
| 1198 |
ready to drop someone who is ready to drop is nearly too exhausted to stay standing. i've been training all day in the gym. i'm ready to drop! |
| 1199 |
ready and waiting something or someone that is ready and waiting is prepared and available for a particular task or occasion. there was a vast amount of drinks ready and waiting for the guests. |
| 1200 |
read the riot act if you declare with force and authority that something must stop, and announce the consequences if it happens again, you read the riot act. the manager read us the riot act after we lied to him. |
| 1201 |
read between the lines to read between the lines means to understand the real meaning of what is written or said, without need for any further detail. it's good to know how to read between the lines. it helps you during life. |
| 1202 |
reach saturation point when something reaches saturation point, it is so full that nothing more can be added. that's enough for today. my brain has reached saturation point. |
| 1203 |
reach for the moon if you reach for the moon, you are very ambitious and try to achieve something even it is difficult. i like my cousin because he is talented and ambitious; he always tends to reach for the moon. |
| 1204 |
raze to the ground this phrase means to destroy and sweep completely away. several villages have been razed to the ground. |
| 1205 |
ray of sunshine this expression refers to someone or something that brings hope into the lives of others. her son is a real ray of sunshine for her. |
| 1206 |
raw deal if you say that someone got a raw deal, you think they were treated unfairly or badly. i don't like that company at all. you got a raw deal when you worked for them. |
| 1207 |
rats in the attic if you say that someone has rats in the attic, you mean that they are a bit mad or that their behaviour is eccentric. he kept repeating the same question, even if i answered it. i think he has got rats in the attic. |
| 1208 |
rather you than me this expression is used to express sympathy with someone who has to do something unpleasant or difficult, and you would not like to be in their situation. i have to announce the bad news. oh, steve, rather you than me. |
| 1209 |
rat-arsed this idiom means extremely drunk. i got completely rat-arsed at her party. |
| 1210 |
rat race this expression refers to an exhausting and repetitive routine, a hectic struggle for success. i am tired of the rat race. next year i will retire and move to the country. |
| 1211 |
raring to go if someone is raring to go, they are very eager and enthusiastic about the idea of doing something. they can't wait to go on holiday. they are raring to go! |
| 1212 |
rant and rave if you rave about something, you protest noisily and forcefully. the old man ranted and raved about the new security system. |
| 1213 |
rank and file this idiom refers to the ordinary members of a group, as opposed to the group leadership. the rank and file didn't agree to the plan. |
| 1214 |
ran the defence ragged this refers to an attacking player who made the defenders from the opposing team look uncomfortable or incompetent. steve deserves to be the man of this match. he ran the defence ragged and scored two goals. |
| 1215 |
ram something down someone's throat if you ram something down someone's throat, you force them to accept something against their will. i encouraged her to learn german, but i couldn't ram it down her throat. |
| 1216 |
rake in the money if you rake in the money, you make money in large quantities. their business is so successful; they're raking in the money. |
| 1217 |
raise the roof when people raise the roof, they make a lot of noise by cheering, shouting, whistling or clapping their hands. the party was such a success – the participants raised the roof. |
| 1218 |
raise eyebrows at something someone who raises their eyebrows at something shows surprise or disapproval by the expression on their face. when the manager arrived in jeans, there were a lot of raised eyebrows. |
| 1219 |
raise cain this idiom means to cause trouble or create an uproar. i think we should raise cain and change something in this county. |
| 1220 |
raining stair-rods this idiom refers to raining very heavily. have you seen the weather forecast? tomorrow it will rain stair-rods. |
| 1221 |
raining cats and dogs if it's raining cats and dogs, it is raining very heavily. we'll have to cancel the meeting – it's raining cats and dogs. |
| 1222 |
rain on someone's parade this means prevent someone from enjoying an event or to spoil somebody's plans. i won't let this new situation to rain on my parade. |
| 1223 |
raghead this term refers to a person who wears a turban or keffiyeh and is often used as a term of abuse for an arab or muslim. you are such a raghead! i don't like when you do that! |
| 1224 |
rag-and-bone man this idiom refers to a collector of discarded clothes, bones and other low-value items that can be re-sold to merchants. cloth was recycled to make shoddy and bones were used to make glue. my neighbour is a rag-and-bone man. |
| 1225 |
rag, tag and bobtail this idiom refers to a common rabble – the hoi polloi. the rag, tag and bobtail were protesting. |
| 1226 |
racked with pain when someone is suffering from severe pain, they are racked with pain. the warrior was so injured that he was racked with pain. |
| 1227 |
rack one's brains if you rack your brains, you try very hard to think of something or to remember something. i don't like this period of the year. i have to rack my brains to find ideas for presents. |
| 1228 |
race against time when someone is in a race against time, they have to work very quickly in order to do or finish something before a certain time. sorry, i can't talk to you now. i'm in a race against time. |
| 1229 |
quote, unquote this idiom means to use a phrase which has been coined by someone else but saying it in disbelief. he wants to practice law because it is a quote – respected – unquote field. |
| 1230 |
quite a bit this idiom refers to a significant amount. please take some cake home with you – there's quite a bit left. |
| 1231 |
quiet as a mouse when someone is as quiet as a mouse, they make no noise at all. the burglar was as quiet as a mouse. |
| 1232 |
quid pro quo this idiom refers to something that is given to a person in return for something they have done. the government has promised bigger wages as a quid pro quo for the stopping of violence. |
| 1233 |
quicker than lager turns to piss this idiom means very quick. she ate the pizza quicker than lager turns to piss. |
| 1234 |
quick temper someone who has a quick temper gets angry very easily. she makes me nervous – she has such a quick temper. |
| 1235 |
quick off the mark if someone is quick off the mark, they are quick to react to an event or take advantage of an opportunity. you've got to be quick off the mark when the store announce special offers so as to get that laptop. |
| 1236 |
quick as a flash if you do something quick as a flash, you do it very quickly. quick as a flash, she exited the room. |
| 1237 |
quick as a dog can lick a dish if you do something surprisingly fast, you do it as quick as a dog can lick a dish. i went home as quick as a dog can lick a dish. |
| 1238 |
quick and dirty a hasty method or solution, usually cheap and temporary, that is not without flaws is quick and dirty. i've repaired your car but keep in mind that this is a quick and dirty solution. |
| 1239 |
queer the pitch this idiom means to ruin a plan or undertaking. this new building has really queered the pitch for my store. |
| 1240 |
queer street this expression refers to the imaginary location of people who have major problems in their life, especially debt. this doesn't refer to a real place and is not connected to homosexuality. my business has gone into liquidation. i'm really in queer street. |
| 1241 |
queer fish this idiom refers to a person whose behaviour seems strange or unusual. everyone could tell that she was a queer fish. |
| 1242 |
queensberry rules this expression refers to the standard rules of polite or acceptable behaviour. each organisation has queensberry rules for its members to follow. |
| 1243 |
quantum leap this means to make a significant improvement or dramatic advancement. our store has taken a quantum leap from where it was three years ago. |
| 1244 |
quality time this idiom refers to the time spent with a child, spouse or friend in an uninterrupted and attentive way. i need some quality time with ann. |
| 1245 |
quaking in one's boots when someone is extremely scared, it is said that they are quaking in their boots. when she saw the snakes in the water, she started quaking in her boots. |
| 1246 |
pyrrhic victory a victory that is obtained at a tremendous cost or causes such a great loss that it is not worth winning, is called a pyrrhic victory. i won the court case, but it was a pyrrhic victory because of the legal fees. |
| 1247 |
putty in someone's hands this idiom means "easily influenced by someone else or excessively willing to do what someone else wishes". as soon as he learnt the truth from them, he became putty in their hands. |
| 1248 |
put your shoulder to the wheel if you put your shoulder to the wheel, you start putting a lot of effort into a difficult task. we have to put out shoulders to the wheel so as to deliver the project on time. |
| 1249 |
put your house in order if you tell someone to put their house in order, you are saying that they should organize their own affairs before giving advice to other people. i don't accept your piece of advice. you should put your house in order first. |
| 1250 |
put your heart and soul into something if you put your heart and soul into something, you are very enthusiastic and invest a lot of energy and hard work in it. i was determined to make a success of my project. i put my heart and soul into it. |
| 1251 |
put your head on the block if you put yourself in a dangerous situation where you risk losing your job or your reputation if things go wrong, you put your head on the block. she asked me to recommend her son for the job, but i won't put my head on the block. |
| 1252 |
put your best foot forward if you put your best foot forward, you do something as fast as you can. it's a long way home, but if i put my best foot forward i should be there on time. |
| 1253 |
put words in someone's mouth if you claim that someone has said something or suggest what they should say, you are putting words in their mouth. stop putting words in my mouth! i didn't say that! |
| 1254 |
put up your dukes this idiom means to put up your fists and prepare to fight. are you ready? put up your dukes! |
| 1255 |
put two and two together a person who can put two and two together is capable of reaching the right conclusion based on the information they have. there's no need to help her. she can put two and two together. |
| 1256 |
put the wood in the hole this idiom means to close the door. put the wood in the hole, please. it's cold outside. |
| 1257 |
put the squeeze on somebody if you put the squeeze on someone, you put pressure on them to force them to do something. she was reluctant to work with me until the manager put the squeeze on her. |
| 1258 |
put the pedal to the metal when you put the pedal to the metal, you accelerate or make something go faster. if we put the pedal to the metal, we will finish this project till tonight. |
| 1259 |
put the mockers on this phrase means to thwart someone's efforts or cause them to have bad luck. it may also mean to be cursed with bad luck. someone has really put the mockers on the team. they lost the game! |
| 1260 |
put the kibosh on if you do something to prevent a plan or activity from happening or developing, you put the kibosh on it. the rain put the kibosh on my plan. |
| 1261 |
put the clock back this idiom means to change to a lower level or earlier time. these regulations have put the clock back five years. |
| 1262 |
put the cart before the horse a person who puts the cart before the horse is doing things in the wrong order. building a university before knowing the age of the population means putting the cart before the horse. |
| 1263 |
put the brakes on this expression means to stop or slow down an activity. the man insulted my mother, so i had to put the brakes on. |
| 1264 |
put that in your pipe and smoke it this expression means that you have to accept what the speaker says, whether you like it or not. i'm not going to buy you a new smartphone, so put that in your pipe and smoke it. |
| 1265 |
put something on the long finger if you put something on the long finger, you postpone it indefinitely. she intends to go back to university, but she keeps putting it on the long finger. |
| 1266 |
put something on ice if a project or plan is put on ice, all further action has been suspended or postponed for an indefinite period of time. the plans for the new marketing strategy have been put on ice. |
| 1267 |
put someone on the spot if you put someone on the spot, you put them in an uncomfortable position, for example by asking difficult questions which they cannot avoid. the police officer was put on the spot when the criminal pointed a knife at him. |
| 1268 |
put someone in their place if someone causes offence or irritation by speaking or behaving in an inappropriate manner, you put them in their place by letting them know that they are not as important as they seem to believe. he needs to be put in his place! |
| 1269 |
put someone in the picture if you give somebody all the information necessary to enable them to fully understand a situation, you put them in the picture. some things have been changed. ley me put you in the picture. |
| 1270 |
put skin in the game if you put skin in the game, you show your confidence in a company by making a considerable investment or a financial commitment. a serious investor is willing to put skin in the game. that's great for our company. |
| 1271 |
put pants on one leg at a time to say that someone puts their pants on one leg at a time means that the person is a human being no different from anyone else. i don't understand why you are scared to speak to her. she puts her pants on one leg at a time. |
| 1272 |
put paid to something this idiom means to finish or destroy something. a knee injury has put paid to her career. |
| 1273 |
put out to pasture to say that someone has been put out to pasture means that they have been forced to retire or give up their responsibilities. she feels that it's too early to be put out to pasture. |
| 1274 |
put out feelers before doing something, if you try to discover what other people think about it by making discreet enquiries, you put out feelers. politicians put out feelers to test public reaction to their proposals. |
| 1275 |
put one's foot down to put one's foot down means to exert authority to prevent something from happening. she wanted to go to the club with her friends, but her father put his foot down. |
| 1276 |
put one's feet up when you put your feet up, you sit down and relax. come in and put your feet up. |
| 1277 |
put on your thinking cap if you tell someone to put on their thinking cap, you ask them to find an idea or solve a problem by thinking about it. this is today's questions. it's time to put on your thinking cap! |
| 1278 |
put on the wooden overcoat this phrase means to die. have you heard about him? he put on the wooden overcoat two days ago. |
| 1279 |
put on a pedestal this idiom means to admire or love someone so much that you believe they have no faults. most people put movie stars on a pedestal. |
| 1280 |
put money where your mouth is if you put your money where your mouth is, not only do you express your interest, but you give financial support to causes that you believe in. if people are really interested in helping the poor, they should put their money where their mouth is. |
| 1281 |
put lipstick on a pig this expression means that to dress up something unappealing, in a vain attempt to make it look better, is like putting lipstick on a pig. flowers on that house premises would be like putting lipstick on a pig. |
| 1282 |
put it mildly if you put it mildly, you express your opinion or reaction in a controlled way, without exaggeration. steven is 2 years old and already able to read. that's promising, to put it mildly. |
| 1283 |
put in a good word for someone if you put in a good word for someone, you say positive things in support of that person in order to help them. i can help you. i will put in a good word for you. |
| 1284 |
put a quart into a pint pot to say that you can't put a quart into a pint pot means that you cannot fit something too big into a small space or that you are trying to do something impossible. you'll never get that into your luggage. you can't put a quart into a pint pot. |
| 1285 |
put a finger on something if you are able to identify or understand something such as the cause of a problem or the solution to it, you put your finger on it. i can't put a finger on the cause of these problems. |
| 1286 |
put a damper on something if someone or something puts a damper on a situation or event, they make it less successful or enjoyable. the plan was going well until her complaints put a damper on it. |
| 1287 |
pushing up the daisies to say that someone is pushing up the daisies means that they are dead. madame smith? she's been pushing up the daisies for over five years! |
| 1288 |
push your luck if you push your luck, you try to get more than what you have already obtained and risk spoiling the situation. you've got your mother's permission to go to town. don't push your luck by asking another thing. |
| 1289 |
push the envelope when you push the envelope, you do something in an extreme way or exceed the limits of what is considered acceptable. some tv producers push the envelope when they expose people's private lives. |
| 1290 |
push the boat out this expression means to celebrate or enjoy oneself. having finished the exams, they decided to push the boat out. |
| 1291 |
purple patch this idiom refers to an overly elaborate or effusive piece of writing. also, a period of notable success or good luck. she's on the purple patch now! it's the best period of her life. |
| 1292 |
puppy love this idiom means short-term adolescent love. don't worry about them. it's only puppy love. |
| 1293 |
punch line the punch line is the funny sentence that ends a joke or an amusing story. when sam tells jokes, he never gets the punch line right. |
| 1294 |
punch above your weight if you punch above your weight, you try to perform at a level that is beyond your ability. i submitted my business plan for the contest, but i knew i was punching above my weight. |
| 1295 |
pump up this idiom means to increase someone's or one's own excitement, confidence or mental preparation. the coach pumped up all of us. |
| 1296 |
pull yourself up by your bootstraps this idiom means to improve your situation by your own efforts. next year i will pull myself up by my bootstraps. you have my word! |
| 1297 |
pull yourself together this idiom means to calm down and behave normally. i've understood that you had a bad day, but please pull yourself together. |
| 1298 |
pull your weight to say that somebody pulls their weight means that they do their fair share of the work. it's a pleasure to work with them. they always pull their weight. |
| 1299 |
pull your socks up this idiom means to be determined to work very hard. the organisation needs me to pull my socks up now that the context is so intricate. |
| 1300 |
pull your finger out this phrase means to hurry up or to make every possible effort. i will pull my finger out for the success of this mission! |
| 1301 |
pull through if you pull through, you recover from a serious illness. she had to undergo brain surgery but she pulled through. |
| 1302 |
pull the rug from under someone's feet if you pull the rug from under someone's feet, you suddenly and unexpectedly remove all help or support. when his mother stopped sending him money, she practically pulled the rug from under his feet. |
| 1303 |
pull the plug this idiom means to do something that prevents an activity from continuing, especially by no longer giving money to support it. it's time to pull the plug on this business. |
| 1304 |
pull the other one after hearing an unlikely story, this is a way of telling the speaker that you neither believe what they say nor whatever they may say next. you've obtained a date with sarah? yeah, now pull the other one! |
| 1305 |
pull strings if someone pulls strings, they use influential friends in order to obtain an advantage. i can help you by pulling some strings. don't worry too much. |
| 1306 |
pull someone's leg if you pull someone's leg, you tease them by telling them something that is not true. of course i'm not going to buy her a house. i was just pulling your leg. |
| 1307 |
pull somebody's horns in if you pull your horns in, you become less ambitious and curb your enthusiasm. the team came bottom of the league this season. they'll have to pull their horns in when making bids for new players, don't you think so? |
| 1308 |
pull out all the stops if you pull out all the stops, you do everything you can to make something successful. i'll have to pull out all the stops to get the store ready for the opening day. |
| 1309 |
pull no punches if someone pulls no punches, they speak openly and honestly, holding nothing back. the medical doctor pulled no punches. he explained in detail the risks of the operation. |
| 1310 |
pull a rabbit out of a hat this means to do something unexpected that may have seemed impossible. my business partner pulled a rabbit out of his hat and we got a new contract. |
| 1311 |
pull a long face this idiom means to look dismal and unhappy. she pulled a long face after being scolded. |
| 1312 |
pull a fast one to pull a fast one means to gain an advantage over someone by deceiving them. the street vendor pulled a fast one while the customer was not paying attention. |
| 1313 |
proud as a peacock a person who is as proud as a peacock is extremely proud. when my brother won first prize, i was as proud as a peacock. |
| 1314 |
proper do this expression refers to a social event with formal clothes and top-class catering, organised to celebrate something. he says that he would be satisfied with a civil wedding and a little party but she wants a proper do. |
| 1315 |
prone to this idiom means having a tendency to something – usually awful or unfortunate. please, drive slow. this road is prone to accidents. |
| 1316 |
prolong the agony if someone prolongs the agony, they make an unpleasant or tense situation last longer than necessary. please, don't prolong the agony. just tell me what i have to do. |
| 1317 |
prod someone into doing something if you prod someone into doing something, you make a hesitant person do something that they are reluctant to do. he is ideal for the job, so i have to prod him into applying for the position. |
| 1318 |
primrose path this idiom refers to the pleasant route through life, of pleasure and dissipation. unable to enjoy her wealth, she felt she was being led down the primrose path to self-destruction. |
| 1319 |
prime time this idiom refers to the time of day when the tv audience is at its largest. she wants to appear on tv in prime time. |
| 1320 |
prick up your ears if you prick up your ears, you suddenly pay attention to what is being said. the little girl pricked up her ears when she heard the word "candy". |
| 1321 |
price yourself out of the market if you price yourself out of the market, you charge such a high price for your goods or services that nobody wants to buy them. we were so eager to make money rapidly that we priced ourselves out of the market. |
| 1322 |
price you have to pay the price you have to pay is what you have to endure in return for something you gain or achieve. this is the price you have to pay for obtaining the position. |
| 1323 |
prey on your mind if something preys on your mind, it troubles you so much that you keep thinking about it. the vision of my house flooded kept preying on my mind. |
| 1324 |
pressed for time if you are pressed for time, you have hardly enough time to do something, so you must hurry. sorry, i can't talk to her right now. i'm pressed for time. |
| 1325 |
press the panic button if you press the panic button, you raise the alarm too quickly or react too hastily in a difficult or stressful situation. there's no need to press the panic button for the moment! |
| 1326 |
press something home if you press something home, you insist on a point in a discussion or argument. my lawyer kept pressing home the fact that i was on holiday that day. |
| 1327 |
press into service this phrase means to induce someone to join the military. more recently, the phrase is used to mean "make impromptu use of" some article or person to fulfil some task – usually someone or thing that isn't normally used for such a task. steve has been pressed into service by his manager. |
| 1328 |
prepare the ground when you prepare the ground, you try to make it easier for a future event or action to happen or be accepted. the team prepared the ground for negotiations. |
| 1329 |
pregnant pause a pregnant pause is a moment of silence full of unexpressed meaning. there was a pregnant pause before he answered the question. |
| 1330 |
preaching to the converted a person who preaches to the converted is encouraging people to support an idea that they already agree with. talking to athletes about the benefits of sport is preaching to the converted. |
| 1331 |
preaching to the choir this idiom means to pointlessly try to convince a person or group to accept an opinion that they already agree with. speaking about this project is like preaching to the choir. |
| 1332 |
praying at the porcelain altar this phrase is a comic reference to kneeling and vomiting down the toilet. when i entered the bathroom, she was praying at the porcelain altar. |
| 1333 |
practice makes perfect this idiom means that diligent practice leads to expertise. you are making good progress. keep going – practice makes perfect. |
| 1334 |
power dressing this idiom refers to a stylish and expensive clothing style, intended to convey the impression of assertiveness and competence (predominantly worn by women). she likes power dressing. |
| 1335 |
pour your heart out to someone if you pour your heart out to someone, you express your feelings freely. when sheila needs to pour her heart out to someone, she goes to visit her parents. |
| 1336 |
pour water into a sieve if someone spends time or energy trying to do something that is inefficient or useless, it is like pouring water into a sieve. explaining this problem to him is like pouring water into a sieve. |
| 1337 |
pour oil on troubled waters if a person pours oil on troubled waters, they do or say something to calm a tense situation or make people stop arguing. he's a good negotiator and can pour oil on troubled waters. |
| 1338 |
pour cold water on something if you pour cold water on someone's plans, opinion or ideas, you discourage them by showing little enthusiasm. the manager poured cold water on the idea of changing the sales plan. |
| 1339 |
pound the pavement someone who pounds the pavement walks the streets or goes from company to company, usually in search of employment. one can also pound the pavement in an effort to raise funds or gain support for a cause. i'm going to pound the pavement until i find a better job. |
| 1340 |
pound of flesh this idiom refers to something which is owed that is ruthlessly required to be paid back. i need the money back. i know it's a pound of flesh. |
| 1341 |
potty mouth this idiom refers to a foul-mouthed person. i couldn't believe what he said – he's a real potty mouth. |
| 1342 |
pot calling the kettle black this expression is used in a situation where a person with a fault denounces someone else for having the same fault. the competitor accused another player of cheating; it was the pot calling the kettle black! |
| 1343 |
posh this idiom means "port out, starboard home". a woman with a very posh accent phoned me. |
| 1344 |
porky this is a slang term for a lie. you can't trust what she tells you – almost half of her stories are porkies. |
| 1345 |
pork pies this is a slang term for lies. i don't believe you. it's a pork pie! |
| 1346 |
popcorn movie a popcorn movie is one that you watch almost purely for entertainment. while there are movies that will make you think and give you a new perspective on life, popcorn movies won't. would you like to watch a popcorn movie tonight? |
| 1347 |
pop the question when you ask someone to marry you, you pop the question. it was during a trip to rome that steve popped the question. |
| 1348 |
pop one's cork this idioms means to go crazy. i have something important to tell you. pay attention and don't pop your cork. |
| 1349 |
pop one's clogs this is a euphemistic way of saying that a person is dead. nobody lives in that house since the old woman popped her clogs. |
| 1350 |
pony-and-trap this idiom means rubbish, nonsense or "of poor quality". this is a pony-and-trap laptop. |
| 1351 |
pond life this idiom refers to a worthless or stupid person or group. these racist fans are pond life. |
| 1352 |
pomp and circumstance this idiom refers to formal ceremonies. after three hours of pomp and circumstance, the diplomas were awarded. |
| 1353 |
politically correct when people are politically correct, they carefully choose the language they use in order to avoid offending particular groups of people. be careful that your speech be politically correct. |
| 1354 |
polish the apple this idiom means to try to win favor through flattery. you should polish the apple with the manager if you want that promotion. |
| 1355 |
polish something off if you polish something off, you finish it quickly or easily. they thought there was too much food, but the guests polished it off in no time. |
| 1356 |
poker face if you have a poker face, you show no emotion at all. you can't see anything on her poker face. |
| 1357 |
point-to-point this idiom refers to a race, usually a horse-race, in a direct line across countryside. the term has also migrated to other areas which involve transit from one specific point to another; for example, direct air transport from one city to another and p2p used in internet communications. who do you think will win on this point-to-point route? |
| 1358 |
point-and-click this idiom denotes an interface in which the user points with a cursor and clicks on a mouse (or other input device) in order to initiate a function. this is a point-and-click software. |
| 1359 |
point percy at the porcelain this phrase is a comic reference to urinating. do you know where i could point percy at the porcelain? |
| 1360 |
point of no return when you reach the point of no return, you must continue what you have started, because you have gone so far that it is impossible to go back. i've resigned from that boring job. now, i've reached a point of no return. |
| 1361 |
point blank this idiom means to fire something at such close range that it cannot be missed. it can also mean "frankly" or "straightforwardly". he asked her point blank whether she had cheated on him. |
| 1362 |
poetic justice poetic justice is an ideal form of justice in which virtue is rewarded and evil punished. it is poetic justice that the country responsible for starting the war should suffer most from its effects. |
| 1363 |
plug-ugly this idiom means extremely ugly, usually of people. your cousin is plug-ugly! |
| 1364 |
plug something if you promote something by talking about it favorably, you plug it. she has accepted to appear on the show so as to plug her new magazine. |
| 1365 |
pluck something out of the air this expression means to say a name, date, number etc. spontaneously, without thinking about it. i just plucked a name out of the air and called my cat daisy. |
| 1366 |
plenty of other fish in the sea if you say this, you mean that there are many other people just as good as the person mentioned. did she refuse the job?! never mind – there are plenty of other fish in the sea. |
| 1367 |
play your cards right if you play your cards right, you do all that is necessary in order to succeed or to obtain what you want. if i play my cards right, i'll get the biggest contract! |
| 1368 |
play with fire people who take unnecessary risks or behave in a dangerous way are playing with fire. driving at high speed on this road is playing with fire. |
| 1369 |
play truant a young person who plays truant stays away from school without permission or excuse. marry hasn't any reason to be absent again from school – she's playing truant! |
| 1370 |
play to the gallery a person who plays to the gallery tries to gain popularity by behaving in a way that will appeal to the majority. it's no secret that she was elected by playing to the gallery. |
| 1371 |
play the race card this idiom means to try to gain an advantage by drawing attention to someone's race or to issues of race. there's no other way. play the race card! |
| 1372 |
play the market if you play the market, you buy stocks and shares in the hope of making a profit when you sell them. she made a fortune by playing the market. |
| 1373 |
play the game if you play the game, you accept to do things according to generally-accepted customs or code of behaviour. not all internet users play the game. |
| 1374 |
play the field this idiom means to indulge in a series of sexual relationships. i have three girlfriends on the go at once. i like playing the field. |
| 1375 |
play second fiddle to someone if you play second fiddle to someone, you accept to be second in importance to that person or have a lower position. she liked to play second fiddle to the marketing director. she has learned a lot. |
| 1376 |
play safe this expression means to avoid risk. we decided to play safe and wait for a more secure place for our money. |
| 1377 |
play right into someone's hands if you play into someone's hands, you do exactly what your opponent or enemy wants you to do, so that they gain an advantage over you. when the protesters became violent, they played right into the hands of the police. |
| 1378 |
play possum when someone plays possum, they pretend to be dead or asleep in order to avoid something they don't want to do. she's not asleep. she is just playing possum. |
| 1379 |
play it by ear this expression means to improvise or do something without preparation, according to the demands of the situation. i don't know what we should do here, so let's play it by ear. |
| 1380 |
play in the big leagues this expression comes from sport – to play at the highest level. it means to be involved in something important or of big proportions. it's often used in business when someone is promoted or starts doing work that has a big impact. i have been promoted to regional manager. i'm playing in the big leagues now! |
| 1381 |
play havoc if someone or something plays havoc, they cause disorder and confusion. the flood played havoc with the construction site. |
| 1382 |
play gooseberry if you play gooseberry, you join or accompany two people who have a romantic relationship and want to be alone. i was invited to join them but i didn't want to play gooseberry. |
| 1383 |
play games with someone if you are not completely honest or behave in a way that is insincere, evasive or intentionally misleading, you are playing games with someone. stop playing games with us. just tell us the truth. |
| 1384 |
play for time if you play for time, you try to delay or prevent something from happening in order to gain an advantage. i decided to play for time in the hope that the pc price would decrease. |
| 1385 |
play footsie with someone if you play footsie with someone, you tough their feet lightly, especially under the table, to show your sexual interest. steve played footsie with ana at the office christmas party. |
| 1386 |
play fast and loose this idiom means to be inconstant and unreliable. playing fast and loose is not a solution! |
| 1387 |
play ducks and drakes this phrase means to behave recklessly or to idly squander one's wealth. i hate playing ducks and drakes! maybe this is the reason why she doesn't like me. |
| 1388 |
play cat and mouse with someone to play cat and mouse with someone means to treat them alternately cruelly and kindly, so that they do not know what to expect. she is difficult to communicate with. she is always playing cat and mouse with us. |
| 1389 |
play by the rules if you play by the rules, you behave in a fair and honest way with people. you can trust her. she always play by the rules. |
| 1390 |
play by ear to play by ear means to improvise or act without preparation, according to the demands of the situation. it's impossible to know how the situation will develop. let's just play it by ear. |
| 1391 |
play a waiting game if you play a waiting game, you deliberately delay taking action in order to be able to act more effectively later. the fisherman keeps his eyes on the rods, playing a waiting game. |
| 1392 |
plastic smile a person with a plastic smile is wearing a forced smile which makes them appear happier than they really are. the receptionist greeted us with a plastic smile. |
| 1393 |
plan b plan b is an alternative solution to be adopted if one's original plan does not succeed. plan b is to move the production unit to another county. |
| 1394 |
plain sailing an activity or task that is plain sailing is without difficulty or free from trouble. once the mission was approved, it was plain sailing. |
| 1395 |
pitch in this idiom means to join in and help with something. last weekend we pitched in and cleaned the garden. |
| 1396 |
pitch dark this idiom means intensely dark, usually in reference to a moonless, starless night. the sky was pitch dark. |
| 1397 |
pitch black this is another expression for somewhere that is very dark and you are unable to see anything. i was afraid to do downstairs because the corridor was pitch black. |
| 1398 |
piping hot this idiom means very hot, usually referring to food. this pizza is piping hot. |
| 1399 |
pipe dream this idiom refers to an unrealistic hope or fantasy. i was thinking of her kissing me...what a pipe dream! |
| 1400 |
pink elephants this term refers to hallucinations or strange imaginary things seen by people as a result of heavy drinking or the use of narcotics. i don't want any drinks, thank you! i'll be seeing pink elephants otherwise. |
| 1401 |
pin money this idiom refers to a small amount of money. she will babysit for you for pin money. |
| 1402 |
pigs might fly this expression highlights disbelief or the idea that miracles might happen but are extremely unlikely. my grandfather using a smartphone? yeah...and pigs might fly! |
| 1403 |
pigs get fat, hogs get slaughtered you should be satisfied when you have enough; if you are too greedy, like a hog, you risk losing everything. my son, please remember that pigs get fat, hogs get slaughtered. |
| 1404 |
piggyback this idiom refers to a ride on someone's back with your arms round the person's neck and your legs round their waist. i gave my cousin a piggyback ride. |
| 1405 |
pigeon-chested this idiom means having a narrow chest with a protruding breastbone – alluding to the appearance of pigeons. the young girl is pigeon-chested. |
| 1406 |
pig out this idiom means to overeat in a slovenly manner. i told the babysitter not to pig out, but when i got back there were five pizza boxes. |
| 1407 |
pie-eyed someone who is pie-eyed is completely drunk. after all night, he was pie-eyed. |
| 1408 |
piece of writing this expression refers to the work of a writer, anything expressed in letters of the alphabet (especially when considered from the point of view of style and effect). the article was a fine piece of writing. |
| 1409 |
piece of work this idiom refers to a complex, tricky or odd person. my best friend has the weirdest opinions; he's a real piece of work. |
| 1410 |
piece of the action when someone wants a piece of the action, they want to participate in what other people are doing and benefit from it. the police officer wanted a piece of the action. |
| 1411 |
piece of piss this phrase refers to a straightforward task that can easily be accomplished. beating this game is a piece of piss. |
| 1412 |
piece of cake to refer to something as a piece of cake means that you consider it to be very easy. the spanish test was a piece of cake! |
| 1413 |
pie in the sky if an idea or project is pie in the sky, it is completely unrealistic or unlikely to be achieved. his project about expanding to africa is a pie in the sky. |
| 1414 |
picture-perfect this idiom means perfect in appearance. almost every hill was crowned with a picture-perfect village. |
| 1415 |
pick up the tab if you pick up the tab, you pay the bill or pay the cost of something. there was a anniversary party and the manager picked up the tab. |
| 1416 |
pick up the pieces after a disastrous event, if you pick up the pieces you do what you can to get the situation back to normal again. after the flood destroyed our house, it took us a long time to pick up the pieces. |
| 1417 |
pick up steam if a project or process picks up steam, it starts to develop or become more active. the marketing campaign started slowly, but soon it picked up steam. |
| 1418 |
pick someone's brains if you pick someone's brains, you ask questions about a particular subject in order to obtain advice or information. i would like to pick your brains about buying a new car. |
| 1419 |
pick holes in something if someone picks holes in something such as a plan, an idea or a proposal, they criticize it or try to find fault with it. she is picking holes in all my ideas! |
| 1420 |
pick a fight someone who picks a fight deliberately looks for an opportunity to start a quarrel or begin an argument. some people were teasing her, trying to pick a fight. |
| 1421 |
photobomb this idiom means to spoil a photograph by unexpectedly appearing in the picture and taking the attention away from the intended subject – usually as a prank. we were all posed for the graduation picture and he photobombed us wearing a pink hat. |
| 1422 |
phone in a performance if you phone in a performance, you perform something in an uncommitted and disinterested manner. the actor phoned in his performance without a hint of personality. |
| 1423 |
petty cash this idiom refers to a small amount of money kept in an office for buying small things that are needed. take the money for pencils out of petty cash. |
| 1424 |
pet peeve this idiom refers to something that a particular person finds especially annoying. one of my biggest pet peeves is poor customer service. |
| 1425 |
pester power the term pester power refers to the power children exert over their parents by continually nagging or pestering them until they accept to buy advertised toys or products. marketing specialists know how powerful pester power can be. |
| 1426 |
pervert the course of justice if a person perverts the course of justice, they tell a lie or prevent the police from finding out the truth about something. she was accused of perverting the course of justice. |
| 1427 |
perish the thought this expression is used when the speaker really hopes that something will not happen. if i lost my job, perish the thought, i know what i would have to do. |
| 1428 |
perfect pitch this idiom refers to the ability to determine a musical note by ear. ann demonstrated early musical aptitude and would later realize that she had perfect pitch. |
| 1429 |
pep talk this idiom refers to a motivational speech. i met adrian for a pep talk because i had an important interview the very next day. |
| 1430 |
penny-pinching this idiom means parsimonious. he's a penny-pinching guy. |
| 1431 |
penny wise and pound foolish this phrase means that one is careful with one's spending of small sums of money but careless and wasteful with larger amounts. my wife is penny wise and pound foolish. |
| 1432 |
penny dreadful this idiom refers to a cheap, sensational comic or storybook. don't buy it. it's a penny dreadful. |
| 1433 |
pennies from heaven this idiom refers to money acquired without effort or risk. the phrase is applied to any unexpected benefits, but especially financial ones. winning the prize has been like pennies from heaven. |
| 1434 |
pen pusher a person who does work that requires little action (office work), is called a pen pusher. she enjoys being a pen pusher. |
| 1435 |
pen and ink this is a slang term for stink. that drain cover should be airtight sealed. there's a real pen and ink in there. |
| 1436 |
pell-mell this idiom means very fast and not organized. the customers ran pell-mell for the exit doors. |
| 1437 |
peg out this idiom means to die, especially to die of old age. my grandmother had been bedridden for months and finally pegged out yesterday. |
| 1438 |
peeping tom this idiom refers to someone who covertly observes sexually active or naked people. her habit of sunbathing topless brings out the peeping toms. |
| 1439 |
pecking order this idiom refers to a hierarchy of status seen among members of a group of people or animals, originally as observed among hens. she started as a clerk but gradually rose in the pecking order. |
| 1440 |
pears for your heirs this is an adage to encourage us to think long-term and look after future generations. we should all ensure that we leave pears for our heirs. |
| 1441 |
peachy keen this idiom means excellent, wonderful. this 12-year-old cognac is peachy keen. |
| 1442 |
peace of mind this phrase refers to a feeling of calm or not being worried. for my peace of mind, please check the door. |
| 1443 |
pay the piper this expression means to bear the ill-effects of something that was enjoyable at one time. she took my services, but now refuses to pay the piper. |
| 1444 |
pay over the odds if you pay over the odds, you pay too much or you pay more for something than it is really worth. i am willing to pay over the odds for an original perfume. |
| 1445 |
pay lip service if you pay lip service to an idea or cause, you give verbal support or approval, but fail to actually do anything. this company is paying lip service to the promotion of women's rights. |
| 1446 |
pay dividends if something you do pays dividends, it brings advantages or rewards at a later date. the time he spent learning german paid dividends when he started looking for a job. |
| 1447 |
pay dearly if you pay dearly for something that you do or say, you suffer a lot as a result of it. if you leave this company, you may pay dearly for it. |
| 1448 |
pat on the back this expression means to receive or express praise for a job well done. she received a pat on the back from her boss. |
| 1449 |
passing fancy if you have a passing fancy for something, you become fond of it for a short time. my father started collecting coins a few years ago, but it was just a passing fancy. |
| 1450 |
pass the torch this idiom means to pass on the responsibility. steve passed the torch to me after having completed so much of the project himself. |
| 1451 |
pass the buck if you say that someone is passing the buck, you are accusing them of not taking responsibility for a problem and expecting someone else to handle it. i don't like her. whenever a problem arises, she passes the buck. |
| 1452 |
pass over to the other side this phrase means to die. last week she passed over to the other side. |
| 1453 |
pass on the baton this idiom means to give responsibility for something important to another person. she resigns this month, passing on the baton to the current assistant manager. |
| 1454 |
pass muster if someone or something passes muster, they are considered to be satisfactory or acceptable. the interview went well in my opinion. i hope i'll pass muster. |
| 1455 |
partner up this idiom means to find a companion. let's partner up and dance to the rhythm. |
| 1456 |
partner in crime a person who helps you to plan something dishonest or unlawful is called your partner in crime. this expression can also be used jokingly. my wife was my partner in crime. |
| 1457 |
parting shot a parting shot is a final remark, often incisive, made just as one is leaving. she has a way of making parting shots that can be discouraging. |
| 1458 |
part brass rags this expression means to quarrel and break off friendship with someone. i will never part brass rags with you! |
| 1459 |
part and parcel something that is part and parcel of an activity or role is a key component or an essential element that cannot be avoided. i'm a tourist agent. travelling is part and parcel of my job. |
| 1460 |
par for the course if something is par for the course, it is typical of what to expect in that particular situation. i've done my job very well, but nobody congratulated me. that's par for the course in this firm. |
| 1461 |
paper trail if a person or organisation leaves a paper trail, they leave evidence in writing or in document form that will serve as proof of their actions. the police haven't found any paper trail. |
| 1462 |
paper tiger this term refers to a person, organisation or country that is less powerful or threatening than they appear to be. don't worry. he's just a paper tiger and he doesn't have the power to do that. |
| 1463 |
paper over the cracks to say that someone is papering over the cracks means that they are concealing a problem rather than dealing with it effectively. the measures taken to reduce air pollution are just paper over the cracks. |
| 1464 |
panic stations this idiom refers to a state of high alert, often a simulated panic for comic effect. one week before an exam it's always panic stations. |
| 1465 |
pale as a ghost someone who is as pale as a ghost is extremely pale. the woman who witnessed the murder was as pale as a ghost when the police arrived. |
| 1466 |
paint yourself into a corner if you paint yourself into a corner, you put yourself into a situation that restricts what you can do or say. i painted myself into a corner when i said that i was busy that night. |
| 1467 |
paint the town red if you paint the town red, you go out and enjoy a lively evening in bars, night-clubs etc. to celebrate her birthday, she painted the town red. |
| 1468 |
pain in the neck if you refer to somebody as a pain in the neck, you think they are very irritating. steve is a pain in the neck the way he is forever complaining! |
| 1469 |
paid peanuts if you are paid peanuts, you have a very low salary. there was a time in my life when i was paid peanuts. |
| 1470 |
page-turner this idiom refers to a thrilling book. this book is a page-turner. |
| 1471 |
paddle one's own canoe if you paddle your own canoe, you do what you want to do without help or interference from anyone. she decided to paddle her own canoe and set up her own business. |
| 1472 |
pad the bill if someone pads the bill, they add false items to a bill or invoice in order to increase the total amount. check the invoice before paying – this store tends to pad the bill! |
| 1473 |
packed like sardines if a group of people are packed like sardines, they are pressed together tightly and uncomfortably because there is not enough space. the tube was very crowded – we were packed like sardines! |
| 1474 |
pack something in if you pack something in, you abandon it or give it up. i found city life so stressful that i decided to pack it in and move to the countryside. |
| 1475 |
pack of lies a large number of untruthful statements is referred to as a pack of lies. the story turned out to be a pack of lies. |
| 1476 |
overstep the mark if you overstep the mark, you go too far and upset someone by saying something or behaving in a way that is unacceptable. she overstepped the mark when she called him an "old fool". |
| 1477 |
overshoot the mark if you make a mistake as a result of misjudging something, you overshoot the mark. steven overshot the mark by about 30%. |
| 1478 |
overplay your hand if you overplay your hand, you are overconfident and spoil your chances of success by trying to obtain too much. i'm hoping for a bonus for my good results, but i might overplay my hand if i ask for a promotion. |
| 1479 |
over-egg the pudding if you try to improve something excessively by adding unnecessary details, you over-egg the pudding. please, keep your report simple. don't over-egg the pudding. |
| 1480 |
over the moon if you are over the moon about something, you are very happy about it. after i heard the results i was over the moon. |
| 1481 |
over the hill if a person is over the hill, they have reached an age when they can no longer perform as well as before. you are quite over the hill, but still dance very well. |
| 1482 |
over my dead body! this expression is used by someone who absolutely refuses to allow someone to do something. can i get my ear pierced? over my dead body! |
| 1483 |
over head and ears this idiom means "excessively, completely". the family was over head and ears in debt. |
| 1484 |
over and over again this idiom literally means again and again. i've told him over and over again not to do that. |
| 1485 |
over and out this expression is said when something has come to an end. it's over and out for the criminal organisation in this county. |
| 1486 |
over and done with if something difficult or unpleasant is over and done with, it has now been successfully accomplished, so you don't have to worry about it any longer. it wasn't easy, but i had to tell her. now, that's over and done with. |
| 1487 |
outbreak this idiom refers to the sudden beginning of something. i had an outbreak of measles five years ago. |
| 1488 |
out to lunch to say that someone is out to lunch means that they seem to be either unaware of what's going on around them or unable to understand what is happening. my former boss was clearly out to lunch. |
| 1489 |
out on the town if you are out on the town, you are out enjoying yourself. it's good to have a night out on the town every now and again. |
| 1490 |
out of your own pocket if you pay for something out of your own pocket, you cover the cost with your own money. breakfast is included but you have to pay for dinner out of your own pocket. |
| 1491 |
out of your depth if you are out of your depth, you are in a situation which is too difficult for you or which you know little about. i started building a website without html knowledge, so i was soon out of my depth and asked for help. |
| 1492 |
out of whack if something is out of whack, it is not working properly or is not in good order. the washing machine is out of whack. |
| 1493 |
out of touch if you are out of touch, you no longer communicate with someone or are unaware of recent developments. i've been out of touch with natalie since we left primary school. |
| 1494 |
out of time this means there is no time left to do something. the time limit or deadline has been reached. you are out of time now. the exam has finished. |
| 1495 |
out of this world to refer to something as out of this world means that you think it is extremely good or impressive. i liked that restaurant. the food was out of this world. |
| 1496 |
out of the question something which is out of the question is impossible and is therefore not worth discussing. buying a new car is out of the question for now. |
| 1497 |
out of the picture to say that a person or group is out of the picture means that they have been eliminated in a contest or tournament. we were beaten in the first match, so that's us out of the picture. |
| 1498 |
out of the jaws of death this idiom means saved from great danger. now i'm out of the jaws of death. |
| 1499 |
out of the frying pan into the fire this expression means to go from one difficult situation to another one which is usually even worse. the ride was delayed because of bad weather conditions. when the bus started, it had to turn back because of engine trouble – out of the frying pan into the fire! |
| 1500 |
out of the depth this expression means not to have the knowledge, experience or skills to deal with a particular subject or situation. we realised that the subject was out of the depth of marry. |
| 1501 |
out of the closet this expression means to go public about something private or hidden. she was in her late teens when she came out of the closet. |
| 1502 |
out of the blue if something happens out of the blue, it happens very unexpectedly. i had almost given up hope when out of the blue i was offered a part-time job. |
| 1503 |
out of sync if two movements or actions are out of sync, they are not coordinated. the traffic lights are out of sync on my street. |
| 1504 |
out of sorts if someone is out of sorts, they are upset and irritable or not feeling well. the baby is out of sorts today. |
| 1505 |
out of sight, out of mind this expression refers to the reduced importance and emergence of something that is not within eyesight. i will speak to her when she is back. for now, she is out of sight, out of mind for me. |
| 1506 |
out of sight this expression is still used with its literal meaning of "beyond the range of sight", but more commonly used in its hippie-era meaning of "excellent, extraordinary". the runners were good, but usian bolt was out of sight. |
| 1507 |
out of one's league this idiom means not as good as another. the boy really wanted to date her, even though he knew she was out of his league. |
| 1508 |
out of mind this idiom means to not be thinking clearly. in school we used to behave like we were out of our minds. |
| 1509 |
out of harm's way if you put something out of harm's way, you put it in a safe place where it won't be damaged. i'm going to put your glasses out of harm's way. |
| 1510 |
out of earshot when someone is out of earshot, they are too far away to hear or to be heard. they waited until marry was out of earshot before discussing about her birthday party. |
| 1511 |
out of circulation someone who is out of circulation is unavailable or not joining in activities with others. i'm going to do a three-week course in spain, so i'll be out of circulation for a while. |
| 1512 |
out of character if you do something that is out of character, it is unlike your usual behaviour or not what is expected from you. the way dave panicked was out of character for such a calm person. |
| 1513 |
out of action this idiom refers to something that is not working or cannot be used. the manager suffered an accident and was out of action for some months. |
| 1514 |
out like a light if a person is out like a light, they are so tired that they fall asleep very quickly. it was a tiresome day. as soon as my head touched the pillow, i was out like a light. |
| 1515 |
other things being equal this expression refers to a probable situation if the conditions elsewhere remain unchanged or equal. other things being equal, a reduction in the cost of living should enable the population to buy more electronic products. |
| 1516 |
other side of the coin when you want to mention a different or contradictory aspect of a situation, you refer to the other side of the coin. the apartment is lovely and spacious, but the other side of the coin is that it is far from shops. |
| 1517 |
other half this expression refers to a husband, a wife or a partner of someone. my other half loves cats, even though i can't stand them. |
| 1518 |
opposite number a person who holds the same position as oneself in another organisation is called one's opposite number. i've spoken to my opposite number in several local companies and we all agreed to join the campaign. |
| 1519 |
open-and-shut case an open-and-shut case is one where the facts are so clear that the matter can be dealt with or solved easily. her lawyers think that she has an open-and-shut case. |
| 1520 |
open warfare this expression means engaged in active fighting or dispute. whenever they see us they throw stones at us and we do the same – it's open warfare. |
| 1521 |
open the kimono if a person or organisation opens the kimono, they reveal something previously hidden. it's time to open the kimono and explain what happened. |
| 1522 |
open the floodgates if someone or something opens the floodgates, they release something that had previously been held under control. easing price controls will open the floodgates to inflation. |
| 1523 |
open secret a fact that is supposed to be a secret but is actually widely known is called an open secret. it's an open secret that they are living together. |
| 1524 |
open season this idiom refers to a situation that allows or causes a particular group of people to be treated unfairly. to pass this legislation would be to declare open season on minorities. |
| 1525 |
open pandora's box this idiom means to uncover a lot of unsuspected problems. her speech opened a pandora's box of domestic problems. |
| 1526 |
open and shut this phrase means easy to prove or answer. the detective thought it was an open and shut case. |
| 1527 |
oops-a-daisy this idiom is used to express encouragement to a child who has fallen or is being lifted. has she fallen? oops-a-daisy and let's try again. |
| 1528 |
only to be expected if an event or outcome is only to be expected, it is most likely to happen. she left you after she found out that you had cheated on her? that was only to be expected. |
| 1529 |
only time will tell this idiom means you cannot find out the truth, the answer or the result of something. you have to wait and find out in the future. only time will tell whether out marriage will last. |
| 1530 |
one-upmanship this term refers to the art of gaining and keeping an advantage over other people. he's a brilliant man, but his one-upmanship has left him with no friends. |
| 1531 |
one-trick pony this idiom refers to a person, group or thing that is known for or limited to only one unique or noteworthy skill, talent, ability, quality, area of success etc. the company has been seen as an one-trick pony ever since that breakthrough success. |
| 1532 |
one-size-fits-all this phrase relates to policies or approaches that are standard and not tailored to individual needs. you can't apply one-size-fits-all approach anymore! |
| 1533 |
one-horse town a place referred to as a one horse town is a small, boring town where nothing much ever happens. i wish my parents didn't live in that one-horse town. |
| 1534 |
one-hit wonder this idiom refers to a performer or act, usually a singer or band, who has just one popular success. it was just an one-hit wonder. |
| 1535 |
one's own undoing if you do something that is the cause of your own failure, loss or downfall, it is your own undoing. if he continues to play poker like that, it will be his own undoing. |
| 1536 |
one's number is up this expression means that either a person is in serious difficulty and something bad is going to happen or the time has come when they will die. the police have located the murderer, so his number is up. |
| 1537 |
one's cup runneth over this idiom means that one has such an abundance of good things or happy benefits that one is overwhelmed by them or cannot contain them. being able to spend my holiday with her and visit so many wonderful places, i can easily say that my cup runneth over. |
| 1538 |
one swallow does not make a summer this phrase means that you should not assume that something is true just because you have seen one piece of evidence for it. i got a good grade on this exam! well, one swallow does not make a summer. |
| 1539 |
one stop shop this idiom refers to a store that fulfills various requirements which is preferable by customers. that corner store is a one stop shop for anyone. |
| 1540 |
one step ahead of somebody when you are one step ahead of someone else, you achieve something faster than they do or have an advantage over them. we've always tried to be one step ahead of our competitors. |
| 1541 |
one sandwich short of a picnic this idiom can be used in a humorous way to refer to someone who is crazy or stupid. steve is one sandwich short of a picnic. |
| 1542 |
one over the eight if a person has one over the eight, they are slightly drunk. it's not the right time to talk about this. she's one over the eight. |
| 1543 |
one in the eye if an event or development is an unexpected disappointment or defeat for someone, you can say that it is one in the eye for that person. his promotion was one in the eye for jane. i'm sorry for her. |
| 1544 |
one hand washes the other and together they wash the face this expression means that when people cooperate and work well together, there is a better chance of a good result. we'll have to cooperate in order to finish this project. one hand washes the other and together they wash the face. |
| 1545 |
one good turn deserves another if someone helps you, it is natural and right to help them in return. i helped her when she moved into her new house, just as she helped me two years ago; one good turn deserves another. |
| 1546 |
one for the road this phrase refers to a final drink taken just before leaving on a journey. oh, come on! one for the road! |
| 1547 |
one cannot love and be wise this expression means that people often do foolish things when they are in love. don't judge him! one cannot love and be wise! |
| 1548 |
once upon a time this expression is used to describe something that happened in the past, a long time ago. she used to look like a model once upon a time. |
| 1549 |
once in a blue moon something that happens once in a blue moon happens rarely. i speak to her once in a blue moon. |
| 1550 |
once bitten twice shy this is said by someone who has had an unpleasant experience which has made them more cautious. i'm never going to get fooled again. once bitten, twice shy! |
| 1551 |
on your tod this is a slang term for alone. the party is over. i'm on my tod. |
| 1552 |
on time this idiom means to not be late. the trains in this country are never on time! |
| 1553 |
on the warpath this idiom means "angry and likely to argue or punish". i don't like when my girlfriend is on the warpath. |
| 1554 |
on the wagon someone who is on the wagon is no longer drinking alcohol. no beer for me, please – i'm on the wagon. |
| 1555 |
on the upswing this idiom means "showing or experiencing a noticeable or conspicuous increase, improvement or expansion". our small county has been one of the few in the region to be on the upswing since the recession. |
| 1556 |
on the up and up a person who is on the up and up is becoming increasingly successful. the police officer has been on the up and up since he left the academy. |
| 1557 |
on the tip of your tongue to say that a word or answer is on the tip of your tongue, means that you're sure you know it but have difficulty finding it. ah. please wait. i have her name on the tip of my tongue. |
| 1558 |
on the stump before an election, when politicians are campaigning for support and votes, they are on the stump. on the stump, they all say that great things will be done. |
| 1559 |
on the spur of the moment if you do something on the spur of the moment, you do it as soon as you think of it, spontaneously, without any planning. i decided to buy flowers for ana on the spur of the moment. |
| 1560 |
on the sly if you do something on the sly, you do it secretly or furtively. they have done something on the sly but i can't figure out what. |
| 1561 |
on the side of the angels this phrase means on the side of what is right. they aren't in the business of polluting the environment. they are on the side of the angels. |
| 1562 |
on the safe side if you do something to be on the safe side, you do it as a precaution, to avoid any risks. i think i locked the car, but i'll check again to be on the safe side. |
| 1563 |
on the rocks if there are problems in a relationship, we may say it's on the rocks. i wonder if they will break up. their relationship seems to be on the rocks. |
| 1564 |
on the record this expression refers to something said in confidence that the one speaking is happy to have repeated. none of the directors were prepared to comment on the record that day. |
| 1565 |
on the rack if you are in a stressful situation having to answer a lot of questions or wait for a decision, you are on the rack. the suspect was put on the rack by the police. |
| 1566 |
on the qui vive this idiom means to be on the alert or lookout. the soldiers are required to be on the qui vive this period. |
| 1567 |
on the qt something that is done on the qt is done quietly and discreetly. we plan to get married to each other on the qt. |
| 1568 |
on the pig's back a person who is on the pig's back is in a state of luck and everything is going well for them. before the recession, our business was on the pig's back. |
| 1569 |
on the other hand this idiom means from a different point of view. on the other hand, maybe buying a new car wasn't such a good idea. |
| 1570 |
on the off chance if you do something on the off chance, you think there might be a slight possibility of success. i applied for the job on the off chance that they might like me. |
| 1571 |
on the mend someone who is on the mend is recovering after an illness or injury. my uncle hasn't been very well recently but he's on the mend now. |
| 1572 |
on the mark this idiom means absolutely accurate. your prediction was absolutely on the mark. |
| 1573 |
on the map if a place becomes well-known, it is put on the map. the president's visit has really put this place on the map. |
| 1574 |
on the lookout if you are on the lookout for something, you are constantly watchful and attentive so as not to miss it. as a collector, i am always on the lookout for interesting items. |
| 1575 |
on the line this idiom means at risk of failing or being harmed. policemen regularly put their lives on the line. |
| 1576 |
on the level if you say that someone is on the level, you are referring to a truthful or honest person. tell me something about this new girl: is she on the level or not? |
| 1577 |
on the house something which is on the house is offered free of charge. the owner of the bar offered them a drink on the house. |
| 1578 |
on the horizon this expression is used to refer to an event that is most likely going to happen soon. i'm sure a promotion is on the horizon. |
| 1579 |
on the gravy train if someone is on the gravy train, they have found an easy way to make money, one that requires little effort and is without risk. since the little town has become fashionable, she charges for every photograph taken of their mansion – she's on the gravy train. |
| 1580 |
on the fly if you do something on the fly, you do it quickly, without thinking much about it, while doing something else. last year, i was so busy that i had usually lunch on the fly. |
| 1581 |
on the fiddle this phrase means engaged in a fraud. they could be on the fiddle, as the police claims. |
| 1582 |
on the fence when faced with a choice, a person who is on the fence has not yet reached a decision. i like her, but getting married to her... that's still on the fence! |
| 1583 |
on the edge of one's seat someone who is on the edge of their seat is very interested in something and finds it both extremely exciting and nerve-wracking. look at him! he's on the edge of his seat watching that football match. |
| 1584 |
on the dot this idiom means exactly on time. i was asked to be there at three on the dot. |
| 1585 |
on the dole a person who receives financial assistance from the government when they are unemployed is on the dole. my mother is on the dole so our family is living on a tight budget. |
| 1586 |
on the cusp this expression refers to a point in time that marks a transition or the beginning of a change. after the failed coup, the country is on the cusp. |
| 1587 |
on the case this idiom means to do what is the best course of action in the given situation. it could also refer to the literal meaning, that is to be on the case for detectives, police officers, lawyers and any other professional who works on a case to case basis. the best officer from the police department is on the case. |
| 1588 |
on the bubble this idiom means not certain to get a place in a team, keep your job, win an election etc. those who hadn't gained their certification were on the bubble with regard to keeping their jobs. |
| 1589 |
on the brink of this idiom means to be on the verge of doing something. the company confirmed the report that it was on the brink of selling its share. |
| 1590 |
on the breadline people who live on the breadline have a very low income or barely enough money to survive. due to the recent economic crisis, there are more people on the breadline. |
| 1591 |
on the bottle a person who drinks alcohol often is on the bottle. maria went on the bottle after she lost her job. |
| 1592 |
on the blink if a machine is on the blink, a light flickering on and off shows that it is not working properly and needs servicing or repair. what a nuisance! the laptop is on the blink again. |
| 1593 |
on the back burner if you put a project or issue on the back burner, you decide to deal with it at a later date because you do not consider it to be that urgent or important. when jasmine was offered a promotion she put her college plans on the back burner. |
| 1594 |
on tenterhooks a person who is on tenterhooks is in a state of anxious suspense or excitement. the candidates were kept on tenterhooks for days. |
| 1595 |
on tap if something is on tap, it is easily obtained or available for immediate use, like water from a tap. you can find a lot of useful resources on tap on the internet. |
| 1596 |
on someone's tail if you are on somebody's tail, you are following them closely. i've heard that the police are on her tail. |
| 1597 |
on second thoughts this expression means that after giving the matter more thought, you have changed your mind. my idea was to buy a car, but on second thoughts, i'd rather have a bicycle. |
| 1598 |
on pins and needles if you are on pins and needles, you are very anxious or nervous about what is going to happen. i was on pins and needles waiting for the committee results. |
| 1599 |
on paper to say that an idea, plan or scheme seems good on paper means that it looks good in theory or in writing but may not work when put into practice. your marketing plan looks good on paper. |
| 1600 |
on one's uppers someone who is on their uppers has very little money or not enough to cover their needs. let's help her a little! she's on her uppers as far as i know. |
| 1601 |
on one's beam ends this idiom means near the end of one's resources; desperate. after five days without food, i was on my beam ends. |
| 1602 |
on nodding terms if you are on nodding terms with someone, you don't know them very well. i haven't made any friends yet but i'm on nodding terms with my next door neighbour. |
| 1603 |
on hand if something, such as supplies or people are on hand, they are present or readily available. extra glasses are on hand if needed. |
| 1604 |
on fire this idiom means "performing very enthusiastically, adeptly or successfully." the team has been on fire lately. |
| 1605 |
on demand this idiom means when needed, when asked for. ann is always ready to sing on demand. |
| 1606 |
on cue if something happens on cue, it happens at exactly the appropriate or expected moment. my girlfriend was blowing out the candles on her birthday cake when, right on cue, the gift arrived. |
| 1607 |
on course if you are on course for something, you are likely to achieve it. my favourite team is on course for a victory. |
| 1608 |
on cloud nine a person who is on cloud nine is very happy because something wonderful has happened. when the director announced my promotion, i was on cloud nine! |
| 1609 |
on carey street this phrase is an euphemism for being bankrupt or in debt. my friend is now on carey street. |
| 1610 |
on an even keel a situation or person who stays on an even keel manages to remain calm, stable and untroubled in all circumstances. i find it hard to keep my life on an even keel this period. |
| 1611 |
on all fours if you are on all fours, you are down on your hands and knees. i don't like being on all fours, but i must play with my child. |
| 1612 |
on a wing and a prayer this idiom means that one is in a difficult situation and is reliant on luck to get out of it. he was on a wing and a prayer to get to the end of the marathon. |
| 1613 |
on a sticky wicket if you find yourself on a sticky wicket, you are in a situation that is difficult to deal with. i am on a sticky wicket because i don't have enough money. |
| 1614 |
on a shoestring if you do something on a shoestring, you do it with very little money. generally speaking, students live on a shoestring. |
| 1615 |
on a roll this idiom refers to making a lot of progress. the stock market is on a roll at the moment. i need to invest soon. |
| 1616 |
oldest trick in the book a well-known and much-used trick, which is still effective today, is called the oldest trick in the book. he slightly hit me to attract my attention while his accomplice stole my wallet – the oldest trick in the book! |
| 1617 |
old wives' tale a traditional belief or idea which has been proved wrong by science is called an old wives' tale. the belief that eating a lot of chocolate causes acne is an old wives' tale. |
| 1618 |
old school this idiom means vintage, from an earlier time, retro. many parents are old school when it comes to living together before marriage. |
| 1619 |
old head on young shoulders this expression refers to a child or young person who thinks and expresses themselves like an older more-experienced person. when i heard the little girl advising her brother not to go out in such weather, i thought: "an old head on young shoulders". |
| 1620 |
old hat this phrase refers to someone who is old fashioned. it can also directly refer to old fashion too. the store keeper is an old hat. you won't be given a discount. |
| 1621 |
old hand this idiom refers to a person with a lot of experience in something. my manager is an old hand in the car business. |
| 1622 |
old habits die hard this expression means that people are often reluctant to change the way they do something, especially if they have been doing it for a long time. my grandmother refuses to use a smartphone – old habits die hard! |
| 1623 |
old dog for a hard road this expression means that experience is invaluable when one is faced with a difficult task. this case calls for an experienced police officer, an old dog for a hard road. |
| 1624 |
old codger this idiom refers to an old man, especially one who is eccentric, curmudgeonly or grotesque. she married an old codger. |
| 1625 |
old chestnut a story, joke or an idea that has been repeated so often that it has lost its novelty is referred to as an old chestnut. the story about her latest boyfriend has become an old chestnut. |
| 1626 |
oil the wheels this idiom means to make it easier for something to happen. this programme was established to oil the wheels of economic reform. |
| 1627 |
oh, my stars and garters this is a jocular exclamation or expression of astonishment. oh, my stars and garters! you've won! |
| 1628 |
off your rocker if you tell someone that they are off their rocker, you think they are completely crazy. are you going to donate that performant laptop? you're off your rocker! |
| 1629 |
off with his head this idiom has a literal meaning. it is now usually used humorously as a means of mildly reproaching someone. you've made a mistake. off with your head! |
| 1630 |
off the top of your head to say something off the top of your head means that you are giving an immediate reaction and not a carefully considered opinion, so it might not be correct. how much do you think it cost? well, off the top of my head, i would say around $2000. |
| 1631 |
off the peg clothes that are bought off the peg are purchased on a standard size in a shop and are not made specially for you. steven can't afford to have his suits made to measure so he buys them off the peg. |
| 1632 |
off the mark if something is off the mark, it is incorrect or inaccurate. her estimation of the mission cost was off the mark. i've made another one. |
| 1633 |
off the grid this idiom means not traceable through any means of commerce or communication that could be linked to one's identity. the whistle-blower from the intelligence agency was forced to live off the grid. |
| 1634 |
off someone's christmas list this expression means that you are no longer on friendly terms with someone. i've been off her christmas list since i accidentally hit her cat. |
| 1635 |
off one's rocker this idiom means crazy, out of one's mind. don't mind him. he's off his rocker. |
| 1636 |
off colour if you are off colour, you look or feel ill. what's the matter with john? he looks a bit off colour today. |
| 1637 |
of your own free will if you do something of your own free will, you do it voluntarily. after a while, she decided to tell him everything. surprisingly, she did it of her own free will. |
| 1638 |
of your own accord if you do something of your own accord, you do it spontaneously or willingly, without being influenced or forced by anyone. the girl went of her own accord to see the owner and admitted breaking the window. |
| 1639 |
of the first water something that is of the first water is of the finest or most exceptional quality (like being compared to a diamond). they gave a performance that was of the first water. |
| 1640 |
of no fixed abode a person of no fixed abode has nowhere permanent to live. a 30-year-old woman of no fixed abode was charged with the burglary. |
| 1641 |
of no avail something which is of no avail is not at all helpful or useful. the coffee machine don't work and the repairing instructions are of no avail. |
| 1642 |
of course this phrase means "with absolute certainty". of course, i will help you. |
| 1643 |
of all people to use the term "of all people" emphasizes that the person you mention, more than anyone else, is the one you would expect to do something. as a portrait painter, you, of all people, should support the new art gallery. |
| 1644 |
odds and ends odds and ends are small articles and pieces of all sorts, usually of little value. you'll find it in the drawer. that's where i keep my odds and ends. |
| 1645 |
o ye, of little faith this is a mild and humorously formal rebuke of someone who has expressed doubt or incredulity about something one said one would or could do. steve: it looks like your shortcut really saved us a bunch of time. john: o ye of little faith! |
| 1646 |
nuts and bolts the nuts and bolts of something are the detailed facts and the practical aspects. we need to discuss the nuts and bolts of the mission before going further. |
| 1647 |
number cruncher this is a humorous way of referring to someone who is an accountant or who is very good at working with numbers and calculations. mary's a number cruncher who understands our financial situation. |
| 1648 |
null and void something which is null and void has no legal force or is invalid. our contract was declared null and void. |
| 1649 |
nul points this idiom means "no points". the artist got nul points. |
| 1650 |
nowhere to be found if something is nowhere to be found, it is impossible to find it. i looked everywhere for the dog, but it was nowhere to be found. |
| 1651 |
now you're talking! this expression is used to show encouragement or agreement with something that has just been said, for example a good idea. if we take the train, we'll avoid all this traffic. now you're talking! |
| 1652 |
now or never this means that something has to be done now or can't be done at all. you've got one chance. it's now or never! |
| 1653 |
now is the winter of our discontent this phrase expresses the idea that we have reached the depth of our unhappiness and that better times are ahead. don't worry, my love. now is the winter of our discontent. |
| 1654 |
nourish a viper in one's bosom this idiom means to befriend, look after or take care of someone who proves to be traitorous, untrustworthy, deceitful or ungrateful. i thought our love was not only mutual but indestructible, and yet, i have nourished a viper in my bosom all these years. |
| 1655 |
nothing ventured, nothing gained you cannot expect to achieve anything if you risk nothing. i'm going to ask my manager for a promotion even though i know i have little chance of getting it. nothing ventured, nothing gained. |
| 1656 |
nothing to write home about to say that something is nothing to write home about means that it is not of great interest or importance. she has done a couple of projects, but nothing to write home about. |
| 1657 |
nothing succeeds like success this expression means that success often lead to further successes. the good sales of my first book made me continue writing. nothing succeeds like success. |
| 1658 |
nothing doing this term means that there is no way you would accept to do what is proposed. would you like me to work on sunday? nothing doing! |
| 1659 |
not worth a plugged nickel this idiom means worthless. this phone isn't worth a plugged nickel. |
| 1660 |
not up to scratch something which is not up to scratch fails to reach the expected standard. the quality of iron is not up to scratch. we'll need to change our supplier. |
| 1661 |
not turn a hair if someone does not turn a hair, they show no emotion in circumstances where a reaction is expected. when the police officer arrested the thief, he didn't turn a hair. |
| 1662 |
not touch with a ten-foot pole if you decide not to touch something with a ten-foot pole, you prefer to stay far away from it. i wouldn't touch mathematics with a ten-foot pole! |
| 1663 |
not to be sneezed at something that is not to be sneezed at should not be rejected or refused. an offer like that is not to be sneezed at. |
| 1664 |
not the only pebble on the beach to say that someone is not the only pebble on the beach means that they are not the only person worth considering. you should realize that you are not the only pebble on the beach. other candidates have relevant work experience too. |
| 1665 |
not take no for an answer someone who will not take no for an answer is very insistent in the way they make their request or offer and is unwilling to accept a refusal. i want you to come with me and i won't take no for an answer. |
| 1666 |
not play with a full deck of cards someone who is not playing with a full deck of cards lacks intelligence or does not have full mental abilities. she wasn't playing with a full deck when she bought that fancy sports car. |
| 1667 |
not mince words someone who doesn't mince their words expresses their opinions or thoughts very clearly, even if they offend others by doing so. i like her because she doesn't mince her words. |
| 1668 |
not lose sleep when something happens that in your opinion is not a cause for worry, you can say that you will not lose any sleep over it. i've made a blunder today, but i won't lose any sleep over it. tomorrow i will solve it. |
| 1669 |
not lift a finger someone who doesn't lift a finger makes no effort to help or provide assistance when it is needed. many people saw the accident but none of them lifted a finger. |
| 1670 |
not let the grass grow under your feet if someone does not let grass grow under their feet, they do not delay in getting something done. as soon as i got the green light, i started to call them. i never let the grass grow under my feet. |
| 1671 |
not know what hit you if you don't know what hit you, you are so surprised, shocked or confused by something that you do not know how to react. when i was told that i wasn't the winner of the competition, i didn't know what hit me. |
| 1672 |
not just a pretty face a person who is not just a pretty face is not only attractive but intelligent or talented as well. i've realized that nicole is not just a pretty face. |
| 1673 |
not in your right mind to say that someone is not in their right mind means that they are not behaving in a logical or sensible way. he wasn't in his right mind when he decided to leave this company. |
| 1674 |
not in the same league if something is not in the same league, it is of much lower standard than something else. she has a good voice but she isn't in the same league as mariah carey. |
| 1675 |
not hold water if an explanation or statement doesn't hold water, it can be shown to be unfounded. i'm sorry, but your statement doesn't hold water. |
| 1676 |
not have a stitch on someone who does not have a stitch on is wearing no clothes and is therefore completely naked. when the doorbell rang, they didn't have a stitch on. |
| 1677 |
not have a penny to one's name this idiom means to be extremely poor, to have very little or no money to spend. there was a time when i didn't have a penny to my name. |
| 1678 |
not have a leg to stand on to say that someone doesn't have a leg to stand on means that they can't prove what they say. two women testified against him. he didn't have a leg to stand on. |
| 1679 |
not have a clue if you don't have a clue about something, you don't know anything about it. the processing power of this processor? i don't have a clue! |
| 1680 |
not give the time of day if you dislike someone so strongly that you ignore them and refuse to speak to them, you do not give them the time of day. i dislike her boyfriend and i won't give him the time of day. |
| 1681 |
not give house-room if you refuse to give house room to someone or something, you do not accept them into your home because you dislike or disapprove of them. most of this furniture is so ugly that i don't give it house-room. |
| 1682 |
not give a hoot to say that you don't give a hoot means that you don't care at all about something. have you noticed that marry wears eccentric clothes every time? oh, i don't give a hoot. |
| 1683 |
not give a hang if you do not give a hang about something, you are totally indifferent to it and do not care at all about it. i'm not interested in tennis, so i don't give a hang about it. |
| 1684 |
not give a damn this idiom literally means to be indifferent. i don't give a damn of how you make it. |
| 1685 |
not getting anywhere if you are not getting anywhere, you are making no progress at all. i've spent the whole week looking for a solution but i'm not getting anywhere. |
| 1686 |
not for love or money if you say that you cannot or will not do something for love or money, you mean that you will not do it under any circumstances. i would not leave this organisation for love or money. |
| 1687 |
not for all the world if you say you wouldn't do something for (all) the world, you mean that you never do it, no matter what you were offered. not for (all) the world would i do that! |
| 1688 |
not for all the tea in china to say that you would not do something for all the tea in china means that you would not do it under any conditions. i wouldn't leave this company for all the tea in china. |
| 1689 |
not cut out for something if you are not cut out for something, you are not the sort of person to succeed or be happy in a particular activity. she started studying medicine but quickly realized that she wasn't cut out for it. |
| 1690 |
not at all this expression is a polite response when someone says "thank you". thank you so much for helping me out! not at all. |
| 1691 |
not all there someone who is not all there behaves strangely at times or seems a bit odd. our neighbour wears a hat even in summer; he's not all there! |
| 1692 |
not all moonlight and roses this idiom means "not always pleasant". being in a relationship is not all moonlight and roses. |
| 1693 |
not all it's cracked up to be this idiom means to not be as good as people have said. this window isn't all it's cracked up to be. |
| 1694 |
not a spark of decency this idiom refers to someone who has no manners. don't invite him. he always shows not a spark of decency. |
| 1695 |
not a peep from someone this idiom means "not a single word or sound from someone". there wasn't a peep from the students for the rest of the day after the teacher sent john to detention. |
| 1696 |
not a patch on if something or someone is not a patch on an other, they are not nearly as good. her second presentation wasn't a patch on the first one. |
| 1697 |
not a hair out of place if someone does not have a hair out of place, their appearance is perfect. nicole is forever impeccably dressed – never a hair out of place. |
| 1698 |
not a dicky-bird this idiom means not a sound; not an utterance. don't make a dicky-bird! |
| 1699 |
nosy parker a nosy parker is a person of an overly inquisitive or prying nature. we don't like him because he's a nosy parker. |
| 1700 |
nose out of joint if something puts your nose out of joint, it offends or annoys you. i discovered that my wife wasn't on the invitation list, which put my nose out of joint. |
| 1701 |
nose around this expression means to investigate in an off-hand manner. her phone has just been stolen. let's have a nose around this place. |
| 1702 |
north and south this is a slang term for mouth. it's true! i heard it straight from his own north and south. |
| 1703 |
none the wiser if you do not know more about something after obtaining an explanation or if you fail to find information on the subject, you are none the wiser. i tried to understand the system but i was none the wiser after her explanation. |
| 1704 |
none of your lip this idiom means to ask someone to stop speaking. she keeps wanting to hear none of my lips, but i have some good ideas. |
| 1705 |
none of somebody's business this idiom is used to tell someone not to get involved in whatever you have going on. i know when to stay away from things that are none of my business. |
| 1706 |
non sequitur this latin term refers to a statement which does not seem to be a logical follow-up to the previous statement or argument. after announcing the merger, the general manager began talking about fishing, which seemed a complete non sequitur. |
| 1707 |
no-go area a no-go area is an area, particularly in a city, where it is dangerous to go. tourists have been advised to avoid no-go areas. |
| 1708 |
no-brainer a decision or choice that requires little or no thought, because the best option is so obvious, is called a no-brainer. the choice was between a cash refund or having another product. it was a no-brainer. i took the cash. |
| 1709 |
no way, jose! this idiom means absolutely not; never. do you want to buy that car? no way, jose! |
| 1710 |
no use crying over spilt milk this expression means that it is useless to complain or have regrets about something that is done and cannot be changed. i regret not accepting the job, but it's no use crying over split milk. |
| 1711 |
no two ways about it this expression means that there is only one suitable way of dealing with something. there are no two ways about it. you can't accept the favor, so you must refuse the gift. |
| 1712 |
no time to lose this means you have to get something started right away, otherwise it won't be finished on time. let's hurry with that project. we have no time to lose. |
| 1713 |
no time like the present people who say this believe that it is better to do something now than leave it for later. you should buy that car now. no time like the present! |
| 1714 |
no sweat this is another way of saying "not a problem". thank you for helping me! no sweat! |
| 1715 |
no spring chicken to say that someone is no spring chicken means that they are quite old or well past their youth. "how old is she?" "i don't know, but she is no spring chicken." |
| 1716 |
no smoke without fire if many people say that something bad is happening, there is possibly some truth in it. no proof was found, but people continue to say: there's no smoke without fire. |
| 1717 |
no skin off one's nose this expression means that you don't care if something happens. it's no skin off my nose if she doesn't accept my invitation. |
| 1718 |
no saint this idiom refers to someone who might claim to be of good behaviour but has in fact a sordid past. she was critical of the new girls, but she is no saint. |
| 1719 |
no rush this expression is said to someone to indicate that you aren't in a hurry for them to complete their task. there's no rush. you can do this exercise later. |
| 1720 |
no room to swing a cat this idiom refers to an awkward or confined space. the hotel room is way too small. there's no room to swing a cat! |
| 1721 |
no rest for the wicked this phrase means that the wicked shall be tormented in hell. you should act legally. there's no rest for the wicked. |
| 1722 |
no quick fix to say that there is no quick fix to a problem means that there is no simple solution. there is no quick fix for unemployment. |
| 1723 |
no picnic an activity or task that is no picnic is unpleasant or difficult. i've told you that this mission is no picnic. |
| 1724 |
no pain, no gain this idiom means that you have to work for what you want. come on! you can finish the training! no pain, no gain, remember? |
| 1725 |
no news is good news this expression means to assume that since there is no news, it will not be bad news. the results are not out yet and i feel no news is good news. |
| 1726 |
no names, no pack drill this idiom means that punishment will be prevented if names and details are not mentioned. by doing so, there's no names, no pack drill. |
| 1727 |
no man is an island this idiom means to require help from other every now and then because of one's limitations. having a baby has taught him that no man is an island. |
| 1728 |
no love lost to say that there is no love lost between two people or organisations, it means that they do not like each other at all. there is no love lost between me and mary. |
| 1729 |
no laughing matter this idiom means "not a subject for levity". this is no laughing matter! get out! |
| 1730 |
no holds barred this expression, which derives from wrestling, is used to describe something done with no restraints, limits or rules of conduct. it's a live talk show with no holds barred, so you have to be prepared. |
| 1731 |
no harm, no foul this phrase is used to indicate that a mistake or instance of misconduct should be excused because it has not caused damage. it was trespassing, but no harm, no foul. |
| 1732 |
no hard feelings if you have no hard feelings, you feel no resentment or bitterness about something. after she had been promoted, she said to mary: no hard feelings, i hope. |
| 1733 |
no great shakes to say that someone or something is no great shakes means that they are useless, ineffective or not very good. overall, she is a good actress, but her last film was no great shakes. |
| 1734 |
no flies on someone to say that there are no flies on someone means that they are quick to understand and cannot be tricked or deceived easily. it's better to tell samantha the truth. there are no flies on her. |
| 1735 |
no end this expression is another way of saying "very much". nicole was pleased no end to be invited to the party. |
| 1736 |
no dice if someone asks you for something and you reply "no dice!", you mean that it is impossible or it can't be done. the boy asked if he could go to the party, but his mother said no dice. |
| 1737 |
no accounting for taste this expression is used to indicate surprise at another person's likes or dislikes. he fell in love with a girl who is short, fat and poor ... there's no accounting for taste! |
| 1738 |
nip slip this idiom refers to the inadvertent exposure of a woman's nipple. a nip slip was almost inevitable wearing a low cut dress. |
| 1739 |
nip in the bud if you nip a problem or an unacceptable situation in the bud, you stop it at an early stage, before it develops or becomes worse. she wanted to be a police officer, but her parents soon nipped that idea in the bud. |
| 1740 |
nip and tuck if a situation is nip and tuck, someone or something in that situation comes very close to failing or ending. for several years it was nip and tuck, but i managed to pull the company out of bankruptcy. |
| 1741 |
nine-day wonder an event which is a nine-day wonder causes interest, surprise or excitement for a short time, but it doesn't last. her sudden departure was a nine-day wonder. |
| 1742 |
nine to five this idiom refers to a standard office day, between 9am and 5pm. it is often used to denote the boring nature of the weekly working routine. this nine to five really gets me down. i have to change something. |
| 1743 |
nine times out of ten when something happens nine times out of ten, it is what usually happens. the public transport system is very bad. the means of transport arrive late nine times out of ten. |
| 1744 |
nine days' wonder this idiom refers to a novelty that loses its appeal after a few days. this product has been a nine days' wonder. |
| 1745 |
night owl someone who is lively and active at night and goes to bed very late is called night owl. i don't like her because she's a night owl. so, we are not compatible. |
| 1746 |
next to nothing the term means a very small amount or almost nothing. my red shirt didn't cost much. i bought it for next to nothing. |
| 1747 |
next best thing if you can't have exactly what you want, the next best thing is the best alternative possible. the smartphone i wanted was far too expensive so i chose the next best thing. |
| 1748 |
new york minute this idiom refers to a short period of time. i will fulfill this task in a new york minute. |
| 1749 |
new to this game to say that you are new to this game means that you have never been involved in this sort of activity before. i want to join this golf club, but i don't know how to start. i'm new to this game. |
| 1750 |
new lease of life a person who has a new lease of life has a chance to live longer or with greater enjoyment or satisfaction. moving closer to his friends has given the man a new lease of life. |
| 1751 |
new kid on the block the "new kid on the block" is someone who is a newcomer to an area or a new member of a group. even after several months in the company i am still regarded as the new kid on the block. |
| 1752 |
new blood if something such as an organisation or sports team needs "new blood", it needs to recruit people who come with new ideas, energy and enthusiasm in order to improve it. we need new blood this year. many people within our organisation are retiring. |
| 1753 |
new arrival this is a colloquial term for a new-born baby. when it comes the new arrival will be her second child. |
| 1754 |
never-never land this idiom refers to a utopian dreamland. ann thinks she will get a part in the movie. she needs to stop living in never-never land. |
| 1755 |
never the twain shall meet this phrase refers to two things which are so different as to have no opportunity to unite. she can't meet a wealthy man. never the twain shall meet. |
| 1756 |
never say die you can say "never say die" to encourage someone to persevere in their efforts and not give up or abandon their project. it's too soon to give up the race. never say die! |
| 1757 |
never miss a trick if a person never misses a trick, they are very alert and aware of everything that is happening around them. this street is safe. our neighbour never misses a trick. |
| 1758 |
never mind when you say "never mind" to someone, you are telling them not to worry because it's not important. when the kid broke the vase steve said "never mind". |
| 1759 |
never looked back if you say that you never looked back, you mean that after an event which changed your life for the better, you continue to be happy with the situation. since the day i decided to leave the company, i have never looked back. |
| 1760 |
never in wildest dreams this expression refers to something that has happened and was so strange that one never thought it would happen. never in my wildest dreams did i think she'd return home. |
| 1761 |
never in a million years this expression means "absolutely never" or "at no time in my life". i will never in a million years understand why she married him. |
| 1762 |
never a dull moment when there is never a dull moment, something is always changing or happening. i like my job because there's never a dull moment. |
| 1763 |
nerves of steel someone who has nerves of steel is not afraid in difficult or dangerous situations. most police officers need to have nerves of steel. |
| 1764 |
neither rhyme nor reason this idiom means that a thing which has neither rhyme nor reason makes no sense, from either a poetic or logical standpoint. your words have neither rhyme nor reason. what's the point? |
| 1765 |
neither here nor there something which is neither here nor there is considered to have no effect on the situation. you like her, but that's neither here nor there. we are talking about her results which aren't good. |
| 1766 |
neither fish nor fowl this expression is used to describe people or things that are difficult to classify, that are neither one thing nor another. i really don't know what species this living creature is. it's neither fish nor fowl. |
| 1767 |
needs must when the devil drives the expression means that you are sometimes forced by circumstances to do something that you do not want to do. i'd rather stay at home with you than attend the meeting, but needs must when the devil drives. |
| 1768 |
needle in a haystack to refer to something as a needle in a haystack means that it is very difficult or even impossible to find. finding a restaurant in berlin without knowing its name is like looking for a needle in a haystack. |
| 1769 |
near the knuckle this idiom means just at the limit of acceptability, especially regarding sexual morals. your behaviour is near the knuckle. be careful! |
| 1770 |
name written on it if something has someone's name written on it, it is intended for that person or it is ideally suited to them. that suit would be perfect for you – it has your name written on it! |
| 1771 |
name is mud to say that a person's name is mud means that they have acquired a bad reputation because of something they have done or said. the president's name is mud now after the article in the newspaper. |
| 1772 |
name and shame this idiom refers to the publication of the identity of a person or group that is culpable in some anti-social act in order to shame them into remorse. the entire group has been named and shamed for their deeds. |
| 1773 |
namby-pamby this idiom means childish and weakly sentimental. she's just a namby-pamby girl. |
| 1774 |
nailing jelly to the wall to say that something is like nailing jelly to the wall means that it is extremely difficult to do, if not impossible. he works so much that obtaining a meeting with him is like nailing jelly to the wall. |
| 1775 |
nail your colours to the mast this idiom means to defiantly display one's opinions and beliefs. also, it means to show one's intention to hold on to those beliefs until the end. what do you think about it? it's easy for you to answer as you are always nailing your colours to the mast. |
| 1776 |
nail it if you nail it, you perform something particularly well. the team really nailed it yesterday. |
| 1777 |
my old dutch this idiom is an affectionate term for wife. i miss my old dutch. |
| 1778 |
my old china this idiom is an affectionate term for a friend. pleased to see you again, my old china. |
| 1779 |
my giddy aunt! this is an exclamation of surprise. my giddy aunt! you are here! |
| 1780 |
my foot! this expression is used to show that you do no believe something that has just been said. she said she had a sports car? my foot! |
| 1781 |
my dogs are barking when a person says that their dogs are barking they mean that their feet are hurting. i've been running all day. my dogs are barking! |
| 1782 |
my bad this idiom means "my mistake – i'm to blame". i know that i've mistaken. my bad! |
| 1783 |
mutton dressed as lamb this expression refers to a middle-aged woman who tries to look younger by dressing in clothes designed for younger people. this style doesn't suit nicole – she looks like mutton dressed as lamb. |
| 1784 |
must have this idiom means to be done in a compulsory manner. the must haves this year include a new laptop and a car. |
| 1785 |
music to your ears to say that something is music to your ears means that the information you receive makes you feel very happy. the comments i heard were music to my ears. |
| 1786 |
museum piece a museum piece is something or someone that is so old, antique and out of place that it should belong in a museum rather than as a part of everyday life. your hat looks like a museum piece. why don't you buy a new one? |
| 1787 |
murphy's law referring to murphy's law expresses a sentiment of bad luck and the idea that if anything can go wrong, it will. i tried to prepare for every possible incident, but remember murphy's law. |
| 1788 |
murder something if you say that you could murder something, such as food or drink, you mean that you want it very much. i'm so hungry. i could murder a burger. |
| 1789 |
mumbo-jumbo this idiom refers to a nonsense or meaningless speech. his speech was just a mumbo-jumbo. |
| 1790 |
mum's the word this expression means that the subject or plan is a secret and must not be revealed. we're planning to flee the country, so mum's the word – ok? |
| 1791 |
mull over this expression means to spend a large amount of time considering different options before making a final decision. you should mull over getting back to your ex. |
| 1792 |
mug's game an unprofitable or ill-advised activity that only a fool (mug) would do is called a mug's game. i told her that spending hours making cakes for few customers is a mug's game. |
| 1793 |
muddy the waters if you muddy the waters, you make something less clear by giving confusing information. i had difficulty in understanding her because her explanations muddied the waters. |
| 1794 |
much of a muchness this expression means "very similar" or "almost alike". it's quite hard to choose between the two wrist watches – they're much of a muchness. |
| 1795 |
much obliged some people use this expression to say that they are very grateful. here's the document you requested. oh, i'm much obliged to you. |
| 1796 |
much ado about nothing when people make "much ago about nothing", they make a lot of fuss about something which is not important. there was a meeting to discuss the name for the new school mascot. "much ado about nothing", my friend said. |
| 1797 |
mrs. mop this is the traditional english name for a cleaning woman. i don't have time to do the cleaning. perhaps i should get a mrs. mop. |
| 1798 |
moving the goalposts this idiom refers to changing the target of a process or competition to by one side in order to gain advantage. i don't agree to moving the goalposts! it's not fair! |
| 1799 |
movers and shakers this term refers to people in power who take an active part in making things happen. movers and shakers are assembling in berlin for the summit. |
| 1800 |
move up in the world a person who moves up in the world becomes more important in society or successful in their career. my neighbour has moved up in the world since we were kids. |
| 1801 |
move the goalposts during a course of action, if someone moves the goalposts they change the rules or conditions. we've set the objectives for next year. let's hope the manager won't move the goalposts. |
| 1802 |
move in the same circles when people move in the same circles, they socialise with other people who have a similar background, interests or lifestyle. i've never met the general manager. we don't move in the same circles. |
| 1803 |
move heaven and earth to say that you will move heaven and earth means that you are prepared to do everything that is possible to achieve something. i promise i will move heaven and earth to buy an apartment. |
| 1804 |
mouse potato this term refers to a person who spends a lot of time in front of the computer. adrian, one of my best friends, might be referred to as a mouse potato. |
| 1805 |
motley crew this idiom refers to a roughly organized assembly of individuals of various backgrounds, appearance and character. the organization was best described as a motley crew. |
| 1806 |
mother country this idiom refers to one's native land or the native land of one's ancestors. she pledged to serve her mother country. |
| 1807 |
most unkindest cut of all this phrase refers to the most painful of insults, affronts or offenses, often so painful because it comes from a trusted friend. your actions have been the most unkindest cut of all. |
| 1808 |
morning person this idiom refers to someone who functions better in the morning, as compared to later in the day. i'm not a morning person and neither is she. |
| 1809 |
more to it than meets the eye this expression means that something is more complicated or more interesting than it first appears. they say it's just a little conflict, but i think there's more to it than meets the eye. |
| 1810 |
more power to your elbow this is said to express praise or encouragement to someone for doing something brave. i've left my job and i'm going to work as a taxi driver from now on. well, more power to your elbow! |
| 1811 |
more money than sense if you have more money than sense, you have a lot of money which you waste by spending it in a foolish manner. she celebrated the birth of their baby by buying a yacht. she's got more money than sense. |
| 1812 |
more heat than light if a discussion or debate generates more heat than light, it causes anger or intense reaction but doesn't clarify anything. the meeting on marketing budget generated more heat than light. |
| 1813 |
more haste, less speed this idiom means "something, even if it isn't what you ideally would prefer, is better than nothing". i didn't know what version you needed. more haste, less speed. |
| 1814 |
more fun than a barrel of monkeys if something is very amusing or enjoyable, you can say that it is more fun than a barrel of monkeys. this quiz is more fun than a barrel of monkeys. |
| 1815 |
more fool you this phrase is said in reply to someone who has reported doing something that is considered to be obviously foolish. have you called her? more fool you! |
| 1816 |
more by accident than by design something that happens more by accident than by design is done without deliberate intention. i became an interpreter more by accident than design; nobody else could speak their language. |
| 1817 |
morbid obesity this idiom refers to the condition of having a body weight high enough to pose a severe risk to health. he should do something. he suffers from morbid obesity. |
| 1818 |
moral compass this idiom is used in reference to a person's ability to judge what is right and wrong and act accordingly. let's ask him. he's a veritable moral compass. |
| 1819 |
moot point a subject which gives rise to argument or debate is called a moot point. whether he did the project by himself or not is a moot point among colleagues. |
| 1820 |
moonlight flit someone who does a moonlight flit leave a place quickly and in secret, usually to avoid paying debts. exactly before the rent for three months was due he did a moonlight flit. |
| 1821 |
montezuma's revenge this phrase refers to diarrhea that is often suffered by tourists when travelling to foreign parts of the world. she suffers from montezuma's revenge. she will be fine. |
| 1822 |
monstrous regiment of women this is a disparaging description, often used to describe feminist or rowdy women by their detractors. it's just another monstrous regiment of women protesting for civil rights. |
| 1823 |
monkey business an activity which is organised in a deceitful or dishonest way is called monkey business. the results seem suspicious – i believe there's some monkey business going on. |
| 1824 |
money to burn people who have money to burn have so much money that they can spend it on anything they want. a new phone is not a problem for steven. he has got money to burn. |
| 1825 |
money talks this expression means that people with a lot of money have power and influence. be careful with the owner – money talks! |
| 1826 |
money spinner if an activity is a money spinner, it is a very successful way of making money. handing out brochures was quite a money spinner when i was a student. |
| 1827 |
money laundering when people launder money, they manage to conceal the source of illegally-obtained money so that it is believed to be legitimate. many people have been accused of money laundering in this county. |
| 1828 |
money for old rope money earned from a task that required very little effort is called money for old rope. getting paid for opening the doors is money for old rope! |
| 1829 |
money for jam a very easy way of earning money is called money for jam. as a promoter for this company, all you have to do is hand out brochures. it's money for jam. |
| 1830 |
money doesn't grow on trees to say this expression means that money is not easily obtained. be careful how you spend your pocket money, mary. money doesn't grow on trees. |
| 1831 |
money burns a hole in your pocket to say that money burns a hole in somebody's pocket means that they are eager to spend it quickly or extravagantly. as soon as he is paid he goes shopping. money burns a hole in his pocket! |
| 1832 |
moment of truth a critical or decisive time when you face the reality of a situation and find out if your efforts have succeeded, is called the moment of truth. the moment of truth has arrived – let's publish this book! |
| 1833 |
moaning minnie this idiom refers to a habitual grumbler. i can't stand him anymore. he's a moaning minnie. |
| 1834 |
mixed feelings when you have mixed feelings about something, you react to it with conflicting emotions; you are happy and unhappy at the same time. i had mixed feelings about leaving the country. |
| 1835 |
mixed blessing something pleasant which also has disadvantages is called a mixed blessing. i inherited a big house but the maintenance costs make it a mixed blessing. |
| 1836 |
mix business with pleasure when people mix business with pleasure, they combine work and leisure or social activities. one way of seeing this job more attractive is considering mixing business with pleasure. |
| 1837 |
miss the point if you miss the point you fail to understand the essential part of what has been said. could you repeat, please? i've missed the point. |
| 1838 |
miss the boat if you miss the boat, you fail to take advantage of an opportunity because you don't act quickly enough. i managed to get my order through before the end of the promotion but i nearly miss the boat. |
| 1839 |
mind your ps and qs if you tell someone to mind their ps and qs, you are advising them to be careful about how they behave and what they say. mind your ps and qs when you meet her. that's my advice for you. |
| 1840 |
mind your own business! telling someone to mind their own business is a rude way of saying that they are too interested in what others are doing. don't tell me what to do! mind your own business! |
| 1841 |
mind your own beeswax this is an informal phrase used for keeping people away from your affairs. i haven't asked for your opinion. mind your own beeswax! |
| 1842 |
mind over matter the mental power to influence one's body and overcome physical difficulties is said to be a question of mind over matter. she knew she couldn't be cured, but she managed to live until the baby was born – a case of mind over matter. |
| 1843 |
mince words this phrase means to moderate one's language, to keep within the bounds of what is prudent or polite. minced words are usually referred to in the negative "do not mince your words". don't mince your words. say whatever you think is necessary! |
| 1844 |
millstone around your neck something described as a millstone around your neck refers to a problem or responsibility that becomes a burden and a source of worry. i hope that the money i've borrowed won't become a millstone around my neck. |
| 1845 |
miles to go before i sleep this idiom means that you have a lot to do before you can rest. it's a new day! we have miles to go before we sleep. |
| 1846 |
miles away this expression refers to someone thinking about something else when important issues are being discussed. just by looking at his facial expression, i can tell you that he is miles away. |
| 1847 |
mighty oaks from little acorns grow this phrase means that great things may come from small beginnings. you should try! mighty oaks from little acorns grow. |
| 1848 |
might is right this saying expresses the belief that being the most powerful person or country gives you the right to do whatever you want. there are many managers who believe that might is right. |
| 1849 |
middle for diddle this is a rhyme used to decide who starts a darts match. john shouted: middle for diddle! |
| 1850 |
method in your madness this expression means that someone's behaviour is not as irrational as it seems. i can't believe she's efficient despite her way of working. there's a method in her madness. |
| 1851 |
mend fences this idiom means to try and improve a bad relationship with another party. after the nasty fight with his brother, steve decided to mend fences. |
| 1852 |
menage a trois this idiom refers to a living arrangement comprising three people (not all of the same sex) in a sexual relationship. alternatively, a sexual liaison between such a group of people. how about trying menage a trois? |
| 1853 |
men in suits this idiom refers to conventionally minded and dressed men who hold positions of authority. they are also called just "suits". everyone in the office wanted a party, but the suits said no. |
| 1854 |
mellow yellow this idiom refers to dried banana peel, used as an intoxicant. he has tried many things – grass, acid, speed, magic mushrooms. now he's started on mellow yellow. |
| 1855 |
megaphone diplomacy if the media, through press releases, interviews and announcements, is instrumental in facilitating dialogue between two or more countries, this is called megaphone diplomacy. when it comes to the united states and north korea, i think we should use megaphone diplomacy. |
| 1856 |
meet-and-greet this term refers to a reception where a public figure or important person can introduce themselves and talk to the guests. the writer took a brief meet-and-greet walk to the bookstore. |
| 1857 |
meet your waterloo if someone meets their waterloo, they are defeated by someone who is stronger or by a problem that is very difficult to surmount. steven met his waterloo when he was challenged by the youngest contestant. |
| 1858 |
meet your maker this expression is used to humorously say that someone has died. have you heard that the old lady went to meet her maker? |
| 1859 |
meet halfway if you meet someone halfway you accept to make a compromise and give them part of what they are trying to obtain. the bank decided to meet us halfway by splitting the difference. |
| 1860 |
meat and two veg this phrase refers to meat and two vegetables (meat with potatoes and another vegetable), which is a traditional english meal. i'd like meat and two veg, please. |
| 1861 |
measure twice, cut once this is an axiom that encourages careful first steps in order to avoid extra work later on. "measure twice, cut once" should be your new motto! |
| 1862 |
means to an end this expression refers to a necessary action carried out just to achieve a goal. the woman is extremely manipulative and sees people just as a means to an end. |
| 1863 |
mean business if someone means business, they are serious about what they announce. the manager says that any missing object will be reported to the police and he means business. |
| 1864 |
mealy-mouthed this idiom means not brave enough to say what you mean directly and honestly. the mealy-mouthed politician lost the election. |
| 1865 |
mea culpa this expression means "i'm to blame". sorry, mea culpa. i mixed up your papers. |
| 1866 |
may you live in interesting times this phrase means "may you experience much disorder and trouble in your life". pay attention as this phrase is rather a curse. it's your choice. may you live in interesting times! |
| 1867 |
mates rates this idiom refers to a discount price offered to friends. i can't afford this laptop, but my friend might give me mates rates. |
| 1868 |
match made in heaven this idiom refers to a relationship in which the two people are great together, because they complement each other so well. do you think they will marry? in my opinion they are a match made in heaven. |
| 1869 |
marry in haste, repent at leisure if you marry someone without knowing the person well, you will later regret your decision to marry. it's you choice, but don't forget: marry in haste, repent at leisure! |
| 1870 |
market forces this idiom refers to the economic factors affecting the price and availability of a commodity or product in a free market. you are wrong. market forces don't work like that. |
| 1871 |
mark my words this expression is used to let someone know to pay attention to what you are saying because it is very important especially when you are certain something would happen in future. mark my words, one day she will become a great businesswoman. |
| 1872 |
marital aid this idiom is a euphemism for a sex toy or any device intended to enhance sexual stimulation. we bought a marital aid to celebrate our anniversary. |
| 1873 |
mare's nest this idiom refers to a much vaunted discovery, which later turns out to be illusory or worthless. the new technology turned out to be a mare's nest. |
| 1874 |
march to the beat of your own drum when somebody does things the way they want to, without taking anybody else or anything else into consideration, they march to the beat of their own drum. i've tried talking to her, but it was in vain. she marches to the beat of her own drum. |
| 1875 |
many happy returns this expression is a toast given to someone on their birthday. our grandmother is 70 today – many happy returns! |
| 1876 |
many hands make light work this expression means to come together for a cause. i've seen that many hands make light work when your group faces difficulties. |
| 1877 |
many are called but few are chosen this phrase has a literal meaning, alluding to the variety in qualities of humankind. you should be proud of yourselves! many are called but few are chosen. |
| 1878 |
many a true word is spoken in jest this idiom has a literal meaning, that the truth is often found in comic utterances. has he said something special when joking? many a true word is spoken in jest. |
| 1879 |
man's inhumanity to man this idiom refers to the cruel behaviour that people show to each other. man's inhumanity to man never fails to shock me. |
| 1880 |
man's best friend this expression refers to animals that are of use to human beings, mostly used to address dogs. a dog is undoubtedly a man's best friend. |
| 1881 |
man on! this is usually shouted out during a match to warn someone that a player of the other team is right behind them. quick, pass the ball! man on! |
| 1882 |
man doesn't live by bread alone this phrase means that physical nourishment is not sufficient for a healthy life; man also has spiritual needs. i like her very much. man doesn't live by bread alone... |
| 1883 |
man cave this expression refers to a shed or some other retreat that men decorate in the way they choose (with or without their male friends) and use to relax in traditional male pursuits. i will turn this garden into a man cave. |
| 1884 |
mal de mer this idiom means seasickness. take care of her. she has mal de mer. |
| 1885 |
makes your mouth water food can make your mouth water when it looks and smells extremely good. this pizza makes my mouth water. |
| 1886 |
makes your blood run cold if something makes your blood run cold, it shocks or scares you a lot. the look in the suspect's eyes made my blood run cold. |
| 1887 |
makes your blood boil if something makes your blood boil, it makes you really angry. his attitude made my blood boil! |
| 1888 |
make-believe this idiom means "believing or imagining things that appear to be attractive or exciting, but are not real". a completely fair society is just make-believe. |
| 1889 |
make yourself scarce if you make yourself scarce, you go away from a difficult situation in order to avoid trouble. when they started to quarrel, i decided to make myself scarce. |
| 1890 |
make your way to if you make your way to a destination, you manage to get there without difficulty. there no need for you to come with me. i'll make my way to the restaurant. |
| 1891 |
make your hair stand on end if you are absolutely terrified of something, it makes your hair stand on end. even the idea of getting on a small plane makes her hair stand on end. |
| 1892 |
make your hackles rise if someone or something makes your hackles rise, they make you angry. my manager's constant observations make my hackles rise! |
| 1893 |
make your ears burn if something makes your ears burn, you are embarrassed by what you hear, especially if the conversation is about you. her low opinion of me has made my ears burn. |
| 1894 |
make up for lost time if you make up for lost time, you increase your efforts or work harder to complete something or meet a deadline. i haven't made any progress with my book these days, but i will make up for lost time. |
| 1895 |
make time this means to find the time to do something that should take priority. everyone should make time for their children. |
| 1896 |
make the right noises if you make the right noises, you behave as if you support or agree with something by making suitable or conventional remarks. she seemed to approve of our idea; she made the right noises. |
| 1897 |
make the grade this idiom means to be satisfactory and of an expected level. i didn't make the grade for the test, so i have to do it all over again. |
| 1898 |
make the cut if you make the cut, you reach a required standard or succeed in passing from one round of a competition to another. after intensive training, he made the cut and joined the army. |
| 1899 |
make the best of things if you make the best of things, you react in a positive way to an unsatisfactory situation that you cannot change and do the best you can with it. the house was badly located, but they decided to stay there and make the best of things. |
| 1900 |
make someone see reason if you make someone see reason, you persuade them to stop acting foolishly and behave more sensibly. she wanted to drop out of school last year, but i managed to make her see reason. |
| 1901 |
make short work of something if you make short work of something, you do it or finish it quickly. the team were hungry at the end of the day, so they made short work of the food. |
| 1902 |
make sense of something if you make sense of something, you understand it or find the meaning. i couldn't make sense of the instructions, so i called her to help me out. |
| 1903 |
make or break circumstances or events that will make or break someone or something will cause either total success or total ruin. this mission will make or break his career. |
| 1904 |
make nothing of if you make nothing of something, you attach no importance to it. it took her an hour to walk to the city center, but i made nothing of that. i had enough time to wait for her. |
| 1905 |
make no bones about it if you make no bones about something, you don't hesitate to say something in a frank and open way. i made no bones about it. i told her that the offer was unacceptable. |
| 1906 |
make my day if something makes your day, it makes you happy or satisfies you. this song made my day! |
| 1907 |
make matters worse this expression means to make a problem worse. to make matters worse, he can't come today to repair the machine. |
| 1908 |
make love this is a romantic way to refer to sexual intercourse. she won't forget the night when they made love for the first time. |
| 1909 |
make light work of something when somebody makes light work of something, they do it very easily or with little effort. the girls made light work of the cleaning up in no time. |
| 1910 |
make light of something if you make light of something, you behave as though it is less serious than it really is. you shouldn't make light of this dangerous mission. |
| 1911 |
make it snappy if someone tells you to make it snappy, they are asking you very sharply to hurry up or be quick about something. fill out the document and make it snappy. |
| 1912 |
make inroads if someone or something makes inroads, for example in a new field or area, they advance successfully or make progress. electric cars have made inroads into the european market. |
| 1913 |
make headway if you make headway, you make progress in what you are trying to achieve. the police officers have made little headway in their investigation. |
| 1914 |
make hay while the sun shines this expression is used as an encouragement to take advantage of a good situation which may not last. successful fighters are advised to make hay while the sun shines. |
| 1915 |
make haste this idiom means to act quickly. make haste and help me! |
| 1916 |
make ends meet if you find it difficult to pay for your everyday needs because you have very little money, it is hard for you to make ends meet. my salary was so low that i could hardly make ends meet. |
| 1917 |
make do this idiom means to cope with something even though the circumstances are not ideal. we will have to make do with the new guy in our team. |
| 1918 |
make common cause with this idiom means to work together in order to achieve something that both groups want. they've made common cause with local people to stop the pollution. |
| 1919 |
make cold calls if you make cold calls, you telephone potential customers from a list of people you do not know. in my job i have to make cold calls and present some products. |
| 1920 |
make coin this idiom means to make money, but not necessarily a lot of it. i make good coin at my job. |
| 1921 |
make an exhibition of yourself when someone behaves in such a foolish way in public that they look ridiculous, they make an exhibition of themselves. please, stop doing that! you're making an exhibition of yourself! |
| 1922 |
make an ass of yourself if you behave so stupidly that you appear ridiculous, you make an ass of yourself. he made an ass of himself by drinking way too much. |
| 1923 |
make a virtue of necessity if someone does something commendable, not deliberately but because they have no choice, and pretends to be doing it willingly and happily, they make a virtue of necessity. when, because of the high price of petrol, i decided to take the bus to work instead of taking my car, i made a virtue of necessity. |
| 1924 |
make a song and dance about something if someone complains in an annoying way or becomes unnecessarily excited about something unimportant, they make a song and dance about it. i've understood. you don't like apples. don't make a song and dance about it. |
| 1925 |
make a scene if you make a scene, you cause a disturbance. i know that she is here with her new lover, but don't make a scene. |
| 1926 |
make a point of doing something if you make a point of doing something, you make an effort to do what you think is the right thing to do. the artist made a point of thanking the spectators. |
| 1927 |
make a pig's ear of something if you make a pig's ear of something, you do a task or a chore very badly or make a complete mess of it. they offered to paint the room but they made a pig's ear of it. |
| 1928 |
make a pig of yourself if you make a pig of yourself, you eat and drink too much. that's enough. thank you! i don't want to make a pig of myself. |
| 1929 |
make a mountain out of a molehill if someone makes a mountain out of a molehill, they make a small, unimportant problem seem much more serious than it is. i don't like to speak to her because she always makes a mountain out of a molehill. |
| 1930 |
make a monkey out of somebody if you humiliate someone by making them appear ridiculous or foolish, you make a monkey out of that person. don't make a monkey out of him. he could be your manager one day. |
| 1931 |
make a killing if you say that someone has made a killing, you mean that they have had great financial success. mike made a killing on the stock market last year. |
| 1932 |
make a go of something when you make a go of something, you succeed in your enterprise or produce good results. two years ago, he opened a local store and made a go of it. |
| 1933 |
make a comeback when someone makes a comeback, they succeed in returning to their former successful career. after nurturing her children for several years, she made a comeback on broadway. |
| 1934 |
make a clown of yourself if you make a clown of yourself, you are doing something that makes people laugh. even she wanted to entertain us, ada couldn't make a clown of herself. |
| 1935 |
make a clean breast this expression means to confess completely. he decided to make a clean breast of the robbery to the officer. |
| 1936 |
make a big thing of if you attach a lot of importance to something, or make it a special occasion, you make a big thing of it. it's her birthday but she doesn't want to make a big thing of it. |
| 1937 |
make a beeline for something if you make a beeline for something, you hurry directly towards it. i was so thirsty that i made a beeline for a cold drink. |
| 1938 |
magnum opus this phrase refers to the most important piece of work done by a writer or artist. this paint is considered her magnum opus. |
| 1939 |
magical realism this idiom refers to a literary genre in which magical features and storylines appear and are accepted as everyday reality. twilight is an example of magical realism. |
| 1940 |
magic mushroom this idiom refers to a type of mushroom with hallucinogenic properties – sometimes known as "shrooms". unfortunately, he turned into a dope head – it's the magic mushrooms every night. |
| 1941 |
madly in love this means to be deeply or extremely in love with somebody. they are madly in love, can't you see? |
| 1942 |
made of sterner stuff if someone is made of sterner stuff, they have a strong character and are better able to deal with difficulties than others. you can't upset her. she is made of sterner stuff. |
| 1943 |
made of money a person who is made of money is very rich and can buy whatever they want. i can't afford to spend that much on a laptop. i'm not made of money. |
| 1944 |
made it this idiom is used to indicate the completion of a task. congratulations! you've made it! |
| 1945 |
mad as a hatter to say that someone is as mad as a hatter means that they are very strange or insane. the women next door is as mad as a hatter. |
| 1946 |
lunatic fringe this phrase refers to a minority group of adherents showing extreme support for a political movement or a set of beliefs. they are bolstered by a lunatic fringe consisting of around two thousand people. |
| 1947 |
lump sum this idiom refers to a single payment made at a particular time, as opposed to a number of smaller payments. your pension plan can provide a cash lump sum at retirement as well as a regular income. |
| 1948 |
lump in your throat if you have a lump in your throat, you have a tight feeling in your throat because of a strong emotion such as sadness or gratitude. the graduation speech was so touching that we had a lump in our throats. |
| 1949 |
luck of the draw to refer to something that happens as the luck of the draw means that it is the result of pure chance, with no possibility of choice. you can't choose who you play against – it's the luck of the draw. |
| 1950 |
low-hanging fruit this expression is used to describe something that is easy to obtain, achieve or take advantage of. when cutting costs, our company starts with the low-hanging fruit: marketing budget. |
| 1951 |
lower than a snake's belly to say that someone is lower than a snake's belly means that they are bad, dishonest or have very low moral standards. anyone who is capable of taking advantage of young women is lower than a snake's belly. |
| 1952 |
loved-up this idiom means feeling very happy, loved by other people and loving other people, sometimes after taking drugs such as ecstasy. he is just a loved-up guy. don't mind his words! |
| 1953 |
love to death this idiom means to love someone very much. i was prepared to do anything for her. i loved her to death. |
| 1954 |
love of life this idiom refers to the person who is loved most by someone in all their life. she was the love of my life. |
| 1955 |
love nest this expression refers to a home or place where two people who love each other live. we've finally bought a love nest for us. |
| 1956 |
love me, love my dog this expression means that if someone loves you, they must love everything about you, including everyone and everything you love. i didn't like her best friend, but she said: love me, love my dog! |
| 1957 |
love is blind this idiom means that if you love someone, you cannot see the faults in that person. love is blind and it is so true in their case. |
| 1958 |
love child this idiom refers to a child born out of wedlock. the actress in that movie is rumoured to be the love child of a famous actor. |
| 1959 |
love at first sight this expression refers to falling in love with somebody the first time you see them. they met at a party. it was love at first sight. |
| 1960 |
lost to this expression means to be defeated by someone. brian lost to his brother in the tennis match. |
| 1961 |
lost on this expression means that someone didn't understand the remark or joke. pay attention: "not lost on" means that something has a significant impact on someone. the joke was definitely lost on her. |
| 1962 |
lost in thought this idiom literally means "thinking about of something". i have been lost in thought ever since i finished that book. |
| 1963 |
lost ball in high weeds someone who is totally confused and doesn't know what they are doing or how to do it, is a lost ball in high weeds. the new guy is a lost ball in high weeds – let's help him. |
| 1964 |
lose your train of thought if you forget what you were saying, you lose your train of thought. i'm afraid i've lost my train of thought. what we were talking about? |
| 1965 |
lose your touch if you lose your touch, you no longer have the ability to do something skillfully. my grandmother used to make great pancakes but she has lost her touch. |
| 1966 |
lose your shirt if you lose your shirt, you lose all your money or possessions, especially as a result of speculation or gambling. our friend has lost his shirt by gambling and we can't help him much. |
| 1967 |
lose your head if you lose your head, you are overcome by emotion and out of control. when he was pulled over by the police, jack lost his head. |
| 1968 |
lose track of time when you give all your attention to something and become so engrossed in it that you don't realize what time it is, you lose track of time. whenever i start reading a good book, i lose track of time. |
| 1969 |
lose touch this expression means to fail to keep in contact. don't ever lose touch with your best friends. |
| 1970 |
lose the thread if you lose the thread of a conversation or story, you are unable to follow it. there were so many interruptions during his speech that i completely lost the thread. |
| 1971 |
lose the plot if a situation becomes so confusing that you are unable to understand what is happening or what you are supposed to do, you lose the plot. the tv instructions were so long and confusing that i just lost the plot. |
| 1972 |
lose one's marbles if someone loses their marbles, they become mentally confused or no longer behave sensibly or rationally. our grandfather has lost his marbles. |
| 1973 |
lose it this idiom means to stop being able to control your emotions and suddenly start to shout, cry or laugh. ignore him. he has lost it. |
| 1974 |
lose face in a situation where you lose face, you feel that you are humiliated or are not respected. we will find a solution to this pressing problem and we'll assure that nobody will lose face. |
| 1975 |
loose lips sink ships this was a wartime expression meaning "unguarded talk may give useful information to the enemy". be careful what you speak in this city. loose lips sink ships! |
| 1976 |
loose end a person who is at a loose end has some spare time and feels quite bored by having nothing in particular to do. when the meeting was cancelled i found myself at a loose end. |
| 1977 |
loose cannon someone who is referred to as a loose cannon cannot be completely trusted because of unpredictable and irresponsible behaviour which can cause trouble. keep an eye on her. she turns into a loose cannon when she has a few drinks. |
| 1978 |
look the picture of health if you look the picture of health it means that you look extremely healthy. it's nice to see you again! you look the picture of health. |
| 1979 |
look the picture if someone looks the picture, they look very pretty. the man looked the picture in his new tuxedo. |
| 1980 |
look the part if you look the part, your appearance makes you ideally suited for a particular job or role. it was a mistake to choose a young boy to play the robber. he didn't look the part at all. |
| 1981 |
look over one's shoulder this idiom means to watch for danger or threats to oneself. ben is always looking over his shoulder. |
| 1982 |
look out for number 1 if you take care of yourself first, and look after your own interests rather than those of other people, you look out for number one. i've told my daughter that looking out for number one should be her priority. |
| 1983 |
look or feel like a million dollars if you look or feel like a million dollars, you look or feel extremely good. with a tan and a new suit, she looked like a million dollars. |
| 1984 |
look on the bright side if you look on the bright side, you view a mostly unpleasant situation in a positive and optimistic way. your car has broken. look on the bright side – you will walk more. |
| 1985 |
look forward to this idiom means to eagerly await something. i am looking forward to seeing you. |
| 1986 |
look down one's nose if someone looks down their nose at a person or thing, they consider that person or thing inferior. i hate when she looks down her nose at me. |
| 1987 |
look daggers someone who looks daggers at another looks at them very angrily. he looked daggers at me when i invited his girlfriend to dance. |
| 1988 |
look before you leap this is something you say when advising someone to think carefully about the possible problems before doing something. don't act too quickly. look before you leap! |
| 1989 |
look a sight if a person looks a sight, their appearance is awful, unsuitable or very untidy. she looks a sight in that casual outfit. |
| 1990 |
long time no see this expression means that the speaker has not seen the other person for a very long time. hello steve! long time no see! |
| 1991 |
long row to hoe a difficult task, assignment or undertaking that will take a long time is a long row to hoe. driving from one side to the other through this country is going to be a long row to hoe. |
| 1992 |
long in the tooth a person who is long in the tooth is a bit too old to do something. he's a bit too old for a football player, isn't he? |
| 1993 |
long arm of the law this idiom refers to the far-reaching power of the authorities. the long arm of the law will reach you some day. |
| 1994 |
lock, stock and barrel this expression means everything or every single item. don't worry. i've taken everything – lock, stock and barrel. let's go! |
| 1995 |
lock the barn door after the horse has bolted this idiom means to take precautions after damage has occurred. after the burglary they installed the latest alarm system. there's no additional need to lock the barn door after the horse has bolted. |
| 1996 |
lock horns if you lock horns with somebody, you argue or fight with them about something. if there is another incident like that one, the employees will lock horns with each other. |
| 1997 |
local colour this expression is used to describe the traditional features of a place that give it its own character. the weekend meal market added much local colour to the small community. |
| 1998 |
loaves and fishes this phrase refers to tangible benefits or rewards. he will be there for the loaves and fishes if we win the contest. |
| 1999 |
loan shark a loan shark is a person who lends money at extremely high interest rates to people who are unable to obtain a loan from the bank. the man was threatened because he was late paying back money to a loan shark. |
| 2000 |
loaf this is a slang term for head. betting your wage on the toss of a coin isn't the best way to get more money – use your loaf, mate! |
| 2001 |
load of baloney this term refers to idle talk, or pretentious, untrue or insincere statements that nobody can believe. i'm sure they think it's a load of baloney! it seems that they don't believe a word of it! |
| 2002 |
living off the fat of the land this idiom means living well. being wealthy, they are living off the fat of the land. |
| 2003 |
live wire someone who is highly vivacious, energetic and full of enthusiasm is a live wire. things have been better since she arrived. she's a real live wire. |
| 2004 |
live up to the hype if something (mainly a movie or show) lives up to the hype, it means that there is enough interest in it. the latest star wars movie lives up to the hype. |
| 2005 |
live to tell the tale someone who lives to tell the tale survives a terrible experience. only one man of the expedition lived to tell the tale. |
| 2006 |
live to fight another day this expression means that even though you have had a negative experience, you will have another chance in the future to try again. i've been defeated in this championship but there no problem. i live to fight another day. |
| 2007 |
live to a ripe old age this expression means to live until you are very old. if you lead a healthy life and exercise at the gym, you'll live to a ripe old age. |
| 2008 |
live out of a suitcase someone who lives out of a suitcase travels a lot, moving from place to place, and is therefore restricted to the contents of their suitcase. my job involves much travelling so i live out of a suitcase. |
| 2009 |
live on the edge if you live on the edge, your lifestyle involves dangerous or risky activities. extreme sportsmen are just an example of people who live on the edge. |
| 2010 |
live on borrowed time this expression refers to a period of time after an illness or accident which could have caused death. after a major surgery, most patients feel that they are living on borrowed time. |
| 2011 |
live in sin this expression means to live with someone that you are having a sexual relationship with, but are not married to. as far as i know, they haven't moved together. and they are still living in sin. |
| 2012 |
live in an ivory tower a person who lives in an ivory tower has a lifestyle that preserves them from the problems and difficulties experienced by others. i don't like her because she has been living in an ivory tower and thus she has no life experience. |
| 2013 |
live from hand to mouth if you live from hand to mouth, you don't have any money to save because whatever you earn is spent on food and other essentials. most people in this county live from hand to mouth. |
| 2014 |
live beyond your means if someone lives beyond their means, they spend more money than they earn. the cost of living in berlin was so high that i was soon living beyond my means. |
| 2015 |
live at rack and manger this expression literally means "in-between plenty and abundance". steve has been living at rack and manger since the time he joined the company. |
| 2016 |
live and learn this idiom is used to say that one has learned something from an experience that is surprising and usually unpleasant. i thought i could trust her, but it turned out that i was wrong. live and learn! |
| 2017 |
live a lie if you spend your life hiding something important about yourself or inventing something which is not true, you live a lie. to hide her childhood, she told her husband that she had no family. |
| 2018 |
little fish in a big pond this idiom refers to someone considered unimportant as compared to their more significant peers. when the girl got to high-school, she was a little fish in a big pond. |
| 2019 |
little devil! this is an exclamation of surprise and annoyance, directed at someone who has behaved badly or performed some kind of prank. this is often applied to children. do you know what those little devils from next door have done? |
| 2020 |
litmus test this idiom refers to a test used to determine someone's true intentions or beliefs. she used his reaction to her favourite music to see if he was worth dating. |
| 2021 |
liquor someone up this idiom means to get someone drunk. tonight i want to liquor her up and find more about her past. |
| 2022 |
lips are sealed if you say that your lips are sealed, you promise not to reveal a secret. you can easily trust me. my lips are sealed! |
| 2023 |
lion's share the lion's share of something is the largest portion or the best part. he left little money to her; the lion's share was passed down to their children. |
| 2024 |
link rot this expression refers to the tendency of www addresses to become out of date and point to unavailable pages. there are link rot links all over this website. |
| 2025 |
link farm this expression refers to a website that exists primarily to display links to another website, with the intention of improving the search status of the second site. google will spot out site as a link farm for sure. |
| 2026 |
line of least resistance if you opt for the line of least resistance, you choose the easiest way of doing something. i chose the line of least resistance and broke off her. |
| 2027 |
lily-livered this idiom means cowardly. they don't like him because he's lily-livered. |
| 2028 |
like water off a duck's back criticism, comments or warnings that have no effect on somebody are referred to as being like water off a duck's back. people are warned of the dangers of smoking but it's like water off a duck's back. |
| 2029 |
like two peas in a pod to say that two people are like two peas in a pod means that they are very similar in appearance. it wasn't difficult to identify the sisters – they were like two peas in a pod. |
| 2030 |
like turkeys voting for christmas if turkeys were allowed to vote, they would never vote for christmas because turkey is often eaten at christmas. this expression is used to say that a particular option is unlikely to be chosen because it would be against the interests of the people concerned. accepting an increase of working hours would be like turkeys voting for christmas. |
| 2031 |
like there's no tomorrow this idiom means to do something fast or energetically as if it were your last opportunity to ever do it. in this race you should run like there's no tomorrow. |
| 2032 |
like the dickens this idiom is an intensifier used when one puts forth great effort to do something. the athlete was planning to run like the dickens. |
| 2033 |
like the cat that ate the canary if, after an achievement or success, a person seems very self-satisfied or pleased with themselves, you can say that they look like the cat that ate the canary. when the manager complimented her on the project, she looked like the cat that ate the canary. |
| 2034 |
like the back of one's hand if you know something like the back of your hand, you are very familiar with it and know it in detail. of course i won't get lost. i know paris like the back of my hand! |
| 2035 |
like something the cat dragged in if you compare a person or thing to something the cat dragged in, you think they look dirty, untidy or generally unappealing. my cousin often looked like something the cat dragged in. |
| 2036 |
like ships that pass in the night this expression refers to people who meet briefly and are not likely to meet again. we met once, like ships that pass in the night. |
| 2037 |
like riding a bicycle this idiom refers to something you never forget how to do. swimming is like riding a bicycle, isn't it? |
| 2038 |
like pulling teeth something that is like pulling teeth is extremely difficult to obtain, especially if trying to extract information from someone. getting him to talk about their relation was like pulling teeth. |
| 2039 |
like it or lump it! if you tell someone to like it or lump it, you mean that they will have to accept something even if they don't like it, because the situation is not going to change. we are spending a week this summer at the mountain – like it or lump it! |
| 2040 |
like clockwork to say that someone or something goes, runs or behaves like clockwork means that everything happens exactly as expected. i am impressed. in their company everything works like clockwork. |
| 2041 |
like cat and dog two people who fight or argue like cat and dog frequently have violent arguments, even though they are fond of each other. they fight like cat and dog but they are still together after 15 years. |
| 2042 |
like billy-o this idiom means a lot or very quickly, strongly etc. the team worked like billy-o to get the project finished. |
| 2043 |
like a scalded cat if someone or something moves like a scalded cat, they move very fast, usually because they are frightened or shocked. as soon as they saw the policemen, they ran off like a scalded cat. |
| 2044 |
like a moth to a flame this idiom means irresistibly and dangerously attracted to something or someone. i'm sexually attracted to her like a moth to a flame. |
| 2045 |
like a lamb to the slaughter if someone does something or goes somewhere like a lamb to the slaughter, they do it without knowing that something bad is going to happen and therefore act calmly and without fighting against the situation. he was heading towards prison like a lamb to the slaughter. |
| 2046 |
like a hole in the head this expression means to have absolutely no need for something. i need a new friend like a hole in the head. |
| 2047 |
like a fish out of water if you feel like a fish out of water, you feel uncomfortable in unfamiliar surroundings. as i don't like going to a reception, i felt like a fish out of water. |
| 2048 |
like a dog with two tails if someone is like a dog with two tails, they are extremely happy. she was like a dog with two tails when she was given that special award. |
| 2049 |
like a chicken with its head cut off this expression means in a frenzied manner. the manager was shouting and swearing because he had lost the deal – he was running around like a chicken with its head cut off. |
| 2050 |
like a cat on hot bricks a person who is like a cat on hot bricks is very nervous or restless. the week before the results were announced, he was like a cat on hot bricks. |
| 2051 |
like a bull in a china shop this expression refers to an extremely awkward, clumsy person. it may also mean to be aggressive when in fact the need of the hour is to stay calm. i behaved like a bull in a china shop last night. i'm so sorry. |
| 2052 |
like a broken record this idiom is used to describe somebody who keeps talking about the same story over and over again. stop saying this story again! you're like a broken record. |
| 2053 |
like a bear with a sore head if someone is behaving like a bear with a sore head, they are very irritable and bad-tempered. when his team lost the match, brian was like a bear with a sore head. |
| 2054 |
like a bat out of hell this expression means very fast and crazily. i saw him driving like a bat out of hell. |
| 2055 |
lights on but no one home this is a humorous way of referring to someone who is lacking intelligence or sanity, or to someone who is simply preoccupied and not paying attention. forget about nicole today – the lights are on but no one is home. |
| 2056 |
lightning fast this means extremely fast. she crossed the street lightning fast. |
| 2057 |
lighten up this expression means to take it easy. just lighten up! everything will be fine. |
| 2058 |
light bulb moment this expression is used to describe a sudden moment of inspiration, comprehension or realization. i had a light-bulb moment when i realized what was wrong with the watch. |
| 2059 |
life's too short this idiom is a response to a request to do something that seems too petty to waste valuable time on. i won't do this thing for you. life's too short! |
| 2060 |
life of riley a person who lives the life of riley has a comfortable and enjoyable life, without having to make much effort. steve married a well-off woman, and since then he has been living the life of riley. |
| 2061 |
life is just a bowl of cherries this expression means that life is pleasant and uncomplicated. keep in mind that this phrase is often used ironically to mean the opposite. life is just a bowl of cherries. you should love more! |
| 2062 |
life in the fast lane this idiom refers to an exciting and eventful lifestyle, especially one bringing wealth and success. he now lives in the fast lane. it was his dream. |
| 2063 |
life begins at forty this idiom means that life begins to be better in one's middle age. i've told you that life begins at forty! |
| 2064 |
life and soul of the party the life and soul of the party is the most lively and amusing person present at an event. i am so glad that he is here. he is the life and soul of the party. |
| 2065 |
lie through your teeth if you lie through your teeth, you lie openly and brazenly, knowing that what you are saying is completely false. if she denies it, she'll be lying through her teeth. i saw her when she did it! |
| 2066 |
lie low this expression means to go out of sight, usually after having done something bad. she should lie low after having done that... |
| 2067 |
lie in if you lie in, you stay in bed after the normal time for getting up. oh, is finally weekend. tomorrow i can lie in! |
| 2068 |
lickety-split this idiom means very quickly. the car sped lickety-split past me. |
| 2069 |
lick somebody's wounds when a person licks their wounds, they try to recover their confidence or spirits after a defeat, failure or disappointment. they are licking their wounds after being defeated. |
| 2070 |
lick somebody's boots to say that one person licks another person's boots means that they are trying to please that person, often in order to obtain something. there's no need to lick her boots. just do your job and things will be fine. |
| 2071 |
lick into shape if you make an effort to put someone or something into satisfactory condition or appearance, you lick them into shape. i have to lick this place into shape before she arrives. |
| 2072 |
licence to print money an officially authorized activity which enables people to make a lot of money without much effort is called a licence to print money. the contract to supply water and food to schools was a licence to print money. |
| 2073 |
level playing field this idiom refers to a fair competition where no side has an advantage. it's their job to ensure a level playing field for all competitors. |
| 2074 |
let's rewind this idiom is a suggestion that the thing under consideration has gone along unproductive lines and should be looked at again from the beginning. let's rewind and start the project again to see how it goes. |
| 2075 |
let your heart rule your head this idiom means to do something based on emotions rather than logic. it's better not to let your heart rule your head. |
| 2076 |
let your hair down if you suggest that someone should let their hair down, you are telling them to relax and enjoy themselves. we're not at work now, so you can let your hair down. |
| 2077 |
let your freak flag fly this means to let others see your uniqueness. i let my freak flag fly and they were surprised. |
| 2078 |
let the dust settle this phrase means to allow a situation to become calm or normal again after something exciting or unusual has happened. i suggest that we let the dust settle before we decide what to do. |
| 2079 |
let the chips fall where they may this means to let something happen, no matter what happens next. don't worry. it won't help. let the chips fall where they may. |
| 2080 |
let the cat out of the bag if you let the cat out of the bag, you reveal a secret, generally not intentionally. when she told her cousin about the weekend plans, she let the cat out of the bag. |
| 2081 |
let something ride when you decide to do nothing about a particular situation and allow it to remain as it is, you let it ride. i didn't like the way she spoke to me, but i let it ride. i didn't want to quarrel with her. |
| 2082 |
let someone stew in their own juice if you let someone stew in their own juice, you leave them to worry about the consequences of their own actions. being punished, she spent last night at home. they let her stew in her own juice. |
| 2083 |
let slip through your fingers if you let something slip through your fingers, such as a good opportunity, you fail to obtain it or keep it. that a good price. i won't let this apartment slip through my fingers. |
| 2084 |
let sleeping dogs lie if you tell someone to let sleeping dogs lie, you are asking them not to interfere with a situation so as to avoid making matters worse. it's time to let sleeping dogs lie and move on. we have another challenge ahead. |
| 2085 |
let one thousand flowers bloom this idiom means to encourage many ideas from many sources. the professor let one thousand flowers bloom and the students liked him for that. |
| 2086 |
let off steam a person who lets off steam releases surplus energy or strong feelings either through intense physical activity or by talking in an unrestrained manner. let's have a drink so you can let off steam. |
| 2087 |
let not the sun go down on your wrath this phrase means not to hold your anger for more than one day. we'll find a way to fix this situation. let not the sun go down on your wrath! |
| 2088 |
let bygones be bygones if you let bygones be bygones, you decide to forget about past disagreements. when she arrived home, she decided to ley bygones be bygones and called on him. |
| 2089 |
lesser of two evils if you choose the lesser of two evils, you opt for the less unpleasant of two poor options. choosing the train instead of driving was the lesser of two evils; at least we could have a drink. |
| 2090 |
less is more this expression, used particularly in architecture and design, conveys the idea that things that are simple in style and smaller in size are better. simple interior decorations are fashionable today. less is more. |
| 2091 |
lend oneself to something if you lend yourself to something, you approve of it or become associated with it. no sensible man would lend himself to domestic violence. |
| 2092 |
lend an ear if you lend an ear to someone, you listen carefully and sympathetically. i know you and it seems that something is troubling you. i will lend an ear to you if you want to talk about it. |
| 2093 |
lemon law this idiom refers to an american law that protects those who but defective cars or other consumer goods. a received a complete refund in accordance with the lemon law. |
| 2094 |
leg it this is an informal way of telling someone to run in order to evade capture. you shouldn't be here! leg it! |
| 2095 |
left to one's own devices if you leave someone to their own devices, you let them look after themselves, without help of supervision. when left to their own devices, most children watch tv. |
| 2096 |
left in the lurch if something leaves you in the lurch, it leaves you in a difficult or embarrassing situation. when she missed the last train, she was left in the lurch. |
| 2097 |
left hanging in the air if a problem is left hanging in the air, no decision has been taken so it remains without a solution. my question about how we should obtain additional funds was left hanging in the air. |
| 2098 |
left hand doesn't know what the right hand is doing this expression means that within a group or organisation, communication is so bad that one person doesn't know what another person is doing. i don't like this company anymore. the left hand doesn't know what the right hand is doing and this is driving me crazy. |
| 2099 |
leave well alone if you leave well alone, you decide not to interfere with or change something that is acceptable or adequate. it would be hard to get a better offer. let's leave well alone. |
| 2100 |
leave the door open if you leave the door open, you behave in such a way as to allow the possibility of further action. it's good for you to leave the door open in any situation. |
| 2101 |
leave someone at the altar this means that you decide not to marry someone just before the wedding. are you going to leave john at the altar? |
| 2102 |
leave somebody holding the baby if someone is left holding the baby, they are made responsible for a problem that others don't want to deal with. when that furious customer started to complain, i disappeared and left my colleague holding the baby. |
| 2103 |
leave no stone unturned if you try everything possible in order to achieve or to find something, you leave no stone unturned. the police left no stone unturned in their efforts to find the murderer. |
| 2104 |
leather-lunged this idiom means "speaking or capable of speaking in a loud, resonant voice, especially for prolonged periods". the leather-lunged singer was able to shake the audience. |
| 2105 |
learning curve the length of time needed to learn something new is called the learning curve. this system has a long learning curve so we will need more time. |
| 2106 |
learn to walk before you run this idiom means to take smaller steps initially. the loan was denied because our company needs to learn to walk before it runs. |
| 2107 |
learn the ropes if you learn the ropes, you learn how to do a particular job correctly. she's an intelligent woman. it won't take her long to learn the ropes. |
| 2108 |
learn the hard way if you learn the hard way, you learn through your own experience, rather than from the advice or guidance of others. her refusal to accept my help meant that she had to learn the hard way. |
| 2109 |
learn something by heart this means to memorise something so well, that it can be written or recited without thinking. i can't believe you learnt the whole poem by heart! |
| 2110 |
learn one's lesson this means to suffer a bad experience and know not to do it again. i learnt my lesson to not make a joke at someone else's expense many years ago. |
| 2111 |
learn by rote the expression means to learn something by memorising it without giving any thought to what is being learnt. i had no other choice but to learn it by rote. |
| 2112 |
lean towards this idiom means to be interested in something. she makes a persuasive point. i'm leaning towards voting for her. |
| 2113 |
lead-pipe cinch this idiom refers to something very easy or certain. the case should be lead-pipe cinch to solve. |
| 2114 |
lead to a dead end if a plan or project leads to a dead end, it develops no further because it has no future. in spite of our efforts, the marketing research led to a dead end. |
| 2115 |
lead someone up the garden path if someone lead you up the garden path, they deceive you by making you believe something which is not true. unfortunately i haven't got the promotion i was promised. i think my manager is leading me up the garden path. |
| 2116 |
lead astray this idiom means to cause someone to make a mistake. the detectives were led astray by false information from the witnesses. |
| 2117 |
lead a double life this idiom means to keep a part of one's life hidden, especially a part that would not be approved of. for years, she has led a double life. |
| 2118 |
lay the foundation this idiom means to produce the basic ideas or structures from which something much larger develops. the two leaders have laid the foundation of a new era in cooperation. |
| 2119 |
lay out in lavender this idiom means to prepare a dead body to be buried. the undertakes was accused of robbing corpses before laying them out in lavender. |
| 2120 |
lay it on the line if you speak frankly and make something very clear, you lay it on the line. the manager laid it on the line and told mary that she had made a mistake. |
| 2121 |
lay down the law someone who lays down the law tells people very forcefully and firmly what to do. the people were acting in a disorganised way. they needed someone to lay down the law. |
| 2122 |
law of the jungle a situation in which people are prepared to use unscrupulous methods in order to succeed or survive is called the law of the jungle. most businesses today seem to be governed by the law of the jungle. don't you think so? |
| 2123 |
laughter is the best medicine this expression means that laughter can help cure negative feelings such as stress, anger, worry, depression etc. laughter is the best medicine! don't forget that! |
| 2124 |
laughing stock a person who does something stupid or ridiculous which causes others to laugh becomes a laughing stock. if you wear that suit, you'll be the laughing stock of the company. |
| 2125 |
laugh up your sleeve if you laugh up your sleeve, you are secretly amused at another person's problems or difficulties. she felt that the show wasn't so good as she had expected and that her colleagues were laughing up their sleeve. |
| 2126 |
laugh off when you laugh about something that has upset or hurt you, to make it seem less important or to try to show that you do not care, you laugh it off. i heard his critical remark, but i laughed it off. |
| 2127 |
laugh like a drain this idiom means to laugh coarsely or loudly, especially at the discomfort of others. when i entered into the restaurant she was laughing like a drain. |
| 2128 |
laugh all the way to the bank a person who makes a lot of money easily, is said to laugh all the way to the bank. if we fail to renew that contract, our competitor will be laughing all the way to the bank. |
| 2129 |
last word something described as the last word is the most recent or most fashionable in its category. her smartphone is the last word in technology. |
| 2130 |
last thing on one's mind if you say that something is the last thing on your mind, you mean that it is not an important matter at all, especially when you have more serious problems to consider. i'm so busy that preparing dinner is the last thing on my mind. |
| 2131 |
last but not least this expression means that something which is equally important is about to be said, despite being mentioned after everyone else. i would like to thank my parents, my manager, and last but not least, my wife. |
| 2132 |
lash out at someone if you lash out at somebody, you attack them, usually verbally. he suddenly lashed out at her and blamed her for cheating. |
| 2133 |
larger than life a person who is larger than life attracts special attention because they are very impressive in their appearance, behaviour or personality. steve is a larger than life man. i'm glad that you have met him. |
| 2134 |
landslide victory the victory of a candidate or a political party by an overwhelming majority is called a landslide victory. the analyst predicts a landslide victory for the labour party. |
| 2135 |
land on your feet if you land on your feet, you make a quick recovery after a difficulty such as a business failure, an illness, a loss etc. i know that you're strong! you always land on your feet. |
| 2136 |
land of the living this is a humorous way of saying that someone is still alive. glad to see that you're still in the land of the living! |
| 2137 |
lame excuse a lame excuse is an explanation which is weak and unconvincing. if you don't want to do it, just say so. don't invent a lame excuse! |
| 2138 |
lame duck a person or organisation is difficulty and unable to manage without help is called a lame duck. local firms have become lame ducks in recent years. |
| 2139 |
la-la land this idiom refers to a notional place characterized by fantasy, self-absorption and blissful lack of touch with reality. she would give anything for a day in la-la land. |
| 2140 |
la-di-da this idiom is used to describe speech or behaviour that is not sincere because the person is pretending to belong to a higher social status. the thing is that i don't like her la-di-da way of being. |
| 2141 |
lackadaisical this idiom means "showing little enthusiasm and effort". the food was tasty but the service was lackadaisical. |
| 2142 |
labour of love a task that is done for your own pleasure and satisfaction and not for reward or profit is called a labour of love. solving english grammar exercises is a labour of love for me. |
| 2143 |
la dolce vita this idiom refers to the good life, full of pleasure and indulgence. we are living la dolce vita. |
| 2144 |
kowtow to someone if you are very respectful and submissive, giving way to the wishes of a person or organisation in authority in order to please them, you kowtow to them. she refused to kowtow to us anymore. |
| 2145 |
knuckle down to something if someone knuckles down to something, they start to work on it seriously. if you want to implement this project, you'll have to knuckle down to some serious work. |
| 2146 |
know your own mind if you know your own mind, you know what you want or like, and are capable of making a decision. i really don't want to influence you. you are old enough to know your own mind. |
| 2147 |
know your onions this idiom means to be experienced in or knowledgeable about a subject. her advice is invaluable. she knows her onions! |
| 2148 |
know which way the wind is blowing this expression means that it is advisable to know how a situation is developing in order to be prepared for any changes. before we act, we need to know which way the wind is blowing. |
| 2149 |
know which side your bread is buttered if you know which side your bread is buttered, you know where your interests lie or what will be to your advantage. shelia never argues with her mother-in-law. she knows which side her bread is buttered. |
| 2150 |
know the score when you know the score, you are well-informed about a situation and know what to expect. if he damages the car, i won't lend it to him again. he knows the score. |
| 2151 |
know someone inside out if you know someone inside out, you know them very well. we've been friends since childhood. we know each other inside out. |
| 2152 |
know better than to do something if you know better than to do something, you are experienced or wise enough not to do it. you should know better than to go fishing in stormy weather. |
| 2153 |
knock your socks off if something amazes you, it knocks your socks off. this project will knock the socks off everyone in the office. |
| 2154 |
knock sense into someone when you knock sense into somebody, you use strong words or methods in order to make that person stop behaving stupidly. when she announced that she was going to drop out of university, her mother managed to knock some sense into her. |
| 2155 |
knock into a cocked hat this idiom means to beat or damage severely. your car has been knocked into a cocked hat. |
| 2156 |
knock down with a feather if you say "you could have knocked me down with a feather", you mean that you were extremely surprised by something. i won all the votes! you could have knocked me down with a feather! |
| 2157 |
knit your brows this idiom means to frown because you are thinking carefully or because you are angry or worried. she knitted her brows in concentration. |
| 2158 |
knick-knack this idiom refers to a dainty little trinket or ornament. we've bought you a knick-knack. |
| 2159 |
knee-trembler this idiom refers to sexual intercourse between two people standing up. we resorted to a knee-trembler in the alley. it was great and crazy too! |
| 2160 |
knee-jerk reaction this expression refers to a quick, automatic and sometimes emotional response. following the attack, the knee-jerk reaction was to bomb them back. |
| 2161 |
knee-high to a grasshopper this term refers to the height of a very young or small child. look how tall you are! a year ago you were knee-high to a grasshopper! |
| 2162 |
kith and kin this idiom refers to people you are connected with, especially by family relationships. all kith and kin were deeply sorry about his death. |
| 2163 |
kiss goodbye to something if you accept as certain that you will not get something that you want, you kiss goodbye to it. there will be no substantial bonus this year, so i can kiss goodbye to the laptop i wanted. |
| 2164 |
kiss and tell this idiom means to talk on television, in a newspaper etc. about a sexual relationship you have had with a famous person, especially in order to get a lot of money. i don't like her because she kissed and told about their private experiences on the island. |
| 2165 |
kiss and make up this expression means to make peace after an argument. we fight from time to time, but we always kiss and make up. |
| 2166 |
kindred spirit people who have a lot in common and share the same beliefs, attitudes and feelings are kindred spirits. i immediately felt that we were kindred spirits. |
| 2167 |
kill with kindness when you are excessive in your efforts to be helpful or generous, you can harm someone or kill them with kindness. he is overweight, but his mother continues to give him chocolates – she will kill him with kindness! |
| 2168 |
kill two birds with one stone if you kill two birds with one stone, you succeed in doing two things at the same time. by reading on the train on her way home, mary killed two birds with one stone. |
| 2169 |
kill time when you do something to amuse yourself while waiting for something or someone, you kill time. shall we play a little game to kill time? |
| 2170 |
kill the goose that lays the golden egg this idiom means to destroy something that is profitable to you mostly because of greed. by selling her business, she killed the goose that lays the golden egg. |
| 2171 |
kick yourself this expression means to be annoyed because you did something stupid or failed to act when you had an opportunity. you'll kick yourself if you forget to do it, so i advice you to do it now. |
| 2172 |
kick your heels this phrase means to pass time idly having to wait for someone or something. the player has been kicking his heels on the sidelines this season. |
| 2173 |
kick up a fuss a person who kicks up a fuss creates a disturbance, especially by complaining or protesting about something. the food was so bad that several customers began to kick up a fuss. |
| 2174 |
kick the habit this idiom means to overcome an addiction, especially of an addiction like drugs. he couldn't kick the habit of drinking. |
| 2175 |
kick the can down the road this expression means to postpone dealing with something in the hope that it becomes someone else's problem. you can't continue to kick the can down the road. she needs to know the truth. |
| 2176 |
kick the bucket to kick the bucket is a lighthearted way of talking about death. she will inherit the house when her grandmother kicks the bucket! |
| 2177 |
kick someone around this idiom means to treat someone roughly or disrespectfully. it's not fair to kick him around after what he has done for you! |
| 2178 |
kept in the dark if someone is kept or left in the dark about something, they are not informed about it. the officer was kept in the dark about the transfer until the last minute. |
| 2179 |
keepy-uppy this term refers to a game of bouncing a ball off any part of your body except your hand or arm, as many times as you can without the ball hitting the ground. let's play keepy-uppy. |
| 2180 |
keep your shirt on! if you tell somebody to keep their shirt on, you are asking them to calm down. hey! keep your shirt on, steve. just tell me what happened. |
| 2181 |
keep your powder dry this idiom means to be prepared and save your resources until they are needed. don't buy a new car now. keep your powder dry! |
| 2182 |
keep your pecker up this idiom means to remain cheerful – keep your head held high. no matter what happens, keep your pecker up! it's the best option! |
| 2183 |
keep your options open when you keep your options open, you postpone making a decision so that you can choose among several possible courses of action. the price is good, but i keep my options open until i'm sure this is the best choice. |
| 2184 |
keep your nose to the grindstone this idiom means to apply yourself conscientiously to your work. keep your nose to the grindstone and you'll finish the project this week. |
| 2185 |
keep your friends close and your enemies closer this idiom means to keep a keen eye on enemies beyond what one might have on their friends. as a politician you should keep your friends close and your enemies closer. |
| 2186 |
keep your fingers crossed if you keep your fingers crossed, you hope that something will be successful. i'm sitting in for the final exam tomorrow. keep your fingers crossed for me. |
| 2187 |
keep your finger on the pulse if you keep your finger on the pulse, you are constantly aware of the most recent events or developments. as an investor, i have to keep my finger on the pulse of the market. |
| 2188 |
keep your eyes peeled to keep one's eyes peeled means to watch out very carefully for something. i mislaid my watch at home, so i asked my wife to keep her eyes peeled. |
| 2189 |
keep your ear to the ground if you keep your ear to the ground, you make sure that you are aware of all that is happening and is being said. they don't know anything about the changes, but steve is keeping his ear to the ground. |
| 2190 |
keep your distance this idiom means to remain aloof and detached from another person or situation. i advise you to keep your distance. they might be dangerous. |
| 2191 |
keep your chin up this expression means to remain positive in a tough situation. keep your chin up, my friend! it will be fine in the end. |
| 2192 |
keep your back covered if you do something in case a problem arises later for which you might be blamed, you keep your back covered. i've made a copy of that report just to keep my back covered. |
| 2193 |
keep up with the joneses someone who tries to keep up with the joneses tries to have the same possessions or social achievements as someone else in order to appear equally important. it's quite silly how some people feel they have to keep up with the joneses. |
| 2194 |
keep up the good work this idiom is used to encourage a person to continue doing the good things they are doing now. i am pleased with my staff so i've told them to keep up the good work. |
| 2195 |
keep up appearances a person who keeps up appearances maintains an outward show of prosperity so as to hide their difficulties from other. she continued to keep up appearances even when business was bad. |
| 2196 |
keep things in proportion if you react to a situation in a sensible way, without exaggerating the importance of the facts, you keep thing in proportion. i admit. we have a problem, but let's keep things in proportion and try to solve it as fast as possible. |
| 2197 |
keep the wolf from the door to keep the wolf from the door you need to have enough money to buy food and other basic essentials in order to survive. the family earned scarcely enough money to keep the wolf from the door. |
| 2198 |
keep the lid on something if you keep the lid on something, you hide it or control it to prevent people from finding out about it. the firm tried to keep a lid on the merger, but word got out to the press. |
| 2199 |
keep something under your hat to keep something under your hat means to keep a secret. trust me. i will keep it under my hat! |
| 2200 |
keep something under wraps if something is kept under wraps, it is held secret and not revealed to anyone. the mission details were kept under wraps until it was over. |
| 2201 |
keep something at bay this expression means to keep something away. why do you keep the new car at bay? |
| 2202 |
keep someone posted if someone asks you to keep them posted, they want you to keep them informed about a situation. she promised to keep us posted on the stage of the construction. |
| 2203 |
keep someone on their toes this idiom means to cause someone to remain alert and ready for anything that might happen. the officer likes to keep the soldiers on their toes. |
| 2204 |
keep someone at arm's length if you keep someone at arm's length, you do not allow yourself to become friendly with them. it's not easy to become friends with cristina; she tends to keep everyone at arm's length. |
| 2205 |
keep schtum this expression means to be quiet when one knows that if the wrong thing is said then there will be more trouble. she can't keep schtum about such a sensitive thing. |
| 2206 |
keep own counsel this idiom means to say little or nothing about one's opinions or intentions. our manager is notorious for keeping his own counsel. |
| 2207 |
keep one's head above water to keep your head above water means to try to survive by staying out of debt, for example a small business. this year business has been slow. i barely managed to keep my head above water. |
| 2208 |
keep one's feet on the ground a person who keeps their feet on the ground continues to act in a sensible and practical way, even if they become successful. being successful hasn't changed her. she still keeps her feet on the ground. |
| 2209 |
keep on top this idiom means to stay informed. i like to keep on top of my emails. this way i know what happens inside my organisation. |
| 2210 |
keep on a short leash this idiom means to maintain strict or tight control over someone. the manager has kept his assistant on a short leash. |
| 2211 |
keep body and soul together if someone is able to keep body and soul together, they manage to survive. that time i was unemployed and it was hard for me to keep body and soul together. |
| 2212 |
keep an open mind this phrase means to wait until you know all the facts before forming an opinion or making a judgment. it can also mean to be willing to change your opinion. i don't usually like blondes but i keep an open mind. |
| 2213 |
keep an eye on this idiom means to observe carefully to make sure something bad isn't done. keep an eye on her while i'm gone. thank you! |
| 2214 |
keep a stiff upper lip if a person keeps a stiff upper lip, they contain their emotion and do not let other people see their feelings. when he heard the bad news, he somehow managed to keep a stiff upper lip. |
| 2215 |
keep a low profile a person who keeps a low profile tries not to attract public attention. the thief is trying to keep a low profile these days. |
| 2216 |
keep a level head if you keep a level head, you remain calm and sensible no matter how difficult or distressful the situation may be. all through the mission the officer kept a level head. |
| 2217 |
keep a civil tongue people who keep a civil tongue express themselves in polite terms. i like her because she keeps a civil tongue in all circumstances. |
| 2218 |
katy bar the door this is an exclamation that means watch out, trouble is on its way. katy bar the door! he's here! |
| 2219 |
kangaroo court a kangaroo court is an illegal tribunal set up by a group of people who have taken the law into their own hands and conduct trials which deny fundamental justice. i don't like your behaviour. is this a meeting or a kangaroo court? |
| 2220 |
just what the doctor ordered if something is just what the doctor ordered, it is extremely pleasant and will help you feel better. going to the gym three days per week? perfect! it's just what the doctor ordered! |
| 2221 |
just the ticket if something is just the ticket, it is exactly right or just what you need. i've had dinner at home, so a beer would be just the ticket. |
| 2222 |
just the job if you describe something as being just the job, you mean that thing is well-suited for a specific purpose. i don't need a big bag. that small plastic bag is just the job. |
| 2223 |
just saying the expression is used when you mention something without intending to cause offence. i don't think she is old enough to mow the lawn – just saying... |
| 2224 |
just one of those things the expression refers to an unexpected occurrence that was unavoidable. there was a traffic jam, so i was late for the date – it was just one of those things. |
| 2225 |
just in time if you arrive somewhere just in time, you arrive at the last possible moment before it is too late. i arrived at the airport just in time to catch the flight. |
| 2226 |
just in case this idiom means to do something as a precautionary measure. the pizza was ordered just in case the steak didn't turn up well. |
| 2227 |
just around the corner if something is just around the corner, it will happen very soon or is nor far away. there's a restaurant just around the corner. good times are just around the corner. |
| 2228 |
jump to conclusions a person who jumps to conclusions reaches a decision or makes a judgment too fast, before taking the time to check out all the facts. we don't have all pieces of the puzzle so let's not jump to conclusions. |
| 2229 |
jump through hoops this idiom means to go to extreme lengths to get something done or to please someone. it was a period when i jumped through hoops for her. |
| 2230 |
jump the shark this is a term used to describe a moment when something that was once great has reached a point where it will decline in quality and popularity. that tv series has clearly jumped off the shark. |
| 2231 |
jump the lights if you continue driving when the traffic lights turn red, you jump the lights. it's not so dangerous to jump the lights if you pay attention. |
| 2232 |
jump the gun if you jump the gun, you do something too soon or take premature action based on incomplete information. she ordered a new house before the job was confirmed – now that's jumping the gun! |
| 2233 |
jump ship this idiom means to leave or abandon something that is not doing well. i decided not to jump ship and try again. |
| 2234 |
jump out of one's skin if you jump out of your skin, you are extremely surprised or shocked. steve almost jumped out of his skin when the car entered the house. |
| 2235 |
jump on the bandwagon if a person or organisation jumps on the bandwagon, they decide to do something when it is already successful or fashionable. when eco-coffee became fashionable, certain stores were quick to jump on the bandwagon and promote it. |
| 2236 |
jump off the shelves this expression means to sell really well, a popular product. these homemade cakes are jumping off the shelves. |
| 2237 |
jump off the page this idiom refers to something that is visually pleasing or someone who is intellectually sharp and stands out above the rest. that woman jumps off the page for sure! |
| 2238 |
jump off the deep end this idiom means to take immediate and drastic action. i've decided to jump off the deep end and leave her. i want to completely change my life. |
| 2239 |
jump for joy when people jump for joy, they express their happiness through excited movements and gestures. i jumped for joy when i was awarded the prize. |
| 2240 |
jump down someone's throat if someone jumps down another person's throat, they suddenly start shouting at them in a very angry manner. when i said the things weren't clear, the manager jumped down my throat. |
| 2241 |
jump at something (a chance or opportunity) this expression means to seize the opportunity to do something. i jumped at the chance to do an internship with apple. |
| 2242 |
jump at one's own shadow this expression is used when someone is afraid of everything around them. she jumps at her own shadow; i don't she will go out at night. |
| 2243 |
juggling act if you do a juggling act, you try to do different things in a way that is satisfactory for all concerned. for most women, managing a career and looking after a family is a juggling act. |
| 2244 |
juggle frogs a person who is juggling frogs is trying to deal with many different tasks at the same time and is finding the situation difficult. every friday i have so many things to do at the office. it feels like i'm juggling frogs! |
| 2245 |
jot or tittle this idiom means a very small amount. i don't want a jot or tittle of it! i want it all! |
| 2246 |
josh someone if you josh someone, you trick them. i know you didn't race with this car. stop joshing me. |
| 2247 |
joined at the hip this idiom refers to two people who are inseparable. we are very much in love, but we aren't joined at the hip, you know. |
| 2248 |
join the colours this phrase means to join the army. my cousin is trying to join the colours. |
| 2249 |
join the club! by saying this to somebody, you express sympathy for an unpleasant experience that you have had too. my phone has been stolen. mine was stolen last month – join the club! |
| 2250 |
johnny on the spot this phrase refers to someone ready and available at the time needed. he is appreciated because he's like jonny on the spot. |
| 2251 |
jobs for the boys this idiom refers to favouritism where jobs or other benefits are given to friends and acquaintances. i have some jobs for the boys. please call them. |
| 2252 |
job someone's memory when you help someone to remember something they have forgotten, you jog their memory. don't you remember who was with us that day? he's a pilot to job your memory. |
| 2253 |
jimmy riddle this is a slang term for piddle. this is going to be a long trip, so kids go and have a jimmy riddle before we set off. |
| 2254 |
jet-black this idiom means absolutely black. his new car is jet-black. |
| 2255 |
jerry-built this idiom refers to something that is built in a makeshift and insubstantial manner. these refugee camps are jerry-built. |
| 2256 |
jelly belly this idiom refers to an overweight person. you should start going to the gym. you're turning into a real jelly belly. |
| 2257 |
je ne sais quoi this french expression is used to refer to a good quality that is difficult to describe. she has a certain je ne sais quoi that makes her alluring. |
| 2258 |
jazz something up if you jazz something up, you add something to try to improve it or make it more stylish. this car needs some accessories to jazz it up. |
| 2259 |
jaywalk if you jaywalk, you walk across a street at a place where it is not allowed or without taking acre to avoid the traffic. they jaywalked the street and a police officer saw them. |
| 2260 |
jaw drops if someone's jaw drops, they show total amazement. when the winner was announced, steve has jaw dropped. |
| 2261 |
jam tomorrow this idiom refers to some pleasant event in the future, which is never likely to materialize. it's your option, but this sounds like jam tomorrow for me. |
| 2262 |
jam jar this is a slang term for car. check my new bmw. it's the best jam jar i've ever had. |
| 2263 |
jack the lad this idiom refers to a conspicuously self-assured, carefree and brash young man. he is like the jack the lad. |
| 2264 |
jack palancing this is a slang term for dancing. she wants me to go with her to the ballroom for a night of jack palancing. |
| 2265 |
jack of all trades a jack of all trades is a person who can do many different things but is not very good at any one of them. i'm looking for an expert not a jack-of-all-trades. |
| 2266 |
jack in the box this phrase refers to a toy consisting of a box containing a figure with a spring, which leaps up when the lid is raised. the boy was given a jack in the box. |
| 2267 |
ivy league this is the joint name given to columbia, brown, cornell, dartmouth, yale, pennsylvania, princeton and harvard universities. i advise you to start your academic career in ivy league. |
| 2268 |
itchy palm someone who has an itchy palm is greedy for money, for example tips or commission. mike is said to have an itchy plan – he does nothing without money! |
| 2269 |
itchy feet a person who has itchy feet is someone who finds it difficult to stay in one place and likes to move often so as to discover new places. she never stays for a long period anywhere. she's got itchy feet. |
| 2270 |
it's your call you say this to somebody when you think that the final decision on a matter should ultimately be theirs. i prefer the local restaurant for this evening, but it's your call. |
| 2271 |
it's not over until the fat lady sings this is one of the most well known and most used idioms from the show business. when you say this expression it means that nothing is over until it is truly over. don't lose focus now. it's not over until the fat lady sings. |
| 2272 |
it's my way or the highway if you say this to someone, you are telling that person that either they accept what you propose or they leave the project. olivia, it's my way or the highway! |
| 2273 |
it's early days yet this idiom means that it's too soon to make a judgment about something. my latest book sells well, but it's early days yet. |
| 2274 |
it's beyond me to say "it's beyond me" means that it is impossible for you to understand. it's beyond me why maria still wants to marry him. |
| 2275 |
it's all gone pete tong this is a slang expression for gone wrong. i read how to cook it and tried. it all went pete tong. i'm sorry. |
| 2276 |
it's a steal! if you find something that you want for a very low price, much lower than what it is worth, you can say "it's a steal!". she selling the smartphone for $100? at that price it's a steal! |
| 2277 |
it's a small world people say this when they are surprised to meet someone familiar in an unexpected place. i never expected to meet her in berlin. it's a small world indeed. |
| 2278 |
it's a game of two halves this expression refers to the fact that a football match can change unexpectedly throughout the 90 minutes. i wouldn't bet on them. don't forget that it's a game of two halves. |
| 2279 |
it will never fly to say that something will never fly means that it will not be successful. she has always had good ideas, but the last one will never fly. |
| 2280 |
it takes two to tango you say this when you think that a difficult situation or argument cannot be the fault of one person alone. okay, i was wrong, but it takes two to tango. |
| 2281 |
it takes one to know one this expression is used for saying that someone must have a bad quality themselves if they can recognize it in other people. she's a cheater. well, it takes one to know one! |
| 2282 |
it is meat and drink to me this phrase has two meanings, which appear to be independent of each other. it may mean to be a source of support or please; it may mean to be a simple and routine matter. writing a book on security? it's meat and drink to me. |
| 2283 |
it is always darkest before the dawn this expression means that things are going to get better. this won't last for ever. it is always darkest before the dawn. |
| 2284 |
it is a poor workman who blames his tools this expression means that if you can't do the job, don't blame it on others. i told you not to call on him. it's a poor workman who blames his tools. |
| 2285 |
it beats me! the expression is used to express surprise at something that you find difficult to understand. it beats me how they can live in that tiny house! |
| 2286 |
is the pope catholic? this is a sarcastic way of answering a question in the affirmative when the answer is obviously "yes". do fish swim? of course they do. is the pope catholic? |
| 2287 |
iron out the wrinkles this idiom means to ease, solve or remove minor difficulties, trouble or problematic details. they are seeing a counselor to iron out the wrinkles in their marriage. |
| 2288 |
iron hoof this idiom means homosexual. steve is iron hoof. didn't you know? |
| 2289 |
inside job this expression refers to a crime committed by or with the help of someone living or working in the place that it took place. the police officers concluded that it had been an inside job. |
| 2290 |
ins and outs this term means all the details or facts. i know she was involved in a car accident, but i don't know all ins and outs. |
| 2291 |
innocent until proven guilty this is the legal concept that the guilt of an accused person cannot be presumed and that they must be assumed to be innocent until proven otherwise. how dare you? i'm innocent until proven guilty! |
| 2292 |
infra dig this idiom means below what you consider to be socially acceptable. she thinks it's a bit infra dig to do the washing. |
| 2293 |
infomania if you are constantly checking and responding to email and text messages, you may be the victim of a recent addiction called infomania. the expert warned that the rise in infomania could reduce workers' performance. |
| 2294 |
industrial strength this is a humorous way of referring to something which is very strong, powerful or concentrated. i've got an industrial-strength backache this morning. |
| 2295 |
indian summer this idiom refers to an unseasonably warm, dry and calm weather, usually following a period of colder weather or frost in the late autumn. indian summer has been forecast for the next period. |
| 2296 |
indian giver this idiom refers to one who gives a gift but later takes it back. i don't like him because he's an indian giver. |
| 2297 |
in your mind's eye if you can visualise something or see an image of it in your mind, you see it in your mind's eye. i can see the car in my mind's eye, but i can't remember the make. |
| 2298 |
in your element when you are in your element, you are doing something that you do well and you are enjoying yourself. my cousin, who is an estate agent, was in his element when i asked him to search for a new house for a friend of mine. |
| 2299 |
in words of one syllable if you explain something in words of one syllable, you use very simple language. could you repeat it in words of one syllable, please? |
| 2300 |
in vino veritas this expression is a way of saying that wine makes people less inhibited and leads them to speak more freely and reveal their true feelings. after a few drinks, she admitted to having cheated on me – in vino veritas! |
| 2301 |
in vain this idiom means "without success". your protests are all in vain! |
| 2302 |
in two shakes of a lamb's tail to do something in two shakes of a lamb's tail means to do it very quickly. i can solve it! i'll be ready in two shakes of a lamb's tail. |
| 2303 |
in two minds about something if you are in two minds about something, you have difficulty in deciding what to do. i'm in two minds about whether or not to buy an apartment this year. |
| 2304 |
in trouble with the law if someone is in trouble with the law, they are being questioned by the police in connection with something illegal or criminal. it's not a good period for her. currently, she's in trouble with the law. |
| 2305 |
in this day and age this expression means these modern times. it's hard to find your soul mate in this day and age. |
| 2306 |
in the wrong place at the wrong time this expression is used when something unlucky happens, something that would not have normally happened. poor you! you've been in the wrong place at the wrong time. |
| 2307 |
in the works if something is in the works, it is currently being prepared or planned. updates for the website are in the works. |
| 2308 |
in the twinkling of an eye something that happens in the twinkling of an eye happens very fast. you should keep in mind that public opinion can change in the twinkling of an eye. |
| 2309 |
in the spring a young man's fancy lightly turns to thoughts of love this line is from a poem (alfred lord tennyson, locksley hall) and has a literal meaning. no wonder he has called you. in the spring a young man's fancy lightly turns to thoughts of love. |
| 2310 |
in the same boat if two or more parties are in the same boat, they are in the same unpleasant or difficult situation. when the factory closed, the workers found themselves in the same boat. |
| 2311 |
in the right place at the right time this expression is used when something happens by luck or someone is given an unexpected chance completely by surprise. lucky you! you've been in the right place at the right time. |
| 2312 |
in the right perspective when people see or put things in their right perspective, they keep in proportion all the elements of a situation, without exaggerating the importance of any aspect. if i could see things in their right perspective, it would be easier for me to make a decision. |
| 2313 |
in the red if a person or organisation is in the red, they owe money or have a negative account. i'm afraid i can't buy it now. i'm in the red. |
| 2314 |
in the pipeline if something is in the pipeline, it is currently in progress or being organised. a new tv show is in the pipeline at the moment. |
| 2315 |
in the pink of health if you are in the pink of health, you are in excellent physical condition. he look in the pink of health after the holiday. |
| 2316 |
in the offing something that is in the offing is likely to appear or happen soon. a new law on labour conditions is in the offing. |
| 2317 |
in the nick of time if something happens in the nick of time, it happens at the last minute, when it is nearly too late. the little girl was standing in front of the open window. her father caught her in the nick of time. |
| 2318 |
in the middle of nowhere if a place is in the middle of nowhere, it is in a remote area, far from towns, villages or houses. the camp was in the middle of nowhere. |
| 2319 |
in the meantime this expression literally means "simultaneously". in the meantime i was preparing some cocktails. |
| 2320 |
in the long run the term refers to something that will have effect over or after a long period of time. learning german is going to be difficult, but it'll be worth it in the long run. |
| 2321 |
in the interim something that happens in the interim takes place during a period of time between two events. i won't have the car until next month. in the interim, i'm using my sister's. |
| 2322 |
in the heat of the moment if you say or do something in the heat of the moment, you say or do it without thinking too much of it, at a time when you are experiencing strong emotions. in the heat of the moment i said things that i later regretted. |
| 2323 |
in the good books this idiom means to be in somebody's favour or good opinion. somehow she always managed to be in the good books of the managers. |
| 2324 |
in the first place something that is done or said in the first place, is done or said at the start, before anything else. why didn't you tell me that she was busy in the first place? |
| 2325 |
in the eye of the storm a person or organisation who is in the eye of the storm is deeply involved in a difficult situation which affects a lot of people. during the way in syria, they were in the eye of the storm. |
| 2326 |
in the driver's seat this idiom means in charge of things or situation. money and skills will put you in the driver's seat. |
| 2327 |
in the doldrums to say that a person, a business or the economy in general is in the doldrums, it means that the situation is gloomy and that nothing new is happening. despite the recent economic measures taken by the government, the economy is in the doldrums. |
| 2328 |
in the doghouse if you are in the doghouse, someone is angry with you because you have done something wrong. i am in the doghouse because i've broken my girlfriend's smartphone. |
| 2329 |
in the dock this idiom means on trial in court, especially in a criminal case. she stood in the dock through the entire proceeding. |
| 2330 |
in the cross hairs this idiom refers to a position where one might receive severe criticism. the suspect was in the cross hairs from the very beginning of the interrogation. |
| 2331 |
in the club this idiom is an euphemism, meaning pregnant. after two years of relationship, marry is now in the club. |
| 2332 |
in the catbird seat this idiom means in a superior or advantageous position. i like to be in the catbird seat, i have to admit. |
| 2333 |
in the cart this idiom means in trouble. be careful. you might be in the cart. |
| 2334 |
in the can this expression means to be completed. more than eighty per cent of the project is in the can. |
| 2335 |
in the buff this idiom means naked. there were some photos of her in the buff. |
| 2336 |
in the box-seat this idiom means in a superior or advantageous position. the new employee is in the box-seat. she's his mistress. |
| 2337 |
in the blink of an eye if something happens in the blink of an eye, it happens nearly instantaneously, with hardly enough time to notice it. the woman disappeared in the blink of an eye. |
| 2338 |
in the black a company, organization or bank account that is in the black has made a profit. our company has been in the black ever since the new manager took over. |
| 2339 |
in the balance if something is in the balance, the situation is uncertain and it is not clear what is going to happen. the future of this small store is in the balance as the sales are plummeting. |
| 2340 |
in the bag people use this expression when it becomes obvious that success or victory is going to be achieved. two hours before the polling stations closed, victory seemed in the bag for the liberal candidate. |
| 2341 |
in the ascendant this idiom means to be on the rise to becoming more influential or more successful. the price of gold has been in the ascendant since i started to save money. |
| 2342 |
in tatters something that is badly torn, in very poor condition or damaged beyond repair is in tatters. after this scandal, her reputation is in tatters. |
| 2343 |
in tandem this idiom means alongside each other. she often works in tandem with an engineer. |
| 2344 |
in strict confidence if you say something in strict confidence, you tell it as a secret not to be revealed. please keep it a secret. i've told you the story in strict confidence. |
| 2345 |
in spades this idiom means in abundance; very much. they have money in spades. |
| 2346 |
in someone's shoes to talk about being in someone's shoes means to imagine how you would react if you were in a similar situation. their store sales have dropped by 20% this month. i wouldn't like to be in their shoes. |
| 2347 |
in someone's black books if you are in someone's black books, you are in disgrace or in disfavour with somebody. after the argument, i am sure that i am in their black books. |
| 2348 |
in somebody's blood this idiom refers to something as part of one's genetic inheritance. the whole family is good at cooking; it's in their blood. |
| 2349 |
in smooth waters a business or operation that is in smooth waters is making regular and easy progress. our little business is in smooth waters these weeks. |
| 2350 |
in seventh heaven if you are in seventh heaven, you are extremely happy. every time i sell a book, i'm in seventh heaven. |
| 2351 |
in safe hands if something is in safe hands, it is being looked after by a reliable person or organisation, and is therefore at no risk. i will look after him. don't worry, he is in safe hands. |
| 2352 |
in retrospect this term is used when thinking about a past situation with the knowledge you have today. in retrospect, they weren't fully aware of the policy effects on the market. |
| 2353 |
in raptures about something if you are in raptures, you are delighted or very enthusiastic. i am in raptures about my new car. |
| 2354 |
in over your head if you are in over your head, you are involved in something that is too difficult for you to handle. i accepted to organize the campaign, but i quickly realized that i was in over my head. |
| 2355 |
in one's own (sweet) time if you do something in your own sweet time, you take as long as you please to do it, in spite of the wishes of others. ok. i'll do your project but in my own sweet time. |
| 2356 |
in one ear and out the other to say that information goes in one ear and comes out the other means that it is immediately forgotten or ignored. i keep telling them about the risks but it goes in one ear and out the other. it will be their problem. |
| 2357 |
in mint condition something that is in mint condition is in such perfect condition that it looks new or as good as new. my car is five years old but according to her, it is in mint condition. |
| 2358 |
in limbo if something is in limbo, it is in an uncertain situation, over which you have no control. we are in limbo until the new manager arrives. |
| 2359 |
in like flynn this expression means to be easily successful, especially concerning sex or romance. lately, i've been in like flynn with the girls. |
| 2360 |
in leaps and bounds if you do something in leaps and bounds, you make rapid or spectacular progress or growth. the number of customers has grown in leaps and bounds. |
| 2361 |
in keeping with if a style or tradition is in keeping with, it is suitable or appropriate in a particular situation. people exchange presents at christmas in keeping with tradition. |
| 2362 |
in inverted commas if you use a word which you say is "in inverted commas", you indicate that the word is not quite true or appropriate. during that time, sick prisoners were "cared for", in inverted commas, by guards. |
| 2363 |
in hot water to say that somebody is in hot water means that they have done something wrong and people are angry with them. i've been in hot water since she discovered that i had lied to her. |
| 2364 |
in high dudgeon this idiom literally means "feeling or exhibiting great resentment". the man left in high dudgeon. |
| 2365 |
in good time when somebody manages to travel faster than expected and gets to their destination early. i got to the office in good time yesterday. |
| 2366 |
in glowing terms if you speak about something in glowing terms, you talk about it in a very positive way. i always talk about my home town in glowing terms. |
| 2367 |
in full swing when something, such as an event, gets into full swing, it is at its busiest or liveliest time. when we got back home, the party was in full swing. |
| 2368 |
in for a penny, in for a pound this expression means that once you start doing something, you might just as well do it wholeheartedly and not stop at half-measures. she accepted to be on the committee and then she accepted to be the chairwoman – in for a penny, in for a pound. |
| 2369 |
in fits and starts if you do something in fits and starts, you do it in an irregular manner, often stopping and starting again. you'll never make much progress in german if you work at it in fits and starts. |
| 2370 |
in essence this term means basically, fundamentally or essentially, and refers to the most important or essential facts. in essence, you have nothing to be afraid of. |
| 2371 |
in earnest this idiom means "with sincere intentions". the sides should be able to sit down and negotiate in earnest. |
| 2372 |
in due course this means everything will happen as it is supposed to, at the appropriate time. you'll find out the results in due course. just be a little more patient. |
| 2373 |
in dribs and drabs if something comes in dribs and drabs, it arrives little by little, in small amounts or numbers. people arrived in dribs and drabs at the conference. |
| 2374 |
in deep water this idiom refers to a very serious situation. after my wife lost her job, we were in deep water. |
| 2375 |
in cold blood this expression means "in a planned way and without pity or other emotion". one young woman was shot dead in cold blood. |
| 2376 |
in cahoots with someone if one person is in cahoots with another, they are working in close partnership, usually conspiring to do something dishonest. there is a rumour that the businessman is in cahoots with the mayor. |
| 2377 |
in black and white to say that something is in black and white means that there is written proof of it. it's an obligation you have to fulfill. it's in black and white in your contract. |
| 2378 |
in bits and pieces this idiom means "in many small fragments". we heard about the deal in bits and pieces from the secretary. |
| 2379 |
in bad shape a person who is in bad shape is in poor physical condition. i am in bad shape. i should do more exercises. |
| 2380 |
in an interesting condition this idiom is a euphemism for pregnant. she's in an interesting condition, don't you think? |
| 2381 |
in a world of your own if you are in a world of your own, you are so preoccupied by your own concerns that you are unaware of what is happening around you. marry is in the garden in a world of her own. |
| 2382 |
in a trice this idiom literally means "in the moment, instantly". i'll be there in a trice. |
| 2383 |
in a rut if you are in a rut, you have a monotonous and boring way of life. if you feel you're in a rut, why not look for a more challenging job? |
| 2384 |
in a row if something happens in a row, it happens a couple of consecutive times without break. i have been sick for four days in a row. |
| 2385 |
in a quandary if you are in a quandary, you find it difficult to decide what to do. this job offer is interesting. i'm in a quandary about what to do. |
| 2386 |
in a pig's eye this is an expression of emphatic disbelief. i believe that we could have been friends. in a pig's eye, marry thought. |
| 2387 |
in a pickle if you are in a pickle, you are in a difficult situation and need help. my motorbike won't start, so i'm in a pickle today. |
| 2388 |
in a league of one's own this idiom refers to someone who is much better than the rest. most applicants were quite interesting, but she was in a league of her own. |
| 2389 |
in a huff this expression means to be upset or angry about something. alice is in a huff because her boyfriend has just broken up with her. |
| 2390 |
in a flutter this idiom means in a confused and excited state. when economic forecasts are first published they put markets in a flutter. |
| 2391 |
in a fit of pique someone who reacts by showing their resentment or annoyance when their pride has been wounded or they feel insulted, is said to do something in a fit of pique. after that mission, in a fit of pique, she left the army. |
| 2392 |
in a clover this idiom means prosperous, living well. after i earn a million, i'll be in a clover. |
| 2393 |
in a cleft stick this idiom means in a position where advance and retreat are both impossible; in a fix. i'm in a cleft stick with regard to our relationship. |
| 2394 |
in a class of one's own if someone is in a class of their own, they are unequalled and considered better than anyone else of their kind. as a boxer, he was in a class of his own. |
| 2395 |
in a bad way this idiom means to be ill, unhappy or in a bad state. she was thin and generally in a bad way. |
| 2396 |
imitation is the sincerest form of flattery this phrase has a literal meaning. have they copied our design? well, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. |
| 2397 |
ill-gotten gains money or other benefits that are made in a dishonest or illegal manner are called ill-gotten gains. she has won some money by stealing and is now enjoying her ill-gotten gains. |
| 2398 |
ignorance is bliss this means that if you don't know about a problem or unpleasant fact, you won't worry about it. i didn't know that she had been convicted – ignorance is bliss. |
| 2399 |
if you scratch my back, i'll scratch yours this expression means to return a favour for a favour. you know that i will help you as i've done before. if you scratch my back, i'll scratch yours... |
| 2400 |
if you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen this expression means that if you feel there is too much pressure, you can leave. amid the growing tension, the commanding officer declared: if you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen! |
| 2401 |
if push comes to shove this expression refers to what you will do if the situation becomes critical and you have to take action. there is enough space for everyone, but if push comes to shove i can go to a hotel. |
| 2402 |
if it's the last thing i do this expression indicates determination to achieve something. i'm going to buy that bmw if it's the last thing i do. |
| 2403 |
if it's not one thing, it's another this expression is used after more than one thing goes wrong. the washing machine broke and now my smartphone is out of battery. if it's not one thing, it's another... |
| 2404 |
if it ain't broke, don't fix it this expression is said when you recognize that something is in a satisfactory state, and there is no reason to try to change it. i'm not touching the operating system. as the saying goes: if it ain't broke, don't fix it! |
| 2405 |
if i had my druthers this phrase means "if i had my preference". anything will work. if i had my druthers, i would choose. |
| 2406 |
idle hands are the devil's tools this expression means that you are more likely to get in trouble if you have nothing to do. no wonder she has got into trouble. idle hands are the devil's tools! |
| 2407 |
idiot box some people consider television to lack educational value and refer to it as the idiot box. the kid spends his time in front of the idiot box. i really don't understand who his parents allow him to do so. |
| 2408 |
icing on the cake if something is referred to as icing on the cake, it is an extra benefit that makes a good situation even better. i've got the job and icing on the cake, they have offered me a company car too. |
| 2409 |
i'm good to go this idiom means that you are ready to participate. just let me get my car keys and i'll be good to go. |
| 2410 |
i'll go to the foot of our stairs! this phrase is an exclamation of surprise. i'll be back in one minute. i'll go to the foot of our stairs! |
| 2411 |
i'll eat my hat this is an expression of not believing something very strongly. if you are able to run that fast then i'll eat my hat. |
| 2412 |
i will swing for you! this phrase means "i will kill you and i am prepared to be hanged as a consequence!" if you cheat on me, i will swing for you! |
| 2413 |
i wasn't born yesterday this expression is used to indicate that you are not as foolish or as easily deceived as some people seem to think. stop lying to me! i wasn't born yesterday. |
| 2414 |
i spy with my little eye this phrase is used in the children's guessing game to indicate what it is that is being looked at. alright, steve, i spy with my little eye something green. |
| 2415 |
i haven't slept one wink this phrase means that i haven't slept at all. i'm so tired. i haven't slept one wink. |
| 2416 |
i can't think straight this expression means that i am overwhelmed and stressed and it is affecting my ability to think. i couldn't think straight with all that yelling and running around. |
| 2417 |
i can't believe my ears! i can't believe my eyes! this means that you are surprised or shocked. wow! i can't believe my ears! thank you! |
| 2418 |
hustle and bustle this term refers to busy energetic activity in an atmosphere of general excitement. i prefer to live in the city. i like the hustle and bustle of city life. |
| 2419 |
hush puppies this idiom refers to lightweight casual shoes made of suede or leather. it may also refer to small cakes of maize dough which are quickly deep-fried. i'd like some hush puppies. i'm hungry. |
| 2420 |
hunt-and-peck this idiom means to type by looking for characters on the keyboard individually. it will take some time. he's a hunt-and-peck computer user. |
| 2421 |
hunky-dory if an event or a situation is hunky-dory, it is very satisfactory and pleasant. i'm very satisfied with this party. it's hunky-dory. |
| 2422 |
hugger-mugger this idiom may refer to disorder or secrecy. the officer declared war on hugger-mugger and conspiracy. |
| 2423 |
hue and cry if there is a hue and cry about something, there is loud opposition to it. i expect great hue and cry about this marketing plan. |
| 2424 |
how the other half lives this expression refers to the way of life of another social group, especially a wealthier one. she has spent two year showing tv viewers how the other half lives. |
| 2425 |
how now brown cow? this is a nonsense phrase with no real meaning as such, although it is also used sometimes as a jovial greeting. hi there, john! how now brown cow? |
| 2426 |
household word this idiom refers to a word or name that everyone knows. kfc quickly became a household word. |
| 2427 |
household name this expression is used to refer to a person or thing that is well known by the public. she was a household name in the 1960s. |
| 2428 |
hour of need this refers to a time when someone really needs something, almost a final chance. i was there for olivia in her hour of need. |
| 2429 |
hot-blooded this idiom means having a passionate nature or being inclined to quick temper. he's a hot-blooded guy. |
| 2430 |
hot under the collar if you get hot under the collar, you feel annoyed, indignant or embarrassed. if you contradict him, he gets hot under the collar. |
| 2431 |
hot shot this idiom is used to describe someone who thinks they are the best. this could also be used in a positive way to compliment someone who is very skillful. her talks about herself all the time. it's a really hot shot. |
| 2432 |
hot potato a hot potato is a very sensitive and controversial matter. the new manager hasn't been confronted with any hot potato yet. |
| 2433 |
hot on the trail of somebody or something if you are hot on the trail of someone or something, you are very close to finding them. the local police are hot on the trail of the murderer. |
| 2434 |
hot on someone's heels this phrase means following closely behind someone. the suspect was running with a detective hot on his heels. |
| 2435 |
hot off the press if a new article is hot off the press, it has just been published and contains the most recent information on the subject. this piece of news is hot off the press. another local firm has gone bankrupt. |
| 2436 |
horses for courses this expression means that because horses race better on a course that suits them, it is important to match people with suitable jobs or tasks. her experience in the beauty industry doesn't make her ideal for this job. horses for courses, remember? |
| 2437 |
horse sense someone who has horse sense is a practical thinker who has the ability to make sensible decisions. i never worry when it comes to tough decisions. kris has good horse sense and solves the situation. |
| 2438 |
horse of a different colour to describe a person or a problem as a horse of a different colour means either that the person does things differently from others or that the nature of the problem is entirely different. i expected to negotiate with the marketing manager, but the manager turned up instead – it was a horse of a different colour. |
| 2439 |
horse feathers this idiom means rubbish; nonsense. it's all horse feathers. don't listen to her. |
| 2440 |
horns of a dilemma if you are on the horns of a dilemma, you are faced with a choice between two equally unpleasant options. i'm on the horns of a dilemma. please let me a few days to consider your offer. |
| 2441 |
hope for the best, but prepare for the worst this idiom means to be optimistic but ready for hard times as well. my father was hoping for the best, but was prepared for the worst anytime. |
| 2442 |
hope against hope if you hope against hope, you continue to hope even when the situation looks bad. the car crash was terrible. her parents are hoping against hope that she escaped alive. |
| 2443 |
hooray henry this idiom refers to a young man from a high social class who speaks loudly and behaves in a noticeable way in public. the pub was full of hooray henrys. |
| 2444 |
hook, line and sinker if you believe a story or an explanation hook, line and sinker, you completely believe it. i didn't think she'd believe my story, but she fell for it hook, line and sinker. |
| 2445 |
honour among thieves this means that even criminals have a sense of loyalty and they respect a certain code of behaviour. the thief refused to reveal the names of his accomplices, which shows that there is honour among thieves. |
| 2446 |
honesty is the best policy this expression means that being honest is always good and fruitful. i learnt as a kid that honesty is the best policy. |
| 2447 |
home truths if you tell somebody some home truths, you tell them some unpleasant facts about themselves. she needs to be told some home truths. it will help her. |
| 2448 |
holy shit! this is an expression of extreme surprise or disbelief. she has won the lottery! holy shit – that's not possible! |
| 2449 |
hollow victory a victory obtained in unsatisfactory conditions, which as a result seems worthless or without significance for the winner, is called a hollow victory. it was a hollow victory – he won the case but lost all his savings in legal fees. |
| 2450 |
holier-than-thou people who are holier-than-thou think that they are morally better than anyone else. i can't stand holier-than-thou people. |
| 2451 |
hold your tongue if you hold your tongue, you remain silent and say nothing. please, harry, hold your tongue during this meeting. |
| 2452 |
hold your horses if you tell someone to hold their horses, you think they are doing something too fast and should slow down and not rush into further action. hold your horses! we need to get her approval first. |
| 2453 |
hold your breath if you hold your breath, you wait anxiously or excitedly for something to happen or be announced. my girlfriend went for a second interview today and now she's holding her breath. |
| 2454 |
hold the fort when you hold the fort, you look after a place or a business in the absence of the person who is normally in charge. john, could you hold the fort for two hours? i need to go to her place. |
| 2455 |
hold the field if something holds the field, it has not been replaced and remains valid or is still in use. our principles hold the field even today. |
| 2456 |
hold out an olive branch if a person or organisation holds out an olive branch to another, they show that they want to end a disagreement and make peace. in the evening, the group held out an olive branch to the other. |
| 2457 |
hold one's own if you can hold your own, you are well able to defend yourself when under attack. let's ask steve to represent us; he can hold his own. |
| 2458 |
hold good if something such as a statement, saying or theory holds good, it continues to be true, valid or applicable. the suspect's statement still holds good. |
| 2459 |
hold all the aces a person who holds all the aces is in a very strong position because they have more advantages than anyone else. given the high unemployment figures in those countries, employers hold all the aces. |
| 2460 |
hoity-toity this idiom means pretentiously self-important, haughty or pompous. i don't like tim because is a hoity-toity man. |
| 2461 |
hoi polloi this idiom refers to the masses; the common people. you should avoid mixing with the hoi polloi. |
| 2462 |
hocus pocus this is a term used to denote magic or trickery. hocus pocus - and the rabbit disappeared! |
| 2463 |
hobson's choice this expression refers to a choice forced upon someone. there was only one room left when i arrived, so i got hobson's choice. |
| 2464 |
hobby-horse this idiom refers to a favourite topic that one frequently refers to or dwells on; a fixation. it may also refer to a child's toy. i admit that fishing is a hobby-horse of mine. |
| 2465 |
hive of activity a place where there are lots of things happening and everyone is very busy, is called a hive of activity. when i entered the office there was a hive of activity. |
| 2466 |
hither and yon this idiom means "here and there" or "to this place and that place". there were some flowers hither and yon. |
| 2467 |
hitch one's wagon to a star someone who hitches their wagon to a star has great ambitions and is very determined to reach their goal. he decided to hitch his wagon to a star and become an astronaut. |
| 2468 |
hit-and-run accident when the driver of a vehicle hits another vehicle without stopping to provide help, identification or insurance and fails to report the accident to the police, the collision is called a hit-and-run accident. she believes that a hit-and-run accident deserves extreme punishment. |
| 2469 |
hit the woodwork this expression is used when a player intends to shoot into the goal but hits the crossbar or the post of the goal instead. he almost had it! it hit the woodwork... |
| 2470 |
hit the spot if something hits the spot, it is exactly what is needed or wanted. on such a hot day, a couple of beers would really hit the spot! |
| 2471 |
hit the road when you hit the road, you begin a journey. i know it's morning, but we should be going. let's hit the road! |
| 2472 |
hit the panic button when you hit the panic button, you raise the alarm too quickly or react to a situation with fear and confusion. mary, calm down! there's no need to hit the panic button. |
| 2473 |
hit the nail on the head when you hit the nail on the head, you are absolutely right about something or have guessed the exact nature of a problem or situation. you hit the nail on the head when you said that she had lost her job. |
| 2474 |
hit the ground running if someone hits the ground running, they are ready and eager to start immediately a new activity. she plans to hit the ground running when she start the job. |
| 2475 |
hit the bull's eye this idiom means to get something exactly right or be on target. her speech on women rights hit the bull's eye. |
| 2476 |
hit the books this means to study very hard. you have that exam next month. it's high time you were studying. |
| 2477 |
hit one where it hurts most this idiom means to attack one in the area is most vulnerable or that will result in the most harm. by questioning his skills, gina hit kim where it hurt most. |
| 2478 |
hit it out of the park this idiom means to have enormous success. i've really hit it out of the park with this idea! |
| 2479 |
hit a brick wall this idiom means to come up against an immovable or insurmountable difficulty or obstacle. our project hit a brick wall in the end. |
| 2480 |
history is bunk this phrase means to live in the present, not in the past. history is bunk! call her and apologize. |
| 2481 |
himalayan blunder if you stupidly make a serious mistake or error, you commit a himalayan blunder. as far as i know, she has lost her job because of a himalayan blunder. |
| 2482 |
high-handed this idiom means "arrogantly or inconsiderately overbearing". the new manager is unbearably high-handed. |
| 2483 |
high-flyer a high-flyer is a person who has achieved notable success, usually more quickly than normal. the term is also used to describe speculative stock that has reached a high price in a short time. can he be considered a high-flyer? |
| 2484 |
high, wide and handsome this phrase means expansive and impressive. the resort is hide, wide and handsome. |
| 2485 |
high up this idiom means to have an important standing in society. given her close friendship with the president, she is regarded as being high up. |
| 2486 |
high time you can say this when you think something should have been done already and is overdue. it's high time you finished the project. |
| 2487 |
high season this expression refers to the most popular time to visit a resort or attraction – when prices are highest. it was way too busy in the resort. that happens when you book a holiday in high season. |
| 2488 |
high roller this idiom refers to a wealthy person or company who spends their money in a risky way, often by making risky investments that can offer large rewards. if i were a high roller, i would invest in casinos. |
| 2489 |
high five this idiom refers to slapping palms above each others heads as a celebration gesture. we have won! high five! |
| 2490 |
high and mighty someone who is high and mighty behaves in a haughty manner as though they were superior to others. no, i don't like her. she is high and mighty and i hate that. |
| 2491 |
high and dry if you are left high and dry, you find yourself in a difficult situation without help or resources. i couldn't stand her anymore. so, i left her high and dry with one kid to raise. |
| 2492 |
higgledy-piggledy this phrase means mixed up and in no particular order. her clothes were all higgledy-piggledy in the drawer. |
| 2493 |
hide one's light under a bushel if you hide your light under a bushel, you are modest or do not reveal a talent, quality or skill you possess. i didn't know she plays the piano. she has hidden her light under a bushel. |
| 2494 |
hidden in plain sight this idiom refers to something that defies apprehension by being too obvious. i guess hiding in plain sight worked for the thief. |
| 2495 |
hidden agenda if a person or organisation has a hidden agenda, they have hidden interests or ulterior motives. i can't guarantee that they don't have a hidden agenda. be careful! |
| 2496 |
het up this idiom means worried or angry and not calm. there's no need to get so het up! |
| 2497 |
here today, gone tomorrow this is said of something which appears and disappears very quickly or doesn't last long. these days, many internet companies are here today, gone tomorrow. |
| 2498 |
herding cats this expression refers to the difficulty of coordinating a situation which involves people who want to act independently. trying to arrange a meeting for a group of people from different countries is like herding cats! |
| 2499 |
herd mentality people with the herd mentality tend to do what everyone else does, no matter how ridiculous or stupid it might be. there are many examples of herd mentality nowadays. just pay more attention and you'll observe them. |
| 2500 |
hem and haw when someone hems and haws, they are very evasive and avoid giving a clear answer. the little girl hemmed and hawed when the police officer asked her where she had spent the night. |
| 2501 |
helter-skelter this phrase means quickly and in all directions. people were screaming and running helter-skelter. |
| 2502 |
help yourself this is an invitation to take something freely. there's plenty of food for all guests – please, help yourself. |
| 2503 |
help a lame dog over a stile if you help a lame dog over a stile, you help someone who is in difficulty or trouble. you can trust them – they are ready to help a lame dog over a stile. |
| 2504 |
hell-bent on something if you are hell-bent on doing something, you are recklessly determined to do it, even if it is dangerous or stupid. she was hell-bent on revenge. |
| 2505 |
hell's bells this idiom refers to anger or annoyance. hell's bells, can't you call her? |
| 2506 |
heebie-jeebies this expression describes a person who has strong feelings of fear or worry. don't talk about ghosts – they give me the heebie-jeebies. |
| 2507 |
hedge your bets if you hedge your bets, you choose two or more courses of action in order to reduce the risk of loss or error. i think we should hedge our bets by developing a new product. |
| 2508 |
heavy metal this idiom refers to hard rock music, usually electric guitar-based and always loud. let's listen to some heavy metal! |
| 2509 |
heavy heart this idiom refers to someone very unhappy about something. with a heavy heart, we left the funeral ceremony. |
| 2510 |
heavy hand dealing with or treating people with a heavy hand means acting with discipline and severity, with little or no sensitivity. she ran the prison with a heavy hand. |
| 2511 |
heat is on to say that the heat is on means that you are under a lot of pressure to get something done, usually within a time limit. the mission must be fulfilled until next monday, so the heat is on. |
| 2512 |
heart-to-heart this idiom refers to a serious conversation between two people, usually close friends, in which they talk honestly about their feelings. we had a heart-to-heart over a bottle of wine. |
| 2513 |
heart touching this expression refers to an event that makes you feel happy. the girl's story about her lost family was heart touching. |
| 2514 |
heart sinks if your heart sinks, you feel very unhappy and despondent. my heart sank when i saw her with another man. |
| 2515 |
heart set on something someone who has their heart set on something wants it very much. from an early age i had my heart set on becoming a professional driver. |
| 2516 |
heart on your sleeve if you wear your heart on your sleeve, you allow others to see your emotions or feelings. i could easily see she was hurt – she wears her heart on her sleeve. |
| 2517 |
heart of the matter the most important part or aspect of a situation is called the heart of the matter. we need to get to the heart of the matter – what caused this problem? |
| 2518 |
heart of stone someone who has a heart of stone is a cold person who shows others no understanding, sympathy or pity. they don't like him because he has a heart of stone. |
| 2519 |
heart in your mouth a person who has their heart in their mouth feels extremely anxious or nervous faced with a dangerous or unpleasant situation. i had my heart in my mouth when i saw that snake. |
| 2520 |
heart in the right place a person who has their heart in the right place has kind feelings and good intentions, even if the results are not too good. my wife's cake wasn't wonderful but she's got her heart in the right place. |
| 2521 |
heart goes out to someone this expression means to feel sympathy for someone when they are distressed. my heart goes out to all people who lost loved ones. |
| 2522 |
hear, hear! this phrase is used to strongly agree with what someone else has just said. she is at fault. hear, hear! |
| 2523 |
hear through the grapevine if you hear of something through the grapevine, you learn about it informally, for example through friends or colleagues. how did you hear about that job? oh, through the grapevine, as usual. |
| 2524 |
hear a pin drop to say that you could hear a pin drop means that it is so silent you could hear the slightest noise. they were waiting so silently that one could hear a pin drop. |
| 2525 |
heads will roll this expression is the promise or prediction that people responsible for some failure or disaster will be dismissed or otherwise held to account. this is unacceptable! heads will roll! |
| 2526 |
heads up this idiom means to warn or alert someone about something. heads up! there's a snake in the garden. |
| 2527 |
head-on this idiom means front-to-front. domestic violence is something we should face head-on. |
| 2528 |
head over heels in love when a person falls passionately in love with another, they are said to be head over heels in love. no way of speaking to him these days. he's head over heels in love with that new girl. |
| 2529 |
head in the clouds if you have your head in the clouds, you are so absorbed by your thoughts that you are not paying attention to what is happening around you. i don't listen to her today – i have my head in the clouds. |
| 2530 |
head and shoulders above to say that one person is head and shoulders above the others means that they are much better than the rest of them. the winner was head and shoulders above the competitors. |
| 2531 |
having a crush on this idiom means to have strong feelings of love for someone. last year, i had a crush on my colleague. |
| 2532 |
have your work cut out for you if you have to face a difficult task or a challenging situation, you have your work cut out for you. i've got two months to reorganize the company. i have my work cut out for me. |
| 2533 |
have your moments someone who has a positive behaviour pattern on an occasional basis, but not generally. random bursts of positivity. she offered to cook dinner. i guess she has her moments! |
| 2534 |
have your head screwed on someone who has their head screwed on is a sensible and realistic person. i like mary because she has her head screwed on. |
| 2535 |
have your hands full if you have your hands full, you are very busy or have a lot to do. i can't help you this week. i have my hands full. |
| 2536 |
have your cake and eat it to say that someone wants to have their cake and eat it means that they want the advantages of two alternative situations when only one is possible. she enjoys her comfort but is also complaining about the cost of things. she can't have her cake and eat it. |
| 2537 |
have you gone out of your mind? if you ask someone this question, you think they are crazy, foolish or insane. you're going to ask for a 50% increase in salary? have you gone out of your mind? |
| 2538 |
have winning ways a person who has winning ways has a charming or persuasive manner of gaining the affection of others or obtaining what they want. olive is hard to resist – she's got such winning ways. |
| 2539 |
have two left feet if you have two left feet, you are clumsy or awkward in your movements. i'm a bad dancer. i have two left feet! |
| 2540 |
have too much on plate this idiom means to be too busy. if you have too much on your plate, my secretary can help you. |
| 2541 |
have time on one's side this expression is used when you can afford to wait before doing or achieving something. i failed yesterday, but i have time on my side. i will try again soon. |
| 2542 |
have the world by its tail somebody who has the world by its tail is very successful and has many opportunities to choose from. owing to my intelligence and hard work, i finally have the world by its tail. |
| 2543 |
have the world at your feet if you have the world at your feet, you are extremely successful and greatly admired. the talented singer had the world at his feet. |
| 2544 |
have the works something that has the works contains everything that is possible or the full range of options. i ordered a new laptop with the works. |
| 2545 |
have the makings of a person who has the makings of something has the qualities and potential that could be developed. the teacher says carla has the makings of an artist. |
| 2546 |
have the hots for somebody this expression refers to finding somebody extremely attractive. nadine has the hots for her new colleague. |
| 2547 |
have something on the brain if you have something on the brain, you think or talk about it all time. stop talking about computer games. you've got games on the brain! |
| 2548 |
have something down pat if you memorize or practise something until you know it perfectly or have it exactly right, you have it down pat. i rehearsed the song until i had it down pat. |
| 2549 |
have someone's guts for garters this idiom means to punish someone severely. if you breathe a word to anyone, i'll have your guts for garters. |
| 2550 |
have someone in your pocket if you have influence or power over someone, you have them in your pocket. don't worry. i have her in my pocket. |
| 2551 |
have somebody's nose in a book this means to be reading a book. i found her in the room, with her nose in a book. |
| 2552 |
have somebody over a barrel this phrase means to put someone in a very difficult situation in which the person has no choice about what they do. she knows i need the job so she's got me over a barrel in terms of what she pays me. |
| 2553 |
have pins and needles to have pins and needles means to have a tingling sensation in a part of the body, when it has been in the same position for a long time. i've been in the same position for hours. i have pins and needles. |
| 2554 |
have one foot in the grave a person who is either very old or very ill and close to death has one foot in the grave. unfortunately, she has one foot in the grave. |
| 2555 |
have no truck with this idiom means to reject or to have nothing to do with. i have no truck with this man. |
| 2556 |
have no business this idiom means to do something that you should not be doing. you have no business discussing my personal life! |
| 2557 |
have never had it so good this idiom refers to a person who hasn't had better of whatever it is that is being discussed before. you have never had it so good with anyone else. you shouldn't have broken up with nicole! |
| 2558 |
have kittens this is a dramatic way of expressing worry, anxiety or fear. his wife nearly had kittens when steve announced that he wanted to be a police officer. |
| 2559 |
have eyes only for this expression means to be attracted to someone exclusively. they have eyes only for one another and are always seen together. |
| 2560 |
have designs on this idiom means to contrive a secret plot or scheme, especially with selfish motives. i think they have designs on my marketing project. |
| 2561 |
have been around this expression literally means "have existed". there's nothing new about smartphones – they've been around for years. |
| 2562 |
have an inkling this idiom means to have a vague intimation of something or to have a slight knowledge of something. ask him. he may have an inkling. |
| 2563 |
have an axe to grind if you have an axe to grind, you have personal reasons for becoming involved in something or adopting a particular attitude. it was decided that the best employee would be selected by a hr agency which had no axe to grind within the company. |
| 2564 |
have an ace up your sleeve if you have an ace up your sleeve, you have something in reserve with which you can gain an advantage. i'm well prepared for the negotiations. this time i've got an ace up my sleeve. |
| 2565 |
have a spare tyre if a person has a spare tyre, they have a roll of flesh around the waist. you'd better go to gym – you're getting a spare tyre! |
| 2566 |
have a soft spot for someone or something if you have a soft spot for someone or something, you particularly like them. i have a soft spot for fishing rods. |
| 2567 |
have a short fuse when someone has a short fuse, they are likely to become angry easily or quickly. the manager has a short fuse today. |
| 2568 |
have a senior moment a momentary lapse of memory, especially in older people, or an absent-minded action such as putting cereals in the refrigerator, is humorously referred to as having a senior moment. i found my laptop in the bathroom. i must have had a senior moment. |
| 2569 |
have a knack for this idiom means to be exceptionally proficient at something. the little girl has got a real knack for the guitar. |
| 2570 |
have a hangover to have a hangover means to suffer from the unpleasant effects of drinking too much alcohol. nowadays, most young people have a hangover after a party. |
| 2571 |
have a green thumb if somebody has a green thumb, they have an exceptional aptitude for gardening or for growing plants successfully. call steve. he has a green thumb and he will help you. |
| 2572 |
have a frog in one's throat a person who has a frog in their throat has difficulty in speaking clearly because they have a cough or a sore throat. speaking was difficult for me today. i had a frog in my throat all day. |
| 2573 |
have a dekko this idiom means to have a look. please, let me have a dekko. |
| 2574 |
have a crack at something this idiom means to attempt to do something or to take a turn trying to do something. i haven't fixed a motor so far, but i'll have a crack at it. |
| 2575 |
have a card up sleeve this expression means to have a secret advantage that is suddenly revealed to change the game. the competitors should always be checked for cards up their sleeves. |
| 2576 |
have a captain cook this idiom means to look. have a captain cook at these suspects and point out the one who attacked you. |
| 2577 |
have a brush with the law when you have a brush with something, such as the law, you encounter or experience it briefly. i had a brush with the law for excessive speeding last year. |
| 2578 |
have a blast this idiom means to have an especially good time. i enjoyed the holiday. i had a blast! |
| 2579 |
have a bee in one's bonnet someone who has a bee in their bonnet has an idea which constantly occupies their thoughts. she's got a bee in her bonnet about moving to germany. |
| 2580 |
have a ball if you have a ball you enjoy yourself immensely. thanks again for inviting me! your party was great. we had a ball. |
| 2581 |
hat-trick this idiom refers to a threefold feat in sports or some other activity. this match was great. your favourite player scored a hat-trick. |
| 2582 |
haste makes waste this expression means that you'll make mistakes if you rush through something. take your time to finish this project. haste makes waste! |
| 2583 |
hasta la vista this phrase translates from spanish language and means "see you later". he suddenly left saying: hasta la vista, baby! |
| 2584 |
has-been this idiom means to have had a wonderful past but no present or future in the field. our relationship is now just a has-been. |
| 2585 |
harvest moon this phrase refers to the full moon closest to the autumn equinox. this night you can observe the harvest moon. |
| 2586 |
harry spankers this expression means brand spanking new. i've just driven the motorcycle direct from the showroom – it's harry spankers. |
| 2587 |
harp on about something if you harp on about something, you tire others by talking continuously and tediously about it. my wife is always harping on about my job. |
| 2588 |
harebrained idea such an idea or suggestion is considered to be silly, foolish or totally impractical. you'll never make any progress if you have nothing but harebrained ideas to offer for us. |
| 2589 |
hard-wired this idiom means "automatically thinking or behaving in a particular way". babies are hard-wired to pay attention to anything that is brightly colored. |
| 2590 |
hard up if you are hard up, you have very little money. it was a period of my life when i was so hard up that i had to sleep in my car. |
| 2591 |
hard to swallow when something is difficult to accept or believe, it is hard to swallow. she invented an excuse that was hard to swallow, but he knew she had cheated him. |
| 2592 |
hard to come by something that is hard to come by is rare or difficult to find. experienced mechanics are hard to come by nowadays. |
| 2593 |
hard time if you give someone a hard time, you annoy them or make things difficult for them. i can't stand this job anymore. the children are giving me a hard time. |
| 2594 |
hard of hearing if someone is hard of hearing, they can't hear very well. we need to speak louder. she's a bit hard of hearing. |
| 2595 |
hard cheese this idiom refers to a difficult, unpleasant or adverse situation. it's hard cheese for the employees of that company. |
| 2596 |
hard cases make bad law this phrase means that exceptional legal cases aren't suitable as the source of generalised laws. i've told you that hard cases make bad law... |
| 2597 |
hard as nails a person who is as hard as nails is unsentimental and shows no sympathy. don't expect anything from them. the boys are as hard as nails. |
| 2598 |
hard and fast something which is hard and fast is inflexible or cannot be altered. unfortunately, there are no hard and fast rules related to love. |
| 2599 |
harbinger of doom this phrase refers to a sign, warning of bad thing to come. this was clearly a harbinger of doom. |
| 2600 |
happy-go-lucky if you are a happy-go-lucky person, you are cheerful and carefree all the time. i like her. she's a happy-go-lucky girl. |
| 2601 |
happy-clappy this idiom is used to describe christians who sing, talk and shout enthusiastically during their religious ceremonies and who try to persuade other people to join them. there was a bunch of happy-clappy people. |
| 2602 |
happy slapping this idiom refers to the activity of attacking someone and filming the attack, especially with a mobile phone. they were provoked to happy slapping. |
| 2603 |
happy sad this idiom refers to a bittersweet feeling combining both happiness and sadness. i'm happy sad about her leaving the country. |
| 2604 |
happy camper someone who is a happy camper is generally content or satisfied with what is happening in their lives and has no complaints. with my new job and my new motorbike, i am a happy camper. |
| 2605 |
happy as larry if you are as happy as larry, you are very happy indeed. he is as happy as larry when they meet. |
| 2606 |
happy as a flea in a doghouse if someone is as happy as a flea in a doghouse, they are very happy and satisfied. since we moved together, i've been as happy as a flea in a doghouse. |
| 2607 |
happy as a clam this expression means very happy and comfortable. when my parents left for holiday, i was happy as a clam. |
| 2608 |
hanky-panky this idiom refers to unacceptable or dishonest behaviour, especially involving sexual activity or money. there was a bit of hanky-panky at the party. |
| 2609 |
hanged, drawn and quartered this phrase refers to a gruesome form of torture and, eventually, death by execution. the terrorism suspect has been hanged, drawn and quartered. |
| 2610 |
hang up one's boots when a sports player hangs up their boots, they stop playing and retire. this expression is often used to refer to retirement in general. steve says he's going to hang up his boots at the end of the year. |
| 2611 |
hang out to dry if you abandon someone who is in difficulty, without giving any assistance or support, you hang them out to dry. you won't get any help from her. she will hang you out to dry if your plan fails. |
| 2612 |
hang on by the fingernails when you hang on by the fingernails, you succeed in continuing to do something in a very difficult situation. the paint store is losing more and more customers; the owner is just hanging on by the fingernails. |
| 2613 |
hang in there this expression is used to encourage someone to persevere and not give up in spite of the difficult circumstances. just hang in there! i will help you immediately. |
| 2614 |
hands are tied this idiom means not to be able to do anything about a situation. i feel like my hands are tied in this particular situation. |
| 2615 |
handle with kid gloves if you handle someone with kid gloves, you treat them very carefully or tactfully, either because they are very important or because they are easily upset. he is so intent on obtaining the agreement that he is handling them with kid gloves. |
| 2616 |
handed to someone on a platter if someone gets something easily, without having to make an effort to obtain it, it is handed to them on a platter. i was appointed marketing manager in my father's company. the job was handed to me on a platter. |
| 2617 |
handbrake on a canoe if something is as much use as a handbrake on a canoe, it is completely useless or serves no purpose. with no fuel, a car would be as much use as a handbrake on a canoe. |
| 2618 |
hand over fist if you make or lose money hand over fist, you make or lose a lot of money very quickly. business was good and we were making money hand over fist. |
| 2619 |
hand it to someone if you hand it to someone, you admit, perhaps unwillingly, that they deserve credit or praise for their achievements. you've got to hand it to steve. his presentations are always excellent. |
| 2620 |
hand in glove two or more people who are in collusion or work in close association, are said to be hand in glove. after the competition, it was discovered that she was hand in glove with the referee. |
| 2621 |
hammer home if you hammer home a point or an argument, you repeat it often to make sure that it is fully understood. the teacher hammered home the importance of doing homework. |
| 2622 |
half-hearted this idiom means having one's intentions divided; not fully committed; lacking zeal or courage. i don't like her because she's a half-hearted woman. |
| 2623 |
half the battle this expression refers to a significant part of the effort or work needed to achieve something. i've already obtained a loan for the flat – that's half the battle. |
| 2624 |
half an eye if you have or keep half an eye on something, you watch it without giving it your full attention. i kept half an eye on the laptop while i was drinking my beer. |
| 2625 |
half a mind if you have half a mind to do something, you are thinking seriously about it but have not yet reached a decision. he's half a mind to quit that job and start his own business. |
| 2626 |
hale and hearty someone, especially an old person, who is hale and hearty is in excellent health. my grandfather is still hale and hearty at the age of eighty. |
| 2627 |
halcyon days this idiom refers to calm, peaceful days. there have been some halcyon days this period. |
| 2628 |
hairy at the heel a person who is hairy at the heel is thought to be untrustworthy or even dangerous. as far as i know, the owner of this place is a bit hairy at the heel. |
| 2629 |
hair's breadth if you avoid or miss something by a hair's breadth, you only just manage to escape from a danger. the window fell and missed the kid by a hair's breadth. |
| 2630 |
hair of the dog that bit you this expression means using as a remedy a small amount of what made you ill, for example a drop of alcohol when recovering from drinking too much. here, have just a little drop of this. it's a hair of the dog that bit you! |
| 2631 |
had one's chips to say that someone has had their chips means that they have completely failed in what they set out to achieve. after the third round, it looked as if john had had his chips. |
| 2632 |
had a good war this idiom means to have been successful during a military campaign. our grandfather won a medal. he must have had a good war. |
| 2633 |
gut-wrenching this idiom means "making you feel very upset or worried". i've seen some gut-wrenching scenes of violence. |
| 2634 |
gutter press this term refers to newspapers that print a lot of sensational stories about people's private lives. the gutter press was quick to print about the incident. |
| 2635 |
gut feeling if you have a gut feeling about something, you have a strong intuition that you cannot explain, but you're sure that you are right. as i listened to her, i had the gut feeling that she was lying... and i was right! |
| 2636 |
gung-ho this idiom means extremely enthusiastic about doing something, especially going to war. he's such a gung-ho man... i like him! |
| 2637 |
guinea pig people who are used as guinea pigs are people on whom new methods, treatments or ideas are tested. they were asking for students to be guinea pigs in their marketing research. |
| 2638 |
guilty pleasure enjoying something which is not generally held in high regard, while at the same time feeling a bit guilty about it, is called a guilty pleasure. playing pc games is my guilty pleasure. |
| 2639 |
groan inwardly if you groan inwardly, you feel like expressing despair, disapproval or distress, but you remain silent. when i saw her with another man i groaned inwardly. |
| 2640 |
grit your teeth when you are determined to do something in spite of the difficulties involved, you grit your teeth. we had to grit our teeth and agree with their conditions because we wanted that contract. |
| 2641 |
grist to the mill this phrase means that all things are a potential source of profit or advantage. don't worry about the broken item. it's grist to the mill for me. |
| 2642 |
grind to a halt this idiom means to lose momentum and stop. the athlete grinded to a halt. |
| 2643 |
grind someone's gears this phrase means to greatly or specifically irritate or annoy someone. it really grinds my gears when they go zipping through red lights! |
| 2644 |
grin like a cheshire cat when someone has a smile on their face because they are happy or satisfied about something, they grin like a cheshire cat. i knew things were all right because i saw him with a grin like a cheshire cat. |
| 2645 |
grin from ear to ear if somebody grins from ear to ear, they look very satisfied and happy. i assumed things had gone well because i saw her grinning from ear to ear. |
| 2646 |
grin and bear it when faced with a difficult or unpleasant situation, if you say that someone will have to grin and bear it, you mean that they will have to accept it without complaining. the only seat available is in the back of the bus. grin and bear it! |
| 2647 |
gridlock this idiom refers to severe traffic congestion, where backed-up traffic blocks movement on intersecting road and progress is completely halted. i've been in this gridlock for fifteen minutes. |
| 2648 |
grey matter grey matter refers to the brain, or they grey colour of brain tissue. try using your grey matter and solve this problem. |
| 2649 |
grey existence to have a grey existence means to lead a dull, monotonous life. i feel sad for the old man. he seems to have such a grey existence. |
| 2650 |
grey area to refer to something as a grey area means that it is not clear or easy to define and is therefore difficult to deal with. the law concerning e-commerce is still a grey area in some countries. |
| 2651 |
gregory peck this is a slang for neck. it's freezing outside. better get a scarf round your gregory peck. |
| 2652 |
green with envy someone who is green with envy is a person who is very envious. she will be green with envy when she sees mary's new motorcycle. |
| 2653 |
green room this idiom refers to the waiting room, especially for those who are about to go on a tv or radio show. then i saw her waiting patiently in the green room. |
| 2654 |
green light if you give or get the green light, you give or get a signal or permission to do something. i am ready to launch the marketing campaign as soon as i get the green light. |
| 2655 |
green fingers to have green fingers means to be good at gardening. my mother was born with green fingers. she's great with plants. |
| 2656 |
green belt this expression refers to an area of fields and trees around a town. it has been decided to develop a green belt around the city. |
| 2657 |
green around the gills this idiom refers to someone who looks sick or nauseated. her driving is so bad that i always turn green around the gills. |
| 2658 |
great scot this is an exclamation of surprise. great scot marry! isn't there our daughter with another man? |
| 2659 |
great minds think alike this expression is said ironically when two people have matching thoughts. do you have the same solution? well, i told you that great minds think alike. |
| 2660 |
great cry and little wool this idiom refers to a great deal of fuss, noise, fanfare or protestation over something of little or no substance, importance or relevance. she's offering great cry and little wool and i hate this. |
| 2661 |
grease the skids when you grease the skids, you facilitate something or smooth the way for its success. a little snack was organized before the meeting in order to grease the skids for the talks. |
| 2662 |
grease somebody's palm if you accuse someone of greasing somebody's palm, you are accusing them of giving money to someone so as to gain an unfair advantage or to obtain something they want. in many countries, it is a practice to grease officials' palms. |
| 2663 |
graveyard shift this idiom refers to working hours that extend overnight. we are on shift-work. one week of days and then one on the graveyard shift. |
| 2664 |
grass roots the term grass roots refers to the ordinary people who form the main body of a society, movement or organisation. i spent two years trying to design education policy for grass roots. |
| 2665 |
grass is always greener on the other side this expression is used to describe a place that is far away and better than where you are now or another person's situation that is very different from your own. i realized that the grass is always greener on the other side when i saw that my job wasn't perfect. |
| 2666 |
grasp the nettle this idiom means to tackle a difficult problem boldly. grasp the nettle and call him! |
| 2667 |
grasp at straws if you are in a desperate situation and you grasp at straws, you try any method, even if it has little chance of success, in an attempt to find a solution. in her search for a cure, she tried a traditional healer, knowing that she was grasping at straws. |
| 2668 |
granny dumping this idiom refers to the abandonment of elderly relatives by their carers. granny dumping becomes more and more common because of stressful jobs. |
| 2669 |
grandfather clock this idiom refers to the kind of weight-and-pendulum eight-day clock in a tall case, formerly in common use. have you sold the grandfather clock? |
| 2670 |
grand slam this idiom refers to an occasion when someone wins all of a set of important sports competitions. she's the winner of the grand slam. |
| 2671 |
grab a bite to eat if you grab a bite to eat, you get something to eat quickly. you should grab a bite to eat before going out. |
| 2672 |
got somebody's mojo working this idiom means that somebody's magic charm is working. i won! i've got my mojo working again. |
| 2673 |
got it made someone who has got it made is so happy and successful in life that they have no worries. with a healthy family, a new car and a well-paid job, he has got it made. |
| 2674 |
got it all hammer and tongs if people are going at it hammer and tongs, they are arguing fiercely, with a lot of energy and noise. they are going it all hammer and tongs again. we should call the police. |
| 2675 |
goose pimples if you have goose pimples, you are cold or so afraid that your skin temporarily raised into little lumps. she was so scared that she had goose pimples all the road. |
| 2676 |
goody two shoes this idiom refers to an ostentatiously virtuous or well-behaved person. she was such a goody two shoes. |
| 2677 |
goodnight vienna this phrase means it's all over. the poor soldier stepped on the landmine and it was goodnight vienna. |
| 2678 |
good walls make good neighbours this expression means that respecting one another's privacy helps create a good relationship between neighbours. i always try not to disturb the people next door. good walls make good neighbours! |
| 2679 |
good value for money an article that is good value for money is worth the money spent on it. this laptop's quality is excellent so it's good value for money. |
| 2680 |
good things come to those who wait this expression means to be patient. well, i would wait another year before buying a house. good things come to those who wait. |
| 2681 |
good samaritan this idiom refers to someone who compassionately helps another who is in need. my neighbour played the good samaritan and gave me some money. |
| 2682 |
good riddance! this expression is used to express relief at becoming free of an unpleasant or unwanted person or thing. i've got rid of the old laptop. good riddance! |
| 2683 |
good men and true this idiom refers to dependable men, of rank and honour. we all need good men and true. |
| 2684 |
good grief this idiom refers to the occurrence of something shocking or an unexpected situation. oh, good grief we are again stuck in a traffic jam. |
| 2685 |
good account of this expression means to perform well, often in a challenging situation. as she couldn't give a good account of herself in the interview, the company didn't offer her a promotion. |
| 2686 |
gone with the wind if something has gone with the wind, it has disappeared forever. i lost everything during the fire. my savings are gone with the wind. |
| 2687 |
gone for a burton this idiom means no longer functional – a reference to a person who has died or an item that has been broken. this laptop has gone for a burton. |
| 2688 |
golden rule the most important rule or principle to be remembered when doing something is called the golden rule. you should not be seen. that's the golden rule for us. |
| 2689 |
golden parachute a golden parachute is a clause in an executive's employment contract stating that the executive will receive certain large benefits if their employment is terminated. i will come to work for you only if you give me a golden parachute. |
| 2690 |
golden opportunity a golden opportunity is a favourable time or an excellent occasion which should not be missed. an internship in our company could be a golden opportunity for you. |
| 2691 |
golden handshake a golden handshake is a generous sum of money given to a person when they leave a company or retire (sometimes given to encourage early retirement). when you leave this company, you are entitled to a quarter of your salary as a golden handshake. |
| 2692 |
golden handcuffs the term golden handcuffs refers to a large sum of money or a generous financial arrangement granted to an executive as an incentive to stay in their job or to ensure long-term cooperation after their departure. her six-year golden handcuffs are released next year. |
| 2693 |
golden boy this is the term given to a young man idolised for great skill, usually in sport. by most fans, he is seen as the golden boy of the team. |
| 2694 |
go with the flow if you go with the flow, you follow the general tendency and go along with whatever happens. when they organize a party i always go with the flow. |
| 2695 |
go window shopping when people go window shopping, they look at things in shop windows, without actually purchasing anything. i haven't got the wage yet, so i can only go window shopping. |
| 2696 |
go up in smoke if a plan or project goes up in smoke, it is spoiled, fails, or ends before producing a result. when they told us the price of implementing our marketing plan, everything went up in smoke. |
| 2697 |
go under the knife if a person goes under the knife, they have surgery. i'm not worried about it. going under the knife is the only solution. |
| 2698 |
go to town this idiom means to do something thoroughly, enthusiastically or extravagantly. they really went to town on their wedding. |
| 2699 |
go to the pot this idiom means to go to pieces. the medieval fortress has gone to the pot. |
| 2700 |
go to the mattresses this phrase means to prepare for a battle or to adopt a warlike stance. that was the last straw! let's go to the mattresses! |
| 2701 |
go to the dogs to say that a company, organisation or country is going to the dogs, it means that it is becoming less successful or efficient than before. there are some who believe that the firm will go to the dogs if it is sold. |
| 2702 |
go to rack and ruin if something goes to rack and ruin, it falls into very bad condition because of lack of care. after the automobile repair shop closed down, the building went to rack and ruin. |
| 2703 |
go to pieces if you go to pieces, for example after a terrible shock, you are so upset or distressed that you cannot lead a normal life. i nearly went to pieces when my cousin died in a car accident. |
| 2704 |
go to extremes people who go to extremes behave in a way that lacks moderation. my wife goes to extremes when it comes to holidays. she spends a lot of money on holidays. |
| 2705 |
go tits-up if something goes tits-up, it fails completely. the economy went tits-up and my wife lost her job. |
| 2706 |
go through the roof if someone goes through the roof, they become very angry. i went through the roof when i saw her with another man. |
| 2707 |
go through the proper channels this expression means to follow the correct steps in order to get something done. if you want to get a commercial licence, you will have to go through the proper channels. |
| 2708 |
go through the motions if someone goes through the motions, they do something because they have to, but without enthusiasm. after that dreadful car accident when her son died, she went through the motions trying to continue her life. |
| 2709 |
go the whole hog when you go the whole hog, you do something thoroughly or completely. that christmas, i put up some decorations but then i decided to go the whole hog and buy a tree. |
| 2710 |
go the extra mile if you go the extra mile, you do more than what is expected of you. i was promoted because i had always gone the extra mile. |
| 2711 |
go stir-crazy if a person goes stir-crazy, they become very agitated or nervous because they have been confined to a place for too long. after several days in the camp, i went stir-crazy. |
| 2712 |
go steady this idiom means to have a romantic relationship with someone. they have been going steady with each other for the past few years. |
| 2713 |
go spare if you go spare you lose your temper completely. my wife would go spare if she knew how much our son spent in berlin. |
| 2714 |
go somewhere under your own steam if you go somewhere under your own steam, you do so without any help from others. don't worry. we'll get there under our own steam. |
| 2715 |
go somewhere on shank's pony if you go somewhere on shank's pony, you have to walk rather than travel by bus, car etc. it was impossible to find a taxi, so we went home on shank's pony. |
| 2716 |
go pound sand this is an expression of disdain, along the same lines as "get lost". go pound sand! i don't want to see you anymore today. |
| 2717 |
go postal if someone goes postal, they lose their temper and express their anger in a violent way. my husband will go postal when he sees the state of the car. |
| 2718 |
go pear-shaped if a plan or project goes pear-shaped, it either goes wrong or it produces an undesirable result. i've organized a hunting session but it went pear-shaped. |
| 2719 |
go overboard if you go overboard, you are over-enthusiastic about something and do too much or behave in an excessive way. we need to prepare the room for the meeting but don't go overboard with it. |
| 2720 |
go out the window if a quality, principle or opportunity goes out the window, it disappears, is lost or abandoned. when the big company closed down, all hopes of finding a job in that little town went out the window. |
| 2721 |
go out of your way if you go out of your way, you take particular care or make a special effort when doing something. every time we are invited to their house, they go out of their way to make us feel comfortable. |
| 2722 |
go out of business if a shop, firm or company goes out of business, it closes down or goes bankrupt. if we continue like this, next year we'll go out of business. |
| 2723 |
go on a shopping spree if you go on a shopping spree, you enjoy a lively outing, usually with much spending of money. i plan to go on a shopping spree as soon as i get my bonus. |
| 2724 |
go off with a bang if something such as an event or performance goes off with a bang, it is very successful. the christmas party went off with a bang. |
| 2725 |
go off the rails if someone goes off the rails, they go out of control and begin to behave in a manner that is unacceptable to society. they are lucky that none of their children went off the rails, given nowadays temptations. |
| 2726 |
go off the deep end a person who goes off the deep end becomes suddenly very angry or emotional. she started throwing things around the office. she really went off the deep end. |
| 2727 |
go off on a tangent if someone goes off on a tangent, they change the subject completely in the middle of a speech or conversation. it's difficult to speak a subject in detail to her. she usually goes off on a tangent. |
| 2728 |
go off at half-cock this idiom means to speak or act prematurely. why do you always go off at half-cock? |
| 2729 |
go nuts to say that a person has gone nuts means that they have become completely foolish, eccentric or mad. i think he has gone nuts. he talks about dating his wife, but he is a widower since five years ago. |
| 2730 |
go mental this expression means to go crazy. why do you keep quarrelling with the manager? have you gone mental? |
| 2731 |
go like the clappers this idiom means to go very fast or in a vigorous manner. i like going like the clappers when it comes to driving. |
| 2732 |
go into overdrive if someone or something goes into overdrive, they begin to work very hard or start to perform intensely. as i had little time to finish the book, i went into overdrive. |
| 2733 |
go hell for leather if you go hell for leather, you go somewhere or do something very fast. i saw a man going hell for leather towards the car. |
| 2734 |
go haywire if something goes haywire, it becomes disorganised or goes out of control. the protests have gone haywire. |
| 2735 |
go hand in hand if two or more things go hand in hand, they are associated or happen at the same time. in big cities, poverty and drugs go hand in hand. |
| 2736 |
go great guns if someone or something is going great guns, they are doing very well. the newly-opened store is going great guns. |
| 2737 |
go for broke this idiom means to put every resource into getting a particular result. the team needed a goal so they went for broke to score. |
| 2738 |
go for a song if something goes for a song, it is sold at an unexpectedly low price. i was able to buy the motorcycle because it was going for a song. |
| 2739 |
go dutch with somebody to go dutch with somebody means to share the cost of something such as a meal or a concert. i've gone dutch with my girlfriend and eat at that cosy restaurant. |
| 2740 |
go downhill when something goes downhill, it deteriorates or gets worse little by little. my grandfather's health is going downhill, unfortunately. |
| 2741 |
go down well if an idea or proposal goes down well, it is well accepted. our marketing plan went down well. the manager congratulated us. |
| 2742 |
go down like a lead balloon this idiom means to be received badly by an audience. my joke went down like a lead balloon. |
| 2743 |
go down in history this expression refers to an event that is so important or unusual that it will be recorded in history. the latest discovery will go down in history. |
| 2744 |
go down in flames this expression means to end or fail suddenly and spectacularly. our project went down in flames when we ran out of funds. |
| 2745 |
go down a treat if something goes down a treat, people like it very much. that new restaurant seems to be going down a treat. |
| 2746 |
go by the book this idiom means to do things strictly according to the written rules. the most successful officers are not those who always go by the book. |
| 2747 |
go by the board this phrase means to be abandoned, rejected or ignored. his university degree has just gone by the board. |
| 2748 |
go bonkers if you go bonkers, you go crazy. when i was told to wait for another two hours, i went bonkers. |
| 2749 |
go berserk if you go berserk, you go crazy. i went berserk when i was told that the flight had been cancelled. |
| 2750 |
go belly up if a business or project goes belly up, it is unsuccessful or goes bankrupt. the store went belly up before the end of the second year. |
| 2751 |
go bananas if someone becomes very emotional and starts behaving in a crazy way, they go bananas. if you tell your parents that you want to drop out of university, they will go bananas! |
| 2752 |
go ballistic when someone goes ballistic, they become very angry. my mother went ballistic when she saw how the house looked after the party. |
| 2753 |
go ape if you go ape, you go crazy. she will go ape if she should hear that he has cheated on her. |
| 2754 |
go and boil your head this phrase is an insult. i'm mad with you! go and boil your head! |
| 2755 |
go along for the ride if you join a group of people you find interesting, without wanting to take an active part in their action, you go along for the ride. not all members were active in the campaign – some just went along for the ride. |
| 2756 |
go all round the houses this idiom means to say or do something in a very complicated way when it could be very simple. don't go all round the houses. just tell me what's wrong. |
| 2757 |
go all out if you go all out to achieve or obtain something, you make a great effort, using all possible strength and resources. we went all out to finish the mission. |
| 2758 |
go against the grain if something goes against the grain, it is difficult to accept because it is very different from what is considered normal or natural. having to import potatoes in our county goes against the grain. |
| 2759 |
gnomes of zurich this is a disparaging term for swiss bankers who control a lot of money, are said to be uninterested in the provenance of funds and protect their clients' identity. the gnomes of zurich refuse to cooperate with the police. |
| 2760 |
gnat's bollock this idiom refers to a very small (imaginary) unit of measurement. the bullets were flying everywhere. one missed me by a gnat's bollock. |
| 2761 |
glutton for punishment if you say that someone is a glutton for punishment, you express your surprise that they continue to do something which they find unpleasant or difficult. she gets seasick but she's going to travel by boat – she's a glutton for punishment. |
| 2762 |
glass ceiling this term refers to a discriminatory barrier perceived by women and minorities that prevents them from rising to positions of power or responsibility. olivia knew she would never break the glass ceiling and rise to a management position. |
| 2763 |
gizmo the term refers to any small device with a particular purpose. the store was full of gizmos. |
| 2764 |
given the day that's in it this idioms is used when something is very obvious because of the day that it occurs on. there are scarcely any taxi drivers around, given the day that's in it is christmas. |
| 2765 |
give your right arm if you say "i would give my right arm for that", you mean that you want it a lot and would do almost anything to obtain it. i'd give my right arm to have a house in paris. |
| 2766 |
give up the ghost if someone or something gives up the ghost, they die or stop working. my old pc has finally given up the ghost. |
| 2767 |
give the slip if you give the slip to somebody who is following you, you manage to hide or get away from them. the police were chasing him, but somehow he gave them the slip. |
| 2768 |
give the run-around if someone gives you the run-around, they deliberately give you confusing information or evasive answers. i tried to contact adam, but the secretary gave me the run-around. something must have happened. |
| 2769 |
give the rough edge of your tongue if you give the rough edge of your tongue, you scold someone severely or speak to them very aggressively or rudely. my legal advisor was so angry that i got the rough edge of her tongue. |
| 2770 |
give the once-over if you give someone or something a quick visual examination to see what they are like or to check if everything is all right, you give them the once-over. i gave the room a quick once-over before letting her in. |
| 2771 |
give the game away if you give the game away, you reveal a secret or a plan, often unintentionally. the woman hoped nobody would recognize her, but the security guard gave the game away. |
| 2772 |
give the devil his due this idiom means to give credit to an opponent's merits, grudgingly or not. i don't like what they have done, but give the devil his due, sales have improved. |
| 2773 |
give something one's best shot this idiom means to try your absolute hardest to succeed. i've sworn to give it my best shot! |
| 2774 |
give someone the cold shoulder this expression means to deliberately ignore someone. after expressing my opinion, she have me the cold shoulder. |
| 2775 |
give someone the benefit of doubt if you give someone the benefit of doubt, you choose to believe that they are innocent, honest or telling the truth because there is no evidence to the contrary. although he found it hard to believe the suspect's explanation, the police officer gave him the benefit of doubt. |
| 2776 |
give someone a run for their money if you give someone a run for their money, you present strong competition in circumstances where the other person expects to win easily. we didn't win the contest but we gave the other team a run for their money. |
| 2777 |
give someone a hard time if you give someone a hard time, you annoy them or make things difficult for them. by assigning this project to marry, i've given her a hard time. |
| 2778 |
give someone a hand this phrase means to help somebody. could you give me a hand with this project? |
| 2779 |
give somebody red-carpet treatment if you are given red-carpet treatment, you receive special or royal treatment. my aunt always gives me the red-carpet treatment when i go to visit her. |
| 2780 |
give or take (a quantity or number) this term is used when expressing an amount or estimate that is not exactly right. the marketing cost for next year campaign is 10.000 dollars, give or take. |
| 2781 |
give it a rest if someone tells you to give it a rest, they are asking you to stop doing something such as complaining or talking continuously. it's the ninth time i've heard this story. give it a rest! |
| 2782 |
give him an inch and he'll take a mile this idiom means that if you allow someone a small concession, they will take advantage and try to take more. give ann an inch and she'll take a mile. that's just the way she is. |
| 2783 |
give hell this idiom means to give someone a harsh scolding. she gave me hell about not leading a healthy lifestyle. |
| 2784 |
give as good as you get this expression means that you are prepared to treat people as badly as they treat you, and fight for your beliefs. you want me to help her?! do you remember teaching me to give as good as i get? i hope so, because not for the world would i help her. |
| 2785 |
give a tongue-lashing when you scold someone severely, you give them a tongue-lashing. the professor gave her a tongue-lashing when she arrived late. |
| 2786 |
give a shot this idiom means to have a try at something. i've never eaten this kind of food, but i'll give it a shot. |
| 2787 |
give a piece of your mind if you tell someone exactly what you think in a very angry manner, you give them a piece of your mind. i was so irritated by her remarks that i decided to give her a piece of my mind. |
| 2788 |
give a dog a bad name people who lose their reputation have difficulty regaining it because others continue to blame or suspect them. it was another day when steve was suspected, as usual. give a dog a bad name! |
| 2789 |
ginned up this idiom means drunk. he's really ginned up this night. |
| 2790 |
ginger up this phrase means to get excited. as soon as they heard about the holiday, the children gingered up. |
| 2791 |
gild the lily this idiom means to apply unnecessary ornament – to over embellish. no, i don't like this. it seems to me like you have gilded the lily. |
| 2792 |
gift of the gab to say that somebody has the gift of the gab means that they are able to speak confidently and easily. as a politician, you should have the gift of the gab. |
| 2793 |
get your tongue round something if you are able to pronounce a difficult word or phrase, you can get your tongue round it. he's from ilafkaufpheleins. try getting your tongue round that! |
| 2794 |
get your skates on if you tell someone to get their skates on, you want them to hurry up. we are late! get your skates on! |
| 2795 |
get your priorities right if you put things in the right order of importance, you get your priorities right. hey! your health is more important than the state of the car. you must get your priorities right! |
| 2796 |
get your money's worth if you get your money's worth, you receive good value for the amount of money you spend. we bought a touristic pass and we really got our money's worth. |
| 2797 |
get your knickers in a twist if you get your knickers in a twist, you are angry, nervous or upset faced with a difficult situation. marry, don't get your knickers in a twist! we still control this situation. |
| 2798 |
get your head around it this idiom means to understand something. i can't get my head around the fact that she is leaving me. |
| 2799 |
get your hands dirty if you get your hands dirty in your job, you become involved in all aspects of it, including work that is physical, unpleasant or less interesting. in time, i also won their respect by getting my hands dirty. |
| 2800 |
get your feet wet if you get your feet wet, you start to do something new or unfamiliar or explore new territory for the first time. this mission involves parachuting into the town?! well, i can't wait to get my feet wet! |
| 2801 |
get your ducks in a row if you get your ducks in a row, you get things well organized. as i have some free time at the office and the files are unorganized, i will get my ducks in a row. |
| 2802 |
get your act together if you tell someone to "get their act together", you mean that they need to organize their affairs more effectively in order to be more successful. you'd better get your act together if you want to find a better job! |
| 2803 |
get wise to something if you get wise to something, you learn something that you were not aware of before. i finally got wise to the fact that my wife was cheating on me. |
| 2804 |
get wires crossed if people get their wires crossed, they misunderstand each other or are confused about what was said. i thought you were at the party. sorry, we got our wires crossed. |
| 2805 |
get wind of something if you get wind of something, you hear about something you were unaware of, usually a private or secret matter. the manager didn't want the media to get wind of the merger. |
| 2806 |
get used to it this phrase means to accept that a particular state of affairs is inevitable. this is the situation and you should get used to it. |
| 2807 |
get underway this idiom means to begin a journey or a project. the project gets underway on 11 july. |
| 2808 |
get under skin this idiom means to be irritating or to bother a person. the new financial manager is getting under my skin. |
| 2809 |
get to the bottom of something if you get to the bottom of a problem or mystery, you solve it by finding out the true cause of it. someone is stealing from our company. we will get to the bottom of this problem, soon enough! |
| 2810 |
get to know this idiom means "receiving the information". she would get to know the people in the industry soon. |
| 2811 |
get the show on the road if you manage to put a plan or idea into action, you get the show on the road. ok, we have all the detailed we need. let's get the show on the road. |
| 2812 |
get the sack if someone gets the sack, they lose their job, usually because they have done something wrong. you are lucky if you just get the sack. don't forget that you have stolen from them. |
| 2813 |
get the pip this idiom means to become irritated or annoyed. after i heard her words i got the pip. |
| 2814 |
get the picture a person who gets the picture understands what is being explained or described. he fired the gun and people started running everywhere – you get the picture. |
| 2815 |
get the message when you get the message, you understand what someone is trying to tell you even if it is not stated clearly. by the way she looked at me, i am sure she got the message. |
| 2816 |
get the hang of something when you get the hang of an activity, you understand how to do it correctly. i found the job difficult at first but i soon got the hang of it. |
| 2817 |
get the boot this idiom means to be fired. i'm not going to get the boot if the manager finds out about the mistake. |
| 2818 |
get the better of you if someone or something gets the better of you, it defeats you. steve tried not to drink anything for a week, but he couldn't. his appetite for beer got the better of him. |
| 2819 |
get the axe if someone gets the axe, they lose their job. when our department was restructured, the old got the axe. |
| 2820 |
get something out of your system this expression means that you get rid of a strong emotion or desire by expressing it openly or trying to fulfill it. oh, come on. tell me what you are thinking about. get it out of your system! |
| 2821 |
get something off one's chest this idiom means to express one's repressed feelings about something. can we meet? i have something to get off my chest... |
| 2822 |
get someone's goat something that get someone's goat annoys or irritates them. by saying that, you really got my goat! |
| 2823 |
get someone's drift if you get someone's drift, you understand in a general way what they are trying to say. honestly, i didn't understand all of it, but i got your drift. |
| 2824 |
get somebody's dander up this idiom means to become agitated or angry. don't let her get your dander up. |
| 2825 |
get short shrift if someone or something gets short shrift, they are given little attention or sympathy. when marry is very busy, she gives short shrift to anybody. |
| 2826 |
get pink-slipped if someone gets pink-slipped, it means that they are dismissed from employment. marry is quite sad. she got pink-slipped two days ago. |
| 2827 |
get over it this idiom means to move beyond something that is bothering you. she needs to get over it and move on. they broke up two years ago. |
| 2828 |
get out of the wrong side of the bed this expression means to be grumpy because you are having a bad day. she has got out of the wrong side of the bed today. |
| 2829 |
get out of system this idiom means to do something so that one no longer has the desire to do it anymore. i'm glad that she's finally going to get poker games out of her system. |
| 2830 |
get out of hand this expression means that someone or something gets out of our control. things got out of hand at her party and one window was broken. |
| 2831 |
get one's just deserts when someone gets their just deserts, they are rewarded or punished according to what they deserve. dale got his just deserts when he was excluded from that action. he had been unreliable. |
| 2832 |
get on your high horse if you get on your high horse, you start behaving in a haughty manner, as though you should be treated with more respect. i got on my high horse when i was asked to show my id. |
| 2833 |
get on somebody's wick this idiom means to annoy somebody. with all her remarks, she has got on my wick. |
| 2834 |
get on one's nerves if you get on someone's nerves, you annoy or irritate them. the kid next door is so noisy. he's getting on my nerves. |
| 2835 |
get on like a house on fire two people who get on like a house on fire have similar interests and quickly become good friends. i hope to meet a girl with whom i would get on like a house on fire. |
| 2836 |
get on in years someone who is getting on in years is growing old. my aunt is getting on in years. unfortunately, she needs help now. |
| 2837 |
get on board this idiom means to accept and participate with an idea or in a project. after i heard his case, i got on board and did my best to help him. |
| 2838 |
get off to a flying start if something gets off to a flying start, it is immediately successful. i hope that the sales of my book will get off to a flying start. |
| 2839 |
get off the hook if you do something wrong and manage to get off the hook, you avoid punishment or blame. i ran a red light but i got off the hook. the policeman was a friend of mine. |
| 2840 |
get off the ground if a project or activity gets off the ground, it starts to be successful. bluntly speaking, i don't consider that this project will ever get off the ground. |
| 2841 |
get off scot-free someone who gets off scot-free escapes the punishment they deserve. james managed to get off scot-free! |
| 2842 |
get off my back! if you tell someone to get off your back, you are annoyed and ask them to stop finding faults or criticizing you. you are forever criticizing me! get off my back, will you? |
| 2843 |
get medieval this idiom means to use violence or extreme measures. don't get medieval here! calm down! |
| 2844 |
get into the swing of something when you get into the swing of something, you become involved in it or get used to it and begin to enjoy it. it will be more fun when you get into the swing of cycling. |
| 2845 |
get into the full swing this idiom means to get comfortable after doing something for a while. it took me two weeks to get into full swing of the procedure. |
| 2846 |
get in someone's hair if you are getting in someone's hair, you are annoying them so much that they can't get on with what they are doing. i would have finished the report more quickly if she hadn't got in my hair. |
| 2847 |
get hold of if you obtain something or manage to contact someone, you get hold of them. i want to contact the network administrator. do you know how could i get hold of him? |
| 2848 |
get hitched this expression means to get married. marry and steve are getting hitched this weekend. |
| 2849 |
get down to the nitty-gritty when people get down to the nitty-gritty, they begin to discuss the most important points or the practical details. i was interested in the subject, but we didn't get down to the nitty-gritty until all partners arrived. |
| 2850 |
get down to brass tacks when people get down to brass tacks, they start to discuss the essential aspects of a problem or situation. after a few polite exchanges, we quickly got down to brass tacks. |
| 2851 |
get cracking when you get cracking, you start doing something immediately. i'd better get cracking on the mission analysis. |
| 2852 |
get comeuppance when someone gets their comeuppance, they receive the treatment they deserve (usually punishment or retribution) for their behaviour or actions. i'm sure she will get her comeuppance. |
| 2853 |
get cold feet if you get cold feet about something, you begin to hesitate about doing it; you are no longer sure whether you want to do it or not. i wanted to enter the competition but when i found out that there was no prize i got cold feet. |
| 2854 |
get blood out of a stone this expression refers to something that is very difficult to obtain. negotiating a discount from that company is like getting blood from a stone! |
| 2855 |
get bent out of shape if you get bent out of shape, you become annoyed or upset about something that is usually not that important or cannot be avoided. please don't get bent out of shape if you're delayed. we'll wait for you. |
| 2856 |
get away with the murder someone who gets away with the murder can behave badly or do something that is forbidden, without being punished for it. i think i might be too permissive. my children usually get away with the murder. |
| 2857 |
get act together this expression means to get organized and on schedule. the manager was asked to get his act together if he wanted to keep his post. |
| 2858 |
get a second wind this expression means to have a sudden burst of energy after being tired. i got a second wind after i saw the sign for the final lap. |
| 2859 |
get a rise out of someone if you make someone react angrily by jokingly saying something that you know will irritate them, you get a rise out of them. this morning, i got a rise out of my wife by asking her about her latest diet. |
| 2860 |
get a move on if someone tells you to get a move on, they are asking you to hurry up. hey! get a move on or you'll be late! |
| 2861 |
get a load of something this slang expression means to pay attention or take notice of something. hey! get a load of that tuxedo! |
| 2862 |
get a life this idiom means to stop wasting a lot of time in useless or boring or trivial works. you are working way too much! get a life, dude! |
| 2863 |
get a kick out of something if you get a kick out of something, you feel enjoyment or excitement from something. she gets a kick out of listening to other people's conversations. |
| 2864 |
get a grip on yourself if you get a grip on yourself, you try to control your feelings so as to be able to deal with a situation. after the crash, i got a grip on myself and called the police. |
| 2865 |
get a gold star this idiom means to earn a merit point for doing well. well done, team! you will get a gold star for this action. |
| 2866 |
get a foothold if you get a foothold somewhere, you secure a position for yourself in a business, profession or organisation. we are still trying to get a foothold in the american market. |
| 2867 |
george raft this is a slang term for daft. judging by his actions, one could say he is george raft. |
| 2868 |
gentleman's agreement when an agreement is neither written nor signed, because the two parties trust each other completely, it is called a gentleman's agreement. there's no need to sign this. i propose to have a gentleman's agreement. |
| 2869 |
generation x this term refers to the generation of people born between the 1950s and early 1970s, who were anarchic and directionless. he's representative for generation x. |
| 2870 |
gender bender this idiom refers to a person who adopts a deliberately androgynous appearance, by use of unisex make-up, hair-style and clothing. david bowie was the archetype gender bender. |
| 2871 |
gee-gee this is a childish term for a horse. is that a gee-gee in this picture? |
| 2872 |
gather dust an idea, plan or project which is gathering dust is in fact stagnating or has not attracted attention for some time. we should cancel that project. it has gathered too much dust! |
| 2873 |
garden variety this idiom means "very common or ordinary". his new book is a garden variety story. |
| 2874 |
fur coat and no knickers a person who tries to appear distinguished but has no real class is referred to as fur coat and no knickers. she won't impress you. she's what we call "fur coat and no knickers". |
| 2875 |
funny farm this expression means a mental hospital. they had to take him to the funny farm. |
| 2876 |
funny business a business which is conducted in a deceitful, dishonest or unethical manner is called funny business. we've got some suspicions about that firm. we think it's a funny business. |
| 2877 |
full of vim and vigour if you are full of vim and vigour, you have lots of vitality, energy and enthusiasm. after the weekend i was full of vim and vigour. |
| 2878 |
full of the joys of spring if you are full of the joys of spring, you are happy, enthusiastic and full of energy. amanda is full of the joys of spring. has she got a new boyfriend? |
| 2879 |
full of piss and vinegar people who are full of piss and vinegar are very lively and boisterous or full of youthful vitality. the worst part is that we have to take care of kids full of piss and vinegar. |
| 2880 |
full of oneself this idiom means to think that one is very important in a way that annoys other people. i don't like her because she's so full of herself. |
| 2881 |
full of hot air someone who is full of hot air is full of nonsense and talks a lot without saying anything worthwhile. it's not a good idea to listen to her. she's full of hot air! |
| 2882 |
full of bull this idiom means that a person is talking hot air. they're full of bull. don't listen to them. |
| 2883 |
full of beans a person who is full of beans is lively, active and healthy. she may be getting old but she's full of beans. |
| 2884 |
full monty this idiom means everything possible. the whole thing. she provided the full monty for us. |
| 2885 |
full cry this idiom means to talk about a subject in an eager tone. the opposition party was in full cry in the parliament yesterday. |
| 2886 |
fuddy-duddy this idiom refers to an old-fashioned and foolish type of person. he's a real fuddy-duddy. |
| 2887 |
fruit of one's loins this phrase refers to one's child or children. the little kid is the fruit of my loins. |
| 2888 |
front runner in a contest, race or election, the front runner is the person who is most likely to succeed or win. i think steve is the front runner of today's competition. |
| 2889 |
from time to time to do something occasionally. she waters the flowers from time to time. |
| 2890 |
from the word go this expression means from the very start of an activity. right from the word go she was rejected by the group. |
| 2891 |
from the sublime to the ridiculous if something goes from the sublime to the ridiculous, it deteriorates in quality from serious or admirable to absurd or unimportant. this situation is going from the sublime to the ridiculous. |
| 2892 |
from the cradle to the grave this expression means "during the whole of your life or throughout life". this insurance plan provides protection from the cradle to the grave. |
| 2893 |
from the bottom of my heart this expression means with sincere and deep feeling. the woman loved him from the bottom of her heart. |
| 2894 |
from strength to strength this phrase means to progress from one success to another higher level of success. that's my life: from strength to strength. |
| 2895 |
from soup to nuts if you do something from soup to nuts, you do it all the way through, from the beginning to the end. they told us the whole story, from soup to nuts. |
| 2896 |
from sea to shining sea this idiom means from one coast to another. i traveled from sea to shining sea that week. |
| 2897 |
from rags to riches if a person goes from rags to riches, they start off being very poor and become very rich and successful. by working hard, she finally went from rags to riches. |
| 2898 |
from pillar to post if a person, usually someone in difficulty, goes from pillar to post, they move constantly from place to place. when i decided to make a career change, i moved from pillar to post in search of a challenging job. |
| 2899 |
from now on to begin doing something from now until some unknown time in the future. from now on, you will be responsible for cleaning the office. |
| 2900 |
from a to z this expression means from the beginning to the end. this book is a good one. it covers everything from a to z. |
| 2901 |
frog and toad this is a slang term for road. move the car – i can see a traffic warden coming down the frog and toad. |
| 2902 |
frock up this idiom means to wear a smart or formal dress for a special occasion. the girls frocked up for the party. |
| 2903 |
friends in high places if you know important or influential people in business or government, you have friends in high places. i can help you with that. i have some friends in high places. |
| 2904 |
friday afternoon car this idiom refers to a faulty or substandard car. i can't sell this car. it's my friday afternoon car. |
| 2905 |
freudian slip a freudian slip is a mistake made by a speaker which is considered to reveal their true thoughts or feelings. so, have you got the job? yes, i've got it. congrats, i'm so sad! oh, sorry! i meant "glad"! |
| 2906 |
french kiss this idiom refers to an open mouth kiss where tongues touch. i her giving him a french kiss. |
| 2907 |
freezing temperatures this is a colloquial expression, used to denote icy weather. freezing temperatures have been forecast. |
| 2908 |
freeze someone out if you deliberately isolate someone or prevent them from participating in a social or business activity by treating them unfairly or harshly, you freeze them out. that's not ok. she has been frozen out of the project and we have to find a solution. |
| 2909 |
free ride someone who gets a free ride benefits from a collective activity without participating in it. it can also refer to the acceptance of your plans or ideas without having anyone question or criticize them. no one has examined the manager's marketing plan – he has gotten a free ride. |
| 2910 |
free rein this idiom refers to the freedom to do, say or feel what you want. i gave my emotions free rein as i was kissing her. |
| 2911 |
free hand if you have a free hand, you have permission to make your own decision, especially in a job. i had free hand, so i ordered what i wanted. |
| 2912 |
free for all this term refers to an uncontrolled situation such as a discussion, arguments or fight where everyone present can do or say whatever they like. this time, the battle is free-for-all. |
| 2913 |
freak out this expression means to go crazy. dad, don't freak out. i've just crashed the motorcycle. |
| 2914 |
fraught with danger an activity or situation that is fraught with danger is full of risks or serious difficulties. their abroad mission is fraught with danger because that is a war zone. |
| 2915 |
frailty, thy name is woman this phrase alludes to the alleged inherent weakness of character of women. you should bolster her morale. frailty, thy name is woman... |
| 2916 |
four corners of the earth this phrase means all parts of the earth. she is known in all four corners of the earth. |
| 2917 |
foul play this idiom refers to a criminal act that results in serious damage or injury, especially murder. the police didn't suspect foul play. |
| 2918 |
foul one's own nest if you act in a way that harms your own interests, your position or your reputation, you foul your own nest. he fouled his own nest by stealing from their house. |
| 2919 |
forty winks if you have forty winks, you have a short sleep or rest, generally during the day. after having lunch, my grandfather has forty winks. |
| 2920 |
fortune favours the bold this idiom means that people who face problems with determination and courage are the ones who attain massive levels of success. why does she have such success? fortune favours the bold! |
| 2921 |
forlorn hope this idiom refers to a persistent or desperate hope that is unlikely to be fulfilled. the troops were asked to stay in the forlorn hope of peace. |
| 2922 |
forewarned is forearmed this expression means that if you know something is going to happen, you can be prepared for it. they said that the war would begin soon. forewarned is forearmed! |
| 2923 |
force someone's hand if you force someone's hand, you make them do something unwillingly or sooner than planned. the inspector forced brandon's hand and made him reveal the plan. |
| 2924 |
forbidden fruit is always the sweetest this expression means to desire something that is not within a feasible reach. everybody knows that the forbidden fruit is always the sweetest. |
| 2925 |
for the time being if you talk about how a situation is for the time being, you mean that it is temporary and will probably change in the future. she has left me and is living with her sister for the time being. |
| 2926 |
for the birds if you think something is for the birds, you consider it to be uninteresting, useless or not to be taken seriously. as far as i'm concerned, her story is for the birds. |
| 2927 |
for that matter this term is used to add something that is also true. i have never been to china or to any asian country for that matter. |
| 2928 |
for keeps this idiom means for ever. she has given her car for keeps. |
| 2929 |
for good measure if something is given or done for good measure, it is given or done in addition to other things. they offered me a good wage and a company car for good measure. |
| 2930 |
for every thing there is a season this phrase means that there is an appropriate time for everything. don't hurry. for every thing there is a season. |
| 2931 |
for ever and a day this phrase means indefinitely. she said she would love him for ever and a day. |
| 2932 |
for crying out loud this expression is used to show irritation, exasperation or anger. for crying out loud, turn the volume down! |
| 2933 |
for all intents and purposes this idiom means in effect or for all practical purposes. this new building is for all intents and purposes. |
| 2934 |
footloose and fancy free a person who is footloose and fancy free has few responsibilities or commitments of any kind and feels free to do as they please. i won't get married in near future. i like being footloose and fancy free. |
| 2935 |
foot the bill this idiom means to pay the bill. don't be angry. i will foot the bill for you. |
| 2936 |
foot in one's mouth if you put your foot in your mouth, you do or say something that offends, upsets or embarrasses someone else. he really put his foot in his mouth by saying such things about her. |
| 2937 |
fool's paradise if someone is living in a fool's paradise, they are in a state of contentment that will not last because their happiness is based on illusion or false hope. he is living in a fool's paradise if he thinks he will win the lottery. |
| 2938 |
fool's gold this idiom refers to something that appears valuable but really isn't, like iron pyrites – a worthless material that resembles gold. that investment was just fool's gold. |
| 2939 |
food for thought if something gives you food for thought, it makes you think seriously about a particular subject. the documentary on air pollution has given me food for thought. |
| 2940 |
food fight this expression refers to chaotic collective behaviour where items of food are thrown about wildly. some of the girls got inebriated and started a food fight. |
| 2941 |
follow your nose if you follow your nose, you go straight ahead. it can also mean to follow your instinct in life. the store should be at the end of this road. just follow your nose. |
| 2942 |
follow suit if you follow suit, you do the same as another person has just done. the first suspect pointed the gun at the officer. the other followed suit. |
| 2943 |
follow in someone's footsteps if you follow in someone's footsteps you lead a similar life or do the same job. she didn't want to follow in her mother's footsteps and become an actress. |
| 2944 |
follow by this expression means to continue with something else, usually on the agenda. the presentation will be followed by a coffee break. |
| 2945 |
fob something off on somebody this phrase means to persuade someone to accept something that is of a low quality or different from what they really wanted. she fobbed the cupcakes off on her boyfriend. |
| 2946 |
foam at the mouth someone who foams at the mouth is extremely angry about something. when i entered the room, the director was foaming at the mouth. |
| 2947 |
fly off the handle a person who flies off the handle becomes suddenly very angry. my wife flew off the handle when i told her that i had damaged her car. |
| 2948 |
fly in the face of something if an action or statement flies in the face of something, it is completely opposite to what is usual or expected. his style of repairing cars flies in the face of the firm's methods. |
| 2949 |
fly high this idiom means "in a successful or important position, doing very well, in a state of euphoric happiness, excitement or enthusiasm". the country flew high for several years after the recession. |
| 2950 |
fly by the seat of your pants if you fly by the seat of your pants, you do something without any knowledge or experience, using only your instinct and hoping that you will succeed. ten years ago, without any formal training, steve decided to fly by the seat of his pants and move to berlin. |
| 2951 |
fly by night a fly-by-night company or business person cannot be trusted because they are likely to get into debt and close down the business. be careful with that company, as i heard that it's a fly-by-night firm. |
| 2952 |
flotsam and jetsam this expression refers to assorted bits and pieces of rubbish, especially items that are found in the sea and are useless or discarded. there were flotsam and jetsam all over the beach. |
| 2953 |
flog a dead horse to say that someone is flogging a dead horse means that they are wasting time and effort trying to do or achieve something that is not possible. my father is flogging a dead horse trying to get his money back from that firm which has gone bankrupt. |
| 2954 |
float somebody's boat this idiom means to be what someone likes or is interested in. car racing doesn't really float my boat. |
| 2955 |
flip the bird this expression means to aggressively raise your middle finger at someone as a sign of displeasure. i stopped the car a little too close and he flipped the bird as a response. |
| 2956 |
fling yourself into something if you fling yourself into an activity, you do it with a lot of energy and enthusiasm. since he flung himself into the political campaign, he seldom has a free moment. |
| 2957 |
flex your muscles this idiom means to try to worry an opponent or enemy by publicly showing military, political or financial power. this parade is the first sign of the new regime flexing its muscles. |
| 2958 |
flesh and blood this idiom might either refer to one's family or to the bodily stuff we are made of. we won't put her into a home. she's out flesh and blood after all. |
| 2959 |
flea pit this idiom refers to a down-market cinema, allegedly verminous. i won't go to that flea pit no matter how good the movie is. |
| 2960 |
flea market this idiom refers to a market used to buy and sell inexpensive goods. the kind of place where you might buy carpets infested with fleas. i need some cheap clothes. maybe the flea market would be the place. |
| 2961 |
flavor of the month this idiom refers to something that is prominent in the public eye for a short time then fades out of interest. this song has been the flavor of the month. |
| 2962 |
flat-out this idiom means completely. when i asked her about it, she flat-out denied it. |
| 2963 |
flag of convenience if a ship, boat or yacht sails under a flag of convenience, it is registered in a foreign country in order to avoid regulations, taxes and reduce operating costs. i propose to register this ship under a flag of convenience. |
| 2964 |
fizzle out this idiom means to gradually end, often in a disappointing or weak way. they went to different universities. therefore, their relationship just fizzled out. |
| 2965 |
fixer-upper this idiom refers to a property or item that is in need of repair and is offered for sale at a low price. buying this fixer-upper could turn out to be a good deal. |
| 2966 |
fixed in your ways people who are fixed in their ways do not want to change their normal way of doing things. it has been proven that old people tend to be fixed in their ways. |
| 2967 |
fix somebody up with someone this idiom means to find a romantic partner for somebody. i want to be single, so stop trying to fix me up with your female friends. |
| 2968 |
five-finger discount if somebody gets a five-finger discount, they take something without paying; in other words, they steal. can you afford that watch? yes, with a five-finger discount. |
| 2969 |
five o'clock shadow this expression refers to a patch of stubble on the face of a man who hasn't shaved for at least a day. my grandfather look tired and had a five o'clock shadow. |
| 2970 |
fit to be tied if you are fit to be tied, you are extremely irritated, upset or angry. i was fit to be tied when her cat dug up one of my little trees. |
| 2971 |
fit of anger this expression means to display a very bad temper, often by screaming a lot. when she doesn't get what she wants, she goes into a fit of anger. |
| 2972 |
fit like a glove if something fits like a glove, it fits you perfectly. thank you for the gift. the trousers fit me like a glove. |
| 2973 |
fit for purpose something that is suitable for a particular function and is fully operational is said to be fit for purpose. the manager promised that the gym would be ready on time and fit for purpose. |
| 2974 |
fishing expedition if someone is on a fishing expedition, they are trying to obtain information in any way possible. the dinner invitation was a fishing expedition to obtain information about my private life. |
| 2975 |
fish rots from the head down this expression refers to failing organizations and how the blame of it should be on its "head" (leadership). the company was bound to be closed. a fish rots from the head down after all. |
| 2976 |
fish or cut bait this idiom is used to tell someone to take action or to stop saying that they will. the politician promised voters that he would support gun control. now, it's time to fish or cut bait! |
| 2977 |
fish in troubled waters if you fish in troubled waters, you try to gain advantages for yourself from a disturbed state of affairs. after the french revolution, some statesmen were accused of fishing in troubled waters. |
| 2978 |
fish for a compliment this idiom refers to an attempt to make someone say something nice to you or about you. the little girl loves to fish for compliments when she manages to do her homework all by herself. |
| 2979 |
first world problem this idiom refers to a relatively trivial problem only affecting the affluent. this is a first world problem, so let's not worry about it. |
| 2980 |
first world this expression refers to the industrialised affluent and wealthy nations. the rise of india means we may have to redefine the first world before long. |
| 2981 |
first things first this expression means to have a priority order. i'm starving, so first things first, let's eat something. |
| 2982 |
first out of the gate if you are first out of the gate, you are the first to make a start at something that others have also accepted to do. i was so enthusiastic about going to another club that i was the first out of the gate. |
| 2983 |
first light this idiom refers to the time when the light begins to appear in the morning. the search of her will continue at first light. |
| 2984 |
first footing this idiom refers to making a round of visits at new year. i don't like to be off around town, first footing all the neighbours. |
| 2985 |
first dibs this is an exclamation that is used, primarily by children but also by adults, to establish a claim on something. the first person to call out "first dibs" has the option on the first use or the ownership of the item claimed. first dibs! the plate is mine now! |
| 2986 |
first come first served this expression means that there will be no favouritism or preferential treatment. therefore, people will be served strictly in the order they arrive. tickets for the race will be sold on "first come first served" basis. |
| 2987 |
first and foremost this expression is used to state what you consider to be more important than anything else. first and foremost i want to thank you. |
| 2988 |
first among equals this idiom refers to the most senior person in a group of equal rank. his position within the company is considered to be the first among equals. |
| 2989 |
firing line someone who is in the firing line is in a position to be criticized because of their responsibilities or the position they hold. the security manager is in the firing line since the robbery. |
| 2990 |
fire the imagination this expression means to inspire with enthusiasm. his speech really fired the imagination of those who listened. |
| 2991 |
fire away if you tell someone to fire away, you encourage them to begin to talk or ask question. i know you have questions. fire away! |
| 2992 |
fire a warning shot across somebody's bow this idiom refers to a warning shot, either real or metaphorical. employees have fired a warning shot across the company's bows. they want bigger wages. |
| 2993 |
finger licking good this idiom refers to a very tasty food or meal. the pizza that you've cooked is finger licking good. |
| 2994 |
finger in the pie this idiom means to have an interest in something. when they proposed me to be their leader, i knew that marry had a finger in the pie. she knew i would protect her. |
| 2995 |
fine-tooth comb to go over something with a fine-tooth comb means to examine it closely and thoroughly so as not to miss any details. we have to examine the crime scene with a fine-tooth comb. |
| 2996 |
fine tuning small changes to something so as to improve it or make it work better. this audio system needs some fine tuning. |
| 2997 |
find one's feet to say that someone in a new position is finding their feet means that they are learning what to do and gaining self-confidence. after six months i found my feet in that organisation. |
| 2998 |
find one's calling this idiom means to discover and pursue one's true and inherent passion, skill or vocation. most students leave college and realize that they haven't found their calling. |
| 2999 |
filthy rich this idiom refers to someone who is rich beyond measure. he is a filthy rich guy. |
| 3000 |
fill the bill this idiom means to be exactly suitable for a particular situation. he fills the bill for this mission. |
| 3001 |
fill in the blanks this means to supply missing words or information (this can be used in conversation or writing). could you fill in the blanks for me, please? |
| 3002 |
figure of speech a figure of speech is an expression that is different from its literal meaning. an idiom is a figure of speech. |
| 3003 |
figment of one's imagination a figment of one's imagination is an appearance, event or incident that is not considered to be real. others saw the motorcycle, so it's not a figment of our imagination. |
| 3004 |
fight tooth and nail if you fight tooth and nail for something, you fight with energy and determination. i will fight tooth and nail for this mission's success. |
| 3005 |
fight the good fight this idiom in an evangelical call to believe in and spread the christian faith. fight the good fight, said the humble man. |
| 3006 |
fight shy of something if you fight shy of something, such as a task, a problem or a duty, you want to avoid doing it or you are unwilling to confront it. i've fought shy of learning a new language but now i don't have a choice. |
| 3007 |
fight fire with fire this idiom means to respond to an attack by using a similar method as one's attacker. no, this is not the best solution! let's fight fire with fire! |
| 3008 |
fight an uphill battle a person who fights an uphill battle has to struggle against very unfavorable circumstances. after that injury, i had to fight an uphill battle to recover. |
| 3009 |
fight a losing battle if someone is fighting a losing battle, they are trying to do something even when there is little chance of succeeding. the director is fighting a losing battle trying to ban smartphone at desk. |
| 3010 |
fifth estate this is a socio-cultural reference associated with bloggers and journalists. fifth estate is a growing power nowadays. |
| 3011 |
fifth column this phrase refers to infiltrators or collaborators with the enemy. one member belonging to fifth column has been arrested. |
| 3012 |
field day a field day refers to a day or period of great excitement and activity. we'll have a field day with the latest crime suspect. |
| 3013 |
fiddlesticks this idiom can either refer to an exclamation meaning nonsense or rubbish or to an indication of mild annoyance. you say you can run 100 meters in 9 seconds. i say fiddlesticks! |
| 3014 |
fiddle while rome burns this expression is used when people are procrastinating or wasting their time on unimportant matters while there are more serious problems to be dealt with. the management seems to be fiddling while rome burns. they didn't take any decision. |
| 3015 |
few and far between items, places or events which are few and far between are rarely found or do not happen very often. fast food restaurants are few and far between in this part of the city. |
| 3016 |
fever pitch if a situation or feeling reaches fever pitch, it becomes very intense and exciting. reactions to the conflict have reached fever pitch and the war is about to begin. |
| 3017 |
fender bender this expression refers to a minor car accident. there is little damage and no injuries. that fender bender caused a major traffic jam in the city. |
| 3018 |
fellow traveller this idiom refers to someone sympathetic toward a certain point of view without being a fully paid-up member of the club. the flight attendant asked my fellow travellers to turn off their phones. |
| 3019 |
feet of clay if someone who is admired is found to have a weakness, fault or defect of character, they are said to have feet of clay. no one is perfect. every man has feet of clay. |
| 3020 |
feel the pinch when someone feels the pinch, they begin to suffer from a lack of money. at the end of the touristic season, the hotels and restaurants feel the pinch. |
| 3021 |
feel on top of the world if you feel on top of the world, you feel wonderful or ecstatic about something. after i had got the result, i felt on top of the world. |
| 3022 |
feel blue to feel blue means to have feelings of deep sadness or depression. i'm going to see my grandfather. he's feeling a bit blue at the moment. |
| 3023 |
feeding frenzy a situation in which a lot of people attack, pursue or compete with each other in an excited or frantic way, because they all want to obtain something, is called a feeding frenzy. as soon as the investment plan was approved, there was a feeding frenzy among companies to obtain contracts. |
| 3024 |
feed the kitty if you feed the kitty, you contribute to a collection of money in order to help a good cause. every little helps! you should feed the kitty for this urging cause! |
| 3025 |
feed someone a line if you feed someone a line, you tell them something that may not be quite true, often as an excuse. i didn't want to go to that party, so i fed her a line. |
| 3026 |
fed up this idiom means annoyed, unhappy or bored, especially with a situation that has existed for a long time. they are fed up with the disturbance caused by the nightclub. |
| 3027 |
feather your nest to say of someone that they are feathering their nest means that they are taking advantage of their position in order to obtain money and enjoy a comfortable life. many people think that politicians use their position to feather their nest. |
| 3028 |
feather in your cap to describe someone's achievement as a feather in their cap means that it is something they can be proud of or something that may serve as an advantage. passing the interview was another feather in her cap. |
| 3029 |
feast your eyes on something if you feast your eyes on something, you are delighted and gratified by what you see. as he drove along the road, we feasted our eyes on the scenery. |
| 3030 |
feast today, famine tomorrow if you consume everything that you have today and don't save for a tougher time then you may have to go without anything tomorrow. she doesn't understand that it'll be feast today, famine tomorrow if she continues with this lifestyle. |
| 3031 |
fathom out this idiom means to ascertain something; to deduce from the facts. this is the conclusion that i've fathomed out. |
| 3032 |
fat chance this expression is used to indicate that something is not very likely to happen. the manager is thinking of me for that task? fat chance! |
| 3033 |
fast track something if you decide to fast track something, such as a task or project, you give it high priority so that the objective is reached as quickly as possible. it was decided to fast track the construction of a new motorway. |
| 3034 |
fast talker a person who speaks quickly and easily but cannot always be trusted is called a fast talker. she was a fast talker who persuaded him to buy that expensive table. |
| 3035 |
fast and furious if an activity is fast and furious, it is done quickly and with a lot of energy. the competitors came fast and furious around the bend. it was the last mile of the run. |
| 3036 |
fashion victim this idiom refers to someone who slavishly follows fashion trends. ann is a real fashion victim. |
| 3037 |
farm something out if something, such as work, is farmed out, it is sent away to be done by others. we decided to farm out the marketing campaign to another company. |
| 3038 |
far-fetched this idiom literally means "unlikely to be true". his story was a far-fetched one. |
| 3039 |
far from the madding crowd this idiom refers to a quiet and rural place. i need a couple of days far from the madding crowd. |
| 3040 |
far cry from something if one thing is a far cry from something else, they are very different from each other, especially in quality or size. my tiny flat is a far cry from my parents' big house. |
| 3041 |
far be it from me this expression means that the speaker does not feel in a position to say or do something. it is usually used before giving advice or expressing an opinion. far be it from me to mislead you, but i think you should reconsider the position. |
| 3042 |
fancy-pants this idiom means overly elaborate, swanky or pretentious – especially of dress. it is also applied to people who act in that manner. this is a fancy-pants restaurant. |
| 3043 |
famous last words this expression refers to a comment or a prophecy that is expected to be proved incorrect. i swore that i would not drink anymore. my famous last words. |
| 3044 |
familiarity breeds contempt this expression means that the better you know someone the less you like him. after several months, she didn't like him anymore. familiarity breeds contempt. |
| 3045 |
false move in a dangerous or risky situation, if you make a false move, you do something which may have unpleasant consequences. the terrorism suspect is under close surveillance. if she makes one false move, she will be immediately arrested. |
| 3046 |
fall short of somebody's expectations if something proves inadequate or insufficient or does not reach the required standard, it falls short of what is expected. sales of this smartphone fell short of our expectations. |
| 3047 |
fall over backwards if you fall over backwards to accomplish something, you do everything you possibly can to please and impress. the manager fell over backwards to make the event a success. |
| 3048 |
fall out with someone this idiom means to have one's relationship with someone completely diminished, typically due to an argument or unpleasant incident. the man left home after falling out with his wife. |
| 3049 |
fall on one's sword if you fall on your sword, you accept the consequences of an unsuccessful or wrong action. the campaign organiser resigned after the failure. she said that she had fallen on her sword. |
| 3050 |
fall on deaf ears if something you say falls on deaf ears, it is either ignored or attracts no attention. her warning about the need to repair the car fell on deaf ears. |
| 3051 |
fall off the back of a lorry goods that have fallen off the back of a lorry are stolen goods. taking into consideration the price of that laptop, it must have fallen off the back of a lorry. |
| 3052 |
fall into place when different elements fall into place, they fit well together or become organised so that progress can be achieved in a satisfactory manner. it was the last thing i needed. now, everything falls into place. |
| 3053 |
fall into one's lap if something good falls into your lap, it happens to you without any effort on your part. you should search for a job. do you think it will fall into your lap? |
| 3054 |
fall in love with somebody this idiom means to start feeling love towards somebody. i think i'm falling in love with her. |
| 3055 |
fall guy this idiom refers to a scapegoat. i don't want to be your fall guy. |
| 3056 |
fall from grace to say that someone has fallen from grace, means that they have done something wrong, immoral or unacceptable, and as a result have lost their good reputation. the manager fell from grave as a result of a sex abuse. |
| 3057 |
fall flat if a joke, a story or a form of entertainment falls flat, it does not amuse people or fails to have the effect that was intended. she tried to make some jokes but they fell flat. |
| 3058 |
fall by the wayside if a plan or project falls by the wayside, it remains unfinished or people stop trying to do it. they opposed so strongly that the plans for a new parking lot fell by the wayside. |
| 3059 |
fall at the first hurdle if you fall at the first hurdle, you fail to overcome the first difficulty encountered. marry has fallen at the first hurdle. she has missed the bus and lost the target. |
| 3060 |
fake it till you make it this expression means to portray yourself like the person you always wanted to become. i had no idea that she was so stupid. fake it till you make it. |
| 3061 |
faith will move mountains this idiom means that faith is immensely powerful. trust your skills! faith will move mountains! |
| 3062 |
fait accompli this french expression refers to something that has been done and cannot be changed. i used our savings to buy a laptop. it's a fait accompli, even if you are sad with me. |
| 3063 |
fairytale ending this idiom refers to a happy simplistic ending to a story, similar to those found in fairy tales. fairytale endings don't match real life. |
| 3064 |
fair-weather friend someone who acts as a friend when times are good and is not there when you are in trouble, is called a fair-weather friend. i thought i could count on you but it appears you are a fair-weather friend. |
| 3065 |
fair to middling this idiom means not very good but not bad. what's his english like? oh, fair to middling. |
| 3066 |
fair play fair play is the properly conducted conditions for a game, giving all participants an equal chance. the expression is also used more widely to mean fairness and justice in contexts other than games. fair play! that's what we need in this industry! |
| 3067 |
fair hearing when accused of wrongdoing, if someone gets a fair hearing, they get an opportunity to present evidence or give their side of the story, usually in court. no one can guarantee that you will get a fair hearing. |
| 3068 |
fair exchange is no robbery this idiom means that an exchange of two things of equal value is a reasonable and honest trade. what's you problem? fair exchange is no robbery! |
| 3069 |
fair dinkum this idiom means honest, genuine or fair play. they beat our team fair dinkum. |
| 3070 |
fair and square if something is obtained or won fair and square, it is done in an honest and open manner, the rules are respected and there is no cheating or lying. kevin won the position within our company fair and square. |
| 3071 |
faint of heart this expression means not to be strong enough to handle a situation. this documentary is not for those who are faint of heart. |
| 3072 |
failing to plan is planning to fail this idiom has a literal meaning. why didn't you forecast the sales? failing to plan is planning to fail! |
| 3073 |
fag end of something this idiom refers to the remnant of something, especially the part left after the best part has been used. i used to go fishing at the fag end of the season. |
| 3074 |
facts speak for themselves when the facts of a situation are so clear that no further explanation or extra details are necessary, the facts speak for themselves. there's no need to tell you that the results are amazing. the facts speak for themselves. |
| 3075 |
factory farming this expression refers to livestock under industrial conditions. she's dead against factory farming of pigs. |
| 3076 |
fact of the matter is this expression is used to emphasise the reality of a situation or what is really true. steve thinks that she needs help with the project but the fact of the matter is that she is lazy. |
| 3077 |
face your demons if you face your demons, you have the courage to confront your fears or some cause of anguish that you normally try to avoid. daniel has a problem with dogs. he should face his demons and play with one. |
| 3078 |
face value if you take something at its face value, you assume that it is genuinely what it appears to be. the laptop seems to be in mint condition but don't take it at its face value. get an expert to check it out. |
| 3079 |
face the music if you have to face the music, you have to accept the unpleasant consequences of your actions. she was caught cheating. she has to face the music now. |
| 3080 |
face that would stop a clock someone who has a face that would stop a clock has a shockingly unattractive face. he's fat and short, with a face that would stop a clock! |
| 3081 |
face only a mother could love this is a humorous way of saying that someone is ugly or unattractive. the poor girl has a face only a mother could love. |
| 3082 |
face like thunder if someone has a face like thunder, they look very angry. she entered the office having a face like thunder. |
| 3083 |
face like a wet week-end if someone has a face like a wet week-end, they look sad and miserable. is everything all right? you have a face like a wet week-end. |
| 3084 |
face card this idiom refers to the jack, queen or king in a set of playing cards. cutting the pack and getting a face card isn't as unlikely as some might think. |
| 3085 |
eyes on stalks if your eyes are on stalks when you look at something, they are wide open with surprise or amazement. the children's eyes were on stalks as they watch the movie. |
| 3086 |
eyes like a hawk if you've got eyes like a hawk, you have good eyesight and notice every detail. steve will notice the scratch on his bike – he's got eyes like a hawk. |
| 3087 |
eyes in the back of one's head if someone has eyes in the back of their head, they are very observant and notice everything happening around them. you need eyes in the back of your head to understand what happens in this organisation. |
| 3088 |
eye-opener this idiom refers to an utterly shocking or startling thing, situation or revelation. learning about his addiction was a real eye-opener for me. |
| 3089 |
eye-catching this expression means tending to attract attention, visually attractive or striking. there were some eye-catching posters on the walls. |
| 3090 |
eyebrow raising this idiom refers to something that creates shock or surprise. when they announced the winner, it was truly eyebrow raising. |
| 3091 |
extraordinary rendition this is a procedure whereby criminal suspects are sent for interrogation from one country to a second country, where less strict laws governing interrogation apply. he has been granted extraordinary rendition. |
| 3092 |
explore all avenues if you explore all avenues, you try out every possibility in order to obtain a result or find a solution. i don't know what to say about this mission. let's explore all avenues. |
| 3093 |
excuse my french this expression is used as an apology for using crude or offensive language. he's a bloody bastard! excuse my french. |
| 3094 |
exception that proves the rule if something is different from a general belief or theory, it shows that the belief or theory is true. most students love fast food, but marry is the exception that proves the rule. she tries to eat healthy. |
| 3095 |
exceedingly well-read this idiom means erudite and literate. you should speak to her. she's exceedingly well-read. |
| 3096 |
evil twin this idiom refers to an imaginary double, humorously referred to in order to explain the uncharacteristic bad behaviour of a normally moral person. she is definitely sorry for what she has done. it was her evil twin. |
| 3097 |
everything but the kitchen sink this expression means everything imaginable. the flat had everything but the kitchen sink. |
| 3098 |
every tom, dick and harry this expression means everyone or everybody. every tom, dick and harry has a smartphone nowadays. |
| 3099 |
every picture tells a story this expression refers to hidden or unsaid explanation behind an outlook or sight. she is denying, but i am sure that she had done something; every picture tells a story. |
| 3100 |
every nook and cranny every nook and cranny means every possible part of a place. i searched every nook and cranny of the town looking for that store. |
| 3101 |
every dog has its day this expression means that everyone can be successful at something at some time in their life. i know i'll be luckier one day. every dog has its day! |
| 3102 |
every cloud has a silver lining this idiom means that you should be optimistic because even difficult times will lead to better days. this is just a transient situation. every cloud has a silver lining. |
| 3103 |
even stevens two or more people who are even stevens are equal to each other. none of them has more than the others; none is owed anything or has anything due. the boys equally shared the money so they are even stevens. |
| 3104 |
even a worm will turn even someone who never complains will react to an intolerable situation. if she continues to treat her husband badly, he'll leave her – even a worm will turn. |
| 3105 |
ethnic cleansing this idiom refers to the singling out and killing of a specific ethnic group. ethnic cleansing must never be repeated! |
| 3106 |
err on the side of caution when uncertain about what to do, if you err on the side of caution you do more of what is adequate rather than take any risks. given the volatility in the market, i think we should err on the side of caution this period. |
| 3107 |
enough said this expression is used to indicate that you completely understand the situation and you do not need any further details. did your wife arrive unexpectedly last night? enough said! |
| 3108 |
enough is enough this idiom is used when you want something to stop. enough is enough – i won't argue with you. |
| 3109 |
enhanced interrogation techniques this is an euphemism for torture. the secret services might call water-boarding an enhanced interrogation technique. |
| 3110 |
end of the day this idioms means to look at all the possibilities and then to make a final decision. at the end of the day, i decided to start the law school. |
| 3111 |
end of story this expression means that there is nothing more to add to the matter under discussion. i don't accept this! end of story! |
| 3112 |
elvis has left the building this idiom means that the show has come to an end. it's all over. come on! let's go home. elvis has left the building. |
| 3113 |
elevator music this idiom refers to pleasant but boring pre-recorded music that is usually played in public places. his new album sounds like elevator music. i don't like it! |
| 3114 |
elementary, my dear watson this is the supposed explanation that sherlock holmes gave to his assistant, dr. watson, when explaining deductions he had made. i know why she has disappeared. elementary, my dear watson. |
| 3115 |
elbow room if you need some elbow room, you need more space to move. i can't stand this office anymore. i need some elbow room. |
| 3116 |
elbow grease if you use elbow grease, you need energy and strength to do physical work such as cleaning or polishing. it will take much elbow grease to renovate this flat. |
| 3117 |
eighty-six if you eighty-six something, you cancel it. unfortunately, they have eighty-sixed that item. |
| 3118 |
ego trip if you do something primarily to draw attention to yourself and feel important or superior to others, you are on an ego trip. my opinion is that her speech about helping the underprivileged was a long ego trip. |
| 3119 |
egghead this term refers to a very studious person, intellectually gifted in the field of academics. i'm sure she will do well in her finals. she's an egghead. |
| 3120 |
egg someone on if you egg someone on, you urge or strongly encourage them to do something. she doesn't want to learn german but i keep egging her on! |
| 3121 |
educated guess this idiom refers to a guess that is made using judgment and a particular level of knowledge and is therefore more likely to be correct. i can't tell you exactly how much this building will cost but i can make an educated guess. |
| 3122 |
economical with the truth to say that a person is economical with the truth means that, without actually lying, they omit important facts or give incomplete information. the culprit was economical with the truth. |
| 3123 |
eat, sleep and breathe something if you eat, sleep and breathe something, you are so enthusiastic and passionate about it that you think about it constantly. i'm an enthusiastic fisherman; i eat, sleep and breathe it! |
| 3124 |
eat your words if you eat your words, you have to admit that what you said before was wrong. after saying that dreadful things to her, i had to eat my words. |
| 3125 |
eat someone alive if you criticize someone severely because you are angry with them, you eat them alive. (one can also be eaten alive – bitten repeatedly by insects). the manager will eat me alive if i am wrong. |
| 3126 |
eat somebody out of house and home this is a humorous way of saying that someone is eating large quantities of your food. i stock up with food when my friends come to my place. they would eat me out of house and home! |
| 3127 |
eat out of someone's hand if you eat out of somebody's hand, you are eager to please and will accept to do anything that person asks. she is so persuasive that she has had him eating out of her hand in no time. |
| 3128 |
eat humble pie if you eat humble pie, you are forced to admit that you were wrong and apologize. after criticizing her work, i had to eat humble pie when the results were announced. |
| 3129 |
eat dirt if someone eats dirt, they are forced to accept insults or bad treatment without complaining. since jobs are scarce in this city, the manager can make the employees eat dirt with no risk of social unrest. |
| 3130 |
eat crow if you eat crow, you admit that you were wrong about something and apologize. now i know that i've made a mistake. therefore i had no option but to eat crow. |
| 3131 |
eat a horse if you say that you could eat a horse you mean that you are very hungry. i'm starving! let's get something to eat! i could eat a horse right now! |
| 3132 |
easy-peasy this expression refers to something that is extremely easy and is often used by children. i will do that. it's easy-peasy. |
| 3133 |
easy does it! you can use this expression when you want something to be done slowly and carefully. "easy does it" said he as we were carrying the sofa through the house. |
| 3134 |
easy come, easy go this expression means that if something is easy to obtain then you are less worried about losing it. i won a lot of money at the poker game last night, but i lost it on my way home. oh well, easy come, easy go. |
| 3135 |
easter egg this expression refers to a decorated or dyed egg usually given to children at easter. you've made some beautiful easter eggs. |
| 3136 |
easier said than done to say that something is easier said than done means that what is suggested sounds easy but it is more difficult to actually do it. fix the car by myself? easier said than done! |
| 3137 |
earworm this idiom refers to a song that is stuck in your head that you cannot get rid of – usually a song that is very annoying. i have an earworm! that new song keeps playing in my head. |
| 3138 |
ear-popping this idiom refers to a sound that is loud or that catches the attention. stop that ear-popping music! |
| 3139 |
earn while you learn this expression refers to the possibility of earning a salary while in training. earn while you learn! join our company as an apprentice! |
| 3140 |
earmark something if you earmark something, you assign it to a particular person or reserve it for a specific use. two million dollars of this year's budget is earmarked for road improvements. |
| 3141 |
ear candy this idiom refers to music with an instant appeal but with little lasting significance. i like this song but i'm sure that it will turn into an ear candy. |
| 3142 |
eagle eyes someone who has eagle eyes sees or notices things more easily than others. if she is there, she will be spotted by him. he has eagle eyes. |
| 3143 |
eager beaver the term eager beaver refers to a person who is hardworking and enthusiastic, sometimes considered overzealous. the new employee works way too much. she's an eager beaver. |
| 3144 |
dying for something if you are dying for something, you have a strong desire for it. i'm dying for a cup of coffee! |
| 3145 |
dyed-in-the-wool this expression is used to describe a person who has fixed, uncompromising, deep-felt beliefs to which they are committed. she is a dyed-in-the-wool ecologist. you can't change that. |
| 3146 |
dwell on the past this idiom refers to the situation when someone thinks too much about the past and it becomes a problem. i wish you would stop dwelling on the past. |
| 3147 |
dwell on something if someone dwells on something, they think or talk about it all the time. my wife has minor health problems. she is always dwelling on that subject! |
| 3148 |
duvet day this idiom refers to a work day which an employee is allowed to spend at home relaxing. the manager rewarded us with a duvet day to do whatever we wanted. |
| 3149 |
duty bound if you are duty bound to do something, you are required to do it as part of your obligations. like a teacher, i am duty bound to report a student's absence from school. |
| 3150 |
dutch courage this phrase refers to confidence gained from being drunk. after several beers, he's got dutch courage. |
| 3151 |
dust has settled to say that the dust has settled means that the situation has become calmer after a series of unpleasant or chaotic events. the dust has finally settled. we can act now. |
| 3152 |
dust bunnies dust bunnies are clumps of dust, usually found on the floor, in corners or under furniture, in places where housework is not done regularly. the flat hadn't been cleaned in months. there were dust bunnies everywhere. |
| 3153 |
dumbing down if something, such as a television programme or a film production is dumbed down, it is deliberately made less intelligent or less demanding in order to attract a larger audience. i strongly think that they are dumbing down their programmes so as to increase ratings. |
| 3154 |
dumb blonde this idiom refers to a conspicuously attractive but stupid blonde woman. she's a dumb blonde. don't marry her! |
| 3155 |
due diligence this idiom refers to an action that is considered reasonable for people to be expected to take in order to keep themselves or others and their property safe. they have to exercise due diligence and watch what's being bought on their credit cards. |
| 3156 |
drummed out of the army this idiom means dismissed from army , usually because the person has done something wrong. my cousin has been drummed out of the army. |
| 3157 |
drum into someone's head if you teach something to someone through constant repetition, you drum it into their head. i remember when i was at school and things like multiplication tables were drummed into my head. |
| 3158 |
drop-dead gorgeous this idiom means breathtakingly beautiful. the woman was drop-dead gorgeous. |
| 3159 |
drop the ball if you drop the ball, you make a mistake and disappoint everyone. unfortunately, today i've dropped the ball in the negotiations. |
| 3160 |
drop someone a line if you drop someone a line, you write a letter to them. this year i will drop them a line to wish them a merry christmas. |
| 3161 |
drop names when you drop names, you mention the names of famous people you know or have met in order to impress others. i hate when she starts dropping names! it's completely useless. |
| 3162 |
drop like flies if people drop like flies, they fall ill or die in large numbers. in war zones, people drop like flies. |
| 3163 |
drop like a hot potato if you drop someone or something like a hot potato, you leave them or immediately stop associating with them. she dropped me like a hot potato and i don't even know why. |
| 3164 |
drop a bombshell if you drop a bombshell, you make an unexpected announcement which will greatly change a situation. i don't like to be in this position and drop a bombshell, but the company is going downhill. |
| 3165 |
driving while black this phrase is an ironic name for the imagined crime of being a black driver. driving while black? is that your best joke? |
| 3166 |
drive up the wall if somebody or something drives you up the wall, they do something that greatly annoys or irritates you. please, turn the volume down! it's driving me up the wall. |
| 3167 |
drive a hard bargain a person who drives a hard bargain always makes sure they gain advantage in a business deal. this negotiations will be a tough one. they usually drive a hard bargain. |
| 3168 |
drink like a fish a person who drinks like a fish is one who drinks a lot. i don't like hanging around with them because they drink like a fish. |
| 3169 |
dressed up to the nines someone dressed up to the nines is wearing very smart or glamorous clothes. he must be going to a party or something – he's dressed up to the nines. |
| 3170 |
dressed to kill when someone, especially a woman, is dressed to kill, they are wearing very fashionable or glamorous clothes intended to attract attention. my wife arrived at the reception dressed to kill. |
| 3171 |
dreams of empire this idiom refers to the aimless longing for glory. i've had enough of the dreams of empire. |
| 3172 |
dream ticket if you refer to two people as a dream ticket, you think they would work well together and be successful. two champions teaming up for this cause, is clearly a dream ticket. |
| 3173 |
dream come true this idiom refers to the fulfillment of a wish after a long time. this car is my dream come true. |
| 3174 |
draw the line if you decide to draw the line, you determine when an activity or situation becomes unacceptable. when one's private life is concerned, the news agencies should know where to draw the line! |
| 3175 |
draw a line in the sand if you draw a line in the sand, you establish a limit beyond which a certain situation or activity will not be accepted. this won't happen again. now, let's draw a line in the sand! |
| 3176 |
draw a blank if you look for or try to remember something and draw a blank, you fail to find it. i nearly complete the test. i only drew a blank at the last question! |
| 3177 |
drastic times call for drastic measures when faced with a difficult situation, it is sometimes necessary to take actions which in normal circumstances would appear extreme. after maria's fourth accident, we decided to confiscate her car. drastic times call for drastic measures! |
| 3178 |
drag race this idiom refers to a race between road vehicles – usually two vehicles over a quarter mile straight track and from a standing start. i challenge you to a drag race. |
| 3179 |
drag one's feet if you drag your feet, you delay a decision or participate without any real enthusiasm. stop dragging your feet and finish that task! |
| 3180 |
down to the wire if something such as a project or a match goes down to the wire, the situation can change up until the last possible moment. contract negotiations for more than 50,000 employees are expected to go down to the wire. |
| 3181 |
down to earth someone who is down to earth is not a dreamer but a realistic and practical person who has sensible reactions and expectations. you can always count on his advice. he's a down to earth man. |
| 3182 |
down to a fine art when you learn to do something perfectly, you get it down to a fine art. protecting people is not a problem for me. i've got that down to a fine art. |
| 3183 |
down the road this idiom means in the future, in a few years. somewhere down the road, i think she will make the business big. |
| 3184 |
down the line this idiom refers to a further, later or unspecified point. the leaders thought that military action was a long way down the line. |
| 3185 |
down the drain to say that money, time or energy has gone down the drain, means that it has been wasted or lost. my years of marketing research went down the drain when the organisation was closed. |
| 3186 |
down in the mouth when someone is down in the mouth, they look unhappy, discouraged or depressed. hey! you look down in the mouth. what has happened? |
| 3187 |
down in the dumps someone who is down in the dumps is depressed or feeling gloomy. i have been down in the dumps since she left me. |
| 3188 |
down at heel a person who is down-at-heel is someone whose appearance is untidy or neglected because of lack of money. do you know sarah, my down-at-heel neighbour? she died. |
| 3189 |
down and out this expression refers to a homeless or penniless person. after losing her job, she was left down and out. |
| 3190 |
doubting thomas a doubting thomas is a person who will not believe something without proof or without seeing it for themselves. i had to show him my credentials. what a doubting thomas! |
| 3191 |
double-header this is a sports expression denoting two events held at the same time. the semi-finals are played together as a double-header to give no team an advantage. |
| 3192 |
double-date this idiom describes two couples going out together on a date. from now on we can go on double-dates. |
| 3193 |
double-cross this idiom refers to an act of treachery, perpetrated on a previous partner in a deceit. the diamond thief double-crossed his partners. |
| 3194 |
double whammy this expression refers to a situation where two bad things happen at the same time. she left me and i lost my wallet too. quite a double whammy, isn't it? |
| 3195 |
double entendre this idiom means a word or phrase that might be understood in two ways, one of which is usually sexual. i like using a double entendre when speaking to her. |
| 3196 |
double dutch this idiom means to talk or writing that is nonsense. nothing can be understood from this. it's double dutch. |
| 3197 |
double denim this idiom refers to denim jeans worn with a denim shirt or jacket. he usually wears double denim. |
| 3198 |
dot the i's and cross the t's this idiom means to take care of every detail, even minor ones. i had dotted the i's and cross the t's, so i was accepted into the organisation. |
| 3199 |
dos and don'ts this expression refers to rules about what you must do and what you must not do in a specific condition. there's a list of the dos and don'ts of diplomatic receptions. |
| 3200 |
doozy this idiom refers to something special or unusual, especially something unusually bad. there was a doozy of an accident at the corner of your street. |
| 3201 |
doom and gloom a general atmosphere of pessimism and a feeling that the situation is not going to improve, is referred to as doom and gloom. unfortunately, it's doom and gloom for all businesses nowadays. |
| 3202 |
donkey's years if someone has been doing something for donkey's years, they have been doing it for a very long time. she knows the town inside out. she has been a taxi driver for donkey's years. |
| 3203 |
donkey work the expression donkey work is used to describe the unpleasant, repetitive or boring parts of a job. i've had enough of this donkey work. i will resign next month. |
| 3204 |
done to a turn this idiom means cooked just right. the steak has been done to a turn. |
| 3205 |
done in this idiom literally means to be too tired to do any more. i am done in for today. |
| 3206 |
done for this expression refers to something that is about to get over or fail. out marriage is done for. there is nothing more we can do. |
| 3207 |
done and dusted when a project, task or activity is done and dusted, it is completely finished or ready. i've finished analyzing the indicators, so i can say that this task is done and dusted. |
| 3208 |
don't teach your grandmother to suck eggs this expression means that you shouldn't teach someone who is really experienced to do something new, because the changes are they know it better than you. this idiom can be used if somebody is patronizing you or not treating you like an adult. i know how to use the present tense! don't teach your grandmother to suck eggs. |
| 3209 |
don't rock the boat if you tell someone not to rock the boat, you are asking them to do nothing that might cause trouble or upset a stable situation. it's fine to have a party at our house, but don't rock the boat! |
| 3210 |
don't know whether to wind a watch or bark at the moon this expression is used when someone just doesn't know what to do. it's sunday. i don't know whether to wind a watch or bark at the moon. |
| 3211 |
don't judge by appearances this expression means that you should not form an opinion based on outward appearances only. he looks extremely confident but don't judge by appearances. as far as i know, he's a shy man. |
| 3212 |
don't go there this phrase means "i don't want to discuss that". we've spoken enough. don't go there. |
| 3213 |
don't give up the day job this idiom is used as a humorous way of recommending somebody not to pursue something at which they are unlikely to be successful. don't give up the day job, mike. this is not for you. |
| 3214 |
don't count your chickens before the eggs have hatched this idiom is used to express that you shouldn't make plans for something that might not happen. let's wait another month. don't count your chickens before the eggs have hatched. |
| 3215 |
dollars to donuts an outcome that is almost assured is called as dollars to donuts. i'll bet you dollars to donuts that she won't accept the proposal. |
| 3216 |
dog tired this idiom means to be very tired, exhausted. now, i am dog tired after 16 hours of work. |
| 3217 |
dog eat dog this expression refers to intense competition and rivalry in pursuit of one's own interests, with no concern for morality. the local business context is tough nowadays. there's a dog eat dog attitude. |
| 3218 |
dog days of summer this idiom refers to the hottest days of the summer season. these are the dog days of summer. that's why it's so hot. |
| 3219 |
dog and bone this is a slang term for telephone. i need to talk to her. can you get her on the dog and bone for me? |
| 3220 |
doff your hat this idiom means to raise your hat in acknowledgement of or deference to another. every time we meet, we doff our hats. |
| 3221 |
doesn't know shit from shinola this idiom refers to someone possessing poor judgment or knowledge. don't consider his words. he doesn't know shit from shinola. |
| 3222 |
dodge a bullet if you dodge a bullet, you narrowly avoid a very serious problem or a disaster. i certainly dodged a bullet when i missed the bus. it crashed completely soon after. |
| 3223 |
do wonders this idiom means to produce excellent results or be extremely effective, especially unexpectedly. this medicine does wonders! |
| 3224 |
do unto others as you would have them do unto you this expression means to treat people fairly. it is also known as "the golden rule". then he said to his son: "do unto others as you would have them do unto you". |
| 3225 |
do the trick if something does the trick, it does exactly what is needed or achieves the desired effect. let's try this application. it should do the trick and solve our problem. |
| 3226 |
do the spadework someone who does the preparatory work or the preliminary research. i've done all the spadework and thus i want my name to be mentioned in this project. |
| 3227 |
do something out of force of habit when something is done out of force of habit, it has become automatic through repetition. i always park in the back of the store out of force of habit. |
| 3228 |
do something off your own bat this phrase means to do something without anyone else telling you or asking you to do it. i didn't want a present – she did it off her own bat. |
| 3229 |
do someone's bidding this idiom means to do what someone else wants or has requested, to the point of servitude. the boy hated how his mother wanted him to do her bidding. |
| 3230 |
do somebody's dirty work to do somebody's dirty work means to do the unpleasant or difficult work that another person does not want to do. life's quite easy for her. she almost always finds a fool to do her dirty work. |
| 3231 |
do somebody's bit this idiom means to make an individual contribution to an overall effort. it's our job to do our bit during each mission. |
| 3232 |
do or die this expression refers to a situation in which you must take a big risk in order to avoid failure. yesterday i was in a do-or-die situation when a car nearly hit me. |
| 3233 |
do nothing by halves when a person does everything they are engaged in completely and thoroughly, they are said to do nothing by halves. she cooks seldom but when she does it, it's a three-course meal – she does nothing by halves. |
| 3234 |
do more harm than good if the effect of an action is more damaging than helpful, it does more harm than good. giving her money did more harm than good – she lost it playing poker. |
| 3235 |
do as i say, not as i do this idiom is straight from the parent's handbook. it means to do what you are told and not what you see somebody else is doing. i don't care what mark does. you have to respect the speed limit. do as i say, not as i do! |
| 3236 |
do a world of good if something does you a world of good, it is beneficial and makes you feel a lot better. a few days off would do you a world of good. trust me. |
| 3237 |
do a runner this idiom means to leave a place in order to avoid a difficult or unpleasant situation or to avoid paying for something. i heard that her father did a runner soon after she had been born. |
| 3238 |
do a good turn if you do someone a good turn, you act in a helpful way. do a good turn and help him load the truck, will you? |
| 3239 |
do a double take someone who does a double take looks again in surprise at something unexpected. she did a double take when she saw her husband in a pub with an alluring woman. |
| 3240 |
do a disappearing act if someone does a disappearing act, they simply vanish, especially if they have done something wrong or dishonest. steve knew what he had done so, in the end, he did a disappearing act. |
| 3241 |
dive right into something this means to begin to do something without hesitating and getting started immediately. i dived right into the company's problems. |
| 3242 |
dive in headfirst if you begin something enthusiastically, without thinking about the possible consequences, you dive in headfirst. she accepted the project without a thorough analysis. she always dives in headfirst. |
| 3243 |
dish fit for the gods this idiom refers to food that is of an exemplary quality. the cakes that she bakes are dish fit for the gods! |
| 3244 |
discussing uganda this is an euphemism for sex. they have been all over each other all evening. i expect they'll be discussing uganda. |
| 3245 |
discretion is the greater part of valour this idiom means to be quiet about it after helping someone out. he taught me that discretion is the greater part of valour. |
| 3246 |
disaster written all over it if something, such as a plan or idea, has disaster written all over it, it is thought to be heading for complete failure or will cause a lot of trouble. your idea of travelling to the mountain has disaster written all over it. |
| 3247 |
dirt cheap this expression means very cheap. in this country, the beverages are dirt cheap. |
| 3248 |
dirt bag this idiom refers to an unkempt or slovenly person. poor beggar; he is a dirt bag... |
| 3249 |
dig up dirt this idiom means to find derogatory information about something or somebody. i will dig up dirt and find something about her. |
| 3250 |
dig one's own grave a person who digs their own grave does something which causes their own downfall. be very careful what you say. you might dig your own grave! |
| 3251 |
dig in one's heels if you dig in your hells, you refuse to do something, especially of someone is trying to convince you to do so. my grandmother dug in her heels and refused to move to a smaller place. |
| 3252 |
differently abled this phrase means to be physically or mentally handicapped or disabled but to show qualities that the able-bodied do not have. steven is a differently abled man. |
| 3253 |
different strokes for different folks each individual has their own tastes and requirements. what suits one person may not suit another. andy enjoys gardening, whereas mary finds it a chore. different strokes for different folks! |
| 3254 |
die with one's boots on a person who dies with their boots on dies while still leading an active life. she says she won't ever retire. she would rather dies with her boots on! |
| 3255 |
die in harness this expression means die while working or to pass away before retirement. he doesn't want to retire – he'd rather die in harness. |
| 3256 |
die hard this idiom means to disappear or change very slowly. her bad habits die hard. |
| 3257 |
dickie dirt this is a slang for shirt. i need a dickie dirt for this party. |
| 3258 |
dice with death if you put your life at risk by doing something very dangerous, you dice with death. driving at such high speed is dicing with death. |
| 3259 |
diamond is forever this is the slogan of the popular diamond seller de beers. whether the relationship lasts forever cannot be guaranteed but the diamond will last forever. |
| 3260 |
dial it back if you dial it back, you reduce the intensity of something or tone it down. when the kid started getting excited, his mother said: dial it back a little! |
| 3261 |
dial down this idiom has two meanings. it may mean to adjust a device so as to reduce sound or temperature or it may mean to reduce one's emotional reaction to something. 1. can you dial down the thermostat? 2. i know your favourite didn't win the contest, but it's time to dial down. |
| 3262 |
devil-may-care this expression refers to a very casual attitude. she had a rather devil-may-care attitude towards cars. |
| 3263 |
devil's advocate during a discussion or debate, if you play devil's advocate, you pretend to be against an idea or plan in order to determine the validity of the arguments in favour of it. i decided to play devil's advocate just to see how determined they were about that mission. |
| 3264 |
deus ex machina this phrase refers to an unnatural or very unlikely end to a story or event, that solves or removes any problems too easily. this is another deus ex machina movie. |
| 3265 |
designer stubble this idiom refers to a beard that has grown for one or two days and is then kept at this length in order to look fashionable. she likes my designer stubble. |
| 3266 |
designated driver this idiom refers to someone who agrees not to drink alcohol at a social event in order to be sober enough to drive others home. steve will be our designated driver for the party. |
| 3267 |
derring-do this idiom refers to a brave action taken without considering the danger involved. he was rewarded for his derring-do. |
| 3268 |
delusions of grandeur this phrase refers to a false and exaggerated belief about one's status or importance. i advise you to get rid of this delusion of grandeur. |
| 3269 |
deliver the goods if a person delivers the goods, they do what is expected of them or what they have promised to. i hope the new employee can deliver the goods. |
| 3270 |
deep-seated this idiom means strongly felt or believed and very difficult to change or get rid of. she has a deep-seated faith in god. |
| 3271 |
deep pockets a person or organisation who has deep pockets has a lot of money. my business is doing well at the moment. i have deep pockets nowadays. |
| 3272 |
deep down if you talk about how someone is or feels, deep down, you are describing what they are like or what they really feel deep inside, behind the outward appearance. he appears to be indifferent to his wife's success but deep down he is happy. |
| 3273 |
deck out if you deck out someone or something, you dress or decorate them in a special way. steve decked out his motorcycle for the wedding. |
| 3274 |
dead wood the term dead wood refers to people or things which are no longer considered useful or necessary. the financial manager wants to reduce costs by cutting out the dead wood. |
| 3275 |
dead white european male this expression is a derogatory reference to someone who has an unjustified reputation. i can't see him as anything other than a dead, white, european male. |
| 3276 |
dead to the world a person who is dead to the world is fast asleep. don't worry because you won't disturb her. she's dead to the world. |
| 3277 |
dead set against if you are dead set against something, you are strongly opposed to it. i wanted a cat but my girlfriend was dead set against the idea. |
| 3278 |
dead ringer this idiom refers to an exact duplicate. steve can't tell the twins apart. they are dead ringers of each other. |
| 3279 |
dead right this is an emphatic way of telling someone that what they are saying is absolutely correct, without doubt. this is a bad time to leave a job, considering the economic context. yes, you are dead right. |
| 3280 |
dead man walking a dead man walking is someone who will inevitably be in great trouble very soon, especially a person who is about to lose their job or position. taking into consideration the way the officer handled the last missions, i think he is a dead man walking. |
| 3281 |
dead loss someone or something described as a dead loss is absolutely useless or a complete failure. when it comes to painting, my sister is a dead loss. |
| 3282 |
dead in the water a plan or project that is dead in the water is at a standstill or has ceased to function and is unlikely to be reactivated in the future. because of the war, the planned housing development is dead in the water. |
| 3283 |
dead duck this expression refers to a project or scheme which has been abandoned or is certain to fail. the project for the new local store is going to be a dead duck because of funds shortage. |
| 3284 |
dead cert something that is certain to happen or be achieved is a dead cert. after such praise, his appointment as a commander is a dead cert. |
| 3285 |
dead cat bounce a dead cat bounce is a small and temporary recovery in a financial market following a large fall. it's not over. it's just a dead cat bounce. |
| 3286 |
dead as a doornail this expression is used to stress that something or someone is definitely dead. violence has escalated and as a consequence they've started fighting again. the peace agreement is now as dead as a doornail. |
| 3287 |
dead as a dodo to say that something is (as) dead as a dodo means that it is unquestionably dead or obsolete, or has gone out of fashion. a dodo is a bird that is now extinct. the floppy disk is an invention which is almost as dead as a dodo. |
| 3288 |
dead and buried this idiom means no longer in use. alcatel cellphones are dead and buried. |
| 3289 |
de jure this expression means having a right or existence as stated by law. they pretend de jure recognition of the new government. |
| 3290 |
de facto this expression means existing in fact. english is de facto the common language nowadays. |
| 3291 |
days are numbered when somebody's days are numbered, they are expected to die soon. unfortunately, her days are numbered. |
| 3292 |
daylight saving time this expression refers to the adjustment of clocks to provide longer evening daylight. she can never work out if daylight saving time gives her an hour more in bed or an hour less. |
| 3293 |
daylight robbery the term "daylight robbery" is used when the price of something is thought to be much too high. do you want 15 euros for an orange juice? that's daylight robbery! |
| 3294 |
day to day something that happens as part of a usual routine. the day to day running of this company needs to be more efficient. |
| 3295 |
day surgery this idiom refers to a minor surgery that doesn't require the patient to stay in hospital overnight. don't be afraid. it's just a day surgery. |
| 3296 |
day of reckoning this expression refers to the time when an unpleasant situation has to be dealt with. this is the day of reckoning. we have to take a decision with regard to financial costs. |
| 3297 |
day in, day out if you do something "day in, day out", you do it every day without fail over a long period of time. i go for a 30-minute running after work day in, day out. |
| 3298 |
day in the sun when you have your day in the sun, you get long-awaited attention or some form of well-deserved appreciation. steven got his day in the sun when his study was published. |
| 3299 |
davy jones' locker this phrase refers to the bottom of the sea, the mythical resting place of drowned mariners. be careful not to go to davy jones' locker. |
| 3300 |
date rape this idiom refers to the rape by a man of his partner on a date. she arranged to meet her date in a busy place because there's been so many stories of date rape of late. |
| 3301 |
dash to pieces this phrase means to break into fragments. the window has been dashed to pieces. |
| 3302 |
darken someone's door if you darken somebody's door, you come as an unwanted or unwelcome visitor. how dare you! get out and never darken my door again! |
| 3303 |
dark horse if you refer to someone as a dark horse, you mean that they are secretive, or that little is known about them, so you don't know how they will react or perform. i can't tell you anything about his intentions. he's a dark horse. |
| 3304 |
darby and joan this phrase refers to an archetypal elderly couple. it's used as a general term for old age. are there any darby and joan? |
| 3305 |
dangle a carrot in front of someone this idiom means to try to persuade someone to do something by offering them a reward. the team dangled a two million dollars carrot in front of the man to remain. |
| 3306 |
dance to someone's tune if you dance to someone's tune, you do whatever that person tells you to do. he is the company's major shareholder so the employees tend to dance to his tune. |
| 3307 |
dance attendance on somebody if you dance attendance on somebody, you are constantly available for that person and attend to their wishes. he is rich and expects everyone to dance attendance on him. |
| 3308 |
daisy roots this is a slang term for boots. i can't get them on. these daisy roots are too small for me. |
| 3309 |
daily grind this idiom refers to the dull daily routine. it's another morning again – time to get to work and start the daily grind. |
| 3310 |
dabble in something this idiom means to do something sporadically or as a hobby. steve dabbled in local politics for a while. |
| 3311 |
dab hand at something if you are a dab hand at something, you are very good at doing it. i think you should call him. he's a dab hand at planning parties. |
| 3312 |
cutting edge this expression refers to the newest, most advanced stage in the development of something. the company is at the cutting edge of mobile communications. |
| 3313 |
cut to the chase this idiom means to leave out all the unnecessary details and get straight to the point. that's enough talk. let's cut to the chase and make a decision. |
| 3314 |
cut things fine if you cut things fine, you leave barely enough time to do something. you're counting just an hour between the hotel and the train station – isn't that cutting things a little bit fine? |
| 3315 |
cut the mustard this idiom means to succeed or to come up to expectations. i didn't cut the mustard as a story teller. |
| 3316 |
cut the ground from under someone's feet when someone cuts the ground from under another's feet, they do something which weakens their position or spoils their plans. when we launched the new digital product, i think that we cut the ground from under our competitors' feet. |
| 3317 |
cut the crap this is a very rude way of telling someone to stop doing something that you don't like. cut the crap and tell us what really happened! |
| 3318 |
cut the cord this expression means to stop needing somebody else to look after you and start acting independently. developing countries might cut the cord and stop asking for financial aid. |
| 3319 |
cut the cackle if you tell a group of people to cut the cackle, you are asking them to stop talking aimlessly and start dealing with more important or serious matters. it's time to cut the cackle and get down to serious talks. |
| 3320 |
cut someone to the quick if you cut someone to the quick, you hurt their feelings or offend them deeply. marry was cut to the quick when steve expressed doubt about her sincerity. |
| 3321 |
cut someone some slack if you relax a rule, treat a person less severely or allow someone to do something which is normally not permitted, you cut them some slack. our professors are very strict; i wish they would cut us some slack before the exams. |
| 3322 |
cut one's own throat if you cut your own throat, you do something that will be the cause of your own failure or ruin your chances in the future. she has already missed a lot of german classes. she's cutting her own throat. |
| 3323 |
cut one's losses if you end or withdraw from something that is already failing, in order to reduce the loss of money, time or effort invested in it, you cut your losses. as i see, the project is heading towards failure. let's cut our losses before it's too late. |
| 3324 |
cut off without a penny this phrase means disinherited. you have been cut off without a penny! |
| 3325 |
cut off one's nose to spite one's face this phrase means to disadvantage oneself through a wilful attempt to gain an advantage or assert oneself. i will do anything except for cutting off my nose to spite my face. |
| 3326 |
cut of your jib this phrase is an old sailor's term for one's intangible qualities. i like the cut of your jib and i want you to come with me. |
| 3327 |
cut no ice with somebody if something cuts no ice, it has no effect or makes no impression on someone. his explanations cut no ice with her. she won't forgive him. |
| 3328 |
cut loose if someone cuts loose or is cut loose, they stop being influenced or controlled by another person or group. she's thirty-five years old and still hasn't cut loose from her family. |
| 3329 |
cut it out if you say "cut it out" to someone, you tell them to stop doing something. i've had enough of your allegations. cut it out! |
| 3330 |
cut from the same cloth if two people are cut from the same cloth, they are very similar in character or behaviour. although the sisters look alike, they are not cut from the same cloth. |
| 3331 |
cut corners cutting corners means not following the correct procedure in order to save time, effort or money (often with unsatisfactory results). i want the mission well done – no cutting corners this time! |
| 3332 |
cut coat according to cloth this expression means to adapt to one's circumstances or to make sure one's plans are appropriate to one's resources. i'd love a sports car, but i have to cut my coat according to my cloth. |
| 3333 |
cut both ways something that cuts both ways has both a positive and a negative effect at the same time. banning diesel cars in the town centre can cut both ways: less pollution but fewer customers in the shops. |
| 3334 |
cut and thrust this expression means to be in the middle of fierce competition or debate. ann realized that she wouldn't suit to the cut and thrust approach of journalism. |
| 3335 |
cut and run this phrase means to make a speedy departure from a difficult situation rather than deal with it. cut and run is not a solution to this problem! |
| 3336 |
cut and dried if you refer to a situation, problem or solution as cut and dried, you mean that it is clear and straightforward with no likely complications. when the new financial manager arrived, she didn't find the situation as cut and dried as she had expected. |
| 3337 |
cut a dash if a person cuts a dash, they make a striking impression by their appearance and attractive clothes. wearing his uniform, my uncle cut a dash on his wedding day. |
| 3338 |
curry favour with somebody this idiom means to seek to gain advantage by flattery. it's not a good idea to curry favour with him. he simply doesn't like this type of people. |
| 3339 |
currant bun this is a slang for sun. lately it has been raining a lot. i can't remember the last time i saw the currant bun. |
| 3340 |
curiosity killed the cat this idiom means that being inquisitive can lead you into an unpleasant situation. you should mind your business! curiosity killed the cat. |
| 3341 |
curdle one's blood this idiom means to terrify someone. that horror movie curdles my blood so badly... |
| 3342 |
cupboard love this expression refers to affection given in order to gain a reward. her affair with that man was just cupboard love. |
| 3343 |
cup of joe this idiom refers to a cup of coffee. yes, i would like a cup of joe! thank you! |
| 3344 |
cull the herd this idiom means to separate or remove people from a larger group. they use standardized test results as a means of culling the herd. |
| 3345 |
cuckoo in the nest this idiom means "an unwelcome intruder in a place or situation". for us, peter was a cuckoo in the nest. |
| 3346 |
crystal clear a statement or expression that is easy to understand or has an obvious meaning is crystal clear or as clear as crystal. there was no need to read the instructions again. they were crystal clear. |
| 3347 |
crying shame if something is a crying shame, it is very sad or unfortunate. it's a crying shame that some children cannot have at least two meals per day. |
| 3348 |
crying need when there is a great lack of something which is urgently needed, there is a crying need for it. there is a crying need for blood in our hospitals. |
| 3349 |
cry wolf to cry wolf is to call for help when you are not really in danger. as a result, nobody believes you when you really need help. there's john screaming again! does he really have a problem or is he just crying wolf again? |
| 3350 |
cry over spilt milk this idiom is used when you complain about a loss from the past. the hard times are over. there's no use crying over spilt milk! |
| 3351 |
cry one's eyes out if you cry your eyes out, you cry a lot and for a long time. my girlfriend cried her eyes out when i told her the truth. |
| 3352 |
cry me a river this expression is usually used sarcastically to someone who is constantly complaining. you can cry me a river, we are still not going to the party. |
| 3353 |
crux of the matter the main point or the most vital element of a discussion or argument is called the crux of the matter. the crux of the matter is that she is too old to live alone. |
| 3354 |
crunch time the period of time just before a project has to be completed and everyone has to work hard. it's crunch time at work, so we're not getting enough sleep these days. |
| 3355 |
crowning glory this idiom means the greatest or most beautiful thing. the crowning glory of his career came ten years after he got hired. |
| 3356 |
crown jewels literally, the crown jewels are the state jewellery of the united kingdom. in a figurative sense "the crown jewels" is a slang term for the male genitalia. oh...come on! don't hit the crown jewels! |
| 3357 |
cross your mind if an idea or thought crosses your mind, you suddenly think of it. it just crossed my mind that the local store is closed today. |
| 3358 |
cross your fingers if you cross your fingers, you hope that something happens. cross your fingers – i have an important exam today. |
| 3359 |
cross to bear a person who has a cross to bear has a serious problem or heavy responsibility that they must accept because they cannot change it. alzheimer is a cross to bear for my grandfather. |
| 3360 |
cross the rubicon if you cross the rubicon, you make an irreversible decision or commit to a course of action that cannot be changed. i will cross the rubicon and stop teaching arts. |
| 3361 |
cross the line if you cross the line, you go beyond the authorized limits and do something which is not acceptable. don't be mad with me. i have an unpleasant habit of telling jokes that really cross the line. |
| 3362 |
cross that bridge when we come to it this is another way of saying "we will deal with that problem when it occurs and not worry about it before". my dear, what will happen if we can't pay the loan? oh, john. we will cross that bridge when we come to it. |
| 3363 |
cross swords this idiom means to quarrel. they have crossed swords for watching their favorite tv show. |
| 3364 |
cross someone's path if you meet somebody, usually unexpectedly or by chance, you cross their path. she was my best friend but i haven't crossed her path since i left high-school. |
| 3365 |
cross paths this idiom means to meet someone by chance and not by choice. the last time i crossed paths with ann was last summer. |
| 3366 |
cross a bridge before one comes to it this phrase means to worry about the future in advance. thanks to my anxiety, i often cross a bridge before i come to it. |
| 3367 |
crooked as a dog's hind leg to say that someone is as crooked as a dog's hind leg means that they are very dishonest indeed. i can't trust him. he is as crooked as a dog's hind leg. |
| 3368 |
crocodile tears to shed crocodile tears means to shed false tears or show insincere grief. olivia pretended to be sad but i knew that her tears were crocodile tears actually. |
| 3369 |
crest of a wave if you are on the crest of a wave, you are very successful in what you are doing. my small company in going from success to success. it's on the crest of a wave. |
| 3370 |
credibility gap the extent of disbelief, of the difference between what you are asked to believe and what you are able to believe, is called a credibility gap. you should realize that the growing credibility gap might lead to a serious loss of votes. |
| 3371 |
creature comforts this expression refers to modern conveniences (such as hot water or central heating) that make life comfortable and pleasant. she needs her creature comforts. i don't know how she would survive without hot water. |
| 3372 |
creative accounting this term refers to the presentation of a company's results in a way that, although generally legal, glosses over the problems and makes the results appear better than they are. i think some creative accounting might attract investors. |
| 3373 |
cream rises to the top someone or something exceptionally good will eventually attract attention or stand out from the rest, just as cream rises to the top in coffee or tea. i knew you would succeed. cream rises to the top! |
| 3374 |
cream of the crop this expression refers to the best people or things in a particular group. as usual, the cream of the crop of this year's university graduates were offered good jobs. |
| 3375 |
crave the limelight if you crave the limelight, you really like to be the center of attention. i don't want to spend my time with her. she craves the limelight and i don't like that. |
| 3376 |
crash course if you do a crash course, you do an intensive training course in order to obtain quick results. before going to germany, she did a crash course in german language. |
| 3377 |
crank out a paper this expression means to write a paper or essay in a mechanical way. she had to crank out a paper every two weeks to pass the course. |
| 3378 |
cramp someone's style if you cramp someone's style you do something to prevent them from behaving freely or performing to the best of their ability. i can't do it with people watching me – it cramps my style! |
| 3379 |
crackpot this idiom refers to a crazy or stupid person. brian is just another crackpot. |
| 3380 |
crack the whip if you crack the whip, you use your authority to make someone obey you or work more efficiently, usually by threatening them. i don't like when i have to crack the whip so as to make sure we meet the deadline. |
| 3381 |
crack someone up if you crack someone up, you make them laugh. she's hilarious. she cracks me up. |
| 3382 |
crack of dawn very early in the morning. the very first moments of sunrise. i like to be on the river bank at the crack of dawn. |
| 3383 |
crack down on something if the authorities crack down on something, they enforce the law by taking severe measures to restrict undesirable or criminal actions. to reduce road fatal accidents, it has been decided to crack down on speeding. |
| 3384 |
crack a book this idiom means to open a book to study. my mother insisted i crack a book every evening! |
| 3385 |
cowboy up this idiom means to make a determined effort to overcome an obstacle or deal with a difficult situation. come on, dude, cowboy up! |
| 3386 |
cover your tracks if you cover your tracks, you conceal or destroy evidence of what you have been doing or where you have been. don't forget to cover your tracks or they might put you into jail. |
| 3387 |
cover all the bases this idiom means to deal with every part of a situation or activity. i think i have covered all the bases of this problem. |
| 3388 |
cover a multitude of sins if something covers or hides a multitude of sins, it prevents others from seeing the less pleasant reality. loose-fitting clothes can be tricky as they cover a multitude of sins! |
| 3389 |
cover a lot of ground this expression is used when a lot of work needs to be completed. we still have a lot of ground to cover so as to finish the project on time. |
| 3390 |
country house hotel this expression refers to an upmarket hotel located in a revamped rural mansion. i've booked a beautiful room into a lovely country house hotel. |
| 3391 |
country bumpkin this idiom refers to an awkward, unsophisticated man. he's just a country bumpkin. |
| 3392 |
counting sheep this is a distraction technique used to combat insomnia. have you tried counting sheep? |
| 3393 |
count your blessings if you count your blessings, you focus your thoughts on all the good things in your life rather than on the negative ones. my grandmother would always advise me to count my blessings. |
| 3394 |
count on this idiom means to depend on someone or expect something. you can always count on me! |
| 3395 |
count noses it means to count the number of people around you. this is generally used on a school trip, to check for missing students. she was counting noses when i saw her in front of the bus. |
| 3396 |
count chicken this idiom means to make plans based on events that may or may not happen. it's not good to start counting your chickens when you don't have any money. |
| 3397 |
couldn't care less this expression is used to express total lack of interest in something. that woman stole a bottle of wine. well, i couldn't care less. |
| 3398 |
cough up if you have to cough up something, such as money or information, you give it reluctantly or unwillingly. she refused to say who embarrassed her until her mother made her cough up the names. |
| 3399 |
couch potato if you refer to someone as a couch potato, you criticize them for spending a lot of time sitting and watching television. john, don't be a couch potato! there are better ways of spending your free time. |
| 3400 |
cotton-picking this idiom is used to add emphasis when you are slightly annoyed. just wait five cotton-picking minutes, will you?! |
| 3401 |
cotton on this idiom means to begin to understand a situation of fact. i've just cottoned on the fact that they are lying. |
| 3402 |
cost the earth if something costs the earth, it is very expensive indeed. he wears watches that cost the earth! |
| 3403 |
cost an arm and a leg if something costs an arm and a leg, it is very expensive. this laptop cost me an arm and a leg but i don't regret buying it. |
| 3404 |
cost a pretty penny if something costs a pretty penny, it costs a lot of money. his new car must have cost a pretty penny! |
| 3405 |
corridors of power this term refers to the higher levels of government or administration where important decisions are made. the matter is being discussed in the corridors of power nowadays. |
| 3406 |
corner the market if a company dominates an area of business and leaves no room for competition, it is said to have cornered the market. by importing extremely large quantities and selling at dumping prices, they have cornered the market in the end. |
| 3407 |
cork something up if you cork up your feelings or emotions, you fail to show or express them. it would be better if she didn't cork up her feelings. |
| 3408 |
cork it this means to tell someone to be quiet. it's too late for stories – cork it and go to sleep! |
| 3409 |
corduroy road this idiom refers to a road that is ridged and furrowed like the fabric. this road it's all patches – a real corduroy road. |
| 3410 |
cordon bleu cordon bleu food is food that is prepared to the highest standard. cordon bleu cuisine is hard to find in this city. |
| 3411 |
cor blimey! this is a way of expressing surprise or anger. cor blimey, i didn't see you there! |
| 3412 |
copycat this term is used to describe someone who copies another person's work. i don't speak to him anymore. he's such a copycat. |
| 3413 |
copper-bottomed to describe something such as a plan, a contract or a financial arrangement as copper-bottomed means that it is completely safe or reliable. we signed a copper-bottomed contract with a distributor. |
| 3414 |
cop an attitude this idiom means to adopt an aggressive stance. the whole gang copped an attitude when they saw the police. |
| 3415 |
cool your heels this idiom means to wait or take rest. my brother works so hard for his family that he deserves to cool his heels from time to time. |
| 3416 |
cookie-cutter this idiom refers to something similar to other things of the same type, especially in a way that shows little imagination. this is a neighbour of cookie-cutter houses. |
| 3417 |
cook the books a person who cooks the books is one who changes the facts or figures in the financial accounts, often so as to steal money. the man discovered after some time that his partners was cooking the books. |
| 3418 |
cook somebody's goose to cook somebody's goose means to spoil that person's chances of success. when the thieves saw the police car arriving, they realized their goose was cooked. |
| 3419 |
conspiracy of silence this idiom refers to a general agreement to keep silent about a subject for the purpose of secrecy. on the security check, there is a conspiracy of silence; security agents bypass the known visitors. |
| 3420 |
connect the dots this idiom means to understand something by piecing together hints or other bits of information. once i started to connect the dots i realized how wrong i was. |
| 3421 |
compassion fatigue this phrase refers to a weariness of and diminishing public response to frequent requests for charity. it's a state of compassion fatigue right now. |
| 3422 |
comparisons are odious this phrase has a literal meaning. i hate doing this. comparisons are odious! |
| 3423 |
comparing apples to oranges this expression is used when comparing two things that cannot be compared. i can't choose. it's like comparing apples to oranges. |
| 3424 |
company man this idiom refers to a worker especially loyal to the employer he works for. he has been with us for twelve years. he's our number one company man. |
| 3425 |
common sense this idiom refers to good practical sense; the natural intelligence that is believed to be available to all rational people. oh, come on! this is common sense. |
| 3426 |
common knowledge when information is well-known to everyone (particularly in a community or group), it is called common knowledge. you didn't know that the intern was his mistress? i though it was common knowledge. |
| 3427 |
common ground this expression refers to an area of shared beliefs, interests or mutual understanding between people or groups who often have disagreements. any common ground among the european countries will contribute to future unity. |
| 3428 |
comfort women this expression refers to women forced into sexual slavery by the japanese in wwii. did you know that the japanese called their prostitutes comfort women? |
| 3429 |
comfort food this idiom refers to food that makes you feel better, because it reminds you of your childhood. after a tiring day, it's nice to make some comfort food and enjoy it. |
| 3430 |
come with the territory to say that something comes with the territory means that it has to be accepted as a part of a job or responsibility, even if it is unpleasant. a successful singer has to expect intensive media coverage – that comes with the territory! |
| 3431 |
come what may if you declare that you will do something come what may, you are saying that you will do it whatever the consequences may be. come what may, i won't tell her that i've cheated on her. |
| 3432 |
come up with something this idiom means to suggest or think of an idea or plan. he's come up with an amazing scheme to double his income. |
| 3433 |
come up roses if things come up roses, the end result is successful or positive, even if there were difficult times. after several hard times, everything seems to be coming up roses for the officer. |
| 3434 |
come up in the world a person who has come up in the world is richer than before and has a higher social status. my old faculty friend has bought an apartment overlooking sibiu central park. he has clearly come up in the world. |
| 3435 |
come to your senses if you come to your senses you start to think clearly and behave sensibly. she finally came to her senses and realized that using the bicycle was better than driving the car in that town. |
| 3436 |
come to the crunch to talk about what to do if or when a situation comes to the crunch means when it becomes critical and a decision has to be made. if it comes to the crunch, i will sell my car. |
| 3437 |
come to pass this idiom means to happen or to understand. my cousin has come to pass that she will be in labour soon. |
| 3438 |
come to grips if you come to grips with a problem or situation, you start to understand or deal with it properly. after the accident, she began to come to grips with her new disability. |
| 3439 |
come to grief if someone or something comes to grief, they either have an accident, are destroyed or end in failure. our plans for a golf course came to grief. |
| 3440 |
come to blows if two or more people come to blows, they start to fight. the debate was so intense that the participants came to blows. |
| 3441 |
come to a pretty pass this idiom means to develop into a bad, unfortunate or difficult situation. things have come to such a pretty pass that parents are afraid of criticizing their children. |
| 3442 |
come to a head if a problem or difficult situation comes to a head, it reaches a point where action has to be taken. the quarrel between us came to a head yesterday. |
| 3443 |
come to a bad end if someone comes to a bad end, their actions lead to disastrous consequences which are sometimes deserved or predictable. if he doesn't stop gambling, he will come to a bad end. |
| 3444 |
come thick and fast if something comes thick and fast, it comes in rapid succession with little time to respond between events. it may refer to physical objects, like raindrops or non-physical, like commands. the orders were coming thick and fast. |
| 3445 |
come short this idiom means to fail to reach a goal or standard. we're so close to getting the contract but we keep coming short. |
| 3446 |
come rain or shine if a person does something come rain or shine, they do it regularly, whatever the circumstances. come rain or shine, i have to take my dog for a walk. |
| 3447 |
come out swinging this means to be confrontational and strongly defend yourself at the beginning of a debate. our local politicians came out swinging against local businessmen. |
| 3448 |
come out of the woodwork when things or people come out of the woodwork, they appear or emerge unexpectedly, as if from nowhere, and usually in large number. as soon as we bought the tennis table, our children had "friends" coming out of the woodwork. |
| 3449 |
come out of one's shell to come out of one's shell means to be less shy or more talkative and outgoing. gradually, the new students started to come out of their shells. |
| 3450 |
come out in the wash this expression is used to tell someone not to worry about a mistake or problem because it won't have any serious effect and everything will work out all right. they were furious when it happened, but don't worry – it will all come out in the wash. |
| 3451 |
come on down this phrase is used to invite audience members to the stage to become contestants in game shows. i need two men. come on down! |
| 3452 |
come of age this idiom is used when something or someone develops completely and reaches maturity. he has come of age now and is ready to take the company. |
| 3453 |
come into one's own when you come into your own, you finally obtain rightful recognition of your ability or talent and begin to have success. she is a talented actress who has finally come into her own. |
| 3454 |
come in handy to say that something may come in handy means that it may be useful some time. don't throw away those old screwdrivers; they may come in handy one day. |
| 3455 |
come in all shapes and sizes something that can be found in many different forms, types or varieties, comes in all shapes and sizes. laptops come in all shapes and sizes these days. |
| 3456 |
come hell or high water if you say that you will do something come hell or high water, you mean that you will do it in spite of the difficulties involved. i said that i would succeed, come hell or high water. and here i am! |
| 3457 |
come full circle this idiom means to return to an earlier position or decision. after changing more jobs, jane came full circle in her first company. |
| 3458 |
come clean to come clean about something means to tell the truth. the suspect was encouraged to come clean. |
| 3459 |
come apart at the seams to say that someone is coming apart at the seams means that they are extremely upset or under severe mental stress. she has had so many problems recently that she's coming apart at the seams. |
| 3460 |
come again this expression means to request someone to repeat what has just been said. come again? i didn't understand. |
| 3461 |
come a long way when someone has come a long way, they have made a lot of progress or have become successful. nicole has come a long way since she opened her first confectionery. |
| 3462 |
come a cropper this idiom means not to succeed at something. he seemed to come a cropper shortly after his promotion as a team manager. |
| 3463 |
comb through something this idiom means to carefully look through an area or an item in an attempt to find someone or something. i combed through the wreckage but i haven't found my phone. |
| 3464 |
collect one's thoughts if you collect your thoughts, you try to think calmly and clearly in order to prepare yourself mentally for something. mary stopped to collect her thoughts before speaking to her boyfriend. |
| 3465 |
collect dust if something is collecting dust, it hasn't been touched or used for a long period of time. lately, my fishing poles have collected dust. |
| 3466 |
colder than a witch's tit this phrase is an expressive way of saying "very cold" – usually in reference to the weather. outside it's colder than a witch's tit. |
| 3467 |
cold turkey this term means to immediately and completely stop an addictive substance, a regular activity or a behavioural pattern, instead of ending it gradually. when i decided to stop smoking, i did it cold turkey. |
| 3468 |
cold sweat this idiom refers to the condition where extreme fear or nervousness causes a person to feel a chill along with moist skin or sweat. i woke up from a nightmare in cold sweat. |
| 3469 |
cold comfort this idiom means no comfort or consolation at all. i know that there is somebody stupider than me, but that's cold comfort. |
| 3470 |
coin money this expression means to make a great deal of money easily or very quickly. with a temporary monopoly in urban market, our company could coin money. |
| 3471 |
coin a phrase this expression means to create or invent a new phrase, saying etc. internet media is nothing more than, to coin a phrase, misrepresentation of actual facts. |
| 3472 |
cogito ergo sum this phrase translated from latin means "i think, therefore i am". at the end of her presentation she said: cogito ergo sum! |
| 3473 |
cog in the machine if you say that someone is a cog in the machine, you mean that, while they are necessary, they only play a small part in an organisation or plan. the police officer realized that the man was just a cog in the machine. |
| 3474 |
code monkey this is a slang term for a computer programmer. adrian is a code monkey. |
| 3475 |
cocksure this idiom means too confident, in a way that is slightly unpleasant or rude. a young cocksure man came into the office. |
| 3476 |
cock-a-hoop this idiom means in a state of exuberant elation. i was cock-a-hoop when the team won. |
| 3477 |
cock in the henhouse this idiom refers to the only male in an all-female environment. steve is the cock in the henhouse in this department. |
| 3478 |
cock and bull story this idiom means an unbelievable tale. oh, don't listen to her. it's just another cock and bull story. |
| 3479 |
coast is clear to say that the coast is clear means that there is no danger in sight or that nobody can see you. hey! enter now! the coast is clear! |
| 3480 |
club sandwich a club sandwich is a sandwich of bread, sometimes toasted and several other ingredients, often chicken or turkey, bacon, lettuce, tomato and mayonnaise. the sandwiches are usually cut into halves or quarters to form small triangles. would you like a club sandwich? |
| 3481 |
cloud cuckoo-land this idiom refers to an imaginary idealistic state where everything is perfect. it is usually used with reference to someone who has an overly optimistic and unrealistic belief. if you think that you can obtain a managerial position without at least three years experience you are living in cloud cuckoo-land. |
| 3482 |
closed book this idiom refers to something that one knows or understands nothing about. this intricate formula is a closed book to me. |
| 3483 |
close to home if a remark or comment is close to home, it is so true, or it affects you so directly, that you feel uncomfortable. she appears embarrassed. his comment must have been close to home. |
| 3484 |
close the books this idiom means to set the ending to a concerned issue. the lawyer closed the books of that case. |
| 3485 |
close shave this term describes a situation where an accident or a disaster nearly happened. i almost hit the child who ran in front of my motorcycle. it was a close shave. |
| 3486 |
close call if something happens, or is avoided or missed, with very little margin, it is called a close call. he won the local election with 0.3% of the votes. it was a close call. |
| 3487 |
close but no cigar this expression refers to an effort to do something which was a good attempt but not quite enough to succeed. the ball almost entered the net – close but no cigar! |
| 3488 |
clodhopper this idiom refers to a foolish, awkward or clumsy person. i can't associate with him. he's a clodhopper. |
| 3489 |
cloak-and-dagger this expression refers to the activities of spies and undercover agents. do we need to go for cloak-and-dagger way? |
| 3490 |
clip someone's wings if you clip someone's wings, you do something to restrict their freedom. taking away his money is a sure way to clip his wings. |
| 3491 |
clinch a deal in a business relationship, if you clinch a deal, you reach agreement on a proposal or offer. my final argument enabled our company to clinch the deal. |
| 3492 |
cliffhanger this idiom refers to a story or a situation that is exciting because its ending or result is uncertain until it happens. the election is going to be a cliffhanger. |
| 3493 |
click bait this idiom refers to an eye-catching word or image on a website. these ads are intended as click bait to make you buy their products. |
| 3494 |
clear the way if you clear the way, you allow something to happen by removing what was preventing it. opening universities to women cleared the way for them to have a career. |
| 3495 |
clear the decks this idiom means to get ready for action. our company is clearing the decks for setting up new projects. |
| 3496 |
clear the air if you decide to clear the air, you try to remove the causes of fear, worry or suspicion by taking about the problem openly. the atmosphere at work became so unpleasant that we decided it was time to clear the air. |
| 3497 |
clear blue water this idiom refers to something that separates two people or things or that makes them different from each other. the debate failed to establish any clear blue water between the candidates. |
| 3498 |
clear as a bell if something is as clear as a bell, it is very clear or easy to understand. the instructions were clear as a bell. |
| 3499 |
clear a hurdle this idiom means to overcome an obstacle. i cleared a hurdle by getting the paperwork completed. |
| 3500 |
clean sweep this expression refers to an irresistible victory or an easy success. the analysts are predicting a clean sweep for the ruling party in the approaching elections. |
| 3501 |
clean slate a clean slate is a record of your work or actions that does not show past mistakes and allows you to make a fresh start. the refugee was able to rebuild his life with a clean slate. |
| 3502 |
clean bill of health if a person has a clean bill of health, they have a report or certificate declaring that their health is satisfactory. all candidates for this important position must provide a clean bill of health. |
| 3503 |
clean as a whistle something as clean as a whistle is extremely clean. this can also mean that a person's criminal record is clean. i spent the afternoon washing my car until it was as clean as a whistle. |
| 3504 |
claw one's way back in a situation which has deteriorated, if you claw your way back, you gradually regain your former position through determination, energy and hard work. after a serious accident, the player clawed his way back to the top. |
| 3505 |
class clown this expression refers to someone who stands out in a class because he makes constant jokes and pokes fun at people. tom is the class clown. |
| 3506 |
class act to say that someone, for example an athlete or entertainer, is a class act means that they are very good at what they do. his career is just beginning, but he is already a class act. |
| 3507 |
clarion call this idiom refers to a strong and clear request for people to do something. the leader's clarion call for more donations was respected. |
| 3508 |
clap eyes on if you clap eyes on someone or something, you actually see them. well, i've heard of her but i've never clapped eyes on her. |
| 3509 |
city bike this refers to a bicycle designed especially for urban riding. in many towns you get around much quicker on a city bike. |
| 3510 |
christmas comes but once a year this expression means that christmas is a time of celebration that only happens once a year. therefore, we should mark the occasion by being generous to others, especially the less fortunate. let's help him! christmas comes but once a year! |
| 3511 |
chow down this idiom means to begin to eat. i know you are all hungry, so chow down. |
| 3512 |
chop-chop this idiom is used to tell someone to hurry. come on, chop-chop, we're very late! |
| 3513 |
chop and change if you chop and change, you constantly change your opinion, plans or methods and often cause confusion. i strongly advise you not to chop and change all the time. |
| 3514 |
chock-a-block if a place is chock-a-block, it is very full of people or things. the streets were chock-a-block with scooters. |
| 3515 |
chit-chat this idiom refers to casual small-talk or gossip. the two girls chit-chat every time they meet. |
| 3516 |
chips are down this expression refers to people's behaviour in a difficult or dangerous situation when action must be taken. it's when the chips are down that jane is at her best. |
| 3517 |
chip on your shoulder if someone has a chip on their shoulder, they feel resentful because they feel they are being treated unfairly, especially because of their background, their sex or their colour. she's got a chip on her shoulder because she's from a low-class family. |
| 3518 |
chip off the old block a person who is a chip off the old block resembles one of their parents in appearance, character or behaviour. olivia is a chip off the old block – she reacts the same way as her mother. |
| 3519 |
chinwag if you have a chinwag with someone, you have an opportunity to chat with each other. "let's meet on friday." "that's a good idea. we can have a good old chinwag!" |
| 3520 |
chinless wonder this phrase refers to a member of the upper classes, usually a male. he won't speak to you. he's a chinless wonder. |
| 3521 |
chink in someone's armor if someone has a chink in their armor, they have a weakness that other people can take advantage of. the opponents are busy looking for chinks in my armor. |
| 3522 |
chinese whispers this expression refers to a process by which a message or piece of information (especially gossip, rumours or scandalous news) is passed on from one person to another, and changes along the way, so that the final version is often very different from the original. don't believe what you hear. it's chinese whisper! |
| 3523 |
chinese arithmetic if something is very complicated or difficult to understand, it is said to be like chinese arithmetic. when i tried to explain the steps of the procedure to her, it was like chinese arithmetic! |
| 3524 |
china plate this is a slang term for a mate, a friend or close companion. here comes my china plate, steve. |
| 3525 |
chime in if you chime in, you interrupt or join a conversation, especially to repeat or agree with something. as i explained to the police officer what had happened, the other men chimed in and gave their version. |
| 3526 |
chill wind if you face or feel the chill wind of something, you are beginning to encounter the problems or trouble it causes. many businesses are facing the chill wind of the recession. |
| 3527 |
chill pill this expression refers to something that has a relaxing outcome. you need to take a chill pill. this flight is safe. |
| 3528 |
chill out when people chill out, often after a period of heavy work or nervous tension, they do something that helps them to calm down and relax for a while. after three weeks of exams, i needed to go and chill out. |
| 3529 |
children should be seen and not heard this is an old proverb suggesting that children should not impinge on the adult world. i still believe that children should be seen and not heard. |
| 3530 |
child's play if something is referred to as child's play, it is considered to be simple or easy to do. using this new smartphone is child's play as compared to the old one. |
| 3531 |
chickens come home to roost if you say that chickens have come home to roost, you mean that bad or embarrassing things done in the past by someone are now causing problems for that person. be careful what you do in this life. don't forget! chickens come home to roost. |
| 3532 |
chicken out if you chicken our of something, you decide not to do something because you are afraid. he decided to join a fight club, but chickened out very soon. |
| 3533 |
chicken hearted this idiom means not brave. these chicken hearted soldiers always seem to give in. |
| 3534 |
chicken feed an amount of money considered small or unimportant is called chicken feed. i got a job during summer weekends but the pay was chicken feed. |
| 3535 |
chick flick this idiom refers to a film with characterization and story-lines that appeal especially to women. that's just another chick flick. |
| 3536 |
chew the fat if you chew the fat with somebody, you chat in an informal way about unimportant things. the amount of time my parents can spend chewing the fat with our neighbours is amazing. |
| 3537 |
chew the cud this idiom has a metaphorical sense and means to chat in an aimless manner. i don't want to meet with them. they are always chewing the cud. |
| 3538 |
chew someone out if you chew someone out, you verbally scold someone. i regret that i have chewed her out. |
| 3539 |
cherry ripe this is a slang term for pipe. will you buy some tobacco for my cherry ripe, please? |
| 3540 |
cherry pick when you cherry pick, you choose something with great care and select only the best. university graduates are sometimes cherry-picked by large companies. |
| 3541 |
cherchez la femme this phrase is used when a man behaves unusually or gets into a quarrel or other difficulty and the reason for it is sought. i don't know that happened to him. cherchez la femme! |
| 3542 |
cheesy this term describes something that is tacky, silly, inauthentic or cheap. that speech was so cheesy. |
| 3543 |
cheesed off if someone is cheesed off with something, they are annoyed, bored or frustrated. john is utterly cheesed off with his job. |
| 3544 |
cheek by jowl when people are cheek by jowl, they are crammed uncomfortably close together. the refugees are living cheek by jowl in a camp. |
| 3545 |
cheat sheet this expression refers to a written or graphic aid that is used by someone when answering questions to which they do not know the answers. she has been caught using a cheat sheet. |
| 3546 |
cheap shot a cruel, unfair or unwarranted comment or verbal attack is called a cheap shot. referring to jane as a "poor speaker" was really a cheap shot. |
| 3547 |
cheap at half the price this phrase is used for emphasizing that something is good value and not expensive. that laptop is cheap at half the price. |
| 3548 |
chasing tail this idiom refers to a man pursuing women. steve is a sex addict. he is always chasing tail. |
| 3549 |
chase your own tail someone who is chasing their (own) tail is spending a lot of time and energy doing many things but achieving very little. she has been chasing her tail all week sending e-mail. therefore, the report isn't ready. |
| 3550 |
chase rainbows someone who is chasing rainbows is trying to get something they will never obtain. bluntly speaking, i think you are chasing rainbows. |
| 3551 |
charm offensive this phrase refers to a publicity campaign, usually by politicians, that attempts to attract supporters by emphasizing their charisma or trustworthiness. don't you think that her is charm offensive this period? |
| 3552 |
charley horse this idiom refers to stiffness or cramp in the arm or leg. he got a charley horse and couldn't complete the race. |
| 3553 |
chapter and verse this term refers to word-for-word details or very specific facts, especially the exact place where the information can be found. this phrase is attributed to him, although i can't give you chapter and verse. |
| 3554 |
change the face of when an innovation, discovery or event changes the face of something, it alters it completely or in a major way. social networks have changed the face of online marketing. |
| 3555 |
change of heart if someone has a change of heart, they change their attitude or feelings, especially towards greater friendliness or cooperation. she was against smoking but she had a change of heart. |
| 3556 |
change horses in midstream if you change horses in midstream, you change your plan, or choose a new leader, in the middle of an important activity. i think it would be better if we go through with the original plan. it's risky to change horses in midstream. |
| 3557 |
chance would be a fine thing this phrase means that there is not much chance of that thing, welcome though it would be. i'd like to win the contest. chance would be a fine thing. |
| 3558 |
chance one's arm if you chance your arm, you decide to do something even though there is little hope of success. he knew there was little hope of getting into the police academy but he decided to chance his arm. |
| 3559 |
chance in a million a chance in a million is a very small chance, or no chance at all, that something will happen. there's a chance in a million of finding the phone i lost in this town. |
| 3560 |
champagne taste on a beer budget someone who likes expensive things that they cannot afford has champagne taste on a beer budget. john borrows money to buy expensive car parts – champagne taste on a beer budget! |
| 3561 |
champ at the bit someone who is champing at the bit is ready and eager to start an activity and is showing impatience at being delayed. the conference was delayed and the journalists were champing at the bit. |
| 3562 |
chalk and cheese two people who are like chalk and cheese are completely different from each other. i'm surprised that they get on well. they are like chalk and cheese from my point of view. |
| 3563 |
chaise lounge this is the american spelling for the piece of furniture known elsewhere as a chaise longue. why don't you lie down on the chaise longue? |
| 3564 |
cause a stir if something causes a stir, it creates an atmosphere of excitement or great interest. the arrival of the actor caused quite a stir in the town. |
| 3565 |
caught with your pants down if you are caught with your pants down, you are caught doing something bad or forbidden. he was caught fiddling with the water meter – caught with his pants down! |
| 3566 |
caught unawares if someone is caught unawares, they are surprised and unprepared for what happens. the police officer moved so silently that the thieves were caught unawares. |
| 3567 |
caught in the crossfire if you are caught in the crossfire, you suffer the effects of an argument or dispute between two people or groups. when the two drivers started to quarrel, their passengers were caught in the crossfire. |
| 3568 |
caught by the short hairs this idiom means that you are trapped by an opponent in a situation you can't escape. if i said anything, she would get me sacked – i was caught by the short hairs. |
| 3569 |
catch someone off guard this idiom means to surprise someone in a way that makes the person feel confused or uncertain. the news caught me completely off guard. |
| 3570 |
catch somebody's eye if someone catches your eye, you find them attractive. the pretty woman near the door caught my eye. |
| 3571 |
catch somebody at a bad time this idiom is used when someone is being interrupted at an inconvenient time. i'm sorry maria, have i caught you at a bad time? i want to speak to you. |
| 3572 |
catch red-handed if a person is caught red-handed, they are caught while they are doing something wrong or illegal. she was caught red-handed. |
| 3573 |
catch napping this idiom means to be taken by surprise. the government was caught napping that day. |
| 3574 |
catch eye this idiom means to be noticed by someone. a small shop selling beautiful potteries caught my eye. |
| 3575 |
catch as catch can this expression means that you try to get something in any way possible. it's difficult to get much free time with this new project – it's catch-as-catch-can these days! |
| 3576 |
catch 22 a catch 22 situation refers to a frustrating situation where you cannot do one thing without doing a second, and you cannot do the second before doing the first. i can't get a day off without finishing the project and i can't finished the project with all this stress. it's a catch 22 situation! |
| 3577 |
cat-and-dog life a life in which partners are constantly or frequently quarrelling is called a cat-and-dog life. they lead a cat-and-god life. |
| 3578 |
cat's whiskers or cat's pyjamas this expression refers to someone who considers themselves to be better than others in a particular area: beauty, competence, intelligence, sport etc. since he got a promotion, he thinks he's the cat whiskers! |
| 3579 |
cat's lick a cat's lick means a very quick wash. a cat's lick was all she had time for. |
| 3580 |
cat's cradle this idiom refers to children's games. it is a special pattern or series of patterns made by wrapping string around the fingers of both hands. let's play cat's cradle! |
| 3581 |
cat in hell's chance to say that there is not a cat in hell's chance of someone doing or achieving something means that there is no chance at all. because of the storm, he didn't have a cat in hell's chance of landing safely. |
| 3582 |
cat in gloves catches no mice this expression means that if you are too careful and polite, you may not obtain what you want. i'm sure you will manage the negotiations. even though, please keep in mind that a cat in gloves catches no mice. |
| 3583 |
cat got your tongue? this question is addressed to someone who is inexplicably silent. tell me the truth! has the cat got your tongue? |
| 3584 |
cat can look at a king this expression means that nobody is so important that an ordinary person cannot look at or be curious about them. hey! come on! please answer to my question about her. you know that the cat can look at a king. |
| 3585 |
cat burglar this expression refers to a stealthy burglar who climbs into buildings, usually through upper windows, skylights etc. my guitar has disappeared from the loft. it must have been a cat burglar. |
| 3586 |
castles in the air this idiom means to make plans or hopes that have very little chance of happening. don't build castles in the air; just find a job for now. |
| 3587 |
cast-iron stomach if you can eat all sorts of food and drink what you like, without any indigestion, discomfort or bad effects, it is said that you have a cast-iron stomach. she is renowned for her cast-iron stomach. |
| 3588 |
cast pearls before swine this idiom refers to items of quality offered to those who aren't cultured enough to appreciate them. you are casting pearls before swine with your good advice. |
| 3589 |
cast in the same mould this idiom means to be very similar. both brothers are mean; they seem to be cast in the same mould. |
| 3590 |
cast in concrete this idiom means "firmly or permanently established, not subject to change, unalterable". the law looks promising, but we'll have to wait until it's cast in concrete. |
| 3591 |
cast aspersions on this idiom means to criticize somebody or somebody's character. they never missed a chance to cast aspersions on my decisions. |
| 3592 |
cast a wide net when trying to find something, if you cast a wide net, you cover an extensive area or use a wide range of sources. the firms cast a wide net in their search for compatible engineers. |
| 3593 |
cash on the nail this idiom refers to a payment made immediately. they requested cash on the nail for the goods. |
| 3594 |
cash in your chips if you cash in your chips, you sell something, especially shares, either because you need the money or because you think the value is going to fall. adrian cashed in his chips as soon as business started to slow down. |
| 3595 |
cash cow a product or service which is a regular source of income for a company is called a cash cow. her latest inventions proved to be a real cash cow. |
| 3596 |
case in point this term refers to an example which serves to illustrate, support or prove a point which is currently under discussion. not even the best athlete is guaranteed a long career. the latest accident is a case in point. |
| 3597 |
carve out a niche a person or company who carves out a niche concentrates on a particular segment of the market, to which they supply a product or service, and develop their expertise in that area. in nowadays market it is better to carve out a niche and try to become the best in that area. |
| 3598 |
carte blanche this idiom means to have complete authority. i have carte blanche over who goes into this mission. |
| 3599 |
carry weight if a person or organisation carries weight, they are influential or important. i'm glad that the manager is on our side – her opinion carries a lot of weight. |
| 3600 |
carry the torch if you carry the torch, you have strong feelings for someone with whom you do not or cannot have a relationship. she has been carrying the torch for john since their college days. |
| 3601 |
carry the day if something carries the day, it defines a win that felt like a long battle and could have gone either way. the team carried the day well. |
| 3602 |
carry the can if you carry the can for another person, you accept blame or take responsibility for something that goes wrong, even if it is not your fault or only partly. the writer didn't show for the interview and his agent had to carry the can. |
| 3603 |
carry coals to newcastle this phrase means to do something pointless and superfluous. i don't understand you. it's like carrying coals to newcastle. |
| 3604 |
carrot and stick approach if you use a carrot-and-stick approach, you use the promise of reward and the threat of punishment to make someone work harder. many parents use a carrot-and-stick approach to obtain good results from their children nowadays. |
| 3605 |
carpe diem this is a latin expression meaning seize the day. let's have a walk, my dear. carpe diem! |
| 3606 |
card-sharp this idiom refers to someone who is skillful at playing or manipulating cards or one who makes a living by cheating at cards. be careful! he's a card-sharp man. |
| 3607 |
cardinal sin this idiom refers to a serious error of judgement. she committed the cardinal sin of criticizing bob's decision. |
| 3608 |
carbon-copy this idiom refers to an exact duplicate. this smartphone is a carbon-copy. |
| 3609 |
carbon footprint this expression refers to a measure of the amount of carbon dioxide emitted during an industrial or domestic process. carbon footprint is required to be improved in many countries. |
| 3610 |
cap in hand if you do something cap in hand, you ask for something in a very respectful manner. i went to the manager, cap in hand, and asked for more time to complete the project. |
| 3611 |
canterbury pace this phrase refers to the pace of mounted pilgrims. the traffic is today is similar to the canterbury pace. |
| 3612 |
canteen culture this idiom refers to boorish behaviour by rank and file police or soldiers. female recruits didn't feel comfortable in that canteen culture environment at first. |
| 3613 |
can't stand the sight of this expression means to hate someone very much. following the divorce, they couldn't stand the sight of each other. |
| 3614 |
can't stand the pace if you can't stand the pace, you are unable to do things well when there is a lot of pressure. he once worked for a famous company but he couldn't stand the pace. |
| 3615 |
can't see the wood for the trees if someone can't see the wood for the trees, they are so concentrated on the details that they can't see the situation as a whole. the financial manager found the situation so complicated that he couldn't see the wood for the trees. |
| 3616 |
can't see the forest for the trees this phrase means that one cannot see, understand or focus on a situation in its entirety due to being preoccupied with minor details. let's move on. you can't see the forest for the trees! |
| 3617 |
can't put new wine in old bottles this expression means that you should not try to combine new concepts or innovations with an old or long-established framework or system. you'll never get that pc game to work on your father's computer. you can't put new wine in old bottles! |
| 3618 |
can't make omelette without breaking eggs this expression means that it is impossible to make important changes without causing some unpleasant effects. a lot of people will lose their jobs after the merger, but you can't make an omelette without breaking eggs. |
| 3619 |
can't make head or tail of if you can't make head or tail of something, you can't understand it at all. her message was so intricate. i couldn't make head or tail of it! |
| 3620 |
can't hold a candle to if one person can't hold a candle to another, they are much less competent or do not perform as well as the other. david is very intelligent but he can't hold a candle to his sister when it comes to sports. |
| 3621 |
can't for the life of me this expression can be used to say that it is impossible for you to do something, no matter how hard you try. i can't for the life of me find my feet in this job. |
| 3622 |
can't fight the city hall this expression means that it is useless to try to win a battle against a politician, establishment or bureaucracy in general. in the end, i decided that it was a waste of time and energy trying to obtain a tax refund – can't fight the city hall! |
| 3623 |
can of worms to describe a situation as a can of worms means that it is complicated, unpleasant and difficult to deal with. the discovery of the stolen car turned out to be a real can of worms. |
| 3624 |
camp follower this idiom refers to a person who is supportive of the cause, person or organisation. we all like him because he's a truly camp follower. |
| 3625 |
call time on something when you call time on something, you decide it is time to end it. i strongly consider that we should call time on this project. it has been draining our resources for too long. |
| 3626 |
call someone's bluff if you call someone's bluff, you challenge them to do what they threaten to do (while believing that they will not dare to do it). after the neighbour's threats to call the police, when she decided to call his bluff, there were no more complaints. |
| 3627 |
call someone names this idiom means to insult someone. the little boy got into trouble for calling the teacher names. |
| 3628 |
call of the wild this idiom refers to nature appealing to a person. i felt the call of the wild so i went into the forest to relax. |
| 3629 |
call it quits when people temporarily stop doing something or put an end to an activity, they call it quits. i see that you are all exhausted, so let's call it quits for today. |
| 3630 |
call it a day to say "let's call it a day" is a way of suggesting that it is time to stop doing something for the rest of that day, whether or not the work or activity has been completed, usually because of tiredness. after another solved case, i decide to call it a day. |
| 3631 |
call a spade a spade a person who calls a spade a spade speaks openly and truthfully about something, especially difficult matters. what i like about the new colleague is that he calls a spade a spade. therefore, he makes things so much easier for everyone. |
| 3632 |
calendar year this idiom refers to twelve months beginning from the first of january. the report shows our earnings for the last calendar year. |
| 3633 |
calculated risk a calculated risk is a risk taken with full knowledge of the dangers involved. the firms took a calculated risk when they hired marry directly out of college. |
| 3634 |
cakes and ale this idiom is synonymous with the good life, like the idiom beer and skittles. no more cakes and ale. you should start searching for a job! |
| 3635 |
caesar salad this phrase refers to the name of a salad typically consisting of lettuce, garlic, croutons and anchovies, dressed with olive oil, lemon juice and parmesan cheese. would you like a caesar salad? |
| 3636 |
by word of mouth information passed on through conversation is transmitted by word of mouth. the bad news was spread by word of mouth. |
| 3637 |
by virtue of the term by virtue of might mean "due to", "because of" or "on account of" something. the old man got the best place by virtue of his age. |
| 3638 |
by the sweat of your brow if you earn or achieve something by the sweat of your brow, you do it through hard work and no help. i've got this job by the sweat of my brow. |
| 3639 |
by the skin of your teeth to do something by the skin of our teeth means that you just manage to do it, but that you almost fail. i passed the driving test by the skin of my teeth. |
| 3640 |
by the same token if you apply the same rule to different situations, you judge them by the same token, or in a similar way. i don't think that prices will go up but, by the same token, i don't see them going down either. |
| 3641 |
by the look of things this expression is used to express an opinion based on what you actually see. by the look of things, war is about to begin. |
| 3642 |
by no stretch of the imagination this expression is used to describe things that are definitely not possible or correct. by no stretch of the imagination could the woman be called beautiful. |
| 3643 |
by hook or by crook if you say that you will do something by hook or by crook, you means that you will succeed, no matter what. i'll get my revenge, by hook or by crook! |
| 3644 |
by gum! this phrase is used to express surprise. by gum, she's a pretty lady! |
| 3645 |
by dint of this literally means as a result of something. she got what she had wanted by dint of threatening. |
| 3646 |
by degrees if something happens or develops by degrees, it happens gradually or little by little as time goes by. our business relationship grew into friendship by degrees. |
| 3647 |
by and large this phrase means on the whole, generally speaking or all things considered. by and large our company is doing well. |
| 3648 |
by all accounts this idiom means "according to the information or reports that are available or from what people are saying". by all accounts, they should be dead right now! |
| 3649 |
by a wide margin this idiom means by a large amount, by a lot. we won that game by a wide margin. |
| 3650 |
buzzing this term refers to someone who is excited for something that's going to happen. i'm buzzing for fishing season. |
| 3651 |
buzz word this is a phrase that is used to describe a word that is popular in a group of people. the students have many buzz words these days. |
| 3652 |
buy time this idiom means to do something in order to be allowed more time. we need to do something so as to buy us some time. |
| 3653 |
buy a lemon if you buy something, especially a car, that is defective, unsatisfactory and constantly gives you trouble or stops running after a short time, you buy a lemon. the motorcycle i bought was a real lemon. it broke down four weeks later. |
| 3654 |
button your lip this idiom means to stop speaking. please, button your lip! |
| 3655 |
button it this expression means to rudely tell someone to be quiet. button it! i'm trying to solve this puzzle. |
| 3656 |
butterflies in your stomach if you have butterflies in your stomach, you are feeling very nervous. when i meet her, i always have butterflies in my stomach. |
| 3657 |
butterfingers this is a name playfully applied to someone who fails to catch a ball or lets something slip from their fingers. bob is a butterfingers. don't take him in our team. |
| 3658 |
butter wouldn't melt in your mouth if you say that someone looks as if butter wouldn't melt in their mouth, you mean that they look completely innocent, but that they are capable of doing unpleasant thing. the girl who stole the car looked as if butter wouldn't melt in her mouth. |
| 3659 |
butter somebody up when you butter someone up, you flatter them or you are very nice to them, especially if you want to obtain something. she was so keen to get the contract that she spent much time buttering up the boss. |
| 3660 |
bust a move this idiom means to dance in a stylish way. these new cheerleaders are amazing – they are busting some moves. |
| 3661 |
busman's holiday a busman's holiday is when you spend your spare time or your holidays doing the same sort of activity as you do in your job. my wife is a babysitter, so for her time off with the family is often a busman's holiday. |
| 3662 |
business is business this is a way of saying that in financial and commercial matters, friendship or personal feelings should not be allowed to have any influence. they will hire your sister only if she is the best candidate for the job. i'm sorry but business is business. |
| 3663 |
business before pleasure this expression means that it is considered preferable to finish one's work before going to relax and enjoy oneself. i'd love to have dinner with you, but i've got a financial report to finish – business before pleasure! |
| 3664 |
business as usual after an unpleasant or unexpected event, this expression means that everything is continuing in a normal way, in spite of the difficulties. it was business as usual at the bank after the hold-up. |
| 3665 |
bury the hatchet when people who have had a disagreement decide to forget their quarrel and become friends again, they bury the hatchet. i didn't agree with her decision, but i decided to bury the hatchet. |
| 3666 |
bury head in sand if you bury your head in the sand, you refuse to face the unpleasant reality by pretending that the situation doesn't exist. it's no use burying your head in the sand. we've got a problem and we need to solve it. |
| 3667 |
burst the bubble this expression refers to a sudden end of a very happy or successful period. the bubble burst with the crash of stock market in last decade. |
| 3668 |
burst at the seams this idiom means to be filled up to the brim. the meal was delicious but now i'm bursting at the seams. |
| 3669 |
burning question what everyone is asking and what we all want to know about, is called the burning question. who is the mole? that's the burning question! |
| 3670 |
burn your fingers if you burn your fingers (or get your fingers burnt), you suffer financially as a result of foolish behaviour. jack got his fingers burnt playing poker. |
| 3671 |
burn your bridges if you burn your bridges, you do something that will be impossible to rectify in the future. if you refuse the offer, be careful not to burn your bridges saying bad things about them. |
| 3672 |
burn up the road this idiom means to travel very fast. i can't wait to take my new car out and burn up the road! |
| 3673 |
burn the midnight oil a person who burns the midnight oil stays up very late at night in order to finish a piece of work. i have to burn the midnight oil so as to finish this project. |
| 3674 |
burn the candle at both ends if you burn the candle at both ends, you exhaust yourself by doing too much, especially going to bed late and getting up early. she looks bad. i think she has been burning the candle at both ends of late. |
| 3675 |
burn bridges this expression means to destroy someone's possibility of retreat or to act decisively. she has already burned her bridges with the manager by publicly criticizing him. |
| 3676 |
burden of proof the burden of proof is the necessity imposed by the law to prove that what one says is true. the burden of proof lies with the claimant. |
| 3677 |
bunny boiler this idiom refers to an obsessive and dangerous female, in pursuit of a lover who has spurned her. now she's a bunny boiler. |
| 3678 |
bundle of nerves if you describe someone as a bundle of nerves, you mean that they are very nervous, tense or worried. my girlfriend is doing her driving test today. she's a bundle of nerves. |
| 3679 |
bums on seats this phrase refers to the number of people who have paid to watch a performance. lowering the prices should increase the number of bums on seats. |
| 3680 |
bump heads with this idiom means to clash with another person on a particular issue. we are always bumping heads with each other. |
| 3681 |
bulldoze somebody into doing something a person who is bulldozed into doing something is forced to do it, especially by being bullied or intimidated. they bulldozed the immigrants into accepting the work. |
| 3682 |
built like a tank this idiom refers to something that has a physique or structure that is strong and physically imposing. take my car, it's built like a tank! |
| 3683 |
building blocks this expression refers to something that is a basic element of something. the building blocks of success, in my opinion, come from perseverance and hard work. |
| 3684 |
build bridges if a person build bridges between opposing groups, they help them to cooperate and understand each other better. the mayor is trying to build bridges between the local community and the owners of the new plant. |
| 3685 |
buggins' turn this phrase refers to a system by which appointments or awards are made in rotation rather than by merit. how about implementing buggins' turn in our organisation? |
| 3686 |
bug-eyed this idiom refers to someone having seen something that is extraordinary and causes their eyes to pop out. i was bug-eyed looking at her wedding dress and jewelry. |
| 3687 |
buckle down if you buckle down, you apply yourself with determination to work hard and give it your full attention. if you want to pass the exam, you will have to buckle down and do serious work. |
| 3688 |
bucket list this idiom refers to a list of things you plan to do before you die. i've always wanted to go to hawaii. i will add that to my bucket list. |
| 3689 |
bubble and squeak this phrase refers to a food made by mixing together and heating cooked potato and cabbage. would you like some bubble and squeak? |
| 3690 |
brummagem screwdriver this is a disparaging term for a hammer. that's a brummagem screwdriver he is using. |
| 3691 |
brum brum this idiom is used by children who play, expressing the sound of a vehicle. the kid explained to his mother that the car went brum, brum. |
| 3692 |
brownie points this idiom refers to good marks for credit. you're not going to get many brownie points for this report. |
| 3693 |
browned off if you are browned off, you are bored, fed up or disheartened. john is browned off with his job and he wants to make a change. |
| 3694 |
brown out this idiom refers to a partial failure of the electricity supply. suddenly, everything went dim. it looked like a brown out. |
| 3695 |
brown bread this is a slang for dead. that bird has just landed on the power cable. it's brown bread for sure. |
| 3696 |
brown as a berry to say that someone is as brown as a berry means that they are very tanned. olivia came back from their holiday as brown as a berry. |
| 3697 |
bronx cheer this idiom refers to a sound of contempt or derision, made by blowing through closed lips, usually with the tongue protruding. they have been greeted with some bronx cheers. |
| 3698 |
broken heart this idiom is primarily used to specify the loss of a loved one. it may also refer to a romantic loss or break up. i know she broke your heart, but there are other girls out there. |
| 3699 |
broad in the beam this phrase means having wide hips or buttocks. that lady is quite broad in the beam. |
| 3700 |
broad daylight if something happens in broad daylight, it takes place in the clear light of day when everyone can see what's going on. her car was stolen in broad daylight. |
| 3701 |
bring your a game this idiom means to perform to the best of your ability. this is an important match for us. bring your a game, players! |
| 3702 |
bring up the rear someone who brings up the rear is the last person in a group of people who are walking or running. the group walked calmly up the room, with the manager bringing up the rear. |
| 3703 |
bring to the table this idiom means to provide or offer a useful skill or attribute. she brings years of leadership experience to the table. |
| 3704 |
bring to book this idiom means to make somebody accountable for their conduct. the police failed to bring anyone to book for the crime. |
| 3705 |
bring the house down if you bring the house down, you give a very successful performance. if they sing like that on monday, they will bring the house down. |
| 3706 |
bring someone to life this expression means to regain or cause to regain consciousness. with reference to a fictional character or inanimate object it means to cause or seem to be alive or real. she brings the character of melissa to life. |
| 3707 |
bring someone to heel if you force someone to behave in a disciplined manner, you bring them to heel. the boys had behaved badly, but the new principal managed to bring them to heel. |
| 3708 |
bring sand to the beach this phrase means to do or undertake something redundant, pointless or futile, usually in the context of bringing something to a location where it is abundant or unnecessary. i don't know why you are keep doing that. you might just as well bring sand to the beach! |
| 3709 |
bring nothing to the table if you participate in negotiations and bring nothing to the table, you have nothing of interest to offer the other side. we won't reach an agreement if you don't bring something to the table. |
| 3710 |
bring home the bacon this idiom describes a person who earns a living or provides financial support to the home. you need to find a job and bring home the bacon. |
| 3711 |
brighton pier this expression is a slang for queer. it's appropriate that they live together – they are brighton pier after all. |
| 3712 |
bright-eyed and bushy-tailed a person who is bright-eyed and bushy-tailed is very enthusiastic and full of energy. she arrived bright-eyed and bushy-tailed at 7 am and worked with us all day long. |
| 3713 |
bright spark this idiom refers to an intelligent and lively person (humorously). a bright spark at the bank has accidentally closed my account. |
| 3714 |
breathe down someone's neck if someone is breathing down your neck, they are watching you too closely and making you feel uncomfortable. the atmosphere at work is not great at all. the manager keeps breathing down my neck all time. |
| 3715 |
breast is best this is a slogan of breastfeeding campaign. she knows that breast is best, but she bottle-feeds her kids. |
| 3716 |
breaking and entering this term refers to the fact of entering a building or home illegally by breaking open a window, door etc. the man was found guilty of breaking and entering. |
| 3717 |
break your back if you work extremely hard or put a lot of effort into achieving something, you break your back to do it. she's not going to break her back for such a low wage. |
| 3718 |
break the news this idiom means to make something known for everybody. i had to break the news to them. |
| 3719 |
break the mould if you change what people expect from a (traditional) situation, especially by doing something original, you break the mould. after generations of farmers in the family, he broke the mould by becoming a medical doctor. |
| 3720 |
break the ice a person who breaks the ice is someone who does or says something to make people relax in an uncomfortable situation. she broke the ice by telling a joke. |
| 3721 |
break the back of the beast if someone breaks the back of the beast, they succeed in overcoming a major difficulty. after some three hours, the electricians finally broke the back of the beast and turned the electricity back on again. |
| 3722 |
break out in cold sweat if you break out in a cold sweat, you begin to perspire a lot, usually from anxiety. i used to get nervous at the dentist's and break out in a cold sweat. |
| 3723 |
break new ground this means to do something innovative. this discovery definitely breaks new ground in the energy problem. |
| 3724 |
break fresh ground if you break fresh ground, you innovate by introducing or developing a new method or system. the cook has broken fresh ground in his exploration of new recipes. |
| 3725 |
break every rule in the book if you behave in a completely unacceptable way, you break every rule in the book. she obtained the contract by breaking every rule in the book. |
| 3726 |
break a leg! this is a funny way of wishing someone good luck, especially among stage performers. i'm sure your performance will be outstanding. break a leg! |
| 3727 |
bread and butter this expression refers to the reason for someone to make money. i'm counting on this job for my bread and butter. |
| 3728 |
brass monkey weather this expression means extremely cold weather. the complete expression is "cold enough to freeze the balls off a brass monkey." the weatherwoman says minus 15 degrees and strong winds for tomorrow. that's a brass monkey weather. |
| 3729 |
brainstorm this means to try to develop and idea or think of new ideas. let's try to brainstorm as many suggestions as possible for this project. |
| 3730 |
brains behind something someone who is the brains behind a project or action is the person thought to have planned and organized everything. the police have arrested a woman believed to be the brains behind the murder. |
| 3731 |
brain drain the departure of highly qualified people for other countries, where they have better opportunities and usually better pay, is called brain drain. think about eastern-european countries. there is an obvious brain drain trend. |
| 3732 |
brahms and lizst this is a slang for drunk. after five beers he was totally brahms and lizst. |
| 3733 |
boxing day this idiom refers to the 26th of december, also called st. stephen's day. what do you intend to do on boxing day? |
| 3734 |
box and cox this phrase is used to refer to an arrangement whereby people make use of the same accommodation or facilities at different times, according to a strict arrangement. we've finally signed a box and cox arrangement. |
| 3735 |
bow and scrape to say that someone is bowing and scraping means that they are being excessively polite or servile. the prime-minister was greeted with much bowing and scraping. |
| 3736 |
bounce something off someone you can say this when you present an idea or plan to someone in order to test their reaction or obtain feedback. i think i've found a solution to this problem. let me bounce this off you. |
| 3737 |
bounce off the walls someone who is very excited about something, or full of nervous energy, is said to be bouncing off the walls. i can't wait to start the new project. i'm bouncing off the walls. |
| 3738 |
bought the farm this expression means to die, particularly in an accident or military action. unfortunately, many soldiers bought the farm. |
| 3739 |
bottom-up this idiom refers to an approach to organisation or planning that is built up from basic details rather than from a guiding principal or theory. i present to you a bottom-up project to building a successful company. |
| 3740 |
bottom line if you use this term in an explanation or discussion, you refer to the most essential point or the conclusion reached. the bottom line is that the marketing plan needs to be changed. |
| 3741 |
bottom fell out when something causes a plan, project or venture to collapse or fail, the bottom falls out of it. when rain was forecasted, the bottom fell out of our plans for a beach party. |
| 3742 |
bottom drawer this phrase refers to different items that a young woman traditionally collects for use after she is married. she was given a quilt for her bottom drawer. |
| 3743 |
boss-eyed this idiom means cross-eyed (having eyes that look in towards the nose). have you noticed that he is boss-eyed? |
| 3744 |
bosom friends this idiom refers to close friends who share confidences. the two women had been bosom friends until ann married. |
| 3745 |
born-again this idiom is used to refer to someone who has decided to accept a particular type of evangelical christianity, especially after a deep spiritual experience. after the accident he said he was a born-again christian. |
| 3746 |
born with a silver spoon in one's mouth a person who is born with a silver spoon in their mouth is born into a very rich family. they never have to worry about money; they were born with a silver spoon in their mouth. |
| 3747 |
born on the wrong side of the blanket this idiom is a euphemism for being born out of wedlock. nicole was born on the wrong side of the blanket. |
| 3748 |
bored to tears if you find something so dull and uninteresting that it makes you sad enough to cry, you are bored to tears. i could see that she was bored to tears by the historical documentary. |
| 3749 |
booze cruise this phrase refers to a sea trip from england to continental europe to buy cheap drink. let's go on a booze cruise. |
| 3750 |
bookworm this term is used to describe someone who reads a lot, all the time. it's a pleasure speaking to her. she knows so many things. no wonder she is a bookworm. |
| 3751 |
boogie-woogie this idiom refers to a style of blues music, with close links to jazz forms like ragtime and stride, usually played on the piano. have you ever heard boogie-woogie? |
| 3752 |
booby trap this phrase refers to something dangerous, especially a bomb, that is hidden inside somewhere that looks safe. the soldier was killed while checking for booby traps. |
| 3753 |
booby prize this phrase refers to a prize given to make fun of the loser in a contest or game. she was given a booby prize. |
| 3754 |
bone up on this idiom means to study hard, usually in preparation for a test. i have to bone up on security paradigms before applying for a doctorate in that field. |
| 3755 |
bone to pick with someone if you have a bone to pick with someone, you are annoyed with them and want to talk to them about it. twain wants to see the director. he says he has got a bone to pick with him. |
| 3756 |
bone of contention a bone of contention is a matter or subject about which there is a lot of disagreement. the wages have been agreed on, but opening on saturdays is still a bone of contention. |
| 3757 |
bone idle this idiom means utterly lazy. nicole is a bone idle woman. |
| 3758 |
bone dry this idiom means completely dry. the soil is bone dry. |
| 3759 |
bona fides this means that something is genuine, verified. the content on this website is bona fides, always. |
| 3760 |
bon appetit this expression literally translates to "good appetite". i'd like to wish you all bon appetit! |
| 3761 |
bolt from the blue to refer to something as a bolt from the blue means that it happened totally unexpectedly. the manager's resignation came as a bolt from the blue. |
| 3762 |
bold as brass someone who is as bold as brass behaves without shame or embarrassment. bold as brass, she refused my gift. |
| 3763 |
boil the ocean this expression means to waste time on a task or project that is unnecessary, not worth doing or impossible to achieve. i expect you to do the job well but please don't boil the ocean! |
| 3764 |
bog-standard this idiom refers to something completely ordinary, without anything special added. my last car was just a bog-standard model. |
| 3765 |
bodice-ripper a novel, usually on a historical theme, with a plot that involves romantic passion between a vulnerable heroine and a rich, powerful male character, is called a bodice-ripper. the new novel is a bodice-ripper set in the russian revolution. |
| 3766 |
bob's your uncle this expression is said after a set of instructions are provided and one wants to convey that the work will be simple for the other person to do. you add three cups of water to the mix and some vegetables, heat it for seven minutes and bob's your uncle, the soup is ready. |
| 3767 |
blue-eyed boy a blue-eyed boy is someone's favourite. he's the principal's blue-eyed boy! |
| 3768 |
blue-collar this expression refers to workers who do work needing strength or physical skill rather than office work. this is a blue-collar neighbourhood. |
| 3769 |
blue ribbon if you say this regarding someone, it means that they are of superior quality or distinction, the best of a group. a blue ribbon group of officers were demanded to investigate the murder. |
| 3770 |
blue plate special this idiom refers to a set meal provided at a reduced price. the blue plate special was our only option. we had little money, |
| 3771 |
blue pencil if you blue-pencil something, you censor it or limit the information that is shared. the report about how they had been treated in prison was blue-penciled. |
| 3772 |
blue in the face if you do something until you are blue in the face, you try unsuccessfully to do something for a very long time. i explained my plan until i was blue in the face but she wouldn't change her mind. |
| 3773 |
blue chip company this term refers to a company with a solid reputation for the quality of its products and the stability of its growth and earnings. it's really safe to invest in this company. it's a blue chip company. |
| 3774 |
blue blood this term is used to describe someone from a noble, aristocratic or wealthy family. many of the blue bloods were invited to the party. |
| 3775 |
blown to smithereens this phrase means disintegrated into small fragments by a sudden impact or explosion. the city was blown to smithereens by the bombing. |
| 3776 |
blow your top if you blow your top, you suddenly become very angry. when my father saw the state of the house after the party, he blew his top. |
| 3777 |
blow your own trumpet this idiom means to say things that make your own self look good. i don't like people who are always blowing their own trumpet. |
| 3778 |
blow up in your face when working on a plan or project, if it suddenly goes wrong or fails, it blows up in your face. our plans blew up in our face when the airline company went on strike. |
| 3779 |
blow up if you blow up, you go crazy. when i saw her look, i knew she'd blow up. |
| 3780 |
blow the whistle if you report an illegal or socially-harmful activity to the authorities, and give information about those responsible for it, you blow the whistle or you are a whistle-blower. brian refused to blow the whistle on his boss for fear of losing his well-paid job. |
| 3781 |
blow smoke this means to exaggerate or say things that aren't true to make you seem better or more knowledgeable than in reality. she's blowing smoke. i don't think that she has read the project. |
| 3782 |
blow out of proportion if you exaggerate the importance of something, you blow it out of proportion. the importance of the latest event was blown out of proportion by the media. |
| 3783 |
blow mind this idiom means to surprise, sock or amaze somebody. this pizza simply blew my mind! |
| 3784 |
blow hot and cold if you blow hot and cold about something, you constantly change your opinion about it. the manager keeps blowing hot and cold about the marketing campaign – one day she finds it excellent, the next day he wants to make changes. |
| 3785 |
blow cover this expression means to reveal the true identity. the officer recognised the woman from a wanted poster and blew her cover. |
| 3786 |
blow away the cobwebs if something blows away the cobwebs, it makes you feel more lively and refreshes your ideas. a walk on the beach will blow away the cobwebs. |
| 3787 |
blow a raspberry this expression means to make a derisive or contemptuous sound with your lips. we were sitting at the table and all of a sudden she blew a raspberry. |
| 3788 |
blow a gasket when a furious person blows a gasket, they explode with anger. when the shop was burgled for the fourth time, the administrator blew a gasket. |
| 3789 |
blow a fuse if you blow a fuse, you suddenly lose your temper and become very angry. she blew a fuse yesterday when she discovered that her phone had been stolen. |
| 3790 |
blot one's copy-book someone who blots their copy-book does something to spoil their good record or reputation. she blotted her copy-book when she was arrested for drug dealing. |
| 3791 |
bloody-minded this idiom refers to someone who makes things difficult for others and opposes their views for no good reason. why are you so bloody-minded today? |
| 3792 |
blood, toil, tears and sweat this idiom refers to hard work and suffering. he once said that he had nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears and sweat. |
| 3793 |
blood, sweat and tears a project or action which involves blood, sweat and tears requires a lot of effort and hard work. her success wasn't due to luck; it was blood, sweat and tears all the way. |
| 3794 |
blood red this expression is used to describe the deep red colour of something. i liked her blood red dress. |
| 3795 |
blood on hands this idiom means that a person is responsible for someone's death. people with blood on their hands don't stand a chance in our justice system. |
| 3796 |
blood is thicker than water this idiom means that family loyalties are stronger than those to other people. it was just me and his niece in the interview. i had no chance, blood is thicker than water. |
| 3797 |
blood blister this is a slang for sister. there are five of them at home – three brothers and two blood blisters. |
| 3798 |
blood and thunder this phrase refers to unrestrained and violent action or behaviour. that was a blood and thunder speech. |
| 3799 |
blonde bombshell this idiom refers to a glamorous blonde. is melania trump a blonde bombshell? |
| 3800 |
blockbuster something that is outstanding, impressive or particularly successful, such as a film or a book, is called a blockbuster. her book was a blockbuster for sure. |
| 3801 |
bling-bling this idiom refers to ostentatious, over-the-top jewellery or dress. it is often used to demonstrate the wearer's wealth. the man was wearing lots of bling-bling. |
| 3802 |
blind-man's buff this phrase refers to a game, in which a blindfolded player tries to catch others. do you want to play blind-man's buff? |
| 3803 |
blinded by love when a person is so madly in love with somebody that they can't see the persons faults or negative characteristics. you explain it to him in vain. he is blinded by love. |
| 3804 |
blind spot this idiom refers to a subject about which one is ignorant or biased. foreign languages are her blind spot. |
| 3805 |
blind someone with science if someone tries to blind you with science, they confuse you with their knowledge by using difficult or technical words. when you ask him for a simple explanation, he blinds you with science. |
| 3806 |
blind impulse this idiom refers to a sudden and unaccountable desire to do something. acting on a blind impulse, he submitted his resignation. |
| 3807 |
blind date when two people who have never seen each other before go on a date, it's a blind date. my best friend keeps organizing blind dates for me. |
| 3808 |
blew me away when something blows you away, you are utterly impressed by it. the car exhibition blew me away. |
| 3809 |
bless you! this phrase is a response often said when someone sneezes. bless you, maria! |
| 3810 |
blazing row this expression refers to a very angry argument, a big fight or a big quarrel. after having a blazing row with ann, he stormed out of the room. |
| 3811 |
blaze a trail this expression means to pursue a line of research that points the way to great discoveries. the researchers have blazed a trail in developing new techniques for treating diabetes. |
| 3812 |
blast from the past this idiom refers to something that suddenly and strongly makes you remember a previous time in your life. seeing that photo again was a real blast from the past. |
| 3813 |
blamestorming a discussion among a group of people who try to determine who or what is to blame for a particular mistake, failure or wrongdoing, is called blamestorming. a blamestorming session took place following the poor reviews in the press. |
| 3814 |
black-on-black this idiom refers to harmful actions in which both the perpetrator and the victim are black. black-on-black violence rate has risen. |
| 3815 |
blackmail someone if you blackmail somebody, you extort or take money from them by using their secret against them and threatening to reveal it to others. i need help to stop that man because he has been blackmailing me for some time. |
| 3816 |
blacklist someone if you blacklist someone, you write their name on a list if they break any rules and ban them from having the opportunity to take part again. i have been blacklisted because i couldn't pay the debt. |
| 3817 |
blackball someone if you blackball someone, you exclude them or ostracise them socially. bill has been blackballed after doing that horrible thing. |
| 3818 |
black tie event the expression refers to a formal event at which men are required to wear a dinner jacket or tuxedo and a black bow tie. brian needs to know if it's going to be a casual or black tie event. |
| 3819 |
black sheep of the family this expression refers to a disreputable or disgraced member of a family. steven is the black sheep of the family. |
| 3820 |
black sheep the black sheep is one who behaves very differently or badly, and is considered disreputable by the other members of the family. he was the black sheep of the family. |
| 3821 |
black out if you black out, you lose consciousness. when she saw the police, she blacked out. |
| 3822 |
black market it refers to illegal buying and selling of goods or currencies. you should be careful of what you buy on the black market – it's not always the best quality you can get. |
| 3823 |
black hole this expression refers to a place in which things are lost, never to be seen again. her purse is a black hole. |
| 3824 |
black friday this idiom may refer to a day of a financial disaster or to a day when the prices of selling items are drastically reduced in order to attract the customers. she waits for online sales on black friday. |
| 3825 |
black eye this refers to a bruise near one's eye. the boy came home with a horrible black eye that day. |
| 3826 |
black as night this means that it is very dark and it is hard to see anything. there was another power cut last night; it was as black as night in my apartment. |
| 3827 |
black and blue this expression is used to describe something that is badly bruised. his face was black and blue after the boxing match. |
| 3828 |
bitter pill to swallow something very unpleasant or difficult to accept is a bitter pill to swallow. losing her job after arranging the merger between the companies was a really bitter pill to swallow. |
| 3829 |
bitter medicine this idiom refers to something which is difficult to accept. the workers had to take the bitter medicine of a pay cut. |
| 3830 |
bitten by the bug if you develop a sudden interest or enthusiasm for something, you are bitten by the bug. my dad decided to take up computer games and was immediately bitten by the bug. |
| 3831 |
bite the hand that feeds you if you bite the hand that feeds you, you are unfriendly or show ingratitude towards someone you depend on, or who is helpful to you. if you say bad things about your parents, you bite the hand that feeds you. |
| 3832 |
bite the bullet if you bite the bullet, you accept something unpleasant because you cannot avoid it. if you don't have health insurance, you have to bite the bullet and pay the hospital fees in case something happens. |
| 3833 |
bite someone's head off if you bite someone's head off, you criticize them strongly (and perhaps unfairly). i worked 14 hours a day all week and my boss bit my head off for not doing my part of the project. |
| 3834 |
bite one's tongue if you bite your tongue, you try not to say what you really think or feel. it was difficult for me not to react to her words; i had to bite my tongue. |
| 3835 |
bite off more than you can chew if you bite off more than you can chew, you try to do something that is too difficult for you, or more than you can manage. as soon as i started to translate the financial report, i realized that i had bitten off more than i could chew. |
| 3836 |
bitch slap this expression refers to an open-handed slap in the face intended to be humiliating. bitch-slapping is what he needs after doing that horrible thing to you. |
| 3837 |
birthday suit this humorous expression means that you are wearing nothing. the bathroom door opened suddenly and there she was in her birthday suit. |
| 3838 |
birds of a feather flock together this expression means that people who are alike are often friends (it is usually used negatively). no wonder they are friends. birds of a feather flock together. |
| 3839 |
birds of a feather to say that two people are birds of a feather means that they are very similar in many ways. no wonder they don't get on well. they are not birds of a feather! |
| 3840 |
bird's eye view this idiom literally means an overview. this book gives you a bird's eye view of the most used english idioms and proverbs. |
| 3841 |
bird of passage this idiom refers to one who is here today and gone tomorrow. she's a true bird of passage. don't fall in love with her! |
| 3842 |
binge watch this expression means to watch multiple episodes of a television programme in succession. this weekend i will binge watch the mentalist. |
| 3843 |
binge drinking the term refers to heavy drinking where large quantities of alcohol are consumed in a short space of time, often among young people in rowdy groups. binge drinking is becoming a major problem in some eastern european countries. |
| 3844 |
billy no-mates this phrase refers to someone with no friends. he is a billy no-mates. |
| 3845 |
bigwig this idiom refers to a person who has an important or powerful position. i was invited at the reception by a bigwig. |
| 3846 |
big time this expression means a lot or to a great extent. it's used to emphasise an action. you owe me big time for this favour. |
| 3847 |
big fish in a small pond a big fish in a small pond is an important or highly-ranked person in a small group or organization. i could get a better job in a big company but i enjoy being a big fish in a small pond. |
| 3848 |
big cheese the expression refers to a person who has a lot of power and influence in an organization. my father is a big cheese in the oil industry. so, tell me how can i help you. |
| 3849 |
big brother this idiom refers to the authorities or a large organisation which tries to control every part of people's lives and to know everything about them. they have complained against the "big brother" regulations. |
| 3850 |
big break this expression refers to an opportunity or turn of events that leads to success. a big break is often used for people involved in the arts, to talk about one specific opportunity that led to their work being recognised and to them being successful. marry had her big break in 2011 and the phone hasn't stopped ringing since. |
| 3851 |
bide your time if you bide your time, you wait for a good opportunity to do something. she's not hesitating. she's just biding her time, waiting for the price to plummet. |
| 3852 |
beyond the veil this expression literally means "in an inexplicable or concealed place or condition, especially the mysterious state of existence after death". many people tried to discover what is beyond the veil, but they didn't succeed. |
| 3853 |
beyond the pale this expression refers to something that is not an acceptable way to behave. they broke up because his behaviour was simply beyond the pale. |
| 3854 |
beyond the grave this idiom means "after death". do you think there's life beyond the grave? |
| 3855 |
beyond redemption if something is beyond redemption, it is such a poor state that there is no hope of improvement or recovery. with the latest scandal, her reputation is now beyond redemption. |
| 3856 |
beyond recall something which is beyond recall is impossible to retrieve, cancel or reverse. i'm afraid we can't recover the contacts – your smartphone is beyond recall. |
| 3857 |
beyond price if something is beyond price, it is so prized and valuable as to not be obtainable by money. this fishing rod is well beyond price. my father has given it to me. |
| 3858 |
beyond our ken this idiom means beyond our understanding. we're sorry but this issue is beyond our ken. |
| 3859 |
beyond one's wildest dreams if something is beyond your wildest dreams, it is better than you imagined or hoped for. the student received a grant from the university, which was beyond his wildest dreams. |
| 3860 |
beyond belief this phrase means outside the range of what is normally considered believable. the fact that she kissed him is beyond belief. |
| 3861 |
beyond any reasonable doubt this is a legal expression which means that something is certain. the investigator established, beyond any reasonable doubt, that the woman was innocent. |
| 3862 |
beware the ides of march this phrase is used to foreshadow something bad. beware the ides of march – he is in a very bad mood today. |
| 3863 |
beware of greeks bearing gifts this idiom means not to trust your enemies. did she give you a gift? beware of greeks bearing gifts! |
| 3864 |
betwixt and between this idiom means to be undecided about something. the little boy was betwixt and between which of his parents to choose during the divorce trial. |
| 3865 |
between you, me and the bed-post this phrase is used when divulging a secret; it refers to something that only the speaker and the listener should hear. between you, me and the bed-post i tell you that i don't want to marry him. |
| 3866 |
between you and me this expression literally means "in confidence". i tell you something, just between you and me. i don't want to marry her. |
| 3867 |
between the wars this expression refers to the period between wwi and wwii. my grandparents were married between the wars. |
| 3868 |
between the devil and the deep blue sea if you are between the devil and the deep blue sea, you are in a situation where there are two equally unpleasant alternatives. when the new product didn't take off, we were caught between the devil and the deep blue sea: craft a new marketing campaign or drop the product. |
| 3869 |
between a rock and a hard place this idiom means between two unwelcome options. these are not good choices – i'm between a rock and a hard place. |
| 3870 |
better safe than sorry the expression means that it's better to be too cautious than to be careless and have regrets later. let's book plane tickets in advance – better safe than sorry! |
| 3871 |
better late than never when someone does something late, this remark means that it is better to do it late than not do it at all. you promised you'd come early to help me – but better late than never! |
| 3872 |
better half this idiom refers to a husband or a wife. i think a house would suit us better, but i will ask my better half too. |
| 3873 |
bet your bottom dollar if you bet your bottom dollar on something, you are absolutely certain of it. john is utterly punctual. you can bet your bottom dollar he will be here at 10 o'clock on the dot. |
| 3874 |
best-laid schemes of mice and men this phrase means that even the most carefully prepared plans may go wrong. we have taken all the necessary measures, but don't forget: best-laid schemes of mice and men. |
| 3875 |
best thing since sliced bread this idiom refers to a good invention, innovation, idea or plan. this laptop is the best thing since sliced bread. |
| 3876 |
best bib and tucker this idiom refers to one's best clothes. she was wearing her best bib and tucker. |
| 3877 |
best bet the action most likely to succeed is called one's best bet. your best bet would be to try calling them at home. they might answer. |
| 3878 |
beside yourself if you are beside yourself (with an emotion), you lose your self-control because of the intensity of the emotion you are feeling. samuel was beside himself with grief when he lost his dog. |
| 3879 |
beside the point if something is beside the point, it does not relate to the topic or is irrelevant. i appreciate your story but it's beside the point. |
| 3880 |
benefit of the doubt if you give someone the benefit of the doubt, you choose to believe that the person is innocent, honest or telling the truth, because there is no evidence to the contrary. although she found it hard to believe his explanation, his wife decided to give him the benefit of the doubt. |
| 3881 |
bend the truth if you bend the truth, you say something that is not entirely true. ok, she bent the truth a bit. she told him that it was her natural hair colour. |
| 3882 |
bend the rules if a person bends the rules, they change the rules in order to help somebody. ok! i will bend the rules for you, but only this time. |
| 3883 |
bend over backwards if you bend over backwards, you try very hard to do something, especially to please somebody. the general manager bent over backwards to make james stay, but he wouldn't change his mind. |
| 3884 |
belt and braces this idiom means being careful – taking double measures to avoid risk. it alludes to the use of both belt and braces to hold up a person's trousers. i wrote to the company and phoned as well – belt and braces. |
| 3885 |
below the salt this phrase means common or lowly. that woman is below the salt. |
| 3886 |
below the belt an action or remark described as below the belt is considered to be unfair or cruel. politicians often use personal information to hit their rivals below the belt. |
| 3887 |
belly laugh this expression means to laugh uncontrollably. i get belly laugh when i am talking with my cousin. |
| 3888 |
bells and whistles when something has bells and whistles on it, it means that it has lots of cool features. it has cost me an arm and a leg but this car has bells and whistles. |
| 3889 |
belle of the ball this expression refers to the most attractive woman at a party of similar event. johanna was the belle of the ball that night. |
| 3890 |
bell, book and candle this phrase is the final line of an incantation denoting excommunication from the catholic church. it may also refers to a method of putting a curse on someone. i'll go after her bell, book and candle if she threatens my family. |
| 3891 |
bell the cat this expression means to do a dangerous job. you might bell the cat and join the army! |
| 3892 |
behind the times a person who is behind the times has old-fashioned ideas and does not keep up with modern life in general. jennifer doesn't have a smartphone. she's completely behind the times. |
| 3893 |
behind the scenes this idiom means out of sight of the public at a theatre or organization, secretly. diplomatic manoeuvres are going on behind the scenes. |
| 3894 |
behind the eight ball this idiom refers to a difficult position from which it is unlikely one can escape. with all the pressure and credits, he is behind the eight ball. |
| 3895 |
behind closed doors if something takes place behind closed doors, it is done privately, with no observers or intruders. the problem was discussed behind closed doors. |
| 3896 |
behind bars someone who is behind bars is in prison. if you keep hanging around with that gang, you'll find yourself behind bars! |
| 3897 |
beggars can't be choosers the expression means that you should not reject an offer if it is the only possibility you have. you have no other choice. she will be lucky if she finds a job. beggars can't be choosers! |
| 3898 |
beg, borrow or steal this phrase means to do whatever is necessary to get something. i will get a new smartphone, whether i have to beg, borrow or steal. |
| 3899 |
beg to differ this expression means to politely refuse something. i beg to differ to your taste in clothes. |
| 3900 |
before your very eyes if someone does something "before your very eyes", they do it in front of you without attempting to hide what they are doing. before my very eyes the child took the rubbish and threw it into our garden! |
| 3901 |
before you know it if something takes place so suddenly that you don't have time to become aware of it, it happens "before you know it" or "before you know where you are". the doorbell rang and, before we knew it, a surprise party was under way. |
| 3902 |
before the ink is dry if people reach an agreement, then change their minds immediately afterwards, the change occurs "before the ink is dry". you can't ever tell when she is serious. she is capable of changing her mind before the ink is dry. |
| 3903 |
before one can say jack robinson this idiom means very suddenly. she was gone before i could say jack robinson. |
| 3904 |
beetle-browed this phrase refers to someone with a furrowed or prominent brow or worried expression. he's a beetle-browed man. |
| 3905 |
beet red this expression is used to describe dark red, usually the colour of a face. before the speech, her face was beet red. |
| 3906 |
beer goggles this idiom means you are sexually attracted to someone, whom you wouldn't normally find attractive, because you are drunk. get your beer goggles off! she's not beautiful! |
| 3907 |
beer and skittles this is a shorthand for a life of indulgence spent in the pub. one day she will find out that life isn't all beer and skittles. |
| 3908 |
been there, done that the expression is used to indicate that the speaker is familiar with the situation mentioned. it can also refer to an attitude which reflects a certain boredom at the idea of repeating an experience that has lost its novelty. her suggestions produced a "been there, done that" attitude which undermined my enthusiasm. |
| 3909 |
beef something up if you beef something up, you improve it by making it stronger or more substantial. you'd better beef up your arguments if you want to get the job. |
| 3910 |
beef and reef this idiom refers to a type of cuisine that combines both meat and seafood (especially lobster and steak) or restaurants that serve such cuisine. i know a beef and reef restaurant. let's have dinner there. |
| 3911 |
bedroom tax this is the slang term for uk's removal of spare room subsidy. i'm going to be caught by the bedroom tax. |
| 3912 |
beat the heat this idiom refers to finding a way to stay cool when it is very hot outside. i am going to norway in order to beat the heat. |
| 3913 |
beat the clock this idiom means to do something quickly before you run out of time. i managed to beat the clock and complete the task. |
| 3914 |
beat swords into ploughshares this idiom means to turn to peaceful pursuits and away from war. the soldiers decided to beat swords into ploughshares. |
| 3915 |
beat someone to the draw if you beat someone to the draw, you react more quickly and manage to do something before they do. carrie was determined to be the first to arrive. she managed to beat the others to the draw. |
| 3916 |
beat one's brain out if someone beats their brains out, they try very hard to understand something or solve a problem. my grandfather beats his brains out every morning trying to do the crossword puzzle in the newspaper. |
| 3917 |
beat a hasty retreat someone who beats a (hasty) retreat runs away or goes back hurriedly to avoid a dangerous or difficult situation. the thief beat a hasty retreat as soon as he saw the police officer. |
| 3918 |
beast with two backs this idiom refers to partners engaged in sexual intercourse. i saw them making the beast with two backs. |
| 3919 |
bear the brunt a person who has to bear the brunt of something is the one who suffers the most when something bad or unpleasant happens. when things go wrong, their assistant always has to bear the brunt of their anger. |
| 3920 |
bear in mind if a person asks you to bear something in mind, they are asking you to remember it because it is important. you must bear in mind that the cost of living is higher in paris. |
| 3921 |
bear fruit if something bears fruit, it produces positive or successful results. after years of hard work, her study finally begins to bear fruit. |
| 3922 |
bean counter this is a disparaging term for an accountant or anyone who compiles statistics. the bank offered me so much money that i accepted to be their bean counter. |
| 3923 |
be-all and end-all to say that something is not the be-all and end-all means that it is not what matters most or what is most essential. good kindergartens are not the be-all and end-all of educating a child. |
| 3924 |
beach bum this idiom refers to someone, usually a youngster, who spends all their time hanging out at the beach surfing and partying. she argues with her son because he's a beach bum. |
| 3925 |
be up to the mark this idiom means to be good enough. her latest project isn't up to the mark. |
| 3926 |
be the bee's knees if someone thinks they are the bee's knees, they have a high opinion of themselves. darius thinks he's the bee's knees since he got his new job. |
| 3927 |
be that as it may the expression means that while what the speaker says may be true, it will not change the situation. fewer people may come because of the bad weather, but be that as it may, it's too late to cancel the event. |
| 3928 |
be still, my beating heart this idiom is an expression of excitement when seeing the object of one's romantic affections. she kissed me and i told myself, be still, my beating heart. |
| 3929 |
be star-studded if something is star-studded, it means that it has all kinds of starts – movie, tv, music and any other entertainment starts. something that is studded has things all over it. the new movie is completely star-studded and i don't like this. |
| 3930 |
be spot on if something is spot on, it is exactly right. that backpack is a match for my outfit. the colour is spot on! |
| 3931 |
be out of the woods this idiom means to no longer be in danger or difficulty. after two years of struggle, we are finally out of the woods. |
| 3932 |
be on the ball if you are on the ball, you are aware of what is happening and are able to deal with things quickly and intelligently. we need someone who is really on the ball to head the marketing campaign. |
| 3933 |
be on a collision course this expression refers to doing or saying things which are certain to cause a serious disagreement or a fight between them. the united states and iran are on a collision course. |
| 3934 |
be of no use to man or beast this phrase means to be completely useless, to serve no purpose, to be unsuitable to anyone or anything. this tool is of no use to man or beast. |
| 3935 |
be my guest this expression is used to give someone permission to do something. if you'd like to use my smartphone, be my guest. |
| 3936 |
be murder if something is murder, it is very difficult or uncomfortable. the journey home through that poor country was murder! |
| 3937 |
be lovey-dovey this idiom refers to expressing your love in public by constantly kissing and hugging. i don't want to go with them. they are so lovey-dovey... |
| 3938 |
be just as well something that is a good or lucky thing to happen. it would be just as well to check the engine. |
| 3939 |
be in the soup this idiom means to be in trouble or experiencing difficulties. i was in the soup after i crashed the car. |
| 3940 |
be in the limelight if you are in the limelight, you are in the public eye. this means that there are people who actually care about your personal life aside from all the work that you do. i tried to avoid the publicity as much as possible, but i was in the limelight that period. |
| 3941 |
be in the lap of the gods this phrase means to be out of one's control or power. her recovery is now in the lap of the gods. |
| 3942 |
be in stitches when people are in stitches, they are laughing a lot. the joke was so funny that everyone was in stitches. |
| 3943 |
be in bed with this means to work with a person or organisation or to be involved with them, in a way which causes other people distrust you. they were accused of being in bed with terrorists. |
| 3944 |
be in a stitherum someone who is in a stitherum is excited, agitated or confused about something. the citizens were in a stitherum after his resignation. |
| 3945 |
be in a fog if you are in a fog, you are in a great confusion. anne always seems to be in a fog. |
| 3946 |
be enthralled this idiom means to be captivated or to be held spellbound by pleasing qualities. i was enthralled by her beauty. |
| 3947 |
be colourless this expression is used to describe someone who lacks personality and is really boring. i don't like her. she's colourless. |
| 3948 |
be black and white this expression means to take everything into consideration and oversimplify something. to judge everything as either one way or the other, good or bad. she didn't realize that the whole situation is not as black and white as she thinks! |
| 3949 |
be afraid, be very afraid this expression is a warning that something dangerous is imminent. in reality, this is usually said with comic intent. the thing being warned of is more likely to be mildly unwelcome than actually dangerous. the librarian asked about your overdue books – be afraid, be very afraid. |
| 3950 |
bay for blood this idiom means to want somebody to be hurt or punished. the crowd was baying for blood of the criminal. |
| 3951 |
battle royal this idiom refers to a general mayhem or a free-for-all fight. this is a battle royal! may you win! |
| 3952 |
battle of wills a conflict, argument or struggle where both sides are determined to win is described as a battle of wills. when they broke up, neither party would make concessions – it was a battle of wills. |
| 3953 |
battle lines are drawn this expression is used to say that opposing groups are ready to defend the reason behind the conflict. the battle lines have been drawn between those who accept the changes and those who don't. |
| 3954 |
batten down the hatches when you "batten down the hatches", you prepare yourself for trouble or a forthcoming difficult period, like a ship preparing for a storm. here comes the infantry! batten down the hatches! |
| 3955 |
bats in the belfry if you say that somebody has bats in the belfry, you mean that they are eccentric or crazy. she comes up with the craziest ideas – she's got bats in the belfry! |
| 3956 |
bated breath if you wait for something with "bated breath", you are both anxious and excited about an imminent event. we waited with bated breath for her to come back home. |
| 3957 |
bat from the pavilion end this is a slang term for homosexuality. we found out the he was batting from the pavilion end. |
| 3958 |
bat a thousand this idiom means to be successful in everything that you do. she seems to be batting a thousand with her online business. |
| 3959 |
basket case a person whose agitated mental state leaves them helpless or unable to cope with things is called a basket case. i will turn into a basket case if this utterly stressful situation continues. |
| 3960 |
barrel of laughs someone who is a "barrel of laughs" is very funny or entertaining. let's invite her to our party. she's such a barrel of laughs! |
| 3961 |
barnet fair this is a slang for hair. i don't like the new hairdresser – he cut my barnet fair too short. |
| 3962 |
barking mad this idiom means insane or intensely mad. your neighbour is barking mad. |
| 3963 |
bark up the wrong tree a person who is barking up the wrong tree is doing the wrong thing, because their beliefs or ideas are incorrect or mistaken. the police are barking up the wrong tree if they think i stole the car. i can't drive! |
| 3964 |
bargain hunting if you go bargain hunting, you spend time in the shops looking for items to buy at the lowest price. during november sales i go bargain hunting with my family. |
| 3965 |
barefaced liar someone who lies easily, with a total lack of shame, is a barefaced liar. that barefaced liar stole my rolex and said he had found it! it's incredible! |
| 3966 |
bar fly a bar fly is someone who spends a lot of time drinking in bars and pubs. you'll find her at that newly-opened bar. she's a real bar fly. |
| 3967 |
baptism of fire this idiom refers to an ordeal or martyrdom. more recently, a soldier's first experience of battle. their mission was truly a baptism of fire. |
| 3968 |
banker's hours this idiom refers to a work day that begins late and ends early. last week, most of us worked banker's hours. |
| 3969 |
bang your head against a brick wall if you bang or knock your head against a brick wall, you continue vainly to try to achieve something in spite of several unsuccessful attempts. i've been banging my head against a brick wall trying to explain the study to her. |
| 3970 |
bang on this idiom literally means to be exact; to be correct; to be proper. the documentary was bang on the subject. |
| 3971 |
bang head against a wall this phrase means to do, say or ask for something repeatedly but to be unable to change a situation. i keep asking her not to do it anymore, but it's like banging my head against a wall. |
| 3972 |
bane of your life to say that something is "the bane of your life" means that it is the cause of your problems or your unhappiness. this computer is always breaking down! it's the bane of my life! |
| 3973 |
bandy words with this idiom means to argue persistently. i haven't come here to bandy words with you olive. |
| 3974 |
bandit territory a geographical area where law enforcement is practically impossible, because people ignore all rules, is called "bandit territory". there are some certain bandit territories in the world where travellers shouldn't go. |
| 3975 |
banana republic this idiom refers to a small, poor country with a weak, corrupt or dishonest government. if she wins the election, nobody can save the country from becoming a banana republic. |
| 3976 |
ballpark figure if someone gives a ballpark figure, they give an approximate number or a rough estimate of the cost of something. she doesn't know exactly how much it will cost, but a ballpark figure would be around $5.000. |
| 3977 |
ball and chain this term refers to a burden or problem that ties you down and prevents you from doing what you want to do. my holiday mountain house has become a ball and chain – it's just too much work to be done! |
| 3978 |
balancing act when you try to satisfy two or more people or groups who have different needs, and keep everyone happy, you perform a balancing act. many women, especially my wife, have to perform a balancing act between work and family. |
| 3979 |
bait and switch this term refers to a deceptive commercial practice of advertising a low-priced item to attract customers, then telling them that the product is out of stock and persuading them to buy a more expensive article. this general store is famous for its bait and switch tactics. |
| 3980 |
bag of tricks if you use your bag of tricks to do something, you try all the clever methods you know in order to succeed. let's call on sophia and her bag of tricks. maybe she can help us out. |
| 3981 |
bag of bones to say that someone is a bag of bones means that they are extremely thin. when she came home from university she was a bag of bones. |
| 3982 |
bag lady this expression refers to a homeless woman, who carries all her possessions in shopping bags. it's a pity! she had a house and family and now she is a bag lady. |
| 3983 |
bag and baggage this expression literally means "with all one's belongings". the landlord asked them to vacate the house, bag and baggage, in a week's time. |
| 3984 |
badger to death this idiom means to pester or nag someone relentlessly. i've been badgered to death by them all day – i need a break. |
| 3985 |
badger someone if you badger someone into doing something, you persistently nag or pester them until you obtain what you want. i badgered my parents into buying me a new smartphone. |
| 3986 |
bad mouth this idiom means to criticize someone behind their back. no one wants to hire someone who bad mouths people. |
| 3987 |
bad hair day originating as a humorous comment about one's hair being unmanageable, this term had broadened to mean "a day when everything seems to go wrong". hey! what's wrong with you? are you having a bad hair day? |
| 3988 |
bad egg someone who is a bad egg is an untrustworthy person often involved in trouble whose company should be avoided. i don't want my daughter to be friend with jay. jay is a bad egg. |
| 3989 |
bad blood between this idiom refers to the feeling of hate between people because of any arguments in the past. the attack may be the result of bad blood between the two groups. |
| 3990 |
bad apple this idiom is used to refer to a person who is a troublemaker or a criminal. he's a bad apple. i wouldn't hang out with him. |
| 3991 |
backward in coming forward this idiom means shy or reluctant to do something. she will tell you her opinion. she is not backward in coming forward. |
| 3992 |
backstairs influence this idiom refers to a secret and improper influence. he got the job by backstairs influence. |
| 3993 |
backseat driver a passenger in a car who gives unwanted advice to the driver is called a backseat driver. i can't stand backseat drivers like my girlfriend. |
| 3994 |
back-room boys this term refers to people who do important work but have no contact with the public. back-room boys don't receive the credit they deserve for their work in our it company. |
| 3995 |
back-of-the-envelope calculation this expression refers to a quick approximate calculation done informally, as on the back of an envelope. i don't need the exact amount for this study. just give me a back-of-the-envelope calculation. |
| 3996 |
backhanded compliment a remark that appears to express admiration but could also be interpreted as an insult is called a backhanded compliment. my manager said my presentation on marketing strategy was surprisingly clear! how's that for a backhanded compliment! does that mean that i am usually not clear? |
| 3997 |
back to the wall if you have your back to the wall, you are in serious difficulty with very few options available. with her back to the wall, the businesswoman had to accept the deal |
| 3998 |
back to the salt mines saying that you have to go back to the salt mines is a humorous way of talking about returning to work, usually with some reluctance. we got three days off at easter and then it was back to the salt mines. |
| 3999 |
back to the drawing board this idiom is used when an attempt fails and it's time to start all over. i missed this objective. let's go back to the drawing board. |
| 4000 |
back to square one to say that someone is back to square one means that they have not succeeded in what they were trying to do, so they have to start again. when the plans were turned down, it was back to square one for the officer. |
| 4001 |
back to basics an approach that uses traditional ideas and methods which have been successful in the past. i prefer having everything back to basics in my office. |
| 4002 |
back the field this idiom means to place a bet on all the horses in a race, except one. that day he chose to back the field and he lost. |
| 4003 |
back on your feet if you are back on your feet, after an illness or an accident, you are physically healthy again. her grandfather had a bad influenza but he is back on his feet again. |
| 4004 |
back of the net! this idiom mean to score a goal. it was such a great goal. back of the net! |
| 4005 |
back of beyond an isolated place located far from any town is said to be in the back of beyond. it took me hours to find maria's house. she lives in the back of beyond. |
| 4006 |
back into shape to get yourself into shape, you need to take some exercise in order to become fit and healthy again. brian decided he would have to get back into shape before looking for a new job. |
| 4007 |
back against the wall this idiom means to be in a tough situation with limited options. the company has its back against the wall. |
| 4008 |
baby snatcher this idiom refers to someone who enters into an amorous relationship with a much younger person. anne can easily be called a baby snatcher as her lover is 26. |
| 4009 |
baby father this idiom refers to the father of an infant who is not married to or in an exclusive relationship with the mother. that guy is a baby father, but it's your choice. |
| 4010 |
baby bump this expression refers to the protruding belly of a pregnant woman. it is also used to describe the unborn child itself. soon her baby bump is going to make it obvious that she is pregnant. |
| 4011 |
baby brain this idiom refers to confusion or forgetfulness caused by lack of sleep when caring for a new-born. she put the milk in the oven today – must be baby brain. |
| 4012 |
baby boomer this idiom refers to a person born during the temporary peak in the birth-rate that occurred in several countries following wwii, notably the usa and the uk. steven is was a baby boomer. |
| 4013 |
baby blues this expression refers to the depression that is caused to new mothers after childbirth. she is going through some baby blues now and needs compassion from you. |
| 4014 |
away with the fairies someone who is away with the fairies is in such a dreamy state that they are not totally in touch with reality and give the impression of being slightly mad. it's no use trying to explain the strategy to her. she's away with the fairies. |
| 4015 |
avowed intent when someone makes a public declaration of their objective or goal, this is their avowed intent. the avowed intent of the government is to reduce tax. |
| 4016 |
avant-garde this phrase refers to artists whose work was ahead of their times. this exhibition has many sculptures that are avant-garde. |
| 4017 |
automatic pilot if you are on automatic pilot, you do something without thinking about it or having to pay attention, because you do it regularly. at first i was worried about looking after my brother but after a while i was on automatic pilot. |
| 4018 |
auld lang syne this idiom means old long-since or old long-ago. that happened auld lang syne. |
| 4019 |
augur well this idiom means to foreshadow a successful outcome, indicated by some circumstance or event. the sales figures for the first months augur well for the rest of the year. |
| 4020 |
at your wits' end if you are at your wits' end, you are very worried about something and do not know what to do. the whole situation made me be at my wits' end. |
| 4021 |
at will when it is possible to do something at will, you can do it as and when you please, wherever and whenever you wish, without limit or restriction. one day, i will be so rich that i might be able to travel the world at will. |
| 4022 |
at this stage of the game this expression refers to the current point reached in a process, activity or developing situation. at this stage of the game we think that further intervention would be unwise. we propose to wait and see how things develop. |
| 4023 |
at this late stage in the game this idiom means at this point. there's nothing i can do at this late stage in the game. |
| 4024 |
at the touch of a button if you can do something at the touch of a button, you can do it very easily, often thanks to technology. from now, the security team can be alerted at the touch of a button. |
| 4025 |
at the top of your lungs if you shout at the top of your lungs, you shout as loudly as you possibly can. that moment i was utterly scared. therefore, i shouted at the top of my lungs. |
| 4026 |
at the top of the agenda this idiom refers to something prioritized as the most important thing to discuss or address. the new dress code is at the top of my agenda to discuss with the manager. |
| 4027 |
at the outside when talking about the length of time or amount of money necessary to do something, at the outside indicates the highest estimate or the largest amount. how long will it take to get there? three hours at the outside. |
| 4028 |
at the helm of this idiom means "in control, in charge". he is the first man to be at the helm of this company. |
| 4029 |
at the end of the day this idiom means "when everything is taken into consideration". at the end of the day, i am responsible for my life. |
| 4030 |
at the end of somebody's rope this idiom means to have no more patience or strength. i'm at the end of my rope with these children. |
| 4031 |
at the eleventh hour if something happens at the eleventh hour, it happens when it is almost too late or at the last possible moment. i finished the project at the eleventh hour. |
| 4032 |
at the drop of a hat if you do something at the drop of a hat, you do it immediately and without hesitation. i'm ready to help you at the drop of a hat. |
| 4033 |
at the bottom of the ladder someone who is at the bottom of the ladder occupies the lowest or most basic position or is hired at entry level. in my first job i started at the bottom of the ladder. |
| 4034 |
at someone's beck and call if a person is at someone's beck and call they are ready to obey orders instantly. she's incapable of doing anything herself. she is used to having people at her beck and call. |
| 4035 |
at sixes and sevens if someone or something is at sixes and sevens they are in a state of complete confusion or they are completely disorganized. this is not a proper time to have guests. everything is at sixes and sevens since i moved in this flat. |
| 4036 |
at odds if one person is at odds with another, they disagree with each other. she's at odds with her father over the purchase of a new smartphone. |
| 4037 |
at loggerheads if you are at loggerheads with a person or organisation, you strongly disagree with them. i was at loggerheads with my neighbours over the decision to close the parking garage. |
| 4038 |
at full tilt this idiom means at top speed or with maximum energy. i was driving home at full tilt. |
| 4039 |
at first hand if you experience something yourself directly, without any intermediary, you experience it at first hand. seeing the football match at first hand is much better than watching it on television. |
| 4040 |
at each other's throats two people who are at each other's throats are always fighting or arguing. candidates for the presidential election are constantly at each other's throats. |
| 4041 |
at death's door this expression is used to describe someone who is seriously ill or very close to death. my friends was so ill that he was at death's door for several days. |
| 4042 |
at daggers drawn this idiom refers to two parties which are almost ready to fight. the two high-schools have been at daggers drawn for months. |
| 4043 |
at cross purposes if two people are at cross purposes, there is a misunderstanding regarding what each one is talking about. it seems we are at cross purposes. you are talking about a house and i am talking about a home. |
| 4044 |
at close quarters if you do something at close quarters, you do it very near to a particular person or thing. you can watch the helicopter take off at close quarters. |
| 4045 |
at bottom this idiom mainly refers to the core of the object or to the crux of the matter. they say that to be an honest person is what matters at bottom. |
| 4046 |
at all costs if you are determined to obtain or achieve something at all costs, you want it regardless of the expense, effort or sacrifice involved. the officer was determined at all costs to get a report from the war zone. |
| 4047 |
at a snail's pace if something moves at a snail's pace, it moves very slowly. the man was moving along the pavement at a snail's pace. |
| 4048 |
at a pinch to say that something could be done at a pinch means that it would be possible to do it if absolutely necessary. the big hall can seat 100 people, and a few more at a pinch. |
| 4049 |
at a low ebb a person or organisation at a low ebb is not as strong or successful as usual. the local political crisis has left the company at a low ebb. |
| 4050 |
at a loss if a person is at a loss, they don't know what to say or do in a particular situation. when i saw her kissing another man i was at a loss. |
| 4051 |
asleep at the wheel if you say that someone is asleep at the wheel, you mean that they are not sufficiently attentive, especially at a critical moment when vigilance is required. when the firemen arrived too late at the scene, the night watchwoman was accused of being asleep at the wheel. |
| 4052 |
asleep at the switch this idiom means not to be alert on opportunity. the security guard fell asleep at the switch and thieves entered into the building. |
| 4053 |
asking for trouble someone who is asking for trouble is behaving so stupidly that he or she is likely to have problems. driving so fast on this highway is really asking for trouble. |
| 4054 |
ask for the moon this idiom means to ask for too much. hoping for a permanent peace in this area it's like asking for the moon. |
| 4055 |
ask a silly question and you'll get a silly answer this expression has a literal meaning. aren't you satisfied with her answer? well, ask a silly question and you'll get a silly answer. |
| 4056 |
ashes to ashes dust to dust this expression reflects the notion that we come from dust and we return to dust. i'm sorry for your loss. ashes to ashes dust to dust. |
| 4057 |
as wise as an owl if you say this referring to a person, it means that they are very wise. you can count on his advice. he's as wise as an owl. |
| 4058 |
as white as snow this simile means pure white. her dress was as white as snow. |
| 4059 |
as white as a sheet this expression is used when somebody is in a state of great fear or anxiety. you are as white as a sheet. what's the matter? |
| 4060 |
as white as a ghost a person who is as white as a ghost looks very pale and frightened. marry went as white as a ghost when she saw the gun. |
| 4061 |
as welcome as flowers in may this means that you are very welcome. oh, it has been a while since we saw each other. you are as welcome as flowers in may. |
| 4062 |
as weak as water if someone is as weak as water, they can be easily influenced. i wouldn't trust her if i were you. she is as weak as water. |
| 4063 |
as warm as toast this expression means that something is comfortably and cozily warm, especially when the weather outside is very cold. the house should be as warm as toast by the time we get there. |
| 4064 |
as useful as a chocolate teapot something which is of no practical use at all is about as useful as a chocolate teapot. in our village there are no roads. therefore, a car is about as useful as a chocolate teapot. |
| 4065 |
as ugly as sin this expression is used to refer to people or things that are considered to be very unattractive. have you seen her cat? it's as ugly as sin. |
| 4066 |
as tough as old boots if something, especially meat, is as tough as old boots, it is hard to cut and difficult to chew. the steak was as tough as old boots. this expression can also refer to a person who is strong either physically or in character. |
| 4067 |
as time goes by this expression refers to the passing of time. as time goes by, i have become more interested in german. |
| 4068 |
as thick as two short planks this simile means exceedingly stupid. your cousin is as thick as two short planks! |
| 4069 |
as thick as thieves to say that two people are as thick as thieves means that they are very close friends who are very loyal to each other. she always takes maria's side. they are as thick as thieves. |
| 4070 |
as the crow flies this expression refers to distance measured in a straight line. it's three miles from here to the petrol station as the crow flies. |
| 4071 |
as sure as death and taxes if something is as sure as death and taxes, it is certain to happen. this firm will go bankrupt next year. it's as sure as death and taxes. |
| 4072 |
as straight as a die this simile means extremely straight or completely honest. the road runs as straight as a die for 100 kilometers. |
| 4073 |
as stiff as a poker if something is as stiff as a poker, it is very straight, rigid or inflexible. she stood as stiff as a poker after her name was called. |
| 4074 |
as soft as silk if something is as soft as silk, it is very soft. this expression also means "as soft as a baby's bottom". her skin is as soft as silk. |
| 4075 |
as sober as a judge someone who is as sober as a judge is not drunk at all. that night he was as sober as a judge. |
| 4076 |
as snug as a bug in a rug this is a humorous way of saying that you are warm and comfortable. when i got home, my wife was wrapped up in a blanket, looking as snug as a bug in a rug. |
| 4077 |
as smooth as grass if something is as smooth as grass, it is very smooth. after he shaved, his face was as smooth as grass. |
| 4078 |
as sly as a fox someone who is as sly as a fox is cunning and clever at getting what they want, especially by deceiving or tricking people. the saleswoman is as sly as a fox. be careful. |
| 4079 |
as slippery as an eel to say that someone is as slippery as an eel means that they are difficult to catch and they manage to avoid answering questions. that woman is as slippery as an eel. |
| 4080 |
as simple as that this idiom refers to something that is extremely easy to understand. every new employee has to undergo an orientation course; it's as simple as that. |
| 4081 |
as silly as a sheep if somebody is as silly as a sheep, it means that they can be easily tricked. you will succeed. she's as silly as a sheep. |
| 4082 |
as silent as the grave if someone or something is as silent as the grave, it is extremely silent. the enormous room was as silent as the grave. |
| 4083 |
as sharp as a thorn if an object is as sharp as a thorn, it is very sharp. be careful with that knife. it's as sharp as a thorn. |
| 4084 |
as sharp as a tack a person who is as sharp as a tack is able to think quickly and learn very fast. you don't have to explain it to her twice. she's as sharp as a tack. |
| 4085 |
as safe as houses this simile means completely safe and secure. this bank is as safe as houses. |
| 4086 |
as right as rain if someone is as right as rain, they are in excellent health or condition. i called on my grandparents thinking they were ill, but they were as right as rain. |
| 4087 |
as regular as a clock this expression means that someone or something is never late or is always at the same time. in this county trains are as regular as a clock. |
| 4088 |
as red as a lobster if someone or something is as red as a lobster, they are very red. he came out of the sauna as red as a lobster. |
| 4089 |
as quick as thought if you do something as quick as thought, you do it very quickly. she finished the homework as quick as thought. |
| 4090 |
as queer as nine bob note this simile means odd or unusual. it is also used to mean homosexual. this sign is as queer as nine bob note. |
| 4091 |
as pure as the driven snow this simile means entirely pure. the water was as pure as the driven snow. |
| 4092 |
as pretty as a picture someone who is as pretty as a picture is very attractive or appealing in appearance. he looked as pretty as a picture in that suit. |
| 4093 |
as poor as a church mouse if someone is as poor as a church mouse, they are utterly poor. let's help the child. he's as poor as a church mouse. |
| 4094 |
as old as the hills this means that something is very old. the expression is used often in exaggerated statements. their technology is as old as the hills. |
| 4095 |
as old as methuselah this simile means very old. the poor old man is as old as methuselah. |
| 4096 |
as obstinate as a mule this expression refers to a person who is extremely reluctant or unwilling to change a particular opinion, behaviour or course of action. my brother is as obstinate as a mule, even if he's wrong. |
| 4097 |
as nutty as a fruitcake someone who is as nutty as a fruitcake is insane or crazy. you shouldn't listen to what the old woman says; she's as nutty as a fruitcake. |
| 4098 |
as nice as pie if a person is as nice as pie, they are surprisingly kind and friendly. even if we argue sometimes, she is as nice as pie. |
| 4099 |
as nice as ninepence this idiom refers to a place that is very well organized. i was surprised to see that her place was as nice as ninepence. |
| 4100 |
as neat as a new pin if a place is as neat as a new pin, it is very neat, tidy and clean. their apartment was as neat as a new pin. |
| 4101 |
as merry as a cricket if somebody is as merry as a cricket, they are especially carefree, lively and full of fun. you child is as merry as a cricket and that's a sign of health. |
| 4102 |
as mad as a march hare if someone is as mad as a march hare, they are completely mad or irrational. be careful when you speak to him. he's as mad as a march hare. |
| 4103 |
as loyal as an apostle if somebody is as loyal as an apostle, they are extremely loyal. his wife is as loyal as an apostle. |
| 4104 |
as light as a feather if something is as light as a feather, it is extremely light. my suitcase felt as light as a feather. |
| 4105 |
as keen as mustard if someone is as keen as mustard, they are very eager, enthusiastic or motivated. we should ask him to join our department. he's as keen as mustard. |
| 4106 |
as if to the manner born this phrase means "naturally at ease in a specified job or situation". since he became famous he has begun to rub shoulders with the upper crust as if to the manner born. |
| 4107 |
as hungry as a wolf if you are as hungry as a wolf, you are very hungry. let's grab something to eat. i'm as hungry as a wolf! |
| 4108 |
as honest as the day is long this idiom is used to describe somebody who is very trustworthy and honest. i've known paul for many years and he is as honest as the day is long! |
| 4109 |
as high as a kite this expression can either mean very high up in the sky or high on drugs or excitement. she was ecstatic that she won the game. she was as high as a kite. |
| 4110 |
as happy as a sandboy this simile means very happy and content. every time we go to that old chalet he is as happy as a sandboy. |
| 4111 |
as happy as a lark if someone is as happy as a lark, they are very happy (sometimes with the connotation of being carefree or unaware of grimmer realities). i'm as happy as a lark with my wage raise. |
| 4112 |
as graceful as a swan if somebody is as graceful as a swan, they are very graceful. this expression is mainly used to refer to a woman. jane is as graceful as a swan. |
| 4113 |
as good luck would have it if something is as good luck would have it, it has come about by some fortunate chance. my promotion is as good luck would have it. |
| 4114 |
as good as gold a child who is as good as gold is obedient and well-behaved. our children are as good as gold when she looks after them. |
| 4115 |
as gentle as a lamb if someone is as gentle as a lamb, they are pleasant, caring and calm. every time i have a problem i talk to him because he is as gentle as a lamb. |
| 4116 |
as full as a tick if someone is as full as a tick, they have eaten or drunk too much. the little girl ate until she was as full as a tick. |
| 4117 |
as fresh as a daisy someone who is as fresh as a daisy is lively and attractive, in a clean and fresh way. i met a girl at the gym. she is as fresh as a daisy. |
| 4118 |
as free as a bird if someone is as free as a bird, they are completely free to do as they want. i've been so happy since i retired. i am as free as a bird. |
| 4119 |
as flat as a pancake if something is as flat as a pancake, it is completely flat. the garden was as flat as a pancake. |
| 4120 |
as fit as a fiddle a person who is as fit as a fiddle is in an excellent state of health or physical condition. my father is nearly sixty, but he's as fit as a fiddle. |
| 4121 |
as fit as a butcher's dog this simile means very fit. i like that boy because he is as fit as a butcher's dog. |
| 4122 |
as fine as frog's hair this simile means extremely fine or delicate and slender. i feel as fine as frog's hair this morning. |
| 4123 |
as fast as greased lightning this simile means very fast. the car moved as fast as greased lighting. |
| 4124 |
as fast as a hare if a person or an animal is as fast as a hare, they are extremely fast. i've bet on that dog. it's as fast as a hare. |
| 4125 |
as fair as a rose if somebody is as fair as a rose, they are sincere. trust her. she's as fair as a rose. |
| 4126 |
as easy as pie something that is as easy as pie is very easy to do. how difficult was the exam? well, as easy as pie! |
| 4127 |
as easy as abc something that is as easy as abc is very easy to do. the test was as easy as abc. |
| 4128 |
as dumb as an oyster someone who is as dumb as an oyster will never reveal something told in confidence or betray a secret. i guarantee that you can trust her. she's as close as an oyster. |
| 4129 |
as dumb as a fish if someone is as dumb as a fish, they are either very stupid or speechless. when maria saw me, she was as dumb as a fish. |
| 4130 |
as dry as dust something that is as dry as dust is very dry indeed. this expression can also refer to something dull and uninteresting. her speech was as dry as dust. |
| 4131 |
as drunk as a lord if somebody is as drunk as a lord, they are extremely drunk. when i met him he was as drunk as a lord. |
| 4132 |
as different as night and day two people or things that are very different from each other are as different as night and day. even though they are sisters, they are as different as night and day. |
| 4133 |
as deaf as a poker if somebody is as dead as a poker, they are completely deaf. my grandfather is as deaf as a poker. |
| 4134 |
as dead as mutton if a person or an animal is as dead as mutton, it is certainly dead. the squirrel was as dead as mutton. |
| 4135 |
as daft as a brush this simile means to be very stupid or foolish. the meeting will be boring. she's as daft as a brush. |
| 4136 |
as cute as a bug's ear this simile means very cute. this little kitten is as cute as a bug's ear. |
| 4137 |
as cool as a cucumber a person who is as cool as a cucumber is not anxious, but relaxed and non-emotional. his mother stayed as cool as a cucumber all through the ceremony. |
| 4138 |
as cold as stone this simile means very cold. you are as cold as stone. what's the matter? |
| 4139 |
as cold as ice if something is as cold as ice, it is very cold. after some hours her hand was as cold as ice. |
| 4140 |
as close as an oyster someone who is as close (or dumb) as an oyster will never reveal something told in confidence or betray a secret. i will never repeat what you've told me. i am as close as an oyster. |
| 4141 |
as calm as the silent sea this expression means that somebody is extraordinary calm and nothing can disturb them. i like her because she is as calm as the silent sea. |
| 4142 |
as calm as a toad in the sun this idiom means to be very calm in a situation that can be unnerving. you are always as calm as a toad in the sun. what is your secret? |
| 4143 |
as busy as a one-armed paperhanger this simile means frenetically busy. these days she is as busy as a one-armed paperhanger. |
| 4144 |
as busy as a bee if somebody is as busy as a bee, they are very busy and active. my mother is as busy as a bee around christmas time. |
| 4145 |
as broad as it's long this expression means that there is no real difference which alternative is chosen. what do you think i should do? take the train or fly? it's as broad as it's long. |
| 4146 |
as bright as a button if you say that someone is bright as a button, you say that they are very intelligent and also a pleasant person. your daughter is as bright as a button. |
| 4147 |
as brave as a lion this expression means that somebody is very brave. do you know that guy? he's as brave as a lion. |
| 4148 |
as blind as a bat someone whose vision is very poor, or who is unable to see anything, is as blind as a bat. without her glasses, my grandmother is as blind as a bat. |
| 4149 |
as black as coal this expression means that something is very dark or black in colour. i can't believe that her hair is as black as coal. |
| 4150 |
as black as a skillet this expression is used to describe something that is very dirty or black with dirt. my clothes were as black as a skillet at the end of the day. |
| 4151 |
as black as a newgate's knocker this simile means completely black. i don't like this basement. it's as black as newgate's knocker down here. |
| 4152 |
as bald as a coot this idiom refers to a person who is totally bald. the chemo therapy has left her as bald as a coot. |
| 4153 |
as an aside this idiom refers to a discussion that is not supposed to be heard by others. then she told me as an aside that she was bored. |
| 4154 |
as american as apple pie this idiom is used to say that something is typical of america. baseball is as american as apple pie. |
| 4155 |
as a last resort to say that you would do something as a last resort means that it is the last thing you would do if you were desperate and all other courses of action had failed. i can always sleep in the car as a last resort. |
| 4156 |
arty-farty this idiom refers to someone who is trying too hard to make other people admire your artistic knowledge or ability. i won't meet with them. i don't want to talk with art-farty people. |
| 4157 |
ars longa, vita brevis this phrase means that art lasts for ever, but artists die and are forgotten. it's important that you create masterpieces. ars longa, vita brevis. |
| 4158 |
arrive in a body this means to arrive with unity as a group. the university become noisy when all the students arrived in a body. |
| 4159 |
around the clock if something is open around the clock, it means it is open 24 hours a day. the store is open around the clock. |
| 4160 |
arms akimbo this phrase refers to a stance, with the hands on the hips and elbows directed outwards. she was waiting there, with her arms akimbo. |
| 4161 |
armed to the teeth this idiom means heavily and formidably armed, usually with deadly weapons. the robbers were armed to the teeth and looked merciless. |
| 4162 |
armchair traveller someone who reads books or watches tv programs about other places and countries, but doesn't actually travel anywhere, is called an armchair traveller. a large number of adventure books are bought by armchair travellers. |
| 4163 |
armchair critic an armchair critic is someone who gives advice based on theory rather than practice. that girl is an armchair critic – no life experience but a lot of advice. |
| 4164 |
arm of the law this expression refers to the extent to which the authority or power of law extends. he fled to serbia hoping to escape the arm of the law. |
| 4165 |
arm in arm this idiom means to be closely allied. arm in arm, we went through everything together. |
| 4166 |
argy-bargy this idiom refers to a loud argument or disagreement that is not usually serious. it has been just a bit of argy-bargy between them. |
| 4167 |
argue the toss if you argue the toss, you dispute a decision or choice which has already been made. the final choice was made two days ago, so you shouldn't argue the toss now! |
| 4168 |
april fool this idiom refers to the victim of a trick played on april 1st or the trick itself. you are the april fool today. it was funny. |
| 4169 |
approaching the finish line this expression means getting quite close to the end. we're almost there! come on, we are approaching the finish line. |
| 4170 |
apples and pears this slang means stairs. she hasn't made it up those apples and pears in five years. |
| 4171 |
apple-pie order if something is in apple-pie order, it is well organized or in perfect order. they made sure the room was in apple-pie order before their parents arrived back home. |
| 4172 |
apple polisher this idiom denotes a person who tries to get favours from those in authority through flattery. mike is such an apple polisher! |
| 4173 |
apple of discord this idiom refers to something that causes trouble or unhappiness. the right to host the next olympic games has become an apple of discord between the countries. |
| 4174 |
anyone's call this expression is used when the result of a contest or election is difficult to predict. who do you think will win? it's anyone's call. |
| 4175 |
any port in a storm when you have no choice, any port in a storm refers to a solution you accept, which in normal circumstances you would find unacceptable. the motel was a little bit dirty, but it was a case of any port in a storm; all the others were full. |
| 4176 |
ants in one's pants people who have ants in their pants are very restless or excited about something. i wish she would relax. she has hos ants in her pants about something today. |
| 4177 |
answer for something if someone has to answer for something, they have to accept responsibility for their actions. they will have to answer for their dishonesty. |
| 4178 |
another think coming if you have another think coming, you are greatly mistaken. this expression is used to tell a person that they're wrong and should consider changing their mind. i'm sure you have another think coming... |
| 4179 |
another string to your bow if you have another string to your bow, you have another skill or possible course of action if everything else fails. taking into considerations my qualifications, i certainly have another string to my bow to help me find a job, if needed. |
| 4180 |
annus horribilis this idiom means a horrible year. this has certainly been an annus horribilis. |
| 4181 |
ankle biter this is a slang term for small child. she's pregnant again. there's soon going to be four ankle biters around the house. |
| 4182 |
angry young man this phrase refers to a young man who is not satisfied with people in authority and expresses strong opinions about them. he's just another angry young man. |
| 4183 |
anchors aweigh this phrase is said in preparation of getting underway, especially of a ship. anchors aweigh! let's sail! |
| 4184 |
an uphill task this idiom refers to something that is very difficult to do and needs a lot of effort and determination. rehabilitation of the affected areas will be an uphill task for the local authorities. |
| 4185 |
an ugly duckling this idiom refers to a young person who turns out to be beautiful or talented against all expectations. seeing the old photos, she has realized that she turned into an ugly duckling. |
| 4186 |
an oxford scholar this idiom means a dollar. do you have an oxford scholar? |
| 4187 |
an ill wind this idiom refers to a misfortune. this flood is an ill wind. most families have lost everything. |
| 4188 |
an embarrassment of riches when there is much more of something than necessary and it is difficult to make a choice, you have an embarrassment of riches. the hosts presented us with an embarrassment of riches at the reception. |
| 4189 |
an elephant in the room a problem that no one wants to discuss but is so obvious that it cannot be ignored, is called an elephant in the room. her project is quite unsatisfactory. it's an elephant in the room that we need to discuss. |
| 4190 |
an albatross around one's neck this idiom refers to a burden which some unfortunate person has to carry. she has an albatross around her neck this period. |
| 4191 |
an accomplished fact something that has been done or completed before those affected by it can intervene or change it, is called an accomplished fact. at first, they refused to accept our victory as an accomplished fact. |
| 4192 |
amped up this expression refers to someone who is excited and ready for action. the big day has come and she's amped up. |
| 4193 |
ambulance chaser a lawyer who finds work by persuading people injured in accidents to claim money from the person who caused the accident is called an "ambulance chaser". latham & watkins are well-known ambulance chasers – that's how they make their money. |
| 4194 |
amber nectar this is a slang term for lager. at the end of the day i was tired, so i enjoyed some amber nectar. |
| 4195 |
alter ego the term alter ego, which in latin means "other self", refers to a very close and trusted friend who is very like yourself. it can also mean a person's alternative personality. he is, above all, his wife's alter ego. |
| 4196 |
also-ran this term refers to an unsuccessful competitor whose performance is so much poorer than the winner's that it appears insignificant. she entered the contest hoping that she wouldn't end up as an also-ran. |
| 4197 |
alphabet soup this refers to a jumble of words or letters, often referring to organisations known by their initials, like nasa or bbc. institutions of the european union are confusing – a real alphabet soup. |
| 4198 |
alpha mom this expression refers to an ambitious mother who aims to excel at work while raising children. have you met sophia? she's an alpha mom. |
| 4199 |
alpha and omega this expression refers to both the beginning and the end of something. i had to learn the alpha and omega of the subject before writing about it. |
| 4200 |
alma mater this idiom refers to the college or school that one attended. she was offered the position of professor of economics at her alma mater. |
| 4201 |
alley cat this can either refer to a cat that lives wild in a town or to a prostitute. he spends all his money on alley cats. |
| 4202 |
all your eggs in one basket if you have all your eggs in one basket, you depend on one plan or one source of income. i advise you to invest in multiple directions. it's not good to have all your eggs in one basket. |
| 4203 |
all you can eat this is a restaurant advertising slogan, usually followed by a price. i know an all you can eat restaurant. let's go there. |
| 4204 |
all told all told means the final number, when everything has been counted. the number of visitors to the exhibition, all told, was 1459. |
| 4205 |
all together now this is an invitation to join in communal singing. louder! all together now, let's sing the latest song. |
| 4206 |
all to cock this means ruined or shambolic. my pizza recipe has gone all to cock. |
| 4207 |
all thumbs this means clumsy or physically inept. he can't tie that bow tie – he's all thumbs. |
| 4208 |
all things to all people if you are "all things to all people", you please or satisfy everyone. monica is exhausted trying to be a good wife, a good mother and a good professor. she can't be all things to all people. |
| 4209 |
all things must pass this idiom means that nothing lasts for ever. make the most out of this! all things must pass. |
| 4210 |
all things being equal this expression refers to a probable situation "if", in all other ways, the conditions remain unchanged or equal. all things being equal, a reduction in the cost of marketing should enable us to lower the prices. |
| 4211 |
all the way this idiom refers to something that is done fully, especially as a euphemism for full sexual activity. my parents are away for the weekend so we can go all the way. |
| 4212 |
all the rage when something is "all the rage", it has become very popular or trendy. sending facebook messages is all the rage these days, both among individuals and companies. |
| 4213 |
all the better for something if you are "all the better for something", you benefit from it or feel much better as a result of it. i'm sure you'll be all the better for a good night's rest. |
| 4214 |
all the best this expression is a polite way to end a letter or email. we'd like to wish you all the best in the year to come. |
| 4215 |
all that jazz this expression means "all that stuff", "other similar things" or "everything of that kind". let's get out the tinsel, the lights and all that jazz to decorate the christmas tree. |
| 4216 |
all systems go when everything is ready for an activity or event to begin, you can say that "all systems go". she's got an office, a mobile phone and the internet, so on the next monday it's all systems go. |
| 4217 |
all somebody's geese are swans this expression refers to someone who constantly exaggerates the importance or the qualities of somebody or something. don't let her impress you. all her geese are swans. |
| 4218 |
all skin and bone if someone is all skin and bone, they are very thin or too thin. after trekking in the himalayas, brian was all skin and bone. |
| 4219 |
all sizzle and no steak someone or something that turns out to be disappointing, for example after a promotional campaign or marketing strategy which led us to expect something better, is called all sizzle and no steak. owing to the electoral promises she made, which so far she has failed to keep, many people call the new president "all sizzle and no steak". |
| 4220 |
all singing, all dancing this expression refers to something or someone that is full of verve, vivacity and liveliness. they went home from the party all singing, all dancing. |
| 4221 |
all set this means ready to go. we are all set to go on holiday. |
| 4222 |
all roads lead to rome this idiom means that there is more than one way to achieve something. take any route because all roads lead to rome. |
| 4223 |
all present and correct this phrase refers to everything or everyone is accounted for. all present and correct, so we can start the meeting. |
| 4224 |
all of a sudden this phrase means suddenly. all of a sudden she left. |
| 4225 |
all mouth and no trousers this is said about someone who talks a lot about doing something but never actually does it. mary keeps saying that she's going to resign but she's all mouth and no trousers. |
| 4226 |
all kidding aside this is said when you want people to realize you are speaking seriously, when they might otherwise think you were joking. all kidding aside, things are getting worse and worse within this company. |
| 4227 |
all in your head if something is "all in your head", it is not real. it is in your imagination. don't be silly! nobody is trying to steal anything from you. it's all in your head! |
| 4228 |
all in the same boat this idiom refers to a situation when everyone is facing the same challenges. this company will merge with another and some of us will be fired. we are all in the same boat. |
| 4229 |
all in all this expression means on the whole – when everything is considered. we had some quarrels, but all in all we are happy. |
| 4230 |
all in a day's work this expression means typical; a normal set of circumstances. all these aspects in a day's work. do you think you can manage? |
| 4231 |
all hell will let loose if all hell breaks loose, a situation suddenly becomes noisy and violent, usually with a lot of people arguing of fighting. when they saw each other all hell broke loose. |
| 4232 |
all hell broke loose if you say that "all hell broke loose", you mean that there was a sudden angry or noisy reaction to something. all hell broke loose when the manager announced that the business was going to close down. |
| 4233 |
all hands on deck when there is a need for all hands on deck, everyone must help, especially if there's a lot of work to be done in a short amount of time. next week we will have a lot of work to do, so it will be all hands on deck. |
| 4234 |
all greek to me this means incomprehensible, as greek is to someone who cannot speak it. steve says the machine isn't so puzzling, but it's all greek to me. |
| 4235 |
all good things must come to an end this saying means that everything that is deemed nice, ends. we've broken up. all good things must come to an end. |
| 4236 |
all fingers and thumbs if you are all fingers and thumbs, you are clumsy and do things incorrectly. would you mind wrapping this gift for me? i'm all fingers and thumbs! |
| 4237 |
all ears to say that you are "all ears" means that you are listening very attentively. it's obvious that i want to know – i'm all ears! |
| 4238 |
all clear if you are allowed to do something after a check-up to make sure that everything is all right, you get the all clear. dad says he's going to play football again as soon as he gets the all clear from his medical doctor. |
| 4239 |
all brawn and no brain someone who is physically very strong but not very intelligent is said to be all brawn and no brain. he's an incredible player, but he's all brawn and no brain. |
| 4240 |
all bark and no bite this idiom means that you have lots to say, but you are not willing to engage in a fight. there's always a guy who disappears when trouble starts – all bark and no bite. |
| 4241 |
all at sea this means in a confused, disordered state. she panicked just before the interview. one could say she was all at sea. |
| 4242 |
all and sundry this expression means all the people, collectively and individually. i don't want all and sundry to know about us. |
| 4243 |
all along if something has existed or been somewhere "all along", it has been there all the time, from the beginning. she had been looking for the car keys for some time before she realized they had been in her pocket all along. |
| 4244 |
alive and kicking this expression means lively and active. don't worry! i've spoken to him and he's alive and kicking. |
| 4245 |
al fresco this means in the open air. we had our lunch al fresco on the terrace. |
| 4246 |
al desko this means eating one's lunch while still working. this time i'll be eating al desko. |
| 4247 |
air quotes this idiom refers to a gesture with raised pairs of fingers, when making a statement, to simulate quotation marks. it indicates that what is being said is ironic or otherwise not to be taken verbatim. haven't you noticed? there was an air quote! |
| 4248 |
air one's dirty laundry this idiom means to make public something embarrassing that should be kept secret. i don't understand why they go and air their dirty laundry in public. |
| 4249 |
air kiss this idiom refers to the act of greeting (or sometimes of farewell) by making a kissing gesture into the air while brushing cheeks – or in a near miss. they gave each other an air kiss. |
| 4250 |
ain't my first rodeo this idiom is said by someone who has experience of a situation. you don't need to show me how to do it. this ain't my first rodeo. |
| 4251 |
aide-memoire this idiom means to aid memory. this is the best way to aide-memoire. |
| 4252 |
aid and abet this idiom means to help someone to do something illegal or wrong. they were accused of aiding and abetting the terrorists. |
| 4253 |
ahead of time if something happens ahead of time, it happens early, before the set time or with time to spare. if you finish the project ahead of time, we'll be able to go out. |
| 4254 |
agree to disagree this idiom means to set aside an irreconcilable difference in order to maintain a civil dialogue. let's agree to disagree and go on to the next topic. |
| 4255 |
agog this idiom means with great excitement and interest. she was waiting agog to see the actress. |
| 4256 |
age before beauty this phrase means that older people should be given precedence over the younger and, by implication, more beautiful. this is normally used jocularly, often by the older person in order to flatter the younger. age before beauty, ann. thank you! |
| 4257 |
against the clock if you do something "against the clock", you are rushed and have very little time to do it. i'm working against the clock to have the presentation ready for tuesday. |
| 4258 |
against one's better judgment if you do something even though you feel it is not a sensible thing to do, you do it against your better judgment. mark persuaded her to go by car, against her better judgment, and she regretted it as soon as she saw the heavy traffic. |
| 4259 |
aga saga this idiom refers to a story about the lives of people who have a good standard of living and live in the english countryside. this is a good book. it's an aga saga. |
| 4260 |
aftermath this idiom refers to the period of time after something bad has happened. some countries sent help in the aftermath of the earthquake. |
| 4261 |
after the watershed in some countries, the watershed is the time limit after which more tv programmes can be shown that include adult humour, bad language or controversial subjects. the children should be in bed now. it's after the watershed. |
| 4262 |
after the fact if something is done "after the fact", it's done too late, after something has actually happened, especially a crime or an accident. they realized that they had put people in danger, but that was of no help after the fact. |
| 4263 |
after someone's blood if somebody is after your blood, they desire to catch you in order to hurt or punish you. as he has lied to them, they are after his blood now. |
| 4264 |
add insult to injury to add insult to injury means to make a bad situation worse by harming or upsetting someone you have already harmed in some other way. he stole money from me and he added insult to injury by hitting my wife! |
| 4265 |
adam's ale this is a reference to water, often used to emphasize the purity of water as compared to other drinks. when i finished the marathon all i needed was adam's ale. |
| 4266 |
actions speak louder than words this means that people's intentions can be judged better by what they do than what they say. you shouldn't jump to conclusions. don't forget that actions speak louder than words. |
| 4267 |
act your age this idiom means to behave in a manner appropriate to your stage in life. i wish she would act her age. |
| 4268 |
act the giddy goat this idiom means to behave foolishly. adrian, stop acting the giddy goat! |
| 4269 |
act of god this term refers to a natural event or accident, for which no person is responsible (such as an earthquake, lighting and similar acts of nature). the insurance company refused to pay for the damage because it was caused by an act of god. |
| 4270 |
across the board this idiom means equal for everyone. applying to everybody or everything. big bonuses were given across the board. |
| 4271 |
acronyms acronyms are words which are formed from the initial letters of other words. did you know that "quango" is formed from "quasi non-governmental organization"? |
| 4272 |
acquired taste something that you dislike when you first taste it, but begin to like after trying it several times, is "an acquired taste". maria has always loved potatoes, but for me it was an acquired taste. |
| 4273 |
acid test to refer to something as "the acid test" means that it will prove how effective or useful something is. the training course was interesting but the acid test will come when we start the new job. |
| 4274 |
achilles heel this expression refers to a vulnerable area or a weak spot, in an otherwise strong situation, that could cause one's downfall or failure. she's extremely intelligent, but her inability to speak in public is her achilles heel. |
| 4275 |
ace in the hole a poker term which means an advantage or resource kept hidden until needed. she clearly has an ace in the hole that will ensure victory ... you'll see! |
| 4276 |
ace a test it you obtain a very high score or an excellent result, you ace a test or exam. cristina's parents said she could go to the party if she aced her english test. |
| 4277 |
account for this idiom means to have to provide an explanation for something. it can also means to be responsible for or assign responsibility to someone or something. the horrible weather accounted for the damages. |
| 4278 |
according to hoyle this phrase means in accord with the highest authority or in accord with a strict set of rules. according to hoyle, you were right. |
| 4279 |
accidents will happen this idiom means that things sometimes go wrong, despite out best efforts. don't be sad. nobody was hurt. accidents will happen. |
| 4280 |
accidentally on purpose if you do something intentionally, but pretend it was an accident, you do it accidentally on purpose. i accidentally-on-purpose erased her email address so i couldn't contact her again. |
| 4281 |
accident waiting to happen the term refers to a potentially disastrous situation, often caused by negligence or insufficient precaution. according to those who lived in this hood, the explosion in the warehouse where the has cylinders were stocked was an accident waiting to happen. |
| 4282 |
abso-bloody-lutely this is a more emphatic version of "absolutely". would i want to go to the party? abso-bloody-lutely! |
| 4283 |
absent without leave this idiom means absent without permission. steve is absent without leave today. |
| 4284 |
absence makes the heart grow fonder this means that our feelings for people and things grow when we are apart from them. i enjoyed visiting the city but i soon missed my girlfriend. as they say – absence makes the heart grow fonder. |
| 4285 |
abracadabra this is an exclamation used by conjurers when performing tricks. abracadabra! ...and a rabbit appeared. |
| 4286 |
above board if a situation, business or person is described as above board, it is open, honest and legal. there aren't secret negotiations within this company. our dealing have always been above board. |
| 4287 |
above and beyond the call of duty if a person does something which is above and beyond the call of duty, they show a greater degree of courage or effort than is usually required or expected in their job. the police officer received a medal for his action which went above and beyond the call of duty. |
| 4288 |
about time this idiom means almost time or high time. hurry! it's about time for the game to start. it's about time i got a new pair of shoes. |
| 4289 |
abide with me this idiom represents a plea for god to be always present, in one's life and through death. before the mission, she was heard saying "abide with me"! |
| 4290 |
abbreviated piece of nothing this slang expression refers to someone who is considered to be insignificant or worthless. she doesn't think much of her new colleague. she calls him an abbreviated piece of nothing. |
| 4291 |
abandon hope all ye who enter here this phrase is the supposed inscription at the entrance to hell. "abandon hope all ye who enter here", was written on the door. |
| 4292 |
a1 at lloyd's this phrase means the highest quality. one day, your english will be a1 at lloyd's. |
| 4293 |
a work of fiction this expression refers to a fictional account. we thought that the story was genuine, but in fact it was just a work of fiction. |
| 4294 |
a work of art this idiom refers to a painting, sculpture, poem, piece of music or other product of the creative arts, especially one with strong imaginative or aesthetic appeal. yes, the mona lisa is a work of art. |
| 4295 |
a word in your shell-like this phrase means that somebody would like to talk to you. hey, john! a word in your shell-like. |
| 4296 |
a whole raft of this idiom refers to a large collection of something. a whole raft of students protested against those measures. |
| 4297 |
a wet blanket to refer to someone as a wet blanket means that they spoil other people's fun, or make an event less enjoyable than it could have been. come on man! don't be such a wet blanket! |
| 4298 |
a well-oiled machine this idioms refers mainly to the workplace. it means that as a group you all get on well together and things seem to run very smoothly. last month our company was like a well-oiled machine. thank you all for that! |
| 4299 |
a watched pot never boils this idiom means that if you wait for something to happen it takes longer. stop waiting for her call. a watched pot never boils! |
| 4300 |
a voice crying in the wilderness this idiom refers to someone who says something that is not accepted by others. the stories are interesting if you are into that kind of things. for her, it was like listening to a voice crying in the wilderness. |
| 4301 |
a turn up for the books this idiom refers to an unexpected piece of good fortune. well, the decision was a turn up for the books. |
| 4302 |
a trouble shared is a trouble halved this idiom means that the intensity of a issue can be lowered down by discussion. don't hesitate to share your problem with me. a trouble shared is a trouble halved! |
| 4303 |
a trip to the sun this idiom refers to something which is very unlikely. getting a job in the usa for her is like a trip to the sun. |
| 4304 |
a toss up this idiom might either refer to the flip of a coin to decide on something or to a result, usually between two courses of action, which is uncertain and could go either way. who will win the presidency? it's a toss up. |
| 4305 |
a tissue of lies this idiom refers to a story invented in order to deceive. the whole text is a tissue of lies. |
| 4306 |
a tinker's damn this phrase refers to something that is insignificant or worthless. i wouldn't give a tinker's damn on it. |
| 4307 |
a thorn in the flesh this idiom refers to a persistent difficulty or annoyance. this week i will solve this problem out. it has been like a thorn in the flesh for me. |
| 4308 |
a thing of beauty is a joy forever this idiom means that the experience of beauty is blissful and lasting. i like this picture very much! a thing of beauty is a joy forever. |
| 4309 |
a taste of your own medicine if you give someone a taste of their own medicine, you treat them in the same unpleasant way that they have treated you. i have given her a taste of her own medicine and she didn't like it. |
| 4310 |
a tall poppy this idiom refers to a privileged or distinguished person. all tall poppies were invited to raise charity. |
| 4311 |
a stumbling block a problem or obstacle that prevents you from achieving something is a stumbling block. english language was always a stumbling block for my wife. |
| 4312 |
a storm is brewing if you say that a storm is brewing, you mean that the atmosphere indicates that there is going to be trouble, probably with outbursts of anger or emotion. as soon as i saw her face, i knew there was a storm brewing. |
| 4313 |
a stool pigeon a person who acts as an informer, especially one who gives information to the police or the authorities, is called a stool pigeon. i don't trust her. i think she is a stool pigeon for the police. |
| 4314 |
a stone's throw away something that is a stone's throw away is just a short distance away. the local shop is a stone's throw away. |
| 4315 |
a stitch in time saves nine this idiom means that it's better to fix the problem now because it will get worse later. you should speak with her today. a stitch in time saves nine. |
| 4316 |
a square peg in a round hole to say that a person is a square peg in a round hole means that they are not suitable for the job they are doing or the situation they are in. the employee was a bad match for the job – a square peg in a round hole. |
| 4317 |
a sorry sight this idiom can either refer to something sadly neglected or to a person or thing of untidy appearance. these houses were beautiful some time ago, but now they make a sorry sight. |
| 4318 |
a social butterfly a person who has a lot of friends and acquaintances and likes to flit from one social event to another is called a social butterfly. nicole is a social butterfly. |
| 4319 |
a snowball's chance in hell this expression means no chance at all. she won't succeed. this is like a snowball's chance in hell. |
| 4320 |
a snowball effect this expression means that events have momentum and build upon each other. we have to stop this snowball effect as soon as possible. |
| 4321 |
a sneak preview a sneak preview is a special viewing of a film or art production given to a select audience before being shown to the general public. artists were given a sneak preview of the next episode. |
| 4322 |
a snap decision a quick decision based on an impulse, without taking time to weigh the consequences, is called a snap decision. i made a snap decision to go cycling. |
| 4323 |
a snake in the grass someone who pretends to be your friend while actually betraying you is a snake in the grass. she turned out to be just a snake in the grass. |
| 4324 |
a smoking gun a smoking gun is a piece of evidence or the indisputable sign of someone's guilt. the fingerprints were the smoking gun that enabled the police to arrest them. |
| 4325 |
a smokescreen a smokescreen is an action or tactic intended to conceal or divert attention from your real intentions or activities. their business was just a smokescreen for their forbidden activities. |
| 4326 |
a slip of the tongue a slip of the tongue is a small spoken error or mistake. sorry. that was a slip of the tongue! i meant to say "slow down". |
| 4327 |
a sleeping partner this term refers to a person who invests in a business without taking an active part in its management, and whose association with the enterprise is not public knowledge. i work alone but my business is financed by a sleeping partner. |
| 4328 |
a sledgehammer to crack a nut using a sledgehammer to crack a nut means using disproportionate force to solve a problem. she called the police because her next door neighbour was rude? that's using a sledgehammer to crack a nut. |
| 4329 |
a slap on the wrist if you get a slap on the wrist, you receive mild punishment or you are reprimanded for something you have done. i got only a slap on the wrist. |
| 4330 |
a sitting duck a sitting dusk is an easy target, a person who is easy to deceive. the man was a sitting duck for the enemy. he had to move briskly. |
| 4331 |
a sign of the times this expression refers to something that shows the nature of today's society. the rising level of divorces is a sign of the times. |
| 4332 |
a sight for sore eyes this expression refers to a person or thing that you are happy to see. steve! you are a sight for sore eyes! |
| 4333 |
a shrinking violet a person referred to as a shrinking violet is a timid or shy person. the young lady was a shrinking violet who had difficulty expressing herself. |
| 4334 |
a show stopper to be a show stopper, something has to literally stop the show. for one reason or another – good or bad – the show has to be paused for a short time before continuing. the broken stage lights were a show stopper until the staff fixed them. |
| 4335 |
a shouting match an argument or debate where people shout loudly at each other is called a shouting match. the debate between the two politicians turned into a shouting match. |
| 4336 |
a shot in the dark to refer to a question or statement as a shot in the dark means that it is a complete guess, but at the same time it might be close to the truth. mentioning her name was just a shot in the dark. |
| 4337 |
a shot in the arm this idiom means a boost or encouragement. seeing them cheering me was a real shot in the arm. |
| 4338 |
a sharp cookie someone who is not easily fooled or deceived is a sharp cookie. you can't fool my father. he's a sharp cookie. |
| 4339 |
a sea change this means a radical change. there clearly was a sea change when obama came in after bush. |
| 4340 |
a safety net this idiom refers to some backup that someone has in case of potential problems, often financial ones. i always have money in my savings account as a safety net. |
| 4341 |
a safe pair of hands this idiom refers to a reliable person, who can be trusted not to fail in a task. this problem is quite intricate, so we need a safe pair of hands. |
| 4342 |
a sacred cow this idiom refers to something that people do not like to question; a taboo subject. the trial remains a sacred cow. |
| 4343 |
a running battle if two people or groups have a running battle with each other, they argue or disagree about something over a long period of time. there's been a running battle between the local authorities and citizens over the parking lots. |
| 4344 |
a rum do this idiom refers to a strange situation or event. this is certainly a rum do. |
| 4345 |
a rude awakening if you get a rude awakening, you are forced to accept the unpleasant truth or reality. she thought i would want her back, but she got a rude awakening. |
| 4346 |
a rose by any other name would smell as sweet this idiom means that what matters is what something is, not what it is called. here is your new bmw car. a rose by any other name would smell as sweet. |
| 4347 |
a rolling stone gathers no moss this saying means that it is difficult for a wanderer to be able to flourish. you should find a place that you like and buy a flat there because a rolling stone gathers no moss. |
| 4348 |
a roaring trade if you do a roaring trade, your business is very successful. dentists are doing a roaring trade these days. |
| 4349 |
a rip-off to say that something is a rip-off means that it costs much more than it should. twenty dollars for a coffee? that's a rip-off! |
| 4350 |
a riddle wrapped up in an enigma this idiom means a puzzle difficult to solve. this problem is like a riddle wrapped up in an enigma. |
| 4351 |
a red rag to a bull this expression means a deliberate provocation. telling him those words it was like a red rag to a bull. |
| 4352 |
a red flag a signal that something is not working properly or correctly. the noise in the factory raised a red flag. |
| 4353 |
a quick learner a quick learner is someone who is able to learn a new skill or task very quickly. she is a quick learner. she has been here for two weeks and already knows the process. |
| 4354 |
a priori this idiom means "relating to an argument that suggests the probable effects of a known cause or using general principles to suggest likely effects". that was an example of a priori reasoning. |
| 4355 |
a political football this idiom refers to a issue that is the subject of continuous argument or controversy. retirement age is a political football in the united states of america. |
| 4356 |
a pocket of resistance a small group of people who resist change or disagree with a proposal, form a pocket of resistance. the manager wants to introduce a new marketing plan, but there's a pocket of resistance in the sales department. |
| 4357 |
a plum job a desirable position which is well-paid and considered relatively easy is called a plum job. i'd like to find myself a plum job in berlin. |
| 4358 |
a plum in your mouth someone who speaks with an upper-class accent is said to have a plum in their mouth. she speaks just like an aristocrat – with a plum in her mouth. |
| 4359 |
a plague on both your houses this idiom refers to a frustrated curse on both sides of an argument. a plague on both your houses! i hate you! |
| 4360 |
a place in the sun if you find a place in the sun, you reach a position which provides you with wealth and happiness, or whatever you have been hoping to obtain in life. i hope one day i will find a place in the sun with the triumph of my books. |
| 4361 |
a place for everything and everything in its place this phrase is advisory in nature which talks about things being stacked neatly and should be put back in its place when one is not using that particular item. he is a strict father and teaches his child to make a place for everything and have everything in its place. |
| 4362 |
a pig in a poke this idiom refers to a commodity that is bought without first examining it. she said the laptop was good and i listened to her. eventually, it turned out that it was a pig in a poke. |
| 4363 |
a piece of the pie this idiom means a share of something like money or profits. if you invest in this company, you will get a big piece of the pie. |
| 4364 |
a picture is worth a thousand words this expression means that a picture can give just as much information as a large amount of descriptive text. look at this picture of her. a picture is worth a thousand words, isn't it? |
| 4365 |
a perfect storm this idiom means the worst possible situation. this situation is clearly a perfect storm. we are at difficulty now. |
| 4366 |
a penny saved is a penny earned this expression means that money you save today can be spent later. you should take the change. a penny saved is a penny earned. |
| 4367 |
a penny for your thoughts this phrase is used to ask someone what they are thinking about. brian, a penny for your thoughts. |
| 4368 |
a paying guest this phrase refers to a lodger. she takes in paying guests to make extra money. |
| 4369 |
a pat answer a simplified response that is memorized or prepared in advance is called a pat answer. most journalists at the press conference found her pat answers frustrating. |
| 4370 |
a notch above something that is a notch above something else is a little better in every way. her poem was a notch above the others. |
| 4371 |
a nod is as good as a wink this phrase refers to passing signals to convey a message. this signal can be subtle for those who want to understand it. between lovers, a nod is generally as good as a wink. |
| 4372 |
a nest of vipers this idiom refers to a group of iniquitous people, congregating together. no, i won't go there. there's a nest of vipers and i don't want to meet them. |
| 4373 |
a nest egg if you have a nest egg, you have a reserve of money which you put aside for future needs. i consider the money from the sale of my motorcycle as a nest egg for difficult times. |
| 4374 |
a necessary evil if you say that something is a necessary evil, you don't like it but you understand that it has to exist and be accepted. vaccination is a necessary evil if you want to travel to brazil. |
| 4375 |
a narrow escape this idiom refers to a situation in which danger or problems are barely avoided. the man barely made it over the tracks before the train came. what a narrow escape! |
| 4376 |
a movable feast this idiom refers to a feast day that falls on the same day of the week each year, but which has a date which varies. can you give an example of a movable feast? |
| 4377 |
a month of sundays this expression is an amusing way of referring to a very long period of time. i haven't been to the cinema in a month of sundays. |
| 4378 |
a miss is as good as a mile this means that some endeavours either succeed or they don't – this means that missing narrowly is still a failure. she has almost broken the record. sadly, a miss is as good as a mile. |
| 4379 |
a ministering angel shall my sister be to minister means to serve or act as a subordinate agent. therefore, a ministering angel is a kind-hearted person, providing help and comfort. i need someone to help me. a ministering angel shall my sister be. |
| 4380 |
a mind of your own if you have a mind of your own, you are capable of forming an opinion and making decisions without being influenced by others. she has a mind of her own, but from time to time she needs a piece of advice. |
| 4381 |
a mile a minute this idiom means to do something very quickly. it's hard to understand him. he talks at a mile a minute! |
| 4382 |
a mexican wave this phrase refers to a wave effect formed when crowds in stadia rise up and down from their seats in succession. after their goal, a mexican wave could have been seen. |
| 4383 |
a man after my own heart this expression means a kindred spirit; someone who thinks as you do. she has finally found a man after her own heart. |
| 4384 |
a lot on somebody's plate this idiom means that somebody has many things to do at one time. i can't meet with you this week as i have a lot on my plate. |
| 4385 |
a lot at stake someone who has a lot at stake is in a risky situation, with a lot to be won or lost. i was nervous about signing the contract because there was a lot at stake. |
| 4386 |
a long haul this idiom refers to something that takes a lot of time and energy. i told my boss that i wouldn't quit. i am in for the long haul. |
| 4387 |
a little bird told me this expression means that you were told something by an undisclosed source. how do i know that? a little bird told me. |
| 4388 |
a likely story this expression is used to say that you do not believe what has just been said. she said she'd found the document in the abandoned house – that's a likely story. |
| 4389 |
a life's work this idiom means the entire or principal work or activity of a person's lifetime or career. he decided to make medicine his life work. |
| 4390 |
a lick and a promise if you give something a lick and a promise, you make a quick attempt to clean it, with the intention of doing it more thoroughly later. i gave the bathroom a lick and a promise before i ran to work. |
| 4391 |
a leopard can't change his spots this idiom means that you cannot change your innate self. she was a cheater in her twenties and she's a cheater now – a leopard can't change his spots! |
| 4392 |
a legend in one's own lifetime this phrase refers to a living person of considerable fame. this actor is a legend in his own lifetime. |
| 4393 |
a leap of faith this idiom refers to an act of believing something that is not easily believed. it took a big leap of faith to quit my job. |
| 4394 |
a laugh a minute this idiom is used to describe someone who is very funny. i like hanging out with her. she's a laugh a minute! |
| 4395 |
a la mode this phrase means fashionable. also, in the usa, this is a dessert served with ice cream. she's a la mode woman. |
| 4396 |
a la carte this phrase literally means "on the menu, with each dish separately priced". it's the opposite of "table d'hote" meal, which has a fixed inclusive price. i would like to eat in an a la carte restaurant. |
| 4397 |
a knuckle sandwich this phrase refers to a punch in the mouth. if you keep doing that, you'll get a knuckle sandwich. |
| 4398 |
a knock-back this idiom refers to a reversal or fortune or disappointment. her failure was a real knock-back for the couple. |
| 4399 |
a knight in shining armour this idiom refers to a person who comes to the aid of another when other hopes have faded, like the knights in romantic stories. oh, thank you so much, oliver! you are a knight in shining armour! |
| 4400 |
a kickback this term refers to money paid illegally for favourable treatment. they were accused of giving kickbacks to local authorities. |
| 4401 |
a house of cards this expression refers to something that can easily be broken or crumble by itself. the police brought the illegal business down like a house of cards. |
| 4402 |
a house divided against itself cannot stand this expression means that failure is certain if those on the same side argue amongst themselves. i order you to stop quarrelling! a house divided against itself cannot stand! |
| 4403 |
a highly coloured report you use this expression when you want to refer to a report that is exaggerated or has a biased view. in my opinion this is a highly coloured report. |
| 4404 |
a heavy cross to bear this idiom refers to an unpleasant or painful situation or person that you have to accept and deal with. the villagers lost all their crop to heavy rain. it was a heavy cross to bear. |
| 4405 |
a head start if you have a head start, you have an advantage that enables you to make progress more quickly and have a greater chance of success. i've got a head start over other candidates because i've got relevant work experience. |
| 4406 |
a good day's work if the work day was good professionally speaking, it was a good day's work. we finished the project! it was a good day's work. |
| 4407 |
a golden key can open any door this idiom means that money always has a telling influence. she isn't good enough to be in this team but she brought a sponsorship deal. as they say, a golden key can open any door. |
| 4408 |
a going concern a business or activity that is dynamic and successful is a going concern. four years ago, we opened a store that is a going concern today. |
| 4409 |
a game plan this expression means a strategy worked out in advance. i need to come up with a better game plan for this mission. |
| 4410 |
a game changer this idiom refers to an idea, procedure or event that significantly changes the current way of doing or thinking about something. this new software is a game changer. |
| 4411 |
a foregone conclusion this phrase refers to a decision made before the evidence for it is known. it's like an inevitable conclusion. taking into consideration all the aspects, isn't it a foregone conclusion? |
| 4412 |
a for effort this expression refers to giving someone recognition for trying hard to do something even though they may not be successful. he definitely deserves an a for effort. |
| 4413 |
a foot in the door to say that someone has a foot in the door means that they have a small but successful start in something and will possibly do well in the future. in our little county it's hard to get a foot in the door in any profession. |
| 4414 |
a fool's errand if you go on a fool's errand, you try to do something which is useless, unnecessary and has no chance of success. it was a fool's errand to look for a dentist's in that isolated area. |
| 4415 |
a fool and his money are soon parted this idiom means that a foolish person is very likely to lose his money. steve is off to the casino – a fool and his money are soon parted. |
| 4416 |
a fly on the wall a person who watches a situation without being noticed is called a fly on the wall. i would love to be a fly on the wall when they discuss the matter. |
| 4417 |
a fly in the ointment a fly in the ointment refers to something that prevents a situation from being completely satisfactory. my cousin's poor english was a fly in the ointment when he applied for becoming an air traffic controller. |
| 4418 |
a flight of fancy to refer to an idea or plan as a flight of fancy means that it is imaginative but not at all practical or sensible. i deeply appreciate your effort, but this plan is a flight of fancy. |
| 4419 |
a flea in one's ear after an attempt at something, if you are sent away with a flea in your ear, you are angrily reprimanded or humiliated. the cheater was sent away with a flea in his ear. |
| 4420 |
a flash in the pan if you refer to somebody's success as a flash in the pan, you mean that it is not likely to be repeated. the team's victory is just a flash in the pan, believe me. |
| 4421 |
a finger in every pie if someone has a finger in every pie, they are involved in many activities. you should talk to steve about the recreational activities in this little town. he has a finger in every pie. |
| 4422 |
a fighting chance this idiom refers to a good possibility of succeeding if you try hard. you clearly have a fighting chance of getting that job. |
| 4423 |
a fate worse than death this idiom refers to something you do no want to experience because it is so unpleasant. when you're young an boisterous, an evening at home with your family seems like a fate worse than death. |
| 4424 |
a dust up this idiom means a fight. there has been a dust up in this place. |
| 4425 |
a drowning man will clutch at a straw this saying refers to the desperate measures that someone in need may take in order to come out of the situation. steven tried his hand at that interview to get a job because a drowning man will clutch at a straw. |
| 4426 |
a done deal a done deal refers to an agreement or decision which has been reached on a certain matter. i am still considering all the available options, so it is not a done deal. |
| 4427 |
a dog's life people use this expression when complaining about a situation or job which they find unpleasant or unsatisfactory. i strongly believe that it's a dog's life working in the accounting department. |
| 4428 |
a dog's breakfast to describe something as a dog's breakfast means that it is a complete mess. the new employee made a dog's breakfast out of the registers. |
| 4429 |
a dog and pony show a dog and pony show is a marketing event or presentation which has plenty of style but not much content. i though it would be an interesting campaign, but it turned out to be a dog and pony show. |
| 4430 |
a doddle if a task or activity is a doddle, it is very easy to do or perform. how did the test go? no problem, it was a doddle. |
| 4431 |
a dime a dozen this idiom refers to something common. stamps like this are a dime a dozen. |
| 4432 |
a different kettle of fish to describe a person, thing or situation as a different kettle of fish means that it is completely different from what was previously mentioned. i may have good business ideas but implementing them in your county is a different kettle of fish. |
| 4433 |
a dicey situation any situation that is potentially risky or dangerous is called a dicey situation. the police officer was in a dicey situation. |
| 4434 |
a dead letter this idiom refers to an issue, law or matter that is no longer important or that no longer has force or power. the peace agreement was a dead letter as soon as it was signed. |
| 4435 |
a day late and a dollar short if something is a day late and a dollar short, it comes too late and is not good enough. they offered me a part-time job when i had already found a full-time job – a day late and a dollar short. |
| 4436 |
a daniel come to judgment this phrase refers to someone who makes a wise judgment about something that has previously proven difficult to resolve. you're like a daniel come to judgment. |
| 4437 |
a damp squib this expression refers to an event which people think will be exciting but which is disappointing when it happens. the party was a damp squib. |
| 4438 |
a cut above someone or something that is a cut above the others is better or of higher quality. the watches in this store are a cut above the others. |
| 4439 |
a curate's egg this idiom refers to something bad that is called good out of politeness or timidity. this problem is a curate's egg. |
| 4440 |
a countenance more in sorrow than in anger this phrase refers to a person or thing that is viewed more with sadness than with anger. for me, it's a countenance more in sorrow than in anger... |
| 4441 |
a conflict of interest this idiom refers to a situation in which someone cannot make a fair decision because they will be affected by the result. i need to declare a conflict of interest here. |
| 4442 |
a concrete overcoat this is a jocular reference to a form of coffin, alluding to a body being dumped beneath a layer of concrete. don't annoy me or you'll end up in a concrete overcoat. |
| 4443 |
a complete shambles this idiom refers to a scene of disorder, a ruin or a mess. after the street fight, the area was a complete shambles. |
| 4444 |
a cinch this idiom refers to something that is very easy and is therefore certain to be a success. the exam was a cinch. |
| 4445 |
a charmed life this phrase refers to a life of guaranteed good fortune or invulnerability, by virtue of a charm or spell. she won't have a charmed life, that's for sure. |
| 4446 |
a cat may look at a king this phrase means that someone who is inferior in any form is not totally restricted in how they behave in front of a superior. i don't like him! he talks to his wife in a way that a cat may look at a king. |
| 4447 |
a burnt child dreads the fire this saying means that everyone avoids repeating a hurting experience again in life. after the accident, she is very careful in driving because a burnt child dreads the fire. |
| 4448 |
a bunch of fives if you give someone a bunch of fives, you hit them hard with your hand closed. this idiom means a fist, as used in a fight. all of a sudden he give him a bunch of fives. |
| 4449 |
a bun in the oven this idiom is used when a woman is pregnant. she has a bun in the oven; the baby is due in 3 months. |
| 4450 |
a bull and cow this idiom means a row or argument. they were screaming at one another – a bull and cow, for sure. |
| 4451 |
a breeze to say that something was a breeze means that it was very easy or that everything went smoothly. the interview was a breeze – scarcely 13 minutes and i got the job! |
| 4452 |
a blot on the landscape this phrase refers to something that spoils the view or ruins a previously comfortable situation. her coming was just a blot on the landscape. |
| 4453 |
a blessing in disguise it refers to something that is unpleasant at first but later turns out to have advantages. missing the train was a blessing in disguise – that's how i met my girlfriend. |
| 4454 |
a blank cheque if you give someone a blank cheque, you authorize them to do what they think is best in a difficult situation. diana was given a blank cheque and told to negotiate the best deal possible. |
| 4455 |
a black day a black day is a day on which something terrible has happened. every person has a black day at least once in their lifetime. |
| 4456 |
a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush this means that what you have is worth more than what you might have later. you should be happy now that you have a car. a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. |
| 4457 |
a bigger bang for your buck this idiom means that you receive a better value for your money. those clothes are so cheap. you clearly get a bigger bang for your buck. |
| 4458 |
a big ask this expression means to ask someone to do something for you or for a favour that is difficult, time consuming or inconvenient for the person you're asking. i know it's a big ask, but is there any chance you could borrow me $10.000? |
| 4459 |
a bed of roses this expression refers to an easy option or to an effortless, happy situation. sarah found out that taking care of children was not a bed of roses. |
| 4460 |
a baker's dozen this expression means thirteen. i want a baker's dozen candies. |
| 4461 |
a bad break this expression refers to a misfortune. she lost her job, exactly when she needed money to move house. |
| 4462 |
a backlog of work this idiom refers to work that still needs to be done. after my holiday i returned to a backlog of work. |
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