Idiom:
An idiom is a phrase or expression that has a figurative meaning different from the literal meaning of the individual words. Idioms are a form of figurative language that convey a particular idea or concept, often specific to a culture or language. Because their meanings are not directly deducible from the words they comprise, they can be challenging for non-native speakers to understand.
Kinds of idioms:
There are two kinds of Idioms:
1. Literal Idioms
2. Pure Idioms
1. Literal Idioms:
These idioms have meanings that can be partially deduced from the meanings of their individual words, although they still carry a figurative sense. The connection between the literal and figurative meanings is usually clear and logical.
On the fence: Meaning: To be undecided or unsure about something.
Sentence: Sarah is still on the fence about whether to accept the job offer or stay at her current job.
Spill the beans: Meaning: To reveal a secret or confidential information.
Sentence: John accidentally spilled the beans about the surprise party during dinner.
Sentence: "Julia spilled the beans about the new project before it was officially announced."
On the fence: Meaning: To be undecided or unsure about something.
Sentence: Sarah is still on the fence about whether to accept the job offer or stay at her current job.
Spill the beans: Meaning: To reveal a secret or confidential information.
Sentence: John accidentally spilled the beans about the surprise party during dinner.
Sentence: "Julia spilled the beans about the new project before it was officially announced."
2. Pure Idioms:
These idioms have meanings that cannot be deduced from the meanings of the individual words. They are often metaphorical and their figurative meanings are not immediately apparent from the literal interpretation.
Examples:
"Kick the bucket": To die. (The words themselves do not provide any clue to the meaning).
Sentence: "Unfortunately, our old parrot kicked the bucket last night."
"Let the cat out of the bag": To reveal a secret accidentally. (The literal words do not explain the figurative meaning).
Sentence: "She let the cat out of the bag about the surprise party, so now it's no longer a secret."
General Idioms:
Break the ice
Meaning: To initiate social contact or conversation.
Example: "John decided to break the ice with a joke."
Kick the bucket
Meaning: To die.
Example: ""Unfortunately, our old parrot kicked the bucket last night."
Under the weather
Meaning: Feeling ill or sick.
Example: "Sarah couldn't come to the party because she's feeling under the weather."
Hold your horses
Meaning: To wait or be patient.
Example: "Hold your horses! Let's think about this before making a decision."
Piece of cake
Meaning: Something very easy.
Example: "The exam was a piece of cake; I finished in half the time."
Hit the nail on the head
Meaning: To be exactly right about something.
Example: "Julia hit the nail on the head when she identified the cause of the problem."
Bite the bullet
Meaning: To endure a painful or difficult situation
Example: "Tom decided to bite the bullet and confront his fear of heights."
Once in a blue moon
Meaning: Something that happens very rarely.
Example: "We only go on vacation once in a blue moon."
Cutting corners
Meaning: Doing something in the easiest or quickest way, often sacrificing quality.
Example: ""They cut corners on the construction to save money, and now the building has issues."
Burn the midnight oil
Meaning: To work late into the night.
Example: "She burned the midnight oil to complete her thesis before the deadline."
Let the cat out of the bag
Meaning: To reveal a secret.
Example: "Tom accidentally let the cat out of the bag about the surprise party."
Caught red-handed
Meaning: Caught in the act of doing something wrong or illegal.
Example: "The thief was caught red-handed stealing from the store."
Beat around the bush
Meaning: To avoid talking about something directly.
Example: "Stop beating around the bush and tell me what happened."
Jump on the bandwagon
Meaning: To join or support something that is already popular.
Example: "After seeing the success, many companies jumped on the bandwagon and started making similar products."
A blessing in disguise
Meaning: Something that seems bad or unlucky at first but turns out to be beneficial.
Example: "Losing that job was a blessing in disguise; it pushed me to find a better career path."
Raining cats and dogs
Meaning: Raining heavily.
Example: "We had to cancel the picnic because it started raining cats and dogs."
The ball is in your court
Meaning: It is up to you to make the next decision or take action.
Example: "I've given you all the information you need; now the ball is in your court."
Get your act together
Meaning: To organize yourself; to start behaving in a more responsible or effective way.
Example: "You need to get your act together if you want to succeed in this job."
Fit as a fiddle
Meaning: To be in very good health and physical condition.
Example: "After months of training, he felt fit as a fiddle for the marathon."
In hot water
Meaning: In trouble or facing difficulties.
Example: "He found himself in hot water after forgetting to submit the report on time."
Go the extra mile
Meaning: To make an additional effort to achieve something beyond what is expected.
Example: "She always goes the extra mile to help her colleagues meet their deadlines."
Keep your chin up
Meaning: To stay positive and hopeful in a difficult situation.
Example: "I know things are tough right now, but keep your chin up; it will get better."
More Idioms:
"Kick the bucket": To die. (The words themselves do not provide any clue to the meaning).
Sentence: "Unfortunately, our old parrot kicked the bucket last night."
"Let the cat out of the bag": To reveal a secret accidentally. (The literal words do not explain the figurative meaning).
Sentence: "She let the cat out of the bag about the surprise party, so now it's no longer a secret."
Break the ice
Meaning: To initiate social contact or conversation.
Example: "John decided to break the ice with a joke."
Kick the bucket
Meaning: To die.
Example: ""Unfortunately, our old parrot kicked the bucket last night."
Under the weather
Meaning: Feeling ill or sick.
Example: "Sarah couldn't come to the party because she's feeling under the weather."
Hold your horses
Meaning: To wait or be patient.
Example: "Hold your horses! Let's think about this before making a decision."
Piece of cake
Meaning: Something very easy.
Example: "The exam was a piece of cake; I finished in half the time."
Hit the nail on the head
Meaning: To be exactly right about something.
Example: "Julia hit the nail on the head when she identified the cause of the problem."
Bite the bullet
Meaning: To endure a painful or difficult situation
Example: "Tom decided to bite the bullet and confront his fear of heights."
Once in a blue moon
Meaning: Something that happens very rarely.
Example: "We only go on vacation once in a blue moon."
Cutting corners
Meaning: Doing something in the easiest or quickest way, often sacrificing quality.
Example: ""They cut corners on the construction to save money, and now the building has issues."
Burn the midnight oil
Meaning: To work late into the night.
Example: "She burned the midnight oil to complete her thesis before the deadline."
Let the cat out of the bag
Meaning: To reveal a secret.
Example: "Tom accidentally let the cat out of the bag about the surprise party."
Caught red-handed
Meaning: Caught in the act of doing something wrong or illegal.
Example: "The thief was caught red-handed stealing from the store."
Beat around the bush
Meaning: To avoid talking about something directly.
Example: "Stop beating around the bush and tell me what happened."
Jump on the bandwagon
Meaning: To join or support something that is already popular.
Example: "After seeing the success, many companies jumped on the bandwagon and started making similar products."
A blessing in disguise
Meaning: Something that seems bad or unlucky at first but turns out to be beneficial.
Example: "Losing that job was a blessing in disguise; it pushed me to find a better career path."
Raining cats and dogs
Meaning: Raining heavily.
Example: "We had to cancel the picnic because it started raining cats and dogs."
The ball is in your court
Meaning: It is up to you to make the next decision or take action.
Example: "I've given you all the information you need; now the ball is in your court."
Get your act together
Meaning: To organize yourself; to start behaving in a more responsible or effective way.
Example: "You need to get your act together if you want to succeed in this job."
Fit as a fiddle
Meaning: To be in very good health and physical condition.
Example: "After months of training, he felt fit as a fiddle for the marathon."
In hot water
Meaning: In trouble or facing difficulties.
Example: "He found himself in hot water after forgetting to submit the report on time."
Go the extra mile
Meaning: To make an additional effort to achieve something beyond what is expected.
Example: "She always goes the extra mile to help her colleagues meet their deadlines."
Keep your chin up
Meaning: To stay positive and hopeful in a difficult situation.
Example: "I know things are tough right now, but keep your chin up; it will get better."
"Cast pearls before swine"
1.(To offer valuable advice or wisdom to someone who doesn’t appreciate it.)
Explaining philosophy to him is like casting pearls before swine.
She tried to educate them about art, but it was like casting pearls before swine.
Giving financial advice to someone who won’t listen is like casting pearls before swine.
Explaining philosophy to him is like casting pearls before swine.
She tried to educate them about art, but it was like casting pearls before swine.
Giving financial advice to someone who won’t listen is like casting pearls before swine.
2. "Talk to a brick wall"
(To speak to someone who doesn’t listen or understand.)
I tried explaining it, but it felt like talking to a brick wall.
Arguing with him is useless; it’s like talking to a brick wall.
She refuses to change her mind, so talking to her is like talking to a brick wall.
(To speak to someone who doesn’t listen or understand.)
I tried explaining it, but it felt like talking to a brick wall.
Arguing with him is useless; it’s like talking to a brick wall.
She refuses to change her mind, so talking to her is like talking to a brick wall.
3. "Preaching to the deaf"
(Giving advice or warnings to someone who ignores them.)
Telling him to save money is like preaching to the deaf.
The teacher keeps preaching to the deaf; the students don’t care.
Trying to convince her was like preaching to the deaf.
(Giving advice or warnings to someone who ignores them.)
Telling him to save money is like preaching to the deaf.
The teacher keeps preaching to the deaf; the students don’t care.
Trying to convince her was like preaching to the deaf.
4. "Beat one's head against a wall"
(To waste time trying to convince someone who won’t change their mind.)
I’m beating my head against a wall trying to reason with him.
Talking to her about responsibility is like beating my head against a wall.
You’re just beating your head against a wall arguing with him.
(To waste time trying to convince someone who won’t change their mind.)
I’m beating my head against a wall trying to reason with him.
Talking to her about responsibility is like beating my head against a wall.
You’re just beating your head against a wall arguing with him.
5. To abide by (To follow or obey rules, decisions, or agreements)
All employees must abide by the company's policies regarding workplace behavior.
As a responsible citizen, you should abide by the law at all times.
The players agreed to abide by the referee’s decision, even though they disagreed with it.
All employees must abide by the company's policies regarding workplace behavior.
As a responsible citizen, you should abide by the law at all times.
The players agreed to abide by the referee’s decision, even though they disagreed with it.
6. To act in line with (To behave according to rules, expectations, or principles)
She always acts in line with her moral values, even when it’s difficult.
The new marketing strategy was designed to act in line with customer preferences.
Employees are expected to act in line with the company's vision and goals.
She always acts in line with her moral values, even when it’s difficult.
The new marketing strategy was designed to act in line with customer preferences.
Employees are expected to act in line with the company's vision and goals.
7. To comply with (To follow orders, rules, or requests)
All businesses must comply with safety regulations to avoid penalties.
The police officer asked him to pull over, and he complied with the request immediately.
Students who do not comply with the school's dress code may receive a warning.
All businesses must comply with safety regulations to avoid penalties.
The police officer asked him to pull over, and he complied with the request immediately.
Students who do not comply with the school's dress code may receive a warning.
8. To conform to (To follow social norms, expectations, or regulations)
The new building must conform to environmental standards before construction begins.
He refused to conform to traditional gender roles and pursued his own interests.
Most teenagers feel pressured to conform to their peers’ expectations.
The new building must conform to environmental standards before construction begins.
He refused to conform to traditional gender roles and pursued his own interests.
Most teenagers feel pressured to conform to their peers’ expectations.
9. To be a sight for sore eyes (To be very pleasing or welcome to see)
After a long and exhausting day, my cozy bed was a sight for sore eyes.
When she returned from her trip, her family was a sight for sore eyes.
The beautiful sunset over the ocean was truly a sight for sore eyes.
After a long and exhausting day, my cozy bed was a sight for sore eyes.
When she returned from her trip, her family was a sight for sore eyes.
The beautiful sunset over the ocean was truly a sight for sore eyes.
10. To be at loggerheads (To be in a strong disagreement or conflict)
The two political parties have been at loggerheads over the new tax law.
The manager and the employees were at loggerheads over the changes in working hours.
Despite being best friends, they were often at loggerheads about which movie to watch.
The two political parties have been at loggerheads over the new tax law.
The manager and the employees were at loggerheads over the changes in working hours.
Despite being best friends, they were often at loggerheads about which movie to watch.
11. To be green (To be inexperienced or new at something)
The intern is still green, so he needs some time to learn the ropes.
Although he is green in this industry, his enthusiasm makes up for his lack of experience.
She was too green to handle such a complex project on her own.
The intern is still green, so he needs some time to learn the ropes.
Although he is green in this industry, his enthusiasm makes up for his lack of experience.
She was too green to handle such a complex project on her own.
12. To be taken aback (To be surprised or shocked)
I was taken aback when I heard that she had resigned unexpectedly.
He was taken aback by the sudden price increase in the market.
The teacher was taken aback by how well the students performed on the test.
I was taken aback when I heard that she had resigned unexpectedly.
He was taken aback by the sudden price increase in the market.
The teacher was taken aback by how well the students performed on the test.
13. Hit the nail on the head (To describe exactly what is causing a situation or problem)
Sarah hit the nail on the head when she said the team's poor performance was due to a lack of communication.
You hit the nail on the head by pointing out that we need better time management to finish the project.
His analysis of the financial crisis hit the nail on the head—debt was the main issue.
Sarah hit the nail on the head when she said the team's poor performance was due to a lack of communication.
You hit the nail on the head by pointing out that we need better time management to finish the project.
His analysis of the financial crisis hit the nail on the head—debt was the main issue.
14. A blessing in disguise (Something that seems bad at first but results in something good)
Losing my job was a blessing in disguise because it led me to start my own business.
Missing my flight was a blessing in disguise, as the plane had a long delay due to technical issues.
Her injury turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it gave her time to focus on writing her book.
Losing my job was a blessing in disguise because it led me to start my own business.
Missing my flight was a blessing in disguise, as the plane had a long delay due to technical issues.
Her injury turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it gave her time to focus on writing her book.
15. Bite the bullet (To endure a painful or difficult situation with courage)
I didn’t want to get the surgery, but I had to bite the bullet for the sake of my health.
He decided to bite the bullet and apologize to his friend after their argument.
The students had to bite the bullet and study hard to pass the final exams.
16. To be within an ace of (To be very close to achieving or experiencing something)
She was within an ace of winning the championship but lost in the final round.
The company was within an ace of bankruptcy before securing a last-minute investor.
He came within an ace of breaking the world record in the 100m sprint.
I didn’t want to get the surgery, but I had to bite the bullet for the sake of my health.
He decided to bite the bullet and apologize to his friend after their argument.
The students had to bite the bullet and study hard to pass the final exams.
16. To be within an ace of (To be very close to achieving or experiencing something)
She was within an ace of winning the championship but lost in the final round.
The company was within an ace of bankruptcy before securing a last-minute investor.
He came within an ace of breaking the world record in the 100m sprint.
17. To be worth one's salt (To be competent and deserving of respect for one’s work or skills)
Any chef worth their salt knows how to make a perfect omelet.
A manager worth his salt always listens to his employees' concerns.
She proved she was worth her salt by handling the crisis efficiently.
Any chef worth their salt knows how to make a perfect omelet.
A manager worth his salt always listens to his employees' concerns.
She proved she was worth her salt by handling the crisis efficiently.
18. To bear the brunt of (To suffer the worst part of something unpleasant)
The small businesses bore the brunt of the economic crisis.
During the argument, she bore the brunt of her boss’s frustration.
The coastal towns bore the brunt of the hurricane’s destruction.
The small businesses bore the brunt of the economic crisis.
During the argument, she bore the brunt of her boss’s frustration.
The coastal towns bore the brunt of the hurricane’s destruction.
19. To beat the air (To make futile efforts; to do something uselessly)
Arguing with him is like beating the air—he never listens.
The students were beating the air trying to solve a problem with no solution.
Without proper planning, their attempts to increase sales were just beating the air.
Arguing with him is like beating the air—he never listens.
The students were beating the air trying to solve a problem with no solution.
Without proper planning, their attempts to increase sales were just beating the air.
20. To blow hot and cold together (To be inconsistent or change opinions frequently)
She keeps blowing hot and cold about accepting the job offer.
The government is blowing hot and cold on the new policy, confusing everyone.
He blows hot and cold in relationships, making it hard to trust him.
She keeps blowing hot and cold about accepting the job offer.
The government is blowing hot and cold on the new policy, confusing everyone.
He blows hot and cold in relationships, making it hard to trust him.
21. To browbeat (To intimidate or pressure someone into doing something)
The lawyer tried to browbeat the witness into changing her statement.
He always browbeats his employees into working overtime.
The teacher refused to be browbeaten by the parents demanding special treatment.
The lawyer tried to browbeat the witness into changing her statement.
He always browbeats his employees into working overtime.
The teacher refused to be browbeaten by the parents demanding special treatment.
22. To burn one's fingers (To suffer unpleasant consequences due to one's actions)
He burned his fingers by investing all his money in a failing company.
She burned her fingers trying to interfere in her friend’s personal matters.
Many people burned their fingers in the stock market crash.
He burned his fingers by investing all his money in a failing company.
She burned her fingers trying to interfere in her friend’s personal matters.
Many people burned their fingers in the stock market crash.
23. To burn the midnight oil (To work late into the night)
She burned the midnight oil to prepare for her final exams.
The team burned the midnight oil to complete the project before the deadline.
He often burns the midnight oil to meet his writing goals.
She burned the midnight oil to prepare for her final exams.
The team burned the midnight oil to complete the project before the deadline.
He often burns the midnight oil to meet his writing goals.
24. To bury the hatchet (To make peace after a conflict)
After years of rivalry, the two politicians decided to bury the hatchet.
The brothers finally buried the hatchet and started talking again.
It’s time to bury the hatchet and move on from past arguments.
After years of rivalry, the two politicians decided to bury the hatchet.
The brothers finally buried the hatchet and started talking again.
It’s time to bury the hatchet and move on from past arguments.
25. To call in question (To doubt or challenge something)
His honesty was called in question after the financial scandal.
The scientist’s research was called in question due to lack of evidence.
The referee’s decision was called in question by the players.
His honesty was called in question after the financial scandal.
The scientist’s research was called in question due to lack of evidence.
The referee’s decision was called in question by the players.
26. To carry the day (To win or succeed, especially in a debate or contest)
Despite initial opposition, her arguments carried the day.
The underdog team carried the day with an unexpected victory.
His speech was so powerful that it carried the day in the debate.
Despite initial opposition, her arguments carried the day.
The underdog team carried the day with an unexpected victory.
His speech was so powerful that it carried the day in the debate.
27. To come in handy (To be useful when needed)
This multipurpose tool will come in handy when camping.
Knowing how to cook came in handy when she moved out on her own.
The extra savings came in handy during the emergency.
This multipurpose tool will come in handy when camping.
Knowing how to cook came in handy when she moved out on her own.
The extra savings came in handy during the emergency.
28. To cut a sorry figure (To make a poor impression or perform badly)
He cut a sorry figure during the interview due to his nervousness.
The team cut a sorry figure in the match, losing 5-0.
She cut a sorry figure at the presentation, forgetting all her points.
He cut a sorry figure during the interview due to his nervousness.
The team cut a sorry figure in the match, losing 5-0.
She cut a sorry figure at the presentation, forgetting all her points.
29. To cut the Gordian knot (To solve a difficult problem in a bold way)
The CEO cut the Gordian knot by firing the entire management team.
Instead of endless negotiations, they cut the Gordian knot and agreed to split the company.
The leader cut the Gordian knot by making a decisive policy change.
The CEO cut the Gordian knot by firing the entire management team.
Instead of endless negotiations, they cut the Gordian knot and agreed to split the company.
The leader cut the Gordian knot by making a decisive policy change.
30. To cut to the quick (To deeply hurt someone emotionally)
His rude comment cut her to the quick, leaving her in tears.
The harsh criticism cut him to the quick, as he had worked hard on the project.
She was cut to the quick when her best friend betrayed her.
His rude comment cut her to the quick, leaving her in tears.
The harsh criticism cut him to the quick, as he had worked hard on the project.
She was cut to the quick when her best friend betrayed her.
31. To draw the long bow (To exaggerate or tell an unbelievable story)
He’s always drawing the long bow about his adventures abroad.
The fisherman drew the long bow, claiming he caught a shark with his bare hands.
The politician drew the long bow with his unrealistic promises.
He’s always drawing the long bow about his adventures abroad.
The fisherman drew the long bow, claiming he caught a shark with his bare hands.
The politician drew the long bow with his unrealistic promises.
32. To eat out of another’s hand (To be completely under someone’s influence or control)
The politician had the audience eating out of his hand with his powerful speech.
She was so charming that everyone at the office ate out of her hand.
The coach had his players eating out of his hand with his motivational words.
The politician had the audience eating out of his hand with his powerful speech.
She was so charming that everyone at the office ate out of her hand.
The coach had his players eating out of his hand with his motivational words.
34. To eat one’s cake and have it (To have or enjoy two contradictory things at the same time)
You can’t eat your cake and have it—either save money or go on expensive vacations.
He wants to be independent but still rely on his parents for financial support—he's trying to eat his cake and have it.
She can’t expect freedom and strict discipline at the same time; she’s trying to eat her cake and have it.
You can’t eat your cake and have it—either save money or go on expensive vacations.
He wants to be independent but still rely on his parents for financial support—he's trying to eat his cake and have it.
She can’t expect freedom and strict discipline at the same time; she’s trying to eat her cake and have it.
35. To feel the pulse (To assess a situation or gather information before taking action)
The manager met with employees to feel the pulse of the workplace atmosphere.
Before launching the new product, the company conducted a survey to feel the pulse of potential customers.
Politicians often feel the pulse of the voters before making policy decisions.
The manager met with employees to feel the pulse of the workplace atmosphere.
Before launching the new product, the company conducted a survey to feel the pulse of potential customers.
Politicians often feel the pulse of the voters before making policy decisions.
36. To fiddle about (To waste time or handle something in an ineffective way)
Stop fiddling about and get to work!
He spent the whole afternoon fiddling about with his phone instead of studying.
The technician was fiddling about with the wires but didn’t actually fix the issue.
Stop fiddling about and get to work!
He spent the whole afternoon fiddling about with his phone instead of studying.
The technician was fiddling about with the wires but didn’t actually fix the issue.
37. To flog a dead horse (To waste effort on something that is already settled or hopeless)
Arguing about this issue again is like flogging a dead horse—we’ve already made a decision.
He keeps trying to fix that old car, but he's just flogging a dead horse.
Discussing the same failed proposal over and over is flogging a dead horse.
Arguing about this issue again is like flogging a dead horse—we’ve already made a decision.
He keeps trying to fix that old car, but he's just flogging a dead horse.
Discussing the same failed proposal over and over is flogging a dead horse.
38. To get in the neck (To be severely criticized or punished)
He got in the neck for missing an important deadline at work.
The football team got in the neck from their coach after losing the match.
She got in the neck from her boss for making a costly mistake.
He got in the neck for missing an important deadline at work.
The football team got in the neck from their coach after losing the match.
She got in the neck from her boss for making a costly mistake.
39. To get into a scrap (To get into a fight or argument)
The boys got into a scrap over who should take the last piece of cake.
He often gets into scraps because of his short temper.
They got into a scrap over a minor misunderstanding.
The boys got into a scrap over who should take the last piece of cake.
He often gets into scraps because of his short temper.
They got into a scrap over a minor misunderstanding.
40. To get in with (To become friendly or establish a connection with someone)
He got in with the right people and quickly climbed the corporate ladder.
She’s trying to get in with the popular crowd at school.
He got in with the influential members of the club to boost his business.
He got in with the right people and quickly climbed the corporate ladder.
She’s trying to get in with the popular crowd at school.
He got in with the influential members of the club to boost his business.
41. To get on one’s nerves (To annoy or irritate someone)
His constant complaining is really getting on my nerves.
The loud music from the neighbors gets on my nerves every night.
She got on his nerves by interrupting him while he was working.
His constant complaining is really getting on my nerves.
The loud music from the neighbors gets on my nerves every night.
She got on his nerves by interrupting him while he was working.
42. To gird up one’s loins (To prepare oneself for a difficult task or challenge)
He girded up his loins before stepping onto the stage for his speech.
The soldiers girded up their loins for the tough battle ahead.
She girded up her loins to face the difficult exam.
He girded up his loins before stepping onto the stage for his speech.
The soldiers girded up their loins for the tough battle ahead.
She girded up her loins to face the difficult exam.
43. To give a good account of oneself (To perform well in a difficult situation)
Despite being new to the team, he gave a good account of himself during the match.
She gave a good account of herself in the interview and impressed the panel.
The student gave a good account of himself in the debate competition.
Despite being new to the team, he gave a good account of himself during the match.
She gave a good account of herself in the interview and impressed the panel.
The student gave a good account of himself in the debate competition.
44. To give oneself airs (To act as if one is more important than others)
Ever since his promotion, he’s been giving himself airs and acting superior.
She gives herself airs just because she studied abroad.
He started giving himself airs after winning the award.
Ever since his promotion, he’s been giving himself airs and acting superior.
She gives herself airs just because she studied abroad.
He started giving himself airs after winning the award.
45. To give the cold shoulder (To ignore or treat someone in an unfriendly way)
She gave him the cold shoulder after their argument.
The team gave the new employee the cold shoulder because they didn’t like his attitude.
He felt hurt when his old friends gave him the cold shoulder at the reunion.
She gave him the cold shoulder after their argument.
The team gave the new employee the cold shoulder because they didn’t like his attitude.
He felt hurt when his old friends gave him the cold shoulder at the reunion.
46. To harp on the same subject (To keep talking about the same issue in an annoying way)
My dad keeps harping on the same subject—how I should find a better job.
Stop harping on the same subject; we’ve already heard your opinion.
She harps on the same subject every time we meet—it’s getting tiresome.
My dad keeps harping on the same subject—how I should find a better job.
Stop harping on the same subject; we’ve already heard your opinion.
She harps on the same subject every time we meet—it’s getting tiresome.
47. To have a person’s ear (To have influence over someone or their attention)
The advisor has the president’s ear on important matters.
She managed to have the CEO’s ear and present her ideas directly.
He’s lucky to have the director’s ear and can influence decisions.
The advisor has the president’s ear on important matters.
She managed to have the CEO’s ear and present her ideas directly.
He’s lucky to have the director’s ear and can influence decisions.
48. To hit the nail on the head (To describe something exactly or get something right)
He hit the nail on the head when he said that poor management was the company’s biggest problem.
You hit the nail on the head with your analysis of the situation.
She hit the nail on the head by pointing out the real issue in the discussion.
He hit the nail on the head when he said that poor management was the company’s biggest problem.
You hit the nail on the head with your analysis of the situation.
She hit the nail on the head by pointing out the real issue in the discussion.
49. To keep abreast of (To stay informed about the latest developments)
As a journalist, she always keeps abreast of current events.
It’s important to keep abreast of new trends in technology to stay competitive.
He reads financial news daily to keep abreast of the stock market.
As a journalist, she always keeps abreast of current events.
It’s important to keep abreast of new trends in technology to stay competitive.
He reads financial news daily to keep abreast of the stock market.
50. To keep one’s fingers crossed (To hope for a good outcome)
I have an important interview tomorrow—keep your fingers crossed for me!
She kept her fingers crossed, hoping for good weather on her wedding day.
We’re keeping our fingers crossed that our team wins the final match.
I have an important interview tomorrow—keep your fingers crossed for me!
She kept her fingers crossed, hoping for good weather on her wedding day.
We’re keeping our fingers crossed that our team wins the final match.
51. To keep one’s powder dry (To remain prepared for a situation without acting prematurely)
The manager kept his powder dry, waiting for the right time to announce the changes.
Investors are keeping their powder dry before making big financial moves.
She kept her powder dry during the negotiations, waiting for the best offer.
The manager kept his powder dry, waiting for the right time to announce the changes.
Investors are keeping their powder dry before making big financial moves.
She kept her powder dry during the negotiations, waiting for the best offer.
54. To keep the ball rolling (To maintain momentum or progress in an activity)
We need to keep the ball rolling on this project to meet the deadline.
He started the discussion with a joke to keep the ball rolling.
After a strong start, the company is working hard to keep the ball rolling.
We need to keep the ball rolling on this project to meet the deadline.
He started the discussion with a joke to keep the ball rolling.
After a strong start, the company is working hard to keep the ball rolling.
55. To keep the wolf from the door (To earn just enough money to survive)
After losing his job, he took a part-time gig just to keep the wolf from the door.
Their small family business helps keep the wolf from the door.
She struggled to keep the wolf from the door after unexpected medical expenses.
After losing his job, he took a part-time gig just to keep the wolf from the door.
Their small family business helps keep the wolf from the door.
She struggled to keep the wolf from the door after unexpected medical expenses.
56. To lay heads together (To discuss something as a group to find a solution)
The team laid their heads together to come up with a new marketing strategy.
We need to lay our heads together and find a way to solve this problem.
The scientists laid their heads together to develop a vaccine quickly.
The team laid their heads together to come up with a new marketing strategy.
We need to lay our heads together and find a way to solve this problem.
The scientists laid their heads together to develop a vaccine quickly.
57. To lead by the nose (To control or manipulate someone completely)
The corrupt leader led his followers by the nose, making them believe false promises.
She lets her friend lead her by the nose instead of thinking for herself.
The company was led by the nose into signing an unfair deal.
The corrupt leader led his followers by the nose, making them believe false promises.
She lets her friend lead her by the nose instead of thinking for herself.
The company was led by the nose into signing an unfair deal.
58. To leave in the lurch (To abandon or betray someone at a difficult time)
He left his friend in the lurch when he refused to help during a crisis.
The company left its employees in the lurch by shutting down without notice.
She felt left in the lurch when her team backed out at the last minute.
He left his friend in the lurch when he refused to help during a crisis.
The company left its employees in the lurch by shutting down without notice.
She felt left in the lurch when her team backed out at the last minute.
59. To leave no stone unturned (To make every possible effort to achieve something)
The police left no stone unturned in their search for the missing child.
She left no stone unturned while preparing for the exam.
The coach left no stone unturned to train the team for the championship.
The police left no stone unturned in their search for the missing child.
She left no stone unturned while preparing for the exam.
The coach left no stone unturned to train the team for the championship.
60. To lend a hand (To help someone)
Can you lend a hand with these heavy boxes?
He always lends a hand whenever someone needs assistance.
The volunteers lent a hand in rebuilding the houses after the flood.
Can you lend a hand with these heavy boxes?
He always lends a hand whenever someone needs assistance.
The volunteers lent a hand in rebuilding the houses after the flood.
61. To let slip through one's fingers (To lose an opportunity due to carelessness or inaction)
He let the job offer slip through his fingers by not responding in time.
She regretted letting the championship slip through her fingers after missing an easy goal.
Don’t let this investment opportunity slip through your fingers!
He let the job offer slip through his fingers by not responding in time.
She regretted letting the championship slip through her fingers after missing an easy goal.
Don’t let this investment opportunity slip through your fingers!
62. To lose one’s head (To become overly emotional or panic in a stressful situation)
He lost his head when he saw the fire and ran in the wrong direction.
She tends to lose her head during exams and forget everything.
A good leader never loses his head in a crisis.
He lost his head when he saw the fire and ran in the wrong direction.
She tends to lose her head during exams and forget everything.
A good leader never loses his head in a crisis.
63. To make a cat’s paw of (To use someone as a tool to accomplish one’s own ends)
He made a cat’s paw of his assistant to spread false rumors.
She realized too late that she was being made a cat’s paw in their political fight.
The criminals made a cat’s paw of the unsuspecting delivery boy.
He made a cat’s paw of his assistant to spread false rumors.
She realized too late that she was being made a cat’s paw in their political fight.
The criminals made a cat’s paw of the unsuspecting delivery boy.
64. To make a clean breast of (To confess completely)
He made a clean breast of his involvement in the scandal.
She decided to make a clean breast of her mistake before it was discovered.
The thief finally made a clean breast of everything to the police.
He made a clean breast of his involvement in the scandal.
She decided to make a clean breast of her mistake before it was discovered.
The thief finally made a clean breast of everything to the police.
65. To make allowance for (To consider or take into account)
We must make allowance for his lack of experience.
The teacher made allowance for the students’ difficult backgrounds.
You should make allowance for unexpected delays when planning a trip.
We must make allowance for his lack of experience.
The teacher made allowance for the students’ difficult backgrounds.
You should make allowance for unexpected delays when planning a trip.
66. To make amends for (To compensate for a mistake or wrongdoing)
He made amends for his rude behavior by apologizing sincerely.
The company made amends for its poor service by offering refunds.
She tried to make amends for forgetting his birthday by planning a surprise party.
He made amends for his rude behavior by apologizing sincerely.
The company made amends for its poor service by offering refunds.
She tried to make amends for forgetting his birthday by planning a surprise party.
67. To make eyes at (To flirt with someone by looking at them suggestively)
She kept making eyes at the handsome guy across the room.
He got in trouble for making eyes at his boss’s wife.
They were making eyes at each other all evening.
She kept making eyes at the handsome guy across the room.
He got in trouble for making eyes at his boss’s wife.
They were making eyes at each other all evening.
68. To make head against (To resist or oppose something successfully)
The army struggled to make head against the enemy forces.
The company made head against the economic downturn and survived.
Despite strong opposition, the new policy is making head against criticism.
The army struggled to make head against the enemy forces.
The company made head against the economic downturn and survived.
Despite strong opposition, the new policy is making head against criticism.
69. To make one’s heart bleed (To feel deep sympathy or sorrow)
Seeing the abandoned children made my heart bleed.
His sad story made her heart bleed for him.
It makes my heart bleed to see so many people struggling in poverty.
Seeing the abandoned children made my heart bleed.
His sad story made her heart bleed for him.
It makes my heart bleed to see so many people struggling in poverty.
70. To meet one halfway (To compromise or agree partially)
If we can’t agree, let’s meet each other halfway.
The landlord refused to meet the tenant halfway on the rent.
In any relationship, you must be willing to meet the other person halfway.
If we can’t agree, let’s meet each other halfway.
The landlord refused to meet the tenant halfway on the rent.
In any relationship, you must be willing to meet the other person halfway.
71. To mind one’s own business (To focus on one’s own affairs and not interfere with others)
He told her to mind her own business when she asked about his personal life.
I suggest you mind your own business instead of gossiping about others.
She got angry when her neighbor refused to mind his own business.
He told her to mind her own business when she asked about his personal life.
I suggest you mind your own business instead of gossiping about others.
She got angry when her neighbor refused to mind his own business.
72. To monkey with something (To tamper with or handle something carelessly)
Don’t monkey with the electrical wires—you might get shocked.
He monkeyed with the engine and made things worse.
The kids were monkeying with the TV remote and broke it.
Don’t monkey with the electrical wires—you might get shocked.
He monkeyed with the engine and made things worse.
The kids were monkeying with the TV remote and broke it.
73. To move heaven and earth (To do everything possible to achieve something)
He moved heaven and earth to get his son into a good school.
She moved heaven and earth to find her lost dog.
The doctors moved heaven and earth to save the patient’s life.
He moved heaven and earth to get his son into a good school.
She moved heaven and earth to find her lost dog.
The doctors moved heaven and earth to save the patient’s life.
74. To nail the lie (To expose a falsehood or prove something untrue)
The journalist nailed the lie by presenting solid evidence.
His alibi nailed the lie of the false accusations.
The scientist nailed the lie about the fake medical claims.
The journalist nailed the lie by presenting solid evidence.
His alibi nailed the lie of the false accusations.
The scientist nailed the lie about the fake medical claims.
75. To pass the buck (To shift responsibility to someone else)
The manager always passes the buck instead of taking responsibility.
Instead of passing the buck, admit your mistake and fix it.
He tried to pass the buck to his assistant when questioned.
The manager always passes the buck instead of taking responsibility.
Instead of passing the buck, admit your mistake and fix it.
He tried to pass the buck to his assistant when questioned.
76. To pay back in the same coin (To retaliate in a similar manner)
After being insulted, he paid back in the same coin with a sarcastic remark.
She paid them back in the same coin by ignoring their calls.
If you treat others poorly, they may pay you back in the same coin.
After being insulted, he paid back in the same coin with a sarcastic remark.
She paid them back in the same coin by ignoring their calls.
If you treat others poorly, they may pay you back in the same coin.
77. To pick another’s brain (To ask someone for advice or knowledge)
I need to pick your brain about the new project.
She picked her professor’s brain for guidance on her thesis.
He loves picking the brains of successful entrepreneurs.
I need to pick your brain about the new project.
She picked her professor’s brain for guidance on her thesis.
He loves picking the brains of successful entrepreneurs.
78. To pin one’s faith on (To rely completely on something or someone)
He pinned his faith on the new investment strategy.
She pinned her faith on the lawyer to win the case.
The villagers pinned their faith on the rain god for a good harvest.
He pinned his faith on the new investment strategy.
She pinned her faith on the lawyer to win the case.
The villagers pinned their faith on the rain god for a good harvest.
79. To play an underhand game (To act dishonestly or deceptively)
He played an underhand game to get the promotion.
The company was accused of playing an underhand game in business deals.
She realized too late that her rival was playing an underhand game.
He played an underhand game to get the promotion.
The company was accused of playing an underhand game in business deals.
She realized too late that her rival was playing an underhand game.
80. To play the devil with (To cause great trouble or damage)
The storm played the devil with the crops.
His reckless decisions played the devil with the company’s finances.
The delay played the devil with their travel plans.
The storm played the devil with the crops.
His reckless decisions played the devil with the company’s finances.
The delay played the devil with their travel plans.
81. To play fast and loose (To behave irresponsibly or dishonestly)
He plays fast and loose with people’s emotions.
The politician was accused of playing fast and loose with the facts.
Don’t play fast and loose with your commitments.
He plays fast and loose with people’s emotions.
The politician was accused of playing fast and loose with the facts.
Don’t play fast and loose with your commitments.
82. To play into one’s hand (To unintentionally help an opponent or rival)
By overreacting, he played right into his enemy’s hands.
The competitor played into their hands by making a costly mistake.
She played into his hands by revealing too much information.
By overreacting, he played right into his enemy’s hands.
The competitor played into their hands by making a costly mistake.
She played into his hands by revealing too much information.
83. To plough the sands (To make futile efforts)
Trying to convince him is like ploughing the sands—he won’t change his mind.
The team is ploughing the sands with their outdated business model.
Studying without proper focus is like ploughing the sands.
Trying to convince him is like ploughing the sands—he won’t change his mind.
The team is ploughing the sands with their outdated business model.
Studying without proper focus is like ploughing the sands.
84. To poke fun at (To mock or make jokes about someone)
They poked fun at his new haircut.
The comedian loves poking fun at politicians.
She didn’t mind when her friends poked fun at her accent.
They poked fun at his new haircut.
The comedian loves poking fun at politicians.
She didn’t mind when her friends poked fun at her accent.
85. To pull the wool over another’s eyes (To deceive or trick someone)
He tried to pull the wool over my eyes, but I saw through his lies.
The scammer pulled the wool over many investors’ eyes.
She thought she could pull the wool over the teacher’s eyes, but she got caught.
He tried to pull the wool over my eyes, but I saw through his lies.
The scammer pulled the wool over many investors’ eyes.
She thought she could pull the wool over the teacher’s eyes, but she got caught.
86. To put one’s best face on (To appear cheerful or confident despite difficulties)
Even after losing the match, he put his best face on and congratulated the winners.
She put her best face on for the interview despite feeling nervous.
He put his best face on at the party even though he was sad.
Even after losing the match, he put his best face on and congratulated the winners.
She put her best face on for the interview despite feeling nervous.
He put his best face on at the party even though he was sad.
87. To ring down the curtain (To bring something to an end)
The company rang down the curtain on its operations after 20 years.
The scandal rang down the curtain on his political career.
The director decided to ring down the curtain on the long-running show.
The company rang down the curtain on its operations after 20 years.
The scandal rang down the curtain on his political career.
The director decided to ring down the curtain on the long-running show.
88. To bury the hatchet (To make peace after a disagreement)
After years of rivalry, they finally buried the hatchet and became friends.
She apologized, and they buried the hatchet instead of continuing the fight.
It’s time to bury the hatchet and move on from this argument.
After years of rivalry, they finally buried the hatchet and became friends.
She apologized, and they buried the hatchet instead of continuing the fight.
It’s time to bury the hatchet and move on from this argument.
89. To call it a day (To stop an argument or conflict, often because it’s pointless)
They kept arguing over the same issue, but eventually, they called it a day.
After hours of debate, they decided to call it a day and drop the discussion.
Let’s call it a day and talk about this when we’re calmer.
They kept arguing over the same issue, but eventually, they called it a day.
After hours of debate, they decided to call it a day and drop the discussion.
Let’s call it a day and talk about this when we’re calmer.
90. To let bygones be bygones (To forget past conflicts and move on)
They decided to let bygones be bygones and start fresh.
Instead of holding a grudge, he let bygones be bygones.
It’s been years since that fight—let’s let bygones be bygones.
They decided to let bygones be bygones and start fresh.
Instead of holding a grudge, he let bygones be bygones.
It’s been years since that fight—let’s let bygones be bygones.
91. To smooth things over (To settle a dispute and make peace)
She tried to smooth things over by offering an apology.
They had a heated argument, but their friends helped smooth things over.
He brought flowers to smooth things over with his wife after the argument.
She tried to smooth things over by offering an apology.
They had a heated argument, but their friends helped smooth things over.
He brought flowers to smooth things over with his wife after the argument.
92. To mend fences (To repair a damaged relationship after a fight)
After their argument, they worked hard to mend fences.
He reached out to mend fences with his childhood friend.
It’s never too late to mend fences with someone you care about.
After their argument, they worked hard to mend fences.
He reached out to mend fences with his childhood friend.
It’s never too late to mend fences with someone you care about.
93. To let it slide (To ignore or forgive a mistake instead of continuing a fight)
Instead of arguing, he chose to let it slide.
She was about to get angry but decided to let it slide.
Sometimes, it’s better to let it slide than to keep fighting over small things.
Instead of arguing, he chose to let it slide.
She was about to get angry but decided to let it slide.
Sometimes, it’s better to let it slide than to keep fighting over small things.
94. To draw a line under something (To stop discussing or arguing about it)
They decided to draw a line under their fight and move forward.
It’s best to draw a line under the past and focus on the future.
After arguing for hours, they finally agreed to draw a line under it.
They decided to draw a line under their fight and move forward.
It’s best to draw a line under the past and focus on the future.
After arguing for hours, they finally agreed to draw a line under it.
95. To turn over a new leaf (To change one’s behavior and move past old conflicts)
After their argument, they promised to turn over a new leaf.
He turned over a new leaf and stopped being so argumentative.
They decided to turn over a new leaf and communicate better.
After their argument, they promised to turn over a new leaf.
He turned over a new leaf and stopped being so argumentative.
They decided to turn over a new leaf and communicate better.
96. The best is yet to come
(The future will be even better than the present or past.)
Don’t be discouraged by setbacks—the best is yet to come.
She believes that no matter what happens, the best is yet to come.
After his early struggles, he finally felt like the best was yet to come.
(The future will be even better than the present or past.)
Don’t be discouraged by setbacks—the best is yet to come.
She believes that no matter what happens, the best is yet to come.
After his early struggles, he finally felt like the best was yet to come.
97. A bright future ahead
(Indicating great potential or success in the future.)
With his talent and dedication, he has a bright future ahead.
The company is struggling now, but it has a bright future ahead.
She knew that despite her challenges, there was a bright future ahead.
(Indicating great potential or success in the future.)
With his talent and dedication, he has a bright future ahead.
The company is struggling now, but it has a bright future ahead.
She knew that despite her challenges, there was a bright future ahead.
98. To turn over a new leaf
(To make a fresh start and improve one’s life.)
After years of bad decisions, he decided to turn over a new leaf.
She turned over a new leaf by focusing on her career and health.
The new year is the perfect time to turn over a new leaf.
(To make a fresh start and improve one’s life.)
After years of bad decisions, he decided to turn over a new leaf.
She turned over a new leaf by focusing on her career and health.
The new year is the perfect time to turn over a new leaf.
99. A silver lining
(A positive aspect of a difficult situation; hope after hardship.)
Losing his job was tough, but the silver lining was that he found his true passion.
Every setback has a silver lining if you look for it.
They struggled during the pandemic, but the silver lining was spending more time together.
(A positive aspect of a difficult situation; hope after hardship.)
Losing his job was tough, but the silver lining was that he found his true passion.
Every setback has a silver lining if you look for it.
They struggled during the pandemic, but the silver lining was spending more time together.
100. The dawn of a new era
(A fresh beginning or a significant change leading to a better future.)
The invention of AI marked the dawn of a new era in technology.
After the war ended, people felt like it was the dawn of a new era.
His promotion signaled the dawn of a new era in his career.
(A fresh beginning or a significant change leading to a better future.)
The invention of AI marked the dawn of a new era in technology.
After the war ended, people felt like it was the dawn of a new era.
His promotion signaled the dawn of a new era in his career.
101. To see the light at the end of the tunnel
(To approach the end of a difficult period and expect better times ahead.)
After months of struggling financially, they finally saw the light at the end of the tunnel.
The project was tough, but we’re starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel.
With the new treatment, the patient could finally see the light at the end of the tunnel.
(To approach the end of a difficult period and expect better times ahead.)
After months of struggling financially, they finally saw the light at the end of the tunnel.
The project was tough, but we’re starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel.
With the new treatment, the patient could finally see the light at the end of the tunnel.
102. A fresh start
(A new beginning with renewed hope and opportunities.)
Moving to a new city gave her a fresh start.
After the argument, they agreed to forgive each other and have a fresh start.
The new job felt like a fresh start in his life.
(A new beginning with renewed hope and opportunities.)
Moving to a new city gave her a fresh start.
After the argument, they agreed to forgive each other and have a fresh start.
The new job felt like a fresh start in his life.
103. To build a better tomorrow
(To work toward a future with improvement and success.)
The charity is dedicated to building a better tomorrow for underprivileged children.
Education is the key to building a better tomorrow.
By investing in clean energy, we are building a better tomorrow for future generations.
(To work toward a future with improvement and success.)
The charity is dedicated to building a better tomorrow for underprivileged children.
Education is the key to building a better tomorrow.
By investing in clean energy, we are building a better tomorrow for future generations.
104. A golden opportunity
(A rare and valuable chance to improve one’s future.)
This job offer is a golden opportunity—you shouldn’t miss it!
Winning the scholarship was a golden opportunity for her education.
Moving abroad for studies was a golden opportunity to broaden his horizons.
(A rare and valuable chance to improve one’s future.)
This job offer is a golden opportunity—you shouldn’t miss it!
Winning the scholarship was a golden opportunity for her education.
Moving abroad for studies was a golden opportunity to broaden his horizons.
105. To be on the right track
(To be making progress toward a successful or positive future.)
After years of struggle, she finally felt like she was on the right track.
The company’s new strategy shows they are on the right track.
With hard work and patience, you’ll be on the right track to success.
(To be making progress toward a successful or positive future.)
After years of struggle, she finally felt like she was on the right track.
The company’s new strategy shows they are on the right track.
With hard work and patience, you’ll be on the right track to success.
106. To break new ground
(To do something innovative that paves the way for future success.)
The scientist broke new ground with his latest discovery.
This startup is breaking new ground in the field of artificial intelligence.
The artist broke new ground with her unique painting style.
(To do something innovative that paves the way for future success.)
The scientist broke new ground with his latest discovery.
This startup is breaking new ground in the field of artificial intelligence.
The artist broke new ground with her unique painting style.
107. A stepping stone to success
(An opportunity or experience that helps one move toward a better future.)
This internship will be a stepping stone to your dream job.
Learning new skills can be a stepping stone to a brighter future.
His first small business was just a stepping stone to bigger ventures.
(An opportunity or experience that helps one move toward a better future.)
This internship will be a stepping stone to your dream job.
Learning new skills can be a stepping stone to a brighter future.
His first small business was just a stepping stone to bigger ventures.
108. Where there’s a will, there’s a way
(If you truly want something, you will find a way to achieve it.)
He struggled to start his business, but he believed that where there’s a will, there’s a way.
She didn’t have much money for college, but where there’s a will, there’s a way.
Don’t give up! Where there’s a will, there’s a way.
(If you truly want something, you will find a way to achieve it.)
He struggled to start his business, but he believed that where there’s a will, there’s a way.
She didn’t have much money for college, but where there’s a will, there’s a way.
Don’t give up! Where there’s a will, there’s a way.
109. Every cloud has a silver lining
(Even difficult situations have some positive aspects.)
Losing his job was tough, but every cloud has a silver lining—he found a better one.
She was heartbroken, but every cloud has a silver lining—she learned to focus on herself.
The accident was unfortunate, but every cloud has a silver lining; it brought the family closer.
(Even difficult situations have some positive aspects.)
Losing his job was tough, but every cloud has a silver lining—he found a better one.
She was heartbroken, but every cloud has a silver lining—she learned to focus on herself.
The accident was unfortunate, but every cloud has a silver lining; it brought the family closer.
110. Tomorrow is another day
(No matter what happens today, there’s always hope for a better tomorrow.)
Don’t be discouraged by failure—tomorrow is another day.
She was upset about the argument but reminded herself that tomorrow is another day.
You may have lost the match, but tomorrow is another day to try again.
(No matter what happens today, there’s always hope for a better tomorrow.)
Don’t be discouraged by failure—tomorrow is another day.
She was upset about the argument but reminded herself that tomorrow is another day.
You may have lost the match, but tomorrow is another day to try again.
111. It’s always darkest before the dawn
(Things often seem worst just before they get better.)
I know life is hard right now, but remember, it’s always darkest before the dawn.
They were struggling financially, but it’s always darkest before the dawn—things improved soon after.
Don’t lose hope—it’s always darkest before the dawn.
(Things often seem worst just before they get better.)
I know life is hard right now, but remember, it’s always darkest before the dawn.
They were struggling financially, but it’s always darkest before the dawn—things improved soon after.
Don’t lose hope—it’s always darkest before the dawn.
112. Keep the faith
(Stay hopeful and confident in difficult times.)
Things may be tough now, but keep the faith—better days are coming.
Even when life gets challenging, she always keeps the faith.
Keep the faith, and everything will work out in the end.
(Stay hopeful and confident in difficult times.)
Things may be tough now, but keep the faith—better days are coming.
Even when life gets challenging, she always keeps the faith.
Keep the faith, and everything will work out in the end.
113. Hope springs eternal
(People will always continue to hope, no matter how bad things seem.)
Despite all the setbacks, he believed in hope springs eternal.
She failed many times but never gave up because hope springs eternal.
We don’t know what the future holds, but hope springs eternal.
(People will always continue to hope, no matter how bad things seem.)
Despite all the setbacks, he believed in hope springs eternal.
She failed many times but never gave up because hope springs eternal.
We don’t know what the future holds, but hope springs eternal.
114. Light at the end of the tunnel
(A sign of improvement after a difficult period.)
After months of unemployment, he finally saw the light at the end of the tunnel.
Their business struggled, but now there’s a light at the end of the tunnel.
She worked hard in school, and now she sees the light at the end of the tunnel.
(A sign of improvement after a difficult period.)
After months of unemployment, he finally saw the light at the end of the tunnel.
Their business struggled, but now there’s a light at the end of the tunnel.
She worked hard in school, and now she sees the light at the end of the tunnel.
115. A new dawn
(A fresh start with renewed hope.)
After the war, the country experienced a new dawn of peace.
The election marked a new dawn for democracy.
Leaving his toxic job felt like a new dawn in his life.
(A fresh start with renewed hope.)
After the war, the country experienced a new dawn of peace.
The election marked a new dawn for democracy.
Leaving his toxic job felt like a new dawn in his life.
116. Don’t lose heart
(Don’t lose hope or confidence in difficult times.)
I know you’re struggling, but don’t lose heart—things will get better.
After failing the exam, he almost gave up, but his teacher told him not to lose heart.
Don’t lose heart just because of one setback; keep going!
(Don’t lose hope or confidence in difficult times.)
I know you’re struggling, but don’t lose heart—things will get better.
After failing the exam, he almost gave up, but his teacher told him not to lose heart.
Don’t lose heart just because of one setback; keep going!
117. There’s light beyond the horizon
(There is hope and a better future ahead.)
Things may be hard now, but there’s light beyond the horizon.
The team suffered many losses, but they believed there was light beyond the horizon.
No matter how tough life gets, remember there’s light beyond the horizon.
(There is hope and a better future ahead.)
Things may be hard now, but there’s light beyond the horizon.
The team suffered many losses, but they believed there was light beyond the horizon.
No matter how tough life gets, remember there’s light beyond the horizon.
118. The sun will shine again
(Better times will come after difficulties.)
She was heartbroken but reminded herself that the sun will shine again.
After the storm, the sun will shine again, and life will go on.
No matter how dark today seems, the sun will shine again.
(Better times will come after difficulties.)
She was heartbroken but reminded herself that the sun will shine again.
After the storm, the sun will shine again, and life will go on.
No matter how dark today seems, the sun will shine again.
119. To turn the corner
(To pass a difficult stage and start improving.)
After months of struggle, the company has finally turned the corner.
She was sick for a long time, but now she’s turning the corner.
Things were tough last year, but we’ve turned the corner now.
(To pass a difficult stage and start improving.)
After months of struggle, the company has finally turned the corner.
She was sick for a long time, but now she’s turning the corner.
Things were tough last year, but we’ve turned the corner now.
120. Keep your chin up
(Stay positive and hopeful even in tough times.)
I know you’re feeling down, but keep your chin up!
He lost his job but kept his chin up and found a better one.
Keep your chin up—good things are coming your way.
(Stay positive and hopeful even in tough times.)
I know you’re feeling down, but keep your chin up!
He lost his job but kept his chin up and found a better one.
Keep your chin up—good things are coming your way.
. A ray of hope
(A small sign that things will get better.)
The doctor’s positive report gave them a ray of hope.
The scholarship was a ray of hope for his education.
Seeing her recover gave us a ray of hope for the future.
(A small sign that things will get better.)
The doctor’s positive report gave them a ray of hope.
The scholarship was a ray of hope for his education.
Seeing her recover gave us a ray of hope for the future.
. The tide will turn
(Situations will improve after a difficult period.)
Business is slow now, but I believe the tide will turn soon.
The team is struggling, but the tide will turn in their favor.
After years of bad luck, he hopes the tide will turn.
(Situations will improve after a difficult period.)
Business is slow now, but I believe the tide will turn soon.
The team is struggling, but the tide will turn in their favor.
After years of bad luck, he hopes the tide will turn.
"Shape your own destiny"
(Take control of your future and work toward success.)
(Take control of your future and work toward success.)
Examples:
If you want to be successful, you must shape your own destiny through hard work.
She believes that education helps people shape their own destiny.
Instead of waiting for opportunities, he decided to shape his own destiny.
Other idioms that fit your idea:
If you want to be successful, you must shape your own destiny through hard work.
She believes that education helps people shape their own destiny.
Instead of waiting for opportunities, he decided to shape his own destiny.
Other idioms that fit your idea:
"Forge your own path"
(Take initiative to create a successful future.)
He refused to follow others and decided to forge his own path in life.
To achieve success, you must forge your own path with determination.
(Take initiative to create a successful future.)
He refused to follow others and decided to forge his own path in life.
To achieve success, you must forge your own path with determination.
"Lay the groundwork"
(Make preparations for future success.)
Studying hard now will lay the groundwork for a bright future.
The company is laying the groundwork for global expansion.
(Make preparations for future success.)
Studying hard now will lay the groundwork for a bright future.
The company is laying the groundwork for global expansion.
1. "The future is in your hands"
(Your actions and decisions will determine your future.)
Work hard because the future is in your hands.
She knows that her success depends on her efforts—the future is in her hands.
Instead of complaining, he took action because he believed the future is in his hands.
(Your actions and decisions will determine your future.)
Work hard because the future is in your hands.
She knows that her success depends on her efforts—the future is in her hands.
Instead of complaining, he took action because he believed the future is in his hands.
2. "Plant the seeds for the future"
(Take action now to ensure success later.)
By learning new skills, you're planting the seeds for the future.
He invested wisely to plant the seeds for his future success.
A good education helps plant the seeds for a bright future.
(Take action now to ensure success later.)
By learning new skills, you're planting the seeds for the future.
He invested wisely to plant the seeds for his future success.
A good education helps plant the seeds for a bright future.
3. "Seize the day" (Carpe diem)
(Take advantage of opportunities now to create a better future.)
If you want a great future, you must seize the day and take action.
She decided to seize the day and apply for her dream job.
Life is short—seize the day and work toward your goals!
(Take advantage of opportunities now to create a better future.)
If you want a great future, you must seize the day and take action.
She decided to seize the day and apply for her dream job.
Life is short—seize the day and work toward your goals!
4. "Pave the way"
(Prepare or create the conditions for future success.)
Hard work and dedication will pave the way for a successful career.
Her research paved the way for medical advancements.
The new policies will pave the way for economic growth.
(Prepare or create the conditions for future success.)
Hard work and dedication will pave the way for a successful career.
Her research paved the way for medical advancements.
The new policies will pave the way for economic growth.
5. "Build castles in the air"
(Have ambitious dreams and work toward them.)
He doesn’t just build castles in the air—he works hard to achieve his dreams.
Dream big, but don’t just build castles in the air—take action!
They had big plans, but without effort, they were just building castles in the air.
(Have ambitious dreams and work toward them.)
He doesn’t just build castles in the air—he works hard to achieve his dreams.
Dream big, but don’t just build castles in the air—take action!
They had big plans, but without effort, they were just building castles in the air.
6. "Write your own success story"
(Create your future through effort and determination.)
With dedication and hard work, you can write your own success story.
She didn’t let challenges stop her—she wrote her own success story.
Every effort you make helps you write your own success story.
(Create your future through effort and determination.)
With dedication and hard work, you can write your own success story.
She didn’t let challenges stop her—she wrote her own success story.
Every effort you make helps you write your own success story.
7. "Step up to the plate"
(Take responsibility and take action toward a better future.)
If you want success, you need to step up to the plate and take risks.
The company needed a leader, and he stepped up to the plate.
It’s time to step up to the plate and start working on your future.
(Take responsibility and take action toward a better future.)
If you want success, you need to step up to the plate and take risks.
The company needed a leader, and he stepped up to the plate.
It’s time to step up to the plate and start working on your future.
8. "The sky's the limit"
(There are no limits to what you can achieve in the future.)
With hard work, the sky’s the limit for your career.
He believes the sky’s the limit when it comes to personal growth.
If you keep learning and improving, the sky’s the limit!
(There are no limits to what you can achieve in the future.)
With hard work, the sky’s the limit for your career.
He believes the sky’s the limit when it comes to personal growth.
If you keep learning and improving, the sky’s the limit!
9. "A golden opportunity"
(A rare chance to secure a bright future.)
Studying abroad is a golden opportunity for your career.
She didn’t waste her golden opportunity to start a business.
This scholarship is a golden opportunity—don’t miss it!
(A rare chance to secure a bright future.)
Studying abroad is a golden opportunity for your career.
She didn’t waste her golden opportunity to start a business.
This scholarship is a golden opportunity—don’t miss it!
10. "Put your best foot forward"
(Make a great effort to achieve success.)
If you want a bright future, always put your best foot forward.
He put his best foot forward in the interview and got the job.
To achieve success, put your best foot forward in everything you do.
(Make a great effort to achieve success.)
If you want a bright future, always put your best foot forward.
He put his best foot forward in the interview and got the job.
To achieve success, put your best foot forward in everything you do.
"Good things come to those who wait"
(Patience and perseverance will eventually bring success or rewards.)
(Patience and perseverance will eventually bring success or rewards.)
Examples:
He worked hard for years, and finally, he got his dream job—good things come to those who wait.
She was frustrated with her slow progress, but her mother reminded her that good things come to those who wait.
The farmer patiently tended his crops, knowing that good things come to those who wait.
Other idioms with a similar meaning:
He worked hard for years, and finally, he got his dream job—good things come to those who wait.
She was frustrated with her slow progress, but her mother reminded her that good things come to those who wait.
The farmer patiently tended his crops, knowing that good things come to those who wait.
Other idioms with a similar meaning:
1. "Time will tell"
(The outcome of something will be revealed with time.)
We don’t know if his decision was right, but time will tell.
She’s hopeful about her new business—only time will tell if it succeeds.
He trained hard for the tournament, and time will tell if his efforts paid off.
(The outcome of something will be revealed with time.)
We don’t know if his decision was right, but time will tell.
She’s hopeful about her new business—only time will tell if it succeeds.
He trained hard for the tournament, and time will tell if his efforts paid off.
2. "Patience is a virtue"
(Being patient is an important and valuable quality.)
Success doesn’t come overnight—patience is a virtue.
She wanted instant results, but patience is a virtue.
If you’re waiting for the right opportunity, remember that patience is a virtue.
(Being patient is an important and valuable quality.)
Success doesn’t come overnight—patience is a virtue.
She wanted instant results, but patience is a virtue.
If you’re waiting for the right opportunity, remember that patience is a virtue.
3. "The proof is in the pudding"
(The final results will determine whether something is good or successful.)
He says his new strategy will work, but the proof is in the pudding.
She spent months preparing for the exam—now the proof is in the pudding.
The team made big promises, but the proof is in the pudding.
(The final results will determine whether something is good or successful.)
He says his new strategy will work, but the proof is in the pudding.
She spent months preparing for the exam—now the proof is in the pudding.
The team made big promises, but the proof is in the pudding.
4. "Wait for the dust to settle"
(Wait for a situation to calm down before making judgments or taking action.)
Let’s wait for the dust to settle before making a decision.
They had a big argument, but they decided to wait for the dust to settle.
The economy is uncertain now; let’s wait for the dust to settle.
(Wait for a situation to calm down before making judgments or taking action.)
Let’s wait for the dust to settle before making a decision.
They had a big argument, but they decided to wait for the dust to settle.
The economy is uncertain now; let’s wait for the dust to settle.
5. "All in good time"
(Things will happen when the right moment comes; be patient.)
You’ll get your promotion—all in good time.
She dreams of success, and I told her, "All in good time."
He’s impatient, but he must understand that everything happens all in good time.
(Things will happen when the right moment comes; be patient.)
You’ll get your promotion—all in good time.
She dreams of success, and I told her, "All in good time."
He’s impatient, but he must understand that everything happens all in good time.
"The proof is in the pudding"
(The true value or success of something can only be judged after it has been tested or experienced.)
(The true value or success of something can only be judged after it has been tested or experienced.)
Examples:
He claims his new business strategy will work, but the proof is in the pudding.
She spent months training for the competition—the proof is in the pudding when she competes.
The company promises its product is the best, but the proof is in the pudding.
He claims his new business strategy will work, but the proof is in the pudding.
She spent months training for the competition—the proof is in the pudding when she competes.
The company promises its product is the best, but the proof is in the pudding.
1. "Don’t count your chickens before they hatch"
(Don’t assume success or results before they actually happen.)
He’s already spending his bonus, but I told him not to count his chickens before they hatch.
She’s confident she’ll win the race, but let’s not count our chickens before they hatch.
The deal looks promising, but don’t count your chickens before they hatch.
(Don’t assume success or results before they actually happen.)
He’s already spending his bonus, but I told him not to count his chickens before they hatch.
She’s confident she’ll win the race, but let’s not count our chickens before they hatch.
The deal looks promising, but don’t count your chickens before they hatch.
2. "The moment of truth"
(The decisive time when the success or failure of something is determined.)
After months of practice, the final exam was the moment of truth.
The championship match is their moment of truth.
The product launch is the moment of truth for the company.
(The decisive time when the success or failure of something is determined.)
After months of practice, the final exam was the moment of truth.
The championship match is their moment of truth.
The product launch is the moment of truth for the company.
3. "See how the chips fall" / "See how the cookie crumbles"
(Wait for the outcome before making a judgment.)
We’ve done everything we can; now we wait to see how the chips fall.
I don’t know if the plan will work, so let’s see how the cookie crumbles.
They made their decision, and now we have to see how the chips fall.
(Wait for the outcome before making a judgment.)
We’ve done everything we can; now we wait to see how the chips fall.
I don’t know if the plan will work, so let’s see how the cookie crumbles.
They made their decision, and now we have to see how the chips fall.
4. "The ball is in your court"
(The outcome now depends on your actions.)
We gave him all the resources—now the ball is in his court.
The company made an offer; the ball is in your court now.
You’ve trained hard; now the ball is in your court to perform well.
(The outcome now depends on your actions.)
We gave him all the resources—now the ball is in his court.
The company made an offer; the ball is in your court now.
You’ve trained hard; now the ball is in your court to perform well.
5. "Put your money where your mouth is"
(Prove your claims through action or results.)
He says he’s the best player—now it’s time to put his money where his mouth is.
If you believe in this idea, invest in it and put your money where your mouth is.
She talks about helping people, but will she put her money where her mouth is?
(Prove your claims through action or results.)
He says he’s the best player—now it’s time to put his money where his mouth is.
If you believe in this idea, invest in it and put your money where your mouth is.
She talks about helping people, but will she put her money where her mouth is?
6. "Actions speak louder than words"
(The final outcome is determined by actions, not just promises or words.)
He keeps saying he’ll improve, but actions speak louder than words.
The company promises quality, but actions speak louder than words.
If you want to prove your loyalty, remember that actions speak louder than words.
(The final outcome is determined by actions, not just promises or words.)
He keeps saying he’ll improve, but actions speak louder than words.
The company promises quality, but actions speak louder than words.
If you want to prove your loyalty, remember that actions speak louder than words.
7. "The jury is still out"
(The final result or success is still uncertain.)
He started a new business, but the jury is still out on whether it will succeed.
The experiment looks promising, but the jury is still out.
We hired a new coach, but the jury is still out on his effectiveness.
(The final result or success is still uncertain.)
He started a new business, but the jury is still out on whether it will succeed.
The experiment looks promising, but the jury is still out.
We hired a new coach, but the jury is still out on his effectiveness.
1. "Time will tell"
(The outcome or truth will be revealed in the future.)
We don’t know if the new policy will work—only time will tell.
She hopes the investment pays off, but time will tell.
He’s training hard, but time will tell if he becomes a champion.
(The outcome or truth will be revealed in the future.)
We don’t know if the new policy will work—only time will tell.
She hopes the investment pays off, but time will tell.
He’s training hard, but time will tell if he becomes a champion.
2. "Let the dust settle"
(Wait for a situation to calm down before making a judgment.)
There was a big argument, so let’s wait and let the dust settle.
The stock market is unstable; let the dust settle before investing.
She just moved to a new city; give her time to let the dust settle.
(Wait for a situation to calm down before making a judgment.)
There was a big argument, so let’s wait and let the dust settle.
The stock market is unstable; let the dust settle before investing.
She just moved to a new city; give her time to let the dust settle.
3. "Play the waiting game"
(Be patient and wait for the right moment.)
The negotiations are slow, so we have to play the waiting game.
He applied for his dream job and is now playing the waiting game.
Sometimes, success comes to those who play the waiting game.
(Be patient and wait for the right moment.)
The negotiations are slow, so we have to play the waiting game.
He applied for his dream job and is now playing the waiting game.
Sometimes, success comes to those who play the waiting game.
4. "Wait for the shoe to drop"
(Wait for an expected event or consequence to happen.)
The company is struggling, and employees are waiting for the shoe to drop.
He apologized, but I’m waiting for the other shoe to drop.
Everyone was nervous, waiting for the shoe to drop after the announcement.
(Wait for an expected event or consequence to happen.)
The company is struggling, and employees are waiting for the shoe to drop.
He apologized, but I’m waiting for the other shoe to drop.
Everyone was nervous, waiting for the shoe to drop after the announcement.
5. "Bide your time"
(Wait patiently for the right opportunity.)
He didn’t rush into business; he decided to bide his time.
She’s bidding her time before making a big career move.
If you want revenge, bide your time and strike at the right moment.
(Wait patiently for the right opportunity.)
He didn’t rush into business; he decided to bide his time.
She’s bidding her time before making a big career move.
If you want revenge, bide your time and strike at the right moment.
6. "See which way the wind blows"
(Wait and observe before making a decision.)
Let’s see which way the wind blows before investing in the project.
He didn’t take sides; he waited to see which way the wind blew.
The manager is seeing which way the wind blows before making changes.
(Wait and observe before making a decision.)
Let’s see which way the wind blows before investing in the project.
He didn’t take sides; he waited to see which way the wind blew.
The manager is seeing which way the wind blows before making changes.
7. "Keep your powder dry"
(Stay ready while waiting for the right moment to act.)
The general kept his powder dry before launching an attack.
Investors are keeping their powder dry until the market stabilizes.
He’s keeping his powder dry before responding to the accusations.
(Stay ready while waiting for the right moment to act.)
The general kept his powder dry before launching an attack.
Investors are keeping their powder dry until the market stabilizes.
He’s keeping his powder dry before responding to the accusations.
8. "Sit tight"
(Wait patiently without taking action.)
The doctor said to sit tight and wait for the test results.
We’re expecting an important call, so just sit tight.
He wanted to act, but I told him to sit tight and wait for instructions.
(Wait patiently without taking action.)
The doctor said to sit tight and wait for the test results.
We’re expecting an important call, so just sit tight.
He wanted to act, but I told him to sit tight and wait for instructions.
1. "Wait for the dust to settle"
(Wait for a situation to become clear before acting.)
There was a big argument, so let’s wait for the dust to settle.
The market is unstable; let’s wait for the dust to settle before investing.
She just moved to a new job; give her time to wait for the dust to settle.
(Wait for a situation to become clear before acting.)
There was a big argument, so let’s wait for the dust to settle.
The market is unstable; let’s wait for the dust to settle before investing.
She just moved to a new job; give her time to wait for the dust to settle.
2. "Keep your ear to the ground"
(Stay informed and watch how things develop before taking action.)
Before making a decision, keep your ear to the ground and gather information.
Investors always keep their ears to the ground for market trends.
She’s keeping her ear to the ground to know if layoffs are coming.
(Stay informed and watch how things develop before taking action.)
Before making a decision, keep your ear to the ground and gather information.
Investors always keep their ears to the ground for market trends.
She’s keeping her ear to the ground to know if layoffs are coming.
3. "Test the waters"
(Try something cautiously to see how it will turn out.)
Before launching the product nationwide, we should test the waters in a small market.
He’s testing the waters by casually mentioning his business idea to investors.
Before committing, she tested the waters with a short-term contract.
(Try something cautiously to see how it will turn out.)
Before launching the product nationwide, we should test the waters in a small market.
He’s testing the waters by casually mentioning his business idea to investors.
Before committing, she tested the waters with a short-term contract.
4. "Play it by ear"
(Adapt to a situation as it unfolds instead of making a fixed plan.)
We don’t have a set plan for the trip; we’ll just play it by ear.
I’m not sure how my schedule will be, so let’s play it by ear.
The coach didn’t have a strict strategy; he decided to play it by ear.
(Adapt to a situation as it unfolds instead of making a fixed plan.)
We don’t have a set plan for the trip; we’ll just play it by ear.
I’m not sure how my schedule will be, so let’s play it by ear.
The coach didn’t have a strict strategy; he decided to play it by ear.
5. "Go with the flow"
(Adapt to what is happening without resistance.)
He’s not making any major decisions yet—just going with the flow.
Instead of stressing, she decided to go with the flow and see what happens.
Sometimes, the best thing to do is relax and go with the flow.
(Adapt to what is happening without resistance.)
He’s not making any major decisions yet—just going with the flow.
Instead of stressing, she decided to go with the flow and see what happens.
Sometimes, the best thing to do is relax and go with the flow.
6. "Take a wait-and-see approach"
(Be patient and observe before deciding what to do.)
The company is taking a wait-and-see approach before expanding.
Instead of panicking, let’s take a wait-and-see approach.
He’s not rushing into a decision—he prefers a wait-and-see approach.
(Be patient and observe before deciding what to do.)
The company is taking a wait-and-see approach before expanding.
Instead of panicking, let’s take a wait-and-see approach.
He’s not rushing into a decision—he prefers a wait-and-see approach.
7. "See how the land lies"
(Observe a situation before taking action.)
Before making any investments, I want to see how the land lies.
He didn’t make any commitments until he saw how the land lay.
Let’s see how the land lies before making a final decision.
(Observe a situation before taking action.)
Before making any investments, I want to see how the land lies.
He didn’t make any commitments until he saw how the land lay.
Let’s see how the land lies before making a final decision.
1. "See how the land lies"
(Assess the situation before taking action.)
Before making a decision, let’s see how the land lies.
He waited to see how the land lay before negotiating.
Investors always see how the land lies before making big moves.
(Assess the situation before taking action.)
Before making a decision, let’s see how the land lies.
He waited to see how the land lay before negotiating.
Investors always see how the land lies before making big moves.
2. "Wait for the dust to settle"
(Let things calm down before deciding.)
There was a lot of chaos after the announcement, so we waited for the dust to settle.
Before making changes, let’s wait for the dust to settle.
She’s not responding now—she’s waiting for the dust to settle.
(Let things calm down before deciding.)
There was a lot of chaos after the announcement, so we waited for the dust to settle.
Before making changes, let’s wait for the dust to settle.
She’s not responding now—she’s waiting for the dust to settle.
3. "Feel the pulse"
(Gauge the mood or reaction before acting.)
Before introducing the policy, the manager felt the pulse of the employees.
He felt the pulse of the audience before making his next move.
The company is feeling the pulse of the market before launching the product.
(Gauge the mood or reaction before acting.)
Before introducing the policy, the manager felt the pulse of the employees.
He felt the pulse of the audience before making his next move.
The company is feeling the pulse of the market before launching the product.
4. "Test the waters"
(Try something cautiously to see the reaction.)
Let’s test the waters before committing to a full business expansion.
She tested the waters with a part-time role before accepting the job offer.
They released a beta version to test the waters before the full launch.
(Try something cautiously to see the reaction.)
Let’s test the waters before committing to a full business expansion.
She tested the waters with a part-time role before accepting the job offer.
They released a beta version to test the waters before the full launch.
5. "Keep your ear to the ground"
(Stay alert and gather information before acting.)
Good leaders keep their ears to the ground before making big decisions.
I’m keeping my ear to the ground for any job openings.
She always keeps her ear to the ground to stay updated on industry trends.
(Stay alert and gather information before acting.)
Good leaders keep their ears to the ground before making big decisions.
I’m keeping my ear to the ground for any job openings.
She always keeps her ear to the ground to stay updated on industry trends.
1. "To rip open old scores" (To revive past quarrels or grudges.)
Their argument started again when he ripped open old scores from years ago.
Instead of moving forward, she keeps ripping open old scores.
The meeting turned bitter when past conflicts were ripped open.
Their argument started again when he ripped open old scores from years ago.
Instead of moving forward, she keeps ripping open old scores.
The meeting turned bitter when past conflicts were ripped open.
2. "To see eye to eye with" (To agree with someone completely.)
They rarely argue because they see eye to eye on most issues.
I don’t see eye to eye with my manager on this decision.
Despite their differences, they saw eye to eye on the new project.
They rarely argue because they see eye to eye on most issues.
I don’t see eye to eye with my manager on this decision.
Despite their differences, they saw eye to eye on the new project.
3. "To see how the wind blows" (To observe a situation before making a decision.)
Let’s see how the wind blows before we invest in the stock market.
He never commits early; he always sees how the wind blows first.
The politician waited to see how the wind blew before taking a stance.
Let’s see how the wind blows before we invest in the stock market.
He never commits early; he always sees how the wind blows first.
The politician waited to see how the wind blew before taking a stance.
4. "To see with half an eye" (To easily understand or notice something.)
You can see with half an eye that he’s lying.
I could see with half an eye that the plan was doomed to fail.
She saw with half an eye that something was wrong.
You can see with half an eye that he’s lying.
I could see with half an eye that the plan was doomed to fail.
She saw with half an eye that something was wrong.
5. "To shed crocodile tears" (To pretend to be sad or sympathetic.)
The politician shed crocodile tears after ignoring the issue for years.
She shed crocodile tears over the breakup, but she had already moved on.
He acted sad about the layoffs, but everyone knew they were crocodile tears.
The politician shed crocodile tears after ignoring the issue for years.
She shed crocodile tears over the breakup, but she had already moved on.
He acted sad about the layoffs, but everyone knew they were crocodile tears.
6. "To shout from the housetops" (To announce something publicly and loudly.)
She was so excited about her promotion that she wanted to shout it from the housetops.
He shouted from the housetops about his success in the competition.
The company shouted from the housetops about their new product launch.
She was so excited about her promotion that she wanted to shout it from the housetops.
He shouted from the housetops about his success in the competition.
The company shouted from the housetops about their new product launch.
7. "To show a clean pair of heels" (To run away quickly.)
When the dog started chasing him, he showed a clean pair of heels.
The thief showed a clean pair of heels before the police arrived.
As soon as the fight started, he showed a clean pair of heels.
When the dog started chasing him, he showed a clean pair of heels.
The thief showed a clean pair of heels before the police arrived.
As soon as the fight started, he showed a clean pair of heels.
8. "To speak with one's tongue in one's cheek" (To say something ironically or sarcastically.)
He said he loved working overtime, but he was speaking with his tongue in his cheek.
I thought he was serious, but he was speaking with his tongue in his cheek.
She praised his cooking, but with her tongue in her cheek.
He said he loved working overtime, but he was speaking with his tongue in his cheek.
I thought he was serious, but he was speaking with his tongue in his cheek.
She praised his cooking, but with her tongue in her cheek.
9. "To stand by with folded arms" (To do nothing in a difficult situation.)
The teacher stood by with folded arms while the students argued.
He couldn’t just stand by with folded arms while his friend was bullied.
They watched the disaster unfold, standing by with folded arms.
The teacher stood by with folded arms while the students argued.
He couldn’t just stand by with folded arms while his friend was bullied.
They watched the disaster unfold, standing by with folded arms.
10. "To stand one in good stead" (To be useful or beneficial in the future.)
His experience in public speaking will stand him in good stead.
Learning multiple languages stood her in good stead while traveling.
His networking skills will stand him in good stead in his career.
His experience in public speaking will stand him in good stead.
Learning multiple languages stood her in good stead while traveling.
His networking skills will stand him in good stead in his career.
11. "To steal a march over somebody" (To gain an advantage over someone unexpectedly.)
The company stole a march over its competitors by launching the product early.
He stole a march over his rival by preparing better.
By submitting her proposal first, she stole a march over the other applicants.
The company stole a march over its competitors by launching the product early.
He stole a march over his rival by preparing better.
By submitting her proposal first, she stole a march over the other applicants.
12. "To strike the right note" (To say or do something suitable or effective.)
His speech struck the right note with the audience.
The new marketing campaign struck the right note with customers.
She always strikes the right note in social situations.
His speech struck the right note with the audience.
The new marketing campaign struck the right note with customers.
She always strikes the right note in social situations.
13. "To swallow the bait" (To be tricked or deceived.)
He pretended to be friendly, and she swallowed the bait.
The scammer made an offer too good to be true, and people swallowed the bait.
I told him a fake story, and he swallowed the bait completely.
He pretended to be friendly, and she swallowed the bait.
The scammer made an offer too good to be true, and people swallowed the bait.
I told him a fake story, and he swallowed the bait completely.
14. "To take a fancy" (To suddenly like something or someone.)
She took a fancy to the new dress as soon as she saw it.
He took a fancy to photography after buying a new camera.
The child took a fancy to the puppy at first sight.
She took a fancy to the new dress as soon as she saw it.
He took a fancy to photography after buying a new camera.
The child took a fancy to the puppy at first sight.
1. "To take advantage of" (To exploit a situation or person for one’s benefit.)
He took advantage of the sale and bought a new laptop.
She felt betrayed when her friend took advantage of her kindness.
The company took advantage of the high demand to increase prices.
He took advantage of the sale and bought a new laptop.
She felt betrayed when her friend took advantage of her kindness.
The company took advantage of the high demand to increase prices.
2. "To take into account" (To consider something when making a decision.)
We must take into account the budget before planning the trip.
The teacher took into account the student’s effort when grading.
Before investing, take into account the risks involved.
We must take into account the budget before planning the trip.
The teacher took into account the student’s effort when grading.
Before investing, take into account the risks involved.
3. "To take one to task" (To criticize or reprimand someone strongly.)
The manager took him to task for missing deadlines.
She was taken to task for spreading false rumors.
The journalist took the politician to task for making false promises.
The manager took him to task for missing deadlines.
She was taken to task for spreading false rumors.
The journalist took the politician to task for making false promises.
4. "To take something into one's head" (To suddenly decide to do something, often foolishly.)
He took it into his head to climb the mountain alone.
She took it into her head to quit her job without a backup plan.
I don’t know why he took it into his head to repaint the whole house overnight.
He took it into his head to climb the mountain alone.
She took it into her head to quit her job without a backup plan.
I don’t know why he took it into his head to repaint the whole house overnight.
5. "To throw light upon" (To clarify or explain something.)
The investigation threw light upon the cause of the accident.
Her speech threw light upon the importance of mental health.
The documentary threw light upon the struggles of refugees.
The investigation threw light upon the cause of the accident.
Her speech threw light upon the importance of mental health.
The documentary threw light upon the struggles of refugees.
6. "To throw off the mask" (To reveal one's true nature or intentions.)
He seemed kind, but he threw off the mask when he was challenged.
The politician threw off the mask after winning the election.
She finally threw off the mask and admitted her true feelings.
He seemed kind, but he threw off the mask when he was challenged.
The politician threw off the mask after winning the election.
She finally threw off the mask and admitted her true feelings.
7. "To throw to the dogs" (To abandon or sacrifice something or someone as worthless.)
He threw his old friends to the dogs after becoming famous.
The company threw its loyal employees to the dogs during the crisis.
She threw her values to the dogs for the sake of money.
He threw his old friends to the dogs after becoming famous.
The company threw its loyal employees to the dogs during the crisis.
She threw her values to the dogs for the sake of money.
8. "To turn over a new leaf" (To make a fresh start or change one’s behavior for the better.)
After years of bad habits, he decided to turn over a new leaf.
She turned over a new leaf and started exercising daily.
The student turned over a new leaf and improved his grades.
After years of bad habits, he decided to turn over a new leaf.
She turned over a new leaf and started exercising daily.
The student turned over a new leaf and improved his grades.
9. "To wash dirty linen in public" (To discuss private or embarrassing matters openly.)
They shouldn’t wash their dirty linen in public by arguing online.
The celebrity washed his dirty linen in public during the interview.
A professional team doesn’t wash dirty linen in public.
They shouldn’t wash their dirty linen in public by arguing online.
The celebrity washed his dirty linen in public during the interview.
A professional team doesn’t wash dirty linen in public.
10. "To wash one's hands of" (To refuse to take responsibility for something.)
He washed his hands of the project after facing criticism.
The politician washed his hands of the scandal.
She washed her hands of the dispute and left the team.
He washed his hands of the project after facing criticism.
The politician washed his hands of the scandal.
She washed her hands of the dispute and left the team.
11. "To wear one's heart on one's sleeve" (To openly show emotions and feelings.)
He wears his heart on his sleeve, so you always know how he feels.
She wore her heart on her sleeve and couldn’t hide her excitement.
Unlike his reserved brother, he wears his heart on his sleeve.
……………………………………………………………………………………………..
He wears his heart on his sleeve, so you always know how he feels.
She wore her heart on her sleeve and couldn’t hide her excitement.
Unlike his reserved brother, he wears his heart on his sleeve.
……………………………………………………………………………………………..
"To be at daggers drawn" (To be in a state of conflict or hostility with someone.)
The two politicians have been at daggers drawn for years.
Ever since their argument, they have been at daggers drawn.
The rival companies are at daggers drawn over the lawsuit.
The two politicians have been at daggers drawn for years.
Ever since their argument, they have been at daggers drawn.
The rival companies are at daggers drawn over the lawsuit.
2. "To be at one's wits' end" (To be extremely worried or confused, not knowing what to do.)
She was at her wits' end trying to solve the financial crisis.
After searching for hours, I was at my wits' end.
He was at his wits' end dealing with his stubborn child.
She was at her wits' end trying to solve the financial crisis.
After searching for hours, I was at my wits' end.
He was at his wits' end dealing with his stubborn child.
3. "To be in one's element" (To be in a situation where one feels comfortable and confident.)
As a teacher, she is in her element in the classroom.
He was in his element during the debate.
The chef was in his element while preparing the feast.
As a teacher, she is in her element in the classroom.
He was in his element during the debate.
The chef was in his element while preparing the feast.
4. "To be in the doldrums" (To feel sad, depressed, or lacking energy.)
After losing his job, he was in the doldrums for weeks.
Sales were in the doldrums until the new product launched.
She was in the doldrums after her best friend moved away.
After losing his job, he was in the doldrums for weeks.
Sales were in the doldrums until the new product launched.
She was in the doldrums after her best friend moved away.
5. "To be in the same boat" (To be in the same difficult situation as others.)
We’re all in the same boat when it comes to rising costs.
The students were in the same boat, struggling with the exam.
Since both companies are struggling, they are in the same boat.
We’re all in the same boat when it comes to rising costs.
The students were in the same boat, struggling with the exam.
Since both companies are struggling, they are in the same boat.
6. "To be on tenterhooks" (To be anxious or nervous about something uncertain.)
We were on tenterhooks waiting for the exam results.
She was on tenterhooks before her job interview.
The fans were on tenterhooks during the penalty shootout.
We were on tenterhooks waiting for the exam results.
She was on tenterhooks before her job interview.
The fans were on tenterhooks during the penalty shootout.
7. "To be taken up with" (To be busy or preoccupied with something.)
He is taken up with work and has no time for socializing.
She was taken up with planning her wedding.
The manager was taken up with urgent meetings all day.
He is taken up with work and has no time for socializing.
She was taken up with planning her wedding.
The manager was taken up with urgent meetings all day.
8. "To beat about the bush" (To avoid getting to the main point.)
Stop beating about the bush and tell me what happened!
He kept beating about the bush instead of answering directly.
The politician beat about the bush when asked about corruption.
Stop beating about the bush and tell me what happened!
He kept beating about the bush instead of answering directly.
The politician beat about the bush when asked about corruption.
9. "To baffle description" (To be impossible to describe accurately.)
The beauty of the sunset baffles description.
His foolishness baffles description.
The horror of the scene baffles description.
The beauty of the sunset baffles description.
His foolishness baffles description.
The horror of the scene baffles description.
10. "To blow one's own trumpet" (To brag about oneself.)
He loves blowing his own trumpet about his achievements.
She doesn't blow her own trumpet, but she is very talented.
The athlete blew his own trumpet after winning the race.
He loves blowing his own trumpet about his achievements.
She doesn't blow her own trumpet, but she is very talented.
The athlete blew his own trumpet after winning the race.
11. "To break the ice" (To start a conversation in a way that makes people feel comfortable.)
He told a joke to break the ice at the meeting.
A fun game helped break the ice at the party.
She tried to break the ice by complimenting his tie.
He told a joke to break the ice at the meeting.
A fun game helped break the ice at the party.
She tried to break the ice by complimenting his tie.
12. "To bring down the house" (To receive loud applause or excitement from an audience.)
The comedian’s performance brought down the house.
The singer brought down the house with her final song.
His speech brought down the house at the graduation ceremony.
The comedian’s performance brought down the house.
The singer brought down the house with her final song.
His speech brought down the house at the graduation ceremony.
13. "To bring home to" (To make someone fully understand something.)
The accident brought home to him the importance of safety.
The movie brought home to the audience the reality of war.
His illness brought home to us how short life is.
The accident brought home to him the importance of safety.
The movie brought home to the audience the reality of war.
His illness brought home to us how short life is.
14. "To burn the candle at both ends" (To overwork oneself without rest.)
She’s burning the candle at both ends with work and studies.
If you keep burning the candle at both ends, you’ll collapse.
He burned the candle at both ends preparing for the exams.
She’s burning the candle at both ends with work and studies.
If you keep burning the candle at both ends, you’ll collapse.
He burned the candle at both ends preparing for the exams.
15. "To call a spade a spade" (To speak plainly and honestly, even if it’s unpleasant.)
He always calls a spade a spade, no matter who is listening.
Instead of sugarcoating the truth, call a spade a spade.
She called a spade a spade and criticized the bad policy.
He always calls a spade a spade, no matter who is listening.
Instead of sugarcoating the truth, call a spade a spade.
She called a spade a spade and criticized the bad policy.
16. "To come down upon" (To criticize or punish someone severely.)
The teacher came down upon the student for cheating.
The law came down upon tax evaders.
His boss came down upon him for missing the deadline.
The teacher came down upon the student for cheating.
The law came down upon tax evaders.
His boss came down upon him for missing the deadline.
17. "To come off with flying colors" (To succeed brilliantly.)
She came off with flying colors in her final exams.
He came off with flying colors in the competition.
Their team came off with flying colors in the championship.
She came off with flying colors in her final exams.
He came off with flying colors in the competition.
Their team came off with flying colors in the championship.
18. "To curry favor" (To seek someone's approval through flattery.)
He tried to curry favor with his boss by agreeing with everything.
She curried favor with her teacher to get better grades.
The politician curries favor with voters through fake promises.
He tried to curry favor with his boss by agreeing with everything.
She curried favor with her teacher to get better grades.
The politician curries favor with voters through fake promises.
1. "To bite one's nails"
(To be extremely nervous or anxious.)
I was biting my nails while waiting for the exam results.
She bit her nails during the entire job interview.
(To be extremely nervous or anxious.)
I was biting my nails while waiting for the exam results.
She bit her nails during the entire job interview.
2. "To be on pins and needles"
(To be in a state of nervous anticipation.)
I was on pins and needles before my big presentation.
We were on pins and needles waiting for the doctor’s report.
(To be in a state of nervous anticipation.)
I was on pins and needles before my big presentation.
We were on pins and needles waiting for the doctor’s report.
3. "To have butterflies in one's stomach"
(To feel nervous, especially before an important event.)
She had butterflies in her stomach before stepping on stage.
I always get butterflies in my stomach before a big game.
(To feel nervous, especially before an important event.)
She had butterflies in her stomach before stepping on stage.
I always get butterflies in my stomach before a big game.
4. "To be a bundle of nerves"
(To be very anxious or stressed.)
He was a bundle of nerves before his first date.
She was a bundle of nerves waiting for the interview call.
(To be very anxious or stressed.)
He was a bundle of nerves before his first date.
She was a bundle of nerves waiting for the interview call.
5. "To sweat bullets"
(To be extremely anxious or worried.)
He was sweating bullets before his driving test.
I was sweating bullets waiting for the final exam results.
(To be extremely anxious or worried.)
He was sweating bullets before his driving test.
I was sweating bullets waiting for the final exam results.
6. "To walk on eggshells"
(To be very cautious and nervous about upsetting someone or making a mistake.)
Ever since their fight, he has been walking on eggshells around her.
We have to walk on eggshells when the boss is in a bad mood.
(To be very cautious and nervous about upsetting someone or making a mistake.)
Ever since their fight, he has been walking on eggshells around her.
We have to walk on eggshells when the boss is in a bad mood.
7. "To be in a cold sweat"
(To feel intense fear or anxiety.)
I was in a cold sweat before giving my speech.
He woke up in a cold sweat after a bad dream.
(To feel intense fear or anxiety.)
I was in a cold sweat before giving my speech.
He woke up in a cold sweat after a bad dream.
"To eat humble pie" (To admit one’s mistake and apologize humbly.)
Example Sentences:
After falsely accusing his friend, he had to eat humble pie and apologize.
She laughed at my idea, but when it succeeded, she had to eat humble pie.
The coach made a wrong decision and had to eat humble pie in front of the team.
After falsely accusing his friend, he had to eat humble pie and apologize.
She laughed at my idea, but when it succeeded, she had to eat humble pie.
The coach made a wrong decision and had to eat humble pie in front of the team.
Similar Idioms:
"To swallow one's pride" – (To accept defeat or admit being wrong with humility.)
"To back down" – (To admit defeat or accept one was wrong after a disagreement.)
"To eat one's words" – (To take back something previously said after being proven wrong.)
"To take it on the chin" – (To accept criticism or defeat without complaining.)
"To face the music" – (To accept the consequences of one's actions.)
Being frustrated or losing patience (e.g., "I'm running out of patience.")
Having authority over someone (e.g., "It's out of my hands.")
Something being beyond one's control (e.g., "It's over my head.")
"At the end of my rope" → (Feeling exhausted or out of patience.)
Example: After dealing with his tantrums all day, I'm at the end of my rope!
"Try my patience" → (To test someone's ability to remain calm.)
Example: His constant complaining is really trying my patience.
"Run out of patience" → (To have no patience left.)
Example: I’ve run out of patience with his excuses.
"To swallow one's pride" – (To accept defeat or admit being wrong with humility.)
"To back down" – (To admit defeat or accept one was wrong after a disagreement.)
"To eat one's words" – (To take back something previously said after being proven wrong.)
"To take it on the chin" – (To accept criticism or defeat without complaining.)
"To face the music" – (To accept the consequences of one's actions.)
Being frustrated or losing patience (e.g., "I'm running out of patience.")
Having authority over someone (e.g., "It's out of my hands.")
Something being beyond one's control (e.g., "It's over my head.")
"At the end of my rope" → (Feeling exhausted or out of patience.)
Example: After dealing with his tantrums all day, I'm at the end of my rope!
"Try my patience" → (To test someone's ability to remain calm.)
Example: His constant complaining is really trying my patience.
"Run out of patience" → (To have no patience left.)
Example: I’ve run out of patience with his excuses.
. "To come off with flying colors" (To succeed brilliantly.)
She came off with flying colors in her final exams.
His team came off with flying colors in the championship.
The project came off with flying colors and impressed everyone.
She came off with flying colors in her final exams.
His team came off with flying colors in the championship.
The project came off with flying colors and impressed everyone.
