19th-century

• Bite the bullet

  To endure a difficult or unpleasant situation with courage and resolution, especially when it is unavoidable.

• Red herring

  A red herring is a clue or piece of information that is intended to be misleading or distracting.

• Saved by the bell

  To be rescued from a difficult or unpleasant situation at the very last moment, often by an external event that abruptly ends the predicament.

• Under the weather

  To feel unwell or slightly sick.

• Pass the buck

  To evade responsibility for a problem or task by shifting it to someone else.

• Bob's your uncle

  This phrase is used to declare that a task will be easily accomplished or that a successful outcome is guaranteed once a final, simple step is taken.

• Buckley's chance

  An extremely small or nonexistent probability of success.

• Fair dinkum

  Truly genuine, authentic, or honest; used to express truthfulness or sincerity.

• Beyond the black stump

  Referring to an extremely remote, isolated, or very rural area.

• Get a Taste of Your Own Medicine

  To experience the same unpleasant treatment or consequences that one has inflicted upon others.

• Easy Come, Easy Go

  Things acquired without much effort are often lost or spent just as quickly and without much thought.

• Get a Word in Edgeways

  To succeed in saying something, especially when others are talking continuously and making it difficult to contribute.

• Call It a Day

  To decide to stop working or doing an activity for the remainder of the day.

• Make a killing

  To earn a very large amount of money, often quickly and easily.

• Get Cold Feet

  To suddenly become nervous or fearful about something one was planning to do, often causing one to abandon it.

• Call Someone's Bluff

  To challenge someone to prove a claim or threat that you suspect is false or exaggerated.

• Baptism of Fire

  A difficult or challenging first experience of a particular activity, often involving a trial or ordeal.

• A close shave

  A narrow escape from a dangerous or difficult situation.

• Odds and ends

  Small, miscellaneous items or remnants of various things.

• Get Down to Brass Tacks

  To address the fundamental facts or practical details of a matter without further delay or unnecessary discussion.

• Calm Before the Storm

  This phrase describes a period of unusual tranquility or peace that immediately precedes a significant period of turmoil, conflict, or difficulty.

• Off the beaten track

  Away from the usual or most popular routes, places, or methods, suggesting something less conventional or more remote.

• A dark horse

  An individual or entity that was previously unknown or underestimated, but unexpectedly achieves success or prominence.

• Barking Up the Wrong Tree

  To pursue a mistaken course of action or to make an incorrect accusation.

• Take a Leaf Out of Someone's Book

  To imitate someone's behavior, actions, or methods because they have been successful or are admirable.

• Race against time

  To perform a task or achieve a goal within a severely limited timeframe, often under intense pressure and with critical consequences for failure.

• Batten Down the Hatches

  To prepare for a difficult or dangerous situation, often by taking defensive measures.

• Take a Rain Check

  To politely decline an invitation or offer with the intention of accepting it at a later, more convenient time.

• Get on Like a House on Fire

  To get on like a house on fire means to develop a very close, friendly, and enthusiastic relationship with someone extremely quickly.

• Take a Stand

  To assert one's strong opinion or position on an issue, especially when it involves potential risk or opposition.

• Even Keel

  To maintain a steady, balanced, and calm state, especially during difficult circumstances.

• Beat a Dead Horse

  To continue fruitlessly discussing or pursuing a topic or issue that has already been resolved or is no longer relevant.

• Old habits die hard

  It is very difficult to stop doing things that you have done for a long time.

• In stitches

  To be laughing so hard that one experiences physical discomfort, often in the side.

• Cat Got Your Tongue

  This question is asked to someone who is unusually quiet, often implying they are speechless from shyness, surprise, or an inability to respond.

• Make or break

  Describing a situation or event that will inevitably lead to either great success or complete failure.

• Get the Ball Rolling

  To initiate an activity or process, especially one that requires an initial push to overcome inertia.

• Read between the lines

  To infer meaning that is not explicitly stated but is implied in a text or conversation.

• Caught Off Guard

  To be surprised or unprepared for something unexpected.

• Rear its ugly head

  To reappear or emerge, especially of something unpleasant, troublesome, or previously suppressed.

• Face the Music

  To accept and deal with the unpleasant consequences of one's actions or decisions.

• Take the Cake

  To be the most remarkable or outstanding, often in an unfavorable or surprising sense.

• In the cards

  Something that is likely or destined to happen, often due to existing circumstances or predictions.

• Fall Flat

  To completely fail to produce an intended effect or desired response; to be unsuccessful or unimpressive.

• Talk Shop

  To discuss matters related to one's profession or work, often in a social setting where it might be inappropriate or uninteresting to others.

• Fall Off the Wagon

  To relapse into an old bad habit, particularly alcoholism, after a period of successful abstinence.

• A shot in the dark

  An attempt to guess or achieve something without having enough information or a clear understanding of the situation.

• A sight for sore eyes

  Someone or something that brings great relief or pleasure to a person who has been longing to see it.

• Absence makes the heart grow fonder

  Being away from someone or something often increases one's affection or longing for them.

• Against all odds

  Succeeding or happening despite extremely unfavorable circumstances or a very low chance of success.

• All in a day's work

  Something difficult or unusual is handled without fuss, as if it were a routine part of one's expected duties or job.

• Armed to the teeth

  To be equipped with a large number of weapons, ready for any confrontation.

• As bold as brass

  Exhibiting extreme confidence, often to the point of being impudent or audacious.

• As mad as a hatter

  Describes someone who is extremely eccentric, irrational, or quite insane.

• As the crow flies

  This phrase describes the shortest and most direct route between two points, disregarding any obstacles like roads, rivers, or terrain.

• At face value

  To accept information, a statement, or an appearance as genuine and accurate without further scrutiny or questioning.

• At the drop of a hat

  Immediately and without any hesitation, needing no prior planning or warning.

• Bigger fish to fry

  To have more important or pressing matters that require attention, making minor concerns seem trivial.

• Bite off more than you can chew

  To attempt a task or commitment that is beyond one's capabilities or resources.

• Bite the dust

  To fail completely, die, or be destroyed.

• Blow off steam

  To release pent-up energy, stress, or anger, usually through a physical or mentally distracting activity.

• Break new ground

  To do something innovative or make a discovery that creates new possibilities in a particular field.

• Clear the air

  To resolve misunderstandings, tensions, or disagreements by discussing them openly and honestly.

• Come a cropper

  To suffer a heavy fall or to experience a complete failure or disaster.

• Come to a head

  A situation reaches a critical point where a decisive action or resolution is imminent.

• Come to terms with

  To accept and reconcile oneself to an unpleasant or difficult reality or situation.

• Count your blessings

  To be grateful for the good things in one's life, especially when facing difficulties or feeling down.

• Cross that bridge when you come to it

  Deal with a potential problem only when it actually arises, rather than worrying about it beforehand.

• Curiosity killed the cat

  Excessive inquisitiveness or prying into matters that do not concern one can lead to trouble or danger.

• Dead in the water

  Completely stalled, failed, or unable to progress, often without hope of recovery.

• Dead on your feet

  To be completely exhausted or extremely tired, to the point of feeling unable to stand or continue.

• Dead ringer

  Someone or something that looks exactly like another person or thing.

• Die hard

  Someone who resists change, gives up, or abandons a cause with extreme tenacity and determination.

• Dig your heels in

  To refuse to change one's mind or compromise, often stubbornly.

• Do or die

  To act with extreme determination, understanding that failure is not an option and success is absolutely imperative.

• Don't judge a book by its cover

  Do not form an opinion or make assumptions about someone or something based solely on their outward appearance or initial impression.

• Drag your feet

  To intentionally delay doing something, or to do it very slowly because you are unwilling or reluctant.

• Draw the line

  To set a boundary or limit beyond which something is unacceptable or will not be tolerated.

• Drive a hard bargain

  To negotiate assertively and uncompromisingly, aiming to secure the most advantageous terms possible.

• Drop like flies

  To fall ill, die, or fail in large numbers, often quickly and simultaneously.

• Drown your sorrows

  To attempt to forget or alleviate one's unhappiness or problems by drinking alcohol.

• Far cry

  Something is a "far cry" if it is significantly different from, or inferior to, another thing.

• Feel the pinch

  To experience financial difficulty or hardship, often due to a lack of money or rising costs.

• Fifth wheel

  A person or thing that is unwanted, superfluous, or an extra, unnecessary addition to a group or situation.

• Fight fire with fire

  To use aggressive or dangerous methods against an opponent that are similar to the methods they are using.

• From rags to riches

  This idiom describes a person's journey from extreme poverty and hardship to great wealth and success.

• Full steam ahead

  To proceed with maximum speed, effort, and determination, without hesitation.

• Give someone the cold shoulder

  To intentionally ignore or be unfriendly towards someone, often as a sign of displeasure or rejection.

• Give the benefit of the doubt

  To choose to believe someone or a favorable explanation, even when there is some uncertainty or reason for skepticism.

• Give the game away

  To inadvertently reveal a secret, a plan, or a surprise, often spoiling it for others.

• Go off the rails

  To behave in an uncontrolled and irresponsible way, often leading to personal or professional failure.

• Go to the wall

  To fail completely, often financially, or to collapse under severe pressure.

• Grind to a halt

  To slowly and with difficulty come to a complete stop or cease functioning.

• Have your head in the clouds

  To be lost in daydreams, impractical, or not paying attention to what is happening around you.

• Hit below the belt

  To act unfairly or unethically, often by using a tactic that is considered illegitimate or personally damaging in an argument or competition.

• Hold your horses

  To tell someone to slow down, be patient, or wait a moment before acting or speaking.

• In the thick of it

  To be actively involved in the busiest, most intense, or most dangerous part of an activity or situation.

• Jump on the bandwagon

  To join a popular activity, trend, or cause, often for personal gain, because it is currently fashionable or appears to be successful.

• Jump ship

  To abandon a company, project, or difficult situation, often suddenly and without warning, especially when things are going badly.

• Jump through hoops

  To perform a series of difficult, tedious, or often unnecessary tasks to achieve a goal or satisfy requirements.

• Keep your cards close to your chest

  To carefully guard your plans, intentions, or valuable information, preventing others from discovering them.

• Keep your ear to the ground

  To stay informed about current developments, rumors, or trends, often by listening to informal sources.

• Keep your eyes peeled

  To look very carefully and be on the alert for something specific or anything unusual.

• Larger than life

  Describing someone or something that is more impressive, extraordinary, or striking than ordinary people or things.

• Last straw

  The final minor burden, problem, or irritation in a series that causes someone to lose patience or completely exhaust their tolerance.

• Lay down the law

  To state rules or give orders in a firm and authoritative manner that must be obeyed.

• Lay your cards on the table

  To reveal your true intentions, plans, or all the facts openly and honestly.

• Lead by example

  To demonstrate the desired behavior, actions, or work ethic, rather than simply instructing others.

• Leap of faith

  An act of believing in or attempting something whose outcome is uncertain but is undertaken with conviction, often despite rational doubt or lack of empirical evidence.

• Leave a lot to be desired

  To be of a much lower quality or standard than expected or wished for, indicating significant dissatisfaction.

• Lick your wounds

  To take time to recover and recuperate after a defeat, failure, or deeply negative experience.

• Like a moth to a flame

  To be irresistibly and often dangerously attracted to someone or something, despite potential harm or negative consequences.

• Like clockwork

  Happening with absolute regularity and predictability, as if by a perfectly engineered mechanism.

• Like water off a duck's back

  Something that has no lasting effect or impact on someone, often because they are indifferent or resilient.

• Long in the tooth

  To be old or past one's prime, often showing visible signs of aging.

• Look on the bright side

  To focus on the positive aspects or advantages of a difficult or unpleasant situation.

• Loose cannon

  A person who is unpredictable, uncontrollable, and likely to cause unintended damage or disruption.

• Mixed bag

  Something that contains a variety of different things, often encompassing both good and bad elements.

• Money doesn't grow on trees

  This idiom means that money is a limited resource that must be earned through effort and should not be wasted.

• Nail in the coffin

  A final, irreversible event or action that seals the fate or brings about the definitive end of something.

• Neck of the woods

  A particular area, locality, or neighborhood.

• On the fence

  To be undecided or neutral about a choice or opinion, reluctant to commit to either side.

• On the mend

  Recovering from an illness, injury, or setback and showing signs of improvement.

• On the warpath

  To be extremely angry and ready to confront someone or seek revenge.

• On thin ice

  To be in a risky, precarious, or potentially problematic situation where one is likely to get into trouble or face negative consequences.

• Once bitten twice shy

  Having been hurt or disappointed by something once, one becomes very careful to avoid a similar situation in the future.

• Once in a blue moon

  It describes an event that occurs very rarely or infrequently.

• Once in a while

  Occasionally; not often but sometimes.

• Out of one's depth

  To be involved in a situation that is beyond one's ability, knowledge, or experience to handle.

• Out of the blue

  Something that happens completely unexpectedly or without any prior warning.

• Out of the woods

  To be free from danger, difficulty, or a critical situation, especially after a period of intense struggle.

• Over a barrel

  To be in a helpless or vulnerable position, especially one where someone else has complete control over you.

• Pipe dream

  An unrealistic, unattainable, or impossible hope, plan, or fantasy.

• Plain sailing

  Plain sailing describes a situation or task that is easy, uncomplicated, and free from difficulties or obstacles.

• Pour oil on troubled waters

  To attempt to calm a difficult or tense situation, an argument, or a disagreement.

• Pull out all the stops

  To exert maximum effort or utilize every available resource to achieve a particular goal.

• Pull someone's leg

  To joke with or tease someone by telling them something that is not true.

• Pull the wool over someone's eyes

  To deceive someone by misleading them or hiding the truth, making them believe something false.

• Pull yourself up by your bootstraps

  To improve one's situation or achieve success entirely through one's own efforts, without relying on external assistance.

• Put your foot in your mouth

  To accidentally say something tactless, embarrassing, or offensive.

• Rise to the occasion

  To successfully meet a challenge or perform well in a difficult or important situation.

• Run out of steam

  To lose all energy, enthusiasm, or impetus to continue an activity.

• Scratch the surface

  To deal with only a very small, superficial part of a subject or problem, implying much more remains to be explored.

• Set the wheels in motion

  To begin a process or sequence of events that will lead to a particular result.

• Show your hand

  To reveal one's true intentions, plans, or resources, especially after keeping them secret.

• Starting from scratch

  To begin a task, project, or process entirely anew, without any pre-existing resources, preparations, or prior work.

• Short end of the stick

  To receive the less favorable or disadvantageous part of a deal or situation.

• Start from scratch

  To begin something completely new, without using any previous work, materials, or preparations.

• Step up to the plate

  To take responsibility for a task or challenge, especially when others are hesitant or when the situation demands action.

• Stick to your guns

  To maintain your position, beliefs, or principles despite opposition or difficulty.

• Skeleton in the closet

  A deeply embarrassing or scandalous secret from someone's past that they wish to keep hidden.

• The last laugh

  The last laugh refers to the final triumph or vindication of someone who was initially underestimated, mocked, or faced setbacks.

• Thick as thieves

  Refers to two or more people who are very close friends, share secrets, and often conspire together.

• The odd one out

  The one person or thing in a group that is noticeably different from the others.

• The real McCoy

  Something that is genuine, authentic, or the original article.

• Tip of the hat

  To give a tip of the hat is to acknowledge someone with respect, admiration, or gratitude, often for an achievement or notable quality.

• Tongue in cheek

  Said or done ironically or humorously, often with a subtle hint of insincerity or a hidden jest.

• Two peas in a pod

  The phrase describes two people or things that are extremely similar in appearance, character, or behavior.

• Under the thumb

  To be completely controlled or dominated by another person.

• Thick skin

  To be emotionally resilient and not easily offended by criticism or insults.

• Two wrongs don't make a right

  Committing a bad act in response to another bad act does not justify either action or improve the situation.

• When pigs fly

  This idiom is used to express extreme skepticism or the belief that something will never happen.

• Words fail me

  This phrase indicates that one is so overcome with emotion, surprise, or difficulty that they cannot find adequate words to express themselves.

• Lose face

  To be publicly humiliated or to suffer a loss of respect and dignity from others.

• No can do

  This phrase is an informal, often jocular, way of saying 'I cannot do that' or 'it's not possible'.

• Saving face

  To avoid humiliation or preserve one's reputation in a difficult or embarrassing situation.

• To kowtow

  To show extreme deference or submission, often by bowing or acting in a servile manner.

• Chew the fat

  To engage in casual conversation or gossip, often for a long period.

• Hit the hay

  To go to bed or go to sleep.

• Up the creek without a paddle

  To be in a difficult or helpless situation with no apparent solution or means of escape.

• Keep tabs on

  To monitor or observe someone or something continuously and carefully, often to stay informed about their activities or progress.

• Buckle down

  To apply oneself seriously and diligently to a task, especially one that requires significant effort or focus.

• Throw the baby out with the bathwater

  To discard something valuable or essential while trying to get rid of something undesirable.

• From an ivory tower

  To view or analyze something from a position of academic, social, or intellectual isolation, often leading to a lack of practical understanding or empathy.

• Spoon-feed

  To provide someone with so much information or assistance that they do not have to think or work independently.

• Look down one's nose at

  To regard someone or something as inferior or unworthy, often displaying an air of superiority.

• Talk down to

  To speak to someone in a condescending or patronizing manner, implying that they are less intelligent or capable.

• Don't pull the wool over my eyes

  To deceive or mislead someone, preventing them from seeing the truth.

• Don't try to con me

  This phrase is a direct warning to someone not to attempt to deceive, trick, or swindle the speaker.

• Don't lie through your teeth

  To lie in a blatant, unconvincing, and often shamelessly obvious way.

• Don't try to put one over on me

  This phrase is a warning not to attempt to deceive, trick, or take advantage of the speaker.

• Rub someone the wrong way

  To irritate or annoy someone by doing or saying something that displeases them.

• Look down one's nose at someone

  To regard someone with an air of superiority and disdain, often implying that they are beneath you.

• Touch a raw nerve

  To mention a sensitive subject that causes someone distress, annoyance, or a strong emotional reaction.

• Put one's foot in one's mouth

  To accidentally say something foolish, embarrassing, or tactless that offends or upsets someone.

• Make a snide remark

  To say something subtly critical, disparaging, or mocking in a way that implies superiority or contempt.

• Back-handed compliment

  A statement that seems to be a compliment but also contains an insult or criticism.

• Stick one's nose in

  To interfere or meddle in someone else's affairs without being asked.

• On the game

  Engaged in prostitution.

• Lady of the night

  A 'Lady of the night' is a euphemism for a woman who works as a prostitute.

• Fallen woman

  A "fallen woman" was a 19th-century term for a woman who had lost her social standing and moral purity, often due to premarital sex or prostitution.

• Woman of the streets

  A "woman of the streets" is a euphemistic term for a female prostitute.

• Scarlet woman

  A scarlet woman is a derogatory term for a promiscuous or immoral woman, often implying a prostitute or an adulteress.

• Loose woman

  A derogatory term for a woman perceived to be sexually promiscuous or lacking moral restraint.

• Oldest profession

  A common euphemism for prostitution.

• House of ill repute

  A building or establishment widely known as a brothel or a place where illegal or immoral activities regularly occur.

• Sporting house

  A sporting house is a euphemism for a brothel or a house where prostitutes work.

• House of assignation

  A private place, often a dwelling or establishment, used for secret or illicit romantic meetings.

• Red-light district

  A red-light district is an area within a city, often characterized by a high concentration of sex-oriented businesses like brothels, strip clubs, and adult shops.

• on the wagon

  To be abstaining from alcohol, typically after a period of regular consumption.

• off the wagon

  To relapse into an addiction, especially alcoholism, after a period of sobriety.

• Read the tea leaves

  To try to predict future events or outcomes by interpreting current signs, trends, or subtle indications.

• An apple a day keeps the doctor away

  Eating an apple daily can contribute to good health and prevent illness, thus reducing the need for medical attention.

• Get something off one's chest

  To express a hidden worry, secret, or grievance that has been causing one distress.

• Have a screw loose

  To be slightly crazy, eccentric, or mentally unstable.

• Hale and hearty

  In robust good health and spirits, full of vigor and energy.

• Take one's medicine

  To accept unpleasant consequences or a difficult situation that one deserves or cannot avoid.

• Catch one's death of cold

  To become extremely ill, often with a severe respiratory illness, due to exposure to cold or damp conditions.

• Get something out of one's system

  To express or accomplish something that has been suppressed or desired for a while, allowing one to move past it and feel relieved.

• Pull yourself together

  To regain control of one's emotions and composure, especially after being upset or distressed.

• Go to the dogs

  To deteriorate rapidly, fall into a state of disrepair, or become utterly ruined.

• A cat nap

  A cat nap is a short, light sleep, often taken during the day.

• Make a long story short

  To summarize a lengthy account or explanation and get directly to the main point.

• Look what the cat dragged in

  An informal, often humorous or sarcastic exclamation made when someone arrives looking disheveled, unexpected, or unwelcome.

• Has the cat got your tongue

  This phrase is a rhetorical question asked to someone who is unusually quiet or unresponsive, especially when a reply is expected.

• A cold fish

  An unemotional, distant, and unsympathetic person who shows little warmth or friendliness.

• Get off your high horse

  To stop acting superior or arrogant and treat others as equals.

• Pony up

  To pay money, especially when reluctant or when it's owed.

• Something's fishy

  Something seems suspicious, questionable, or not quite right.

• A sacred cow

  Something or someone that is exempt from criticism, questioning, or change, often due to tradition, sentiment, or perceived inviolability.

• Sweat like a pig

  To perspire very heavily and profusely.

• Monkey business

  Mischievous, deceitful, or unauthorized behavior, often implying a lack of seriousness or integrity.

• Make a monkey out of someone

  To trick or embarrass someone, making them look foolish or ridiculous.

• Have a whale of a time

  To enjoy oneself immensely and have a very fun, exciting, and memorable experience.

• A frog in your throat

  To have a hoarse, raspy, or unclear voice, often due to a cough, dryness, or a slight illness.

• Eat crow

  To be forced to admit one was wrong or accept defeat, especially after having boasted or expressed strong confidence.

• Wouldn't hurt a fly

  To describe someone as extremely gentle, mild-mannered, and completely incapable of harming another living being.

• Plenty of other fish in the sea

  This phrase suggests that if one romantic relationship or opportunity ends, there are many other potential partners or chances available.

• Have bats in the belfry

  To be eccentric, slightly mad, or to have peculiar ideas.

• Fight like cats and dogs

  To argue or quarrel fiercely and constantly with another person.

• Work like a dog

  To work extremely hard, tirelessly, and often for long hours.

• Catnap

  A brief, light sleep, typically taken during the day.

• Horse around

  To engage in boisterous, playful, or silly behavior, often in a disruptive manner.

• Underdog

  A participant in a competition or struggle who is not expected to win, but often inspires support and sympathy.

• As mad as a wet hen

  To be as mad as a wet hen means to be extremely angry, agitated, or in a state of wild fury.

• Rule the roost

  To be the dominant person or in charge within a particular group or setting.

• Chicken scratch

  Chicken scratch refers to handwriting that is messy, illegible, or difficult to read.

• Ugly duckling

  A person or thing that initially appears plain, awkward, or unpromising but later transforms into something beautiful, graceful, or highly successful.

• Throw a monkey wrench in

  To introduce a major problem or obstacle that prevents a plan or process from proceeding smoothly.

• White elephant

  A white elephant is a valuable possession that is difficult and expensive to maintain and is ultimately useless or unprofitable.

• A bull in a china shop

  A person who is extremely clumsy, awkward, or destructive in a delicate or sensitive situation.

• In a pig's eye

  An exclamation used to express strong disbelief, disagreement, or a sarcastic refusal.

• Bend someone's ear

  To talk to someone for a long time, often to complain or seek sympathy, potentially monopolizing their attention.

• Box someone's ears

  To strike someone on the side of the head, usually around the ear, as a form of reprimand or light punishment.

• Pin one's ears back

  To prepare oneself for intense listening, often in anticipation of criticism or serious information, or to get ready for a significant and focused effort.

• Keep a straight face

  To prevent oneself from laughing or showing any sign of amusement, especially in a situation where seriousness or solemnity is required.

• Put on a brave face

  To feign courage or cheerfulness despite feeling fear, sadness, or discomfort.

• Change of face

  A significant and often sudden alteration in appearance, attitude, or the public presentation of a situation.

• Not to bat an eye

  To show no sign of surprise, fear, or emotion, remaining completely unfazed.

• Wide-eyed

  Looking with eyes open wide, often indicating innocence, wonder, surprise, or naivety.

• Close an eye to

  To deliberately ignore something undesirable or wrong, often to avoid taking action or causing a conflict.

• By a nose

  To win or succeed by the smallest possible margin.

• Nose out of joint

  To be offended, annoyed, or resentful, often because one feels slighted or overlooked.

• Win by a nose

  To win a competition or race by an extremely small margin.

• Have one's nose in a book

  To be deeply engrossed in reading a book, often to the point of being unaware of one's surroundings.

• Put one's nose in

  To interfere or meddle in someone else's private affairs or business.

• Put someone's nose out of joint

  To annoy, offend, or upset someone, often by making them feel slighted, envious, or their pride wounded.

• A wet blanket

  A person who discourages enjoyment or enthusiasm among others.

• Chase rainbows

  To pursue a goal that is impossible, impractical, or illusory, often leading to disappointment.

• A fair-weather friend

  A person who is only your friend when circumstances are pleasant or beneficial, and abandons you during difficult times.

• A bolt from the blue

  A sudden, completely unexpected event, often one that is unpleasant or shocking.

• Cold shoulder

  To deliberately ignore someone or treat them in an unfriendly way, often as a sign of displeasure.

• What a whirlwind

  Describes a period of time or an experience that is extremely busy, fast-paced, and filled with many events or changes.

• Lost in the mists of time

  Refers to things from the very distant past whose exact details or origins are no longer known or remembered.

• Send shivers down one's spine

  To cause someone to experience a sudden, intense sensation of fear, excitement, or dread.

• A frosty reception

  An unfriendly, unwelcoming, or cold greeting that makes someone feel unwelcome.

• Hot under the collar

  To be angry, agitated, or visibly annoyed about something.

• As warm as toast

  To be very warm, cozy, and comfortable, often implying a pleasant or snug feeling.

• Get your head out of the clouds

  Stop fantasizing or daydreaming and pay attention to what's happening in the real world.

• Blow over

  To eventually pass or cease, especially a difficult or unpleasant situation, without lasting consequences.

• A torrent of abuse

  A torrent of abuse refers to a sudden and overwhelming outpouring of harsh criticism, insults, or violent language directed at someone.

• A storm of protest

  A widespread and forceful expression of strong public disagreement or opposition.

• In a haze

  To be in a state of confusion, disorientation, or dreamlike mental obscurity.

• The fog of war

  This phrase describes the uncertainty, confusion, and lack of complete information that commanders experience during military operations.

• Planet X

  Planet X refers to a hypothetical major planet or other celestial body beyond the orbit of Neptune, whose existence has been theorized to explain gravitational anomalies or other observed phenomena in the outer solar system.

• Thank your lucky stars

  To be grateful for a fortunate outcome or good luck, especially when narrowly avoiding a negative situation.

• Star attraction

  The most prominent, popular, or important person, item, or feature at an event, show, or gathering.

• Bet your bottom dollar

  To be absolutely certain of something, indicating strong conviction or confidence.

• Ante up

  To pay one's required share, especially at the start of an activity, or to prepare to meet a challenge.

• A long shot

  An attempt or venture that has only a slight chance of success.

• All bets are off

  This phrase means that previous plans, agreements, or certainties are no longer valid, and the situation has become entirely unpredictable.

• Bet on the wrong horse

  To make an incorrect choice or support a person or thing that ultimately fails.

• Call a bluff

  To challenge someone to prove a claim or threat that you suspect is untrue or exaggerated.

• Come up trumps

  To achieve a surprisingly good or successful outcome, often when least expected or in a challenging situation.

• Deal from the bottom of the deck

  To act unfairly or dishonestly, often through concealed methods, to gain an advantage.

• Chip in

  To contribute money, effort, or an item to a shared purpose or collective fund.

• Cut one's losses

  To stop an unsuccessful activity or venture to prevent further detriment, expenditure, or damage.

• Fat chance

  This idiom is used to emphatically state that there is very little or no possibility of something happening.

• Down on one's luck

  Experiencing a period of misfortune or bad luck.

• Get a raw deal

  To receive unfair or harsh treatment, especially in a negotiation or distribution of resources.

• Fold one's hand

  To withdraw from a game, contest, or situation by giving up one's participation or effort.

• Go all in

  To commit completely to a course of action, risking everything for a potential gain.

• Get a run for your money

  To face strong competition or a significant challenge that tests your abilities and requires considerable effort to overcome.

• Go broke

  To lose all of one's money and assets, resulting in financial ruin or bankruptcy.

• High stakes

  Referring to a situation or activity where the potential outcomes involve great risk, significant consequences, or substantial reward.

• Hit the jackpot

  To achieve a significant and sudden success, often involving a large amount of money or a highly desirable outcome.

• Have an ace up one's sleeve

  To possess a secret advantage or hidden resource that can be deployed at a crucial moment.

• Hold all the cards

  To have all the advantages or be in a position of complete control in a situation.

• Lose your shirt

  To lose a large sum of money, often to the point of financial ruin, typically through a bad investment or gambling.

• Lay odds

  To state the probability of something happening or to offer a wager against a particular outcome.

• Losing hand

  A losing hand refers to a situation or set of circumstances that is almost certain to result in failure or defeat.

• Luck of the draw

  A situation where the outcome is entirely dependent on chance, rather than skill or choice.

• Poker face

  An expressionless facial appearance that reveals no thoughts or emotions, often used to conceal one's true feelings or intentions.

• Play your cards right

  To handle a situation skillfully or wisely in order to achieve a favorable outcome.

• Raise the stakes

  To increase the risk, importance, or potential consequences of a situation or action.

• Run a bluff

  To deceive someone by pretending to be in a stronger position or to possess more knowledge or resources than one actually does, often to gain an advantage.

• Stack the deck against someone

  To unfairly manipulate circumstances or conditions, making it highly probable that someone will fail or be disadvantaged.

• Take a gamble

  To take a risk in the hope of achieving a desirable outcome.

• Lose your marbles

  To become mentally confused, irrational, or insane.

• Up to snuff

  To be good enough, meeting the required standards or expectations.

• Sleep on it

  To postpone making a decision until the next day or after a period of rest, allowing for clearer thought.

• Crack a joke

  To tell a joke or make a witty remark, often spontaneously.

• Dead end

  A situation, path, or course of action that offers no further progress or escape.

• Draw a blank

  To fail to recall information or to find no answer when trying to remember something.

• Get a rise out of someone

  To intentionally provoke someone into reacting, often by irritating or annoying them.

• Dressed to the nines

  To be dressed in very elegant, fashionable, and often elaborate clothing.

• Foot the bill

  To pay for something, often a large expense or the cost for a group of people.

• Ace up your sleeve

  A secret advantage or plan that one keeps hidden until the most opportune moment.

• Back of beyond

  A very remote, isolated, or inaccessible place.

• Bottom drawer

  A collection of household items, linens, or clothes accumulated by a woman in anticipation of her marriage.

• Brass monkeys

  The phrase describes extremely cold weather conditions.

• Come hell or high water

  Regardless of any obstacles or extreme difficulties, a promised action will be performed or a goal will be achieved.

• Far cry from

  Something is significantly different from or inferior or superior to something else.

• For donkey's years

  This idiom describes a duration of time that feels extremely long or has been a very extended period.

• Fly off the handle

  To suddenly and explosively lose one's temper, often without warning.

• Full of beans

  To be full of energy, enthusiasm, or vivacity.

• Give someone the elbow

  To physically nudge or push someone aside, often to gain space or to remove them from a situation or position.

• Give someone the boot

  To dismiss someone from a job, relationship, or a place, often abruptly and without ceremony.

• Good egg

  A good egg is a kind, trustworthy, and generally pleasant person.

• Hanky panky

  Hanky panky refers to mischievous, illicit, or secretive activity, often implying romantic or sexual escapades, or minor trickery.

• Half-baked idea

  An idea that is not fully developed, thoroughly considered, or well-planned, and therefore likely to fail.

• Have a gander

  To take a quick or curious look at something.

• Have a butcher's

  To take a look or have a brief inspection of something.

• Kicking up a fuss

  To make a strong, often noisy or agitated, protest or complaint about something.

• Leg it

  To run away quickly, often to escape from a situation or person.

• Put on a show

  To perform in an impressive or dramatic way, often to attract attention or create an impact.

• Hear a pin drop

  To experience a moment or period of absolute and profound silence.

• Speak volumes

  To convey a great deal of information or meaning without using many words, often through actions, appearance, or a lack thereof.

• Ring hollow

  To sound insincere, unconvincing, or lacking in genuine substance or truth.

• Plough a lonely furrow

  To work independently on a task or project, often without support, companionship, or popular approval.

• Plow new ground

  To do or discover something completely new or innovative, often in a challenging field.

• Milk something for all it's worth

  To exploit a situation, resource, or opportunity to its absolute maximum potential, often until it is exhausted.

• A bumper crop

  A harvest that yields an exceptionally large amount, or metaphorically, an abundance of anything.

• Like a bull in a china shop

  Someone who is extremely clumsy or tactless, especially in a delicate situation where care and precision are required.

• Go whole hog

  To do something completely and without reservation, committing fully to an action or idea.

• In the limelight

  To be the focus of public attention, fame, or scrutiny.

• Waiting in the wings

  To be ready and available to take action or assume a role, often while anticipating an opportunity to do so.

• Play to the gallery

  To perform actions or speak in a way primarily designed to impress or win the approval of a crowd rather than for genuine or substantive reasons.

• Take centre stage

  To become the most important or noticeable person or thing in a particular situation.

• Play one's cards right

  To handle a situation or a set of opportunities skillfully and strategically to achieve a desired outcome.

• A command performance

  A performance, usually by an entertainer, given at the special request of a head of state or other highly important person.

• Lay one's cards on the table

  To reveal one's true intentions, plans, or the full facts of a situation openly and honestly.

• Deal a bad hand

  To put someone in a disadvantageous or unfortunate situation, often due to circumstances beyond their control.

• Stack the deck

  To unfairly arrange circumstances, facts, or evidence to ensure a particular outcome, usually in one's own favor.

• House of cards

  A structure, plan, or argument that is inherently unstable, fragile, and likely to collapse easily.

• Have an ace in the hole

  To possess a secret advantage or resource that can be revealed at a crucial moment.

• The cards are stacked against you

  You are in a situation where the odds are heavily unfavorable, making success extremely difficult or impossible.

• Show one's hand

  To reveal one's true intentions, plans, or resources, especially after keeping them hidden.

• Hedge one's bets

  To reduce one's risk of significant loss by supporting more than one outcome or by taking precautions against potential failure.

• Down with an illness

  To be suffering from an illness, often implying a state of being bedridden or otherwise incapacitated.

• Cure-all

  A supposed remedy or solution for all diseases or problems.

• Play your hand

  To take action or reveal one's strategy using the resources or information currently available.

• Take a turn for the worse

  To change or develop in a negative or less favorable direction.

• Catch your death of cold

  To contract a severe illness, usually a cold, that is so bad it could potentially be life-threatening (often used hyperbolically).

• Bedside manner

  The way a healthcare professional interacts with patients, encompassing their empathy, communication skills, and overall demeanor.

• Pull through

  To successfully recover from a serious illness, injury, or difficult situation.

• Change your tune

  To alter one's opinion, attitude, or behavior, especially to become more agreeable or accommodating.

• Strike a chord

  To evoke a strong emotional response or to resonate deeply with someone's feelings, opinions, or experiences.

• Call the tune

  To be the person who makes the important decisions or controls a situation.

• March to the beat of a different drum

  To behave, think, or live in an unconventional way that is distinct from the majority.

• Drum up business

  To actively seek out and generate more commercial activity or customers.

• Tooting your own horn

  To boast about one's own achievements or qualities in an often unmodest way.

• For a song

  To obtain or sell something for a remarkably low price, often much less than its actual value.

• Three sheets to the wind

  To be extremely drunk or intoxicated, often to the point of staggering or losing control.

• Strike up the band

  To begin playing music, often with enthusiasm or as a signal for an event to start.

• Shipshape and Bristol fashion

  It means everything is meticulously organized, tidy, and in excellent working order, especially in a professional or maritime context.

• Smooth sailing

  Describes a situation or process that is proceeding easily and without any difficulties or obstacles.

• To get one's sea legs

  To become accustomed to a new and often unstable environment or situation, much like a sailor adapting to the motion of a ship.

• To push the boat out

  To spend a lot of money on a celebration or special occasion, often more than one usually would.

• To run a tight ship

  To manage an organization, team, or household very strictly, efficiently, and with great discipline.

• To get underway

  To begin to move, start a process, or commence an activity.

• To be dead in the water

  This idiom describes a plan, project, or effort that has completely failed or stalled and is unable to make any further progress.

• To be in the same boat

  To be in the same difficult or unfortunate situation as other people.

• To nail one's colors to the mast

  To publicly declare one's unwavering position, beliefs, or commitment, making it clear there will be no retreat or compromise.

• Steady as she goes

  Continue at the current pace or in the current manner, maintaining stability and avoiding sudden changes.

• To go overboard

  To do or say something to an excessive or extreme degree, often beyond what is reasonable or necessary.

• To get your bearings

  To determine one's position or situation relative to one's surroundings or current circumstances.

• The bitter end

  To endure a difficult or unpleasant situation until its absolute final, often harsh, conclusion.

• See something in print

  To encounter information or an idea written down and published, often implying that its publication lends it credibility, permanence, or makes it feel more real.

• Publish and be damned

  To publish or express something controversial, accepting any negative consequences or criticism that may follow.

• Grand finale

  The grand finale refers to the final, most spectacular, or climactic part of an event, performance, or series.

• Curtain call

  The final appearance of performers at the end of a show to receive applause from the audience.

• Printer's ink in one's veins

  To have a deep, inherent passion and dedication for the newspaper, printing, or journalism profession.

• Ring down the curtain

  To bring an event, performance, or significant period to a definitive end.

• Hold the stage

  To maintain a dominant presence or captivate an audience's attention, much like a performer who commands the stage.

• Printers' pie

  A jumble of loose metal type, typically spilled, that needs to be sorted and reassembled.

• Proof positive

  Undeniable evidence that conclusively demonstrates a fact or conclusion, leaving no room for doubt.

• To make an impression

  To produce a strong and memorable effect, especially a positive one, on someone or something.

• To put your stamp on something

  To add your unique style, influence, or personal mark to something, making it distinctly yours.

• To get into print

  To have one's writing or work published, especially in a book, newspaper, or magazine.

• A hat trick

  Achieving three successes or accomplishments, especially in sports, in a single game or rapid succession.

• Fair play

  Fair play signifies adherence to rules, honesty, and respectful conduct, particularly in competitive situations or games.

• From scratch

  To begin a task or project completely anew, without using any pre-existing parts, preparation, or advantages.

• Out of bounds

  Beyond the permitted or designated area; forbidden or unacceptable.

• Pinch hitter

  A person who takes the place of another in an emergency or difficult situation, especially when unexpected.

• Play by the rules

  To act in accordance with established regulations, conventions, or ethical guidelines.

• Par for the course

  Something that is normal, expected, or typical for a particular situation, often implying a predictable, though not necessarily desirable, outcome.

• Put someone through their paces

  To thoroughly test someone's abilities, skills, or fitness in a comprehensive manner.

• Throw a curveball

  To present an unexpected and often challenging surprise or development that alters a situation or plan.

• Take the gloves off

  To stop being polite or restrained and deal with a situation in a more aggressive, direct, or forceful manner.

• The third time's the charm

  This idiom suggests that after two previous unsuccessful attempts, the third try will finally be successful.

• Put a hex on someone

  To cast a magical spell or curse intended to cause harm or bad luck to someone.

• cakewalk

  Something that is extremely easy to accomplish, requiring little to no effort.

• read someone like a book

  To understand someone's thoughts, feelings, and intentions completely and easily.

• paint the town red

  To celebrate exuberantly and boisterously in public, often involving drinking and revelry.

• Beat the drum for something

  To advocate strongly and publicly for something, often with enthusiasm, in order to gain support or attention.

• Hit a sour note

  To introduce an unpleasant or discordant element into a situation, often causing a negative reaction.

• Pipe down

  To become quiet or stop making noise, often used as an imperative.

• Strike a false note

  To say or do something that is inappropriate, inconsistent, or creates a dissonant or negative impression.

• Ace up one's sleeve

  A secret advantage or plan that one keeps hidden until the most opportune moment to use it.

• Toot your own horn

  To boast about one's own achievements or qualities, often in a self-congratulatory or excessive manner.

• Bet one's bottom dollar

  To be extremely confident or certain about something.

• Close to the vest

  To keep information secret and private, not revealing one's true intentions or plans.

• Call one's bluff

  To challenge someone to prove a claim or threat, implying that one does not believe they can or will follow through.

• Play one's hand

  To deal with a situation or make decisions based on the resources or circumstances one has available.

• To drop the curtain

  To bring an activity, event, or period to a definitive and conclusive end.

• To be in the limelight

  To be the subject of public attention, praise, or scrutiny.

• To tread the boards

  To perform as an actor on a theatrical stage.

• To face the footlights

  To perform on a stage before an audience or to be the center of public attention and scrutiny.

• Grandstanding

  To behave in an overly showy or ostentatious way, primarily to attract attention or admiration from an audience.

• Punch above one's weight

  To perform or achieve at a level higher than one's apparent ability, resources, or status.

• In one's corner

  To have someone supporting you, especially during a difficult situation or dispute.

• Deliver a knockout blow

  To achieve a decisive and definitive victory or to end something abruptly and conclusively.

• As happy as a pig in mud

  To be extremely content and comfortable in one's current situation.

• Make a bee-line for

  To move directly and swiftly towards a particular destination or object without hesitation.

• Happy as a clam

  Extremely happy, content, and often carefree.

• Play possum

  To feign death or unconsciousness in order to deceive, avoid danger, or escape an unpleasant situation.

• Goosebumps

  Goosebumps are small, temporary bumps on the skin that appear when a person is cold, frightened, or experiences strong emotions like excitement or awe.

• A different kettle of fish

  This phrase refers to a completely separate issue, matter, or situation that is distinct from the one previously discussed.

• A whale of a time

  To have an exceptionally fun and exciting experience.

• To be cut out for something

  To be naturally suited or well-qualified for a particular task, role, or activity.

• Beat one's own drum

  To express one's own opinions or promote one's own achievements, often without seeking validation from others.

• To have an ace up your sleeve

  To possess a secret advantage, plan, or resource that can be revealed at a crucial moment.

• To stand pat

  To maintain one's current position, decision, or course of action without making any changes, especially when under pressure to do otherwise.

• To keep a poker face

  To maintain an impassive expression that reveals no emotion or intention.

• To bluff your way through

  To succeed in a situation by pretending to have more skill, knowledge, or confidence than one actually possesses.

• To tip your hand

  To unintentionally reveal your intentions, plans, or advantages, often giving an opponent an unexpected insight.

• To hold all the aces

  To possess all the advantages or control in a given situation, making success almost certain.

• To fold your hand

  To withdraw from an activity, challenge, or competition, especially when faced with unfavorable circumstances or a perceived losing position.

• Hedging one's bets

  To reduce the risk of losing heavily by diversifying one's choices or actions, or by making a counteracting arrangement.

• Deal someone out

  To exclude someone from participation in a game, activity, or group.

• Hold cards close to one's chest

  To keep one's plans, intentions, or knowledge secret and private.

• Air one's dirty linen in public

  To discuss private, embarrassing matters or disputes openly where others can hear or see.

• A checkered past

  A checkered past describes a person's history marked by a mix of good and bad experiences, often with some questionable or disreputable incidents.

• A trick up one's sleeve

  To have a secret plan, advantage, or resource that one can use when needed, especially in a challenging or decisive situation.

• Caught with one's pants down

  To be discovered in a compromising or unprepared situation, often leading to embarrassment.

• Bursting at the seams

  To be extremely full, crowded, or under severe strain due to an abundance of people, items, or activity.

• Cut a dash

  To create a striking and stylish impression, often through one's appearance or behavior.

• Dress to the nines

  To dress to the nines means to wear very fashionable, elegant, or formal attire, often for a special occasion.

• Cotton on

  To suddenly understand or realize something, often after a period of confusion or being unaware.

• Handle with kid gloves

  To treat someone or something with extreme gentleness, sensitivity, and great care, as if it is very delicate or easily damaged.

• Hand in glove

  To be in extremely close agreement or cooperation, often implying a secret or collusive relationship.

• Have someone on a string

  To completely control or manipulate another person, making them do whatever you wish.

• Hang up one's boots

  To retire from a job or activity, especially from a career in sports.

• Iron out the details

  To resolve minor problems or reach agreement on specific points to finalize a plan or arrangement.

• In one's Sunday best

  To be dressed in one's finest clothes, typically reserved for special occasions or formal gatherings.

• Kick up one's heels

  To celebrate freely and enjoy oneself in a lively, unrestrained manner.

• Keep one's shirt on

  To remain calm and patient, especially when facing a frustrating situation or someone else's agitation.

• Lose one's shirt

  To lose a significant amount or all of one's money or assets, often through financial misfortune, bad investments, or gambling.

• Mend fences

  To repair a damaged relationship or resolve a disagreement with someone.

• Pull strings

  To use one's personal influence or connections, often discreetly, to achieve a particular outcome or advantage.

• Out of whole cloth

  To invent something entirely without any factual basis or pre-existing material.

• Pull oneself up by one's bootstraps

  To improve one's situation or achieve success through one's own efforts, without relying on assistance from others.

• Spin a yarn

  To tell a long, often elaborate or embellished story.

• Take to the cloth

  To take to the cloth means to become a member of the clergy or to enter into religious orders.

• Shake in one's boots

  To be extremely frightened or nervous.

• Take up the slack

  To assume additional duties or responsibilities to compensate for a lack of effort or presence from others, ensuring work continues efficiently.

• Thick-skinned

  To be thick-skinned means to be unaffected by criticism, insults, or difficult situations, often showing great resilience.

• Thin-skinned

  Easily offended or upset by criticism, comments, or perceived slights.

• Take the shine off

  To diminish the positive impact, appeal, or excitement of something, often making it seem less impressive or enjoyable.

• Wear thin

  To gradually diminish in effectiveness, patience, or tolerance, often to the point of becoming exhausted or unacceptable.

• Well-heeled

  Affluent or wealthy.

• Keep one's cards close to one's chest

  To be secretive about one's plans, intentions, or true feelings, revealing very little to others.

• The chips are down

  The situation is critical or difficult, often implying that serious action or a decision is required.

• Double or nothing

  To risk all current winnings or a previous stake on a new gamble with the aim of either doubling them or losing everything.

• Tie up loose ends

  To complete all remaining minor tasks or unresolved details of a project or situation.

• In the wings

  Ready to take action or appear; waiting for the appropriate moment to emerge or be called upon.

• Hog the limelight

  To dominate attention or praise, preventing others from receiving any recognition.

• Curtain raiser

  A curtain raiser is an event or performance that precedes a more important or main event, serving as an introduction or warm-up.

• Get stage fright

  To experience intense nervousness or anxiety before performing in front of an audience.

• Upstaging someone

  To overshadow or outshine someone, especially in a public or performance setting, thereby diverting attention from them.

• A Star Turn

  An exceptionally outstanding and memorable performance, appearance, or contribution by an individual.

• Screw loose

  To have a screw loose means someone is behaving in a peculiar, irrational, or slightly mad way.

• Tighten the screws

  To apply greater pressure, control, or discipline on someone or something in order to achieve a desired outcome or compel compliance.

• Hammer something home

  To make a point, idea, or message emphatically clear and fully understood through forceful or repeated explanation.

• Learning the ropes

  To become familiar with the basic procedures and details of a new job, task, or situation.

• Square peg in a round hole

  Describes a person or thing that is ill-suited to its surroundings, role, or situation.

• Straight as a die

  Completely and absolutely straight, without any curves or deviations.

• Work your fingers to the bone

  To work extremely hard and continuously, often to the point of exhaustion or injury, implying immense physical effort and dedication.

• Steal the spotlight

  To draw all the attention and focus onto oneself, often at the expense of someone else who was meant to be the center.

• A dress rehearsal

  A full-scale practice for an event, performance, or important occasion, conducted with all the necessary costumes, props, and technical elements.

• Forty acres and a mule

  This phrase represents a broken promise of land redistribution and economic independence for newly freed enslaved people in the American South after the Civil War.

• The color line

  The color line refers to the social, political, and economic barriers created by racial discrimination and segregation, especially against non-white people.

• Uncle Tom

  A derogatory term for a Black person perceived as being overly servile or deferential to white people, especially one who betrays their own race's interests for personal gain or acceptance.

• Separate but equal

  This legal doctrine refers to a system where racial segregation is permitted as long as the facilities provided for each race are claimed to be of equal quality.

• A cinch

  Something that is extremely easy to do or accomplish without difficulty.

• Play for high stakes

  To engage in an activity or situation where the potential outcomes, both positive and negative, are significant and impactful.

• Simple as A-B-C

  This idiom describes something that is extremely easy to understand or do, requiring minimal effort or instruction.

• Joker in the pack

  Someone or something that introduces an unpredictable, often disruptive, element into a group or situation.

• A place in the sun

  A position of power, prosperity, or distinction in society or the world.

• Heavens to Betsy

  An exclamation used to express strong surprise, shock, or exasperation, often in a slightly old-fashioned or mild manner.

• Stage fright

  Stage fright is the intense nervousness or anxiety experienced by a performer or speaker before or during an appearance in front of an audience.

• Barely hanging by a thread

  To be in an extremely precarious or unstable situation, on the verge of collapse or failure.

• From whole cloth

  To create something entirely new and fictional, without any pre-existing basis or truth.

• Patch things up

  To repair a disagreement or mend a strained relationship, often by resolving conflicts or making amends.

• To be on the fringe

  To be at the edge of a group, activity, or idea, often suggesting a lack of full integration or acceptance within the mainstream.

• To be tied to someone's apron strings

  To be excessively dependent on someone, often a parent, and lacking independence in one's actions or decisions.

• To be in the spotlight

  To be the focus of public attention, scrutiny, or admiration.

• The curtain falls

  This idiom signifies the end or conclusion of an event, period, or situation.

• Through the grapevine

  To hear information unofficially, by word-of-mouth communication, rather than through official channels.

• Flog a dead horse

  To waste effort on a lost cause or a matter that has already been decided and cannot be revived.

• Plow a lonely furrow

  To pursue a task or endeavor independently, often without support, collaboration, or companionship.

• In the black

  To be profitable, out of debt, or operating with a financial surplus.

• Break the bank

  To spend an excessive amount of money, often to the point of depleting one's funds entirely or exceeding a reasonable budget.

• Money talks

  Financial resources and wealth possess significant influence and power in achieving goals or convincing others.

• Tighten one's belt

  To reduce spending and live more frugally due to economic hardship.

• Blue chip

  A blue chip refers to a company or stock that is well-established, financially sound, and generally considered a safe and reliable investment.

• Fork over money

  To hand over money, often reluctantly or under compulsion.

• Live beyond one's means

  To spend more money than one earns or has available, typically resulting in debt or financial instability.

• Money to burn

  To have an excessive amount of money that one can spend freely and extravagantly without concern for the cost.

• Cut your losses

  To abandon a failing venture or unprofitable activity to prevent further negative consequences or expenditure.

• Bury your head in the sand

  To deliberately avoid confronting an obvious problem or danger by pretending it does not exist.

• Something fishy

  This phrase suggests that there is something suspicious, dishonest, or not quite right about a situation.

• Chomping at the bit

  To be restless, impatient, and eager to start an activity or begin a journey.

• Hog wild

  To behave in an uncontrolled, boisterous, or extremely enthusiastic manner.

• Like a bear with a sore head

  To be in a very bad mood, easily annoyed, and irritable.

• Make a pig of oneself

  To eat an excessive amount of food in a greedy and unmannered way.

• Monkey around

  To behave in a silly, playful, or mischievous way, often without a serious purpose.

• Rabbit hole

  A rabbit hole is a metaphor for a bizarre, confusing, or complex situation or topic that draws one deeper into it.

• Kangaroo court

  A kangaroo court is an unofficial judicial proceeding that disregards legal procedures, often producing a biased or predetermined verdict.

• Wolf down

  To eat food very quickly and often greedily, consuming it in large mouthfuls.

• Sitting duck

  Someone or something easily vulnerable to attack, exploitation, or harm because of their defenseless or stationary position.

• Silly goose

  An affectionate and playful term used to describe someone who is acting foolish, forgetful, or a bit naive.

• Fish for compliments

  To subtly try to elicit praise or admiration from others by indirectly bringing attention to one's own achievements or qualities.

• To take a gander

  To take a quick look or brief glance at something.

• Mad as a hornet

  Extremely angry, agitated, or furious, often to the point of being irrationally so.

• The odds are stacked against someone

  The circumstances or probabilities are extremely unfavorable, making success very difficult to achieve.

• Cards are on the table

  All information, intentions, or conditions are openly revealed and available for everyone to see and consider.

• Under the spotlight

  To be the center of attention, scrutiny, or public focus.

• An ace in the hole

  A hidden advantage or secret resource that can be used at a crucial moment.

• Play one's cards close to one's chest

  To keep one's plans, intentions, or information private and hidden from others.

• Play a wild card

  To take an unconventional or unexpected action to gain an advantage, often in a difficult or uncertain situation.

• Play by ear

  To proceed without a definite plan, adapting to circumstances as they arise.

• Be dealt a good hand

  To be given an advantageous set of circumstances or opportunities from the beginning.

• As clean as a whistle

  Completely clean, flawless, or free from any problems or obstructions.

• Overplay one's hand

  To act with excessive confidence or ambition, going beyond one's true capabilities or advantageous position, which ultimately leads to failure or loss.

• Put in print

  To publish something, typically in a physical format such as a book, newspaper, or magazine.

• News scoop

  A significant piece of exclusive news published by one media outlet before its rivals.

• A taste of your own medicine

  To experience the same unpleasant treatment or consequences that one has inflicted on others.

• Take the cure

  To undergo a period of rest and recuperation, often at a health resort or spa, typically implying a somewhat indulgent stay for one's well-being.

• Green around the gills

  To appear sickly, pale, and nauseated, often indicating illness or motion sickness.

• In rude health

  To be extremely robust, vigorous, and free from illness.

• Fit like a glove

  To fit perfectly and comfortably, as if custom-made for its purpose or wearer.

• Have something up one's sleeve

  To possess a secret plan, advantage, or resource kept hidden for future use.

• Take one's hat off to someone

  To express great admiration, respect, or acknowledgement for someone's achievement or commendable quality.

• Fill someone's shoes

  To successfully take over the role or responsibilities of another person, often a predecessor, especially when that person was highly skilled or respected.

• Burst at the seams

  To be so full, crowded, or under pressure that it feels as though it cannot contain any more and is about to break apart.

• Dress someone down

  To reprimand or scold someone severely, often in a direct and forceful manner.

• Roll up one's sleeves

  To prepare oneself for hard, serious work, or to tackle a challenging task with dedication and determination.

• Lose the shirt off one's back

  To lose absolutely everything one owns, typically through financial misfortune or reckless activity.

• Talk through one's hat

  To speak foolishly or without knowledge on a subject.

• Bring down the house

  To perform so exceptionally well that the audience reacts with overwhelming enthusiasm, applause, or laughter.

• A standing ovation

  An act where an audience collectively stands to applaud enthusiastically, signifying exceptional admiration, approval, or respect for a performer or speaker.

• Too big for one's britches

  To be conceited or arrogant, behaving as if one is more important or capable than they truly are.

• Strike gold

  To achieve sudden and unexpected success, often financially, or to discover something highly valuable and sought after.

• Dramatic exit

  A dramatic exit refers to leaving a place or situation in a very noticeable, theatrical, or attention-grabbing manner, often intended to make a strong impression.

• The gold standard

  A benchmark of excellence against which other things are judged; the best or most reliable example of something.

• The mother lode

  This refers to the principal vein or richest source of a valuable commodity, information, or success.

• Yellow-bellied

  To be yellow-bellied means to be cowardly, easily frightened, or lacking courage.

• Yellow journalism

  Yellow journalism refers to a style of newspaper reporting that emphasizes sensationalism over factual accuracy to attract readers and sell copies.

• Black tie event

  A formal social occasion where a specific dress code requires men to wear tuxedos and women to wear evening gowns.

• Grey matter

  The part of the brain responsible for higher cognitive functions, often used metaphorically to refer to intelligence itself.

• Purple prose

  Purple prose refers to writing that is excessively ornate, flowery, or elaborate, often to the detriment of clarity or substance.

• Off-color

  Referring to something that is slightly indecent or inappropriate, often in a humorous or suggestive way.

• To pick up the thread

  To resume a discussion, activity, or line of thought that was previously interrupted or abandoned.

• To be cut from a different cloth

  This phrase means someone possesses a fundamentally distinct character, personality, or set of principles compared to others.

• To loom large

  To be an issue, problem, or event that appears significant, prominent, or often worrisome in one's mind or future.

• To air one's dirty laundry in public

  To discuss private, often embarrassing or controversial personal matters openly with others, rather than keeping them discreet.

• On the fringe of society

  To be at the outer edge or periphery of conventional society, often implying a marginalized, unconventional, or less accepted existence.

• A dog-eat-dog world

  This phrase describes a harsh and competitive environment where people are willing to harm others to succeed or survive.

• If the shoe fits

  This phrase suggests that if a criticism, description, or statement accurately applies to someone, they should accept it as true.

• In one's shirt sleeves

  To be wearing only a shirt, having removed one's jacket or coat, often indicating informality or a readiness for work.

• Pass the hat

  To collect money from a group of people, typically for a specific cause, person, or shared expense.

• Pull up your socks

  To make a greater effort and improve one's performance or behavior.

• Throw one's hat in the ring

  To announce one's intention to run for office, enter a competition, or take on a challenge.

• Cap in hand

  To be cap in hand means to be in a position of humble supplication, typically asking for a favor or forgiveness.

• Window dressing

  Making something appear more attractive or impressive than it actually is, often to deceive or create a positive but misleading impression.

• If the cap fits

  If a criticism, description, or accusation seems to apply to you, you should acknowledge its truth.

• Suit yourself

  Do what you want or what you think is best, often implying the speaker's indifference or mild disagreement.

• Go over someone's head

  To be too difficult or complicated for someone to comprehend.

• Keep your eye on the ball

  To maintain focus and attention on the most important task or objective at hand.

• Keep your nose out of

  To avoid interfering in matters that do not concern you.

• Turn up your nose at

  To show disdain, disapproval, or a feeling of superiority towards something or someone, often in a snobbish or dismissive way.

• Right under your nose

  This phrase refers to something that is immediately visible or nearby but remains unnoticed or undiscovered.

• Neck and neck

  To be extremely close to someone or something in a competition or race, with neither having a clear advantage.

• Straight from the shoulder

  To speak or act with directness and uncompromising honesty, without holding back or sugarcoating the truth.

• A chip on your shoulder

  To have a chip on your shoulder means to hold an angry, resentful attitude, often because you feel you have been wronged or are inferior, leading to an argumentative demeanor.

• Put your shoulder to the wheel

  To apply oneself with strenuous effort to a difficult task or to contribute significantly to a collective endeavor.

• Have your hands full

  To be extremely busy or preoccupied with many tasks or responsibilities.

• Hands down

  Used to emphasize that something is definitively the best, most certain, or without a doubt.

• All thumbs

  To be very clumsy or awkward, especially with one's hands.

• Eat your heart out

  An exclamation challenging someone to try and surpass one's achievement or to express triumphant satisfaction, often playfully.

• On your last legs

  To be near the end of one's strength, life, or usefulness, often due to exhaustion or deterioration.

• Stand on your own two feet

  To be independent and self-sufficient, taking responsibility for oneself without relying on others.

• Put your foot down

  To assert one's authority firmly and decisively, often to stop or prevent something.

• Betting on a dark horse

  To support or invest in a candidate, competitor, or venture that is not widely known or expected to win but has the potential for unexpected success.

• Put someone in the spotlight

  To make someone the center of attention or public focus.

• Cards are stacked against one

  Circumstances or conditions are unfairly biased and unfavorable, making success extremely difficult or impossible.

• Have a bedside manner

  A healthcare professional's compassionate and reassuring approach when interacting with patients.

• To be a guinea pig

  To be the subject of an experiment, test, or trial.

• Bats in the belfry

  To have "bats in the belfry" means to be eccentric, slightly crazy, or to have peculiar ideas.

• Get off one's high horse

  To stop acting superior or arrogant and become more humble or reasonable.

• Night owl

  A person who habitually stays awake and is active late into the night, often feeling most energetic during these hours.

• Not a spring chicken

  Someone who is not a spring chicken is no longer young.

• Mother hen

  A 'mother hen' is a person, typically a woman, who is overly protective, watchful, and nurturing towards a group of people, often treating them like her own children.

• Ants in one's pants

  To feel restless, fidgety, or highly energetic and unable to stay still.

• Snake oil

  Snake oil refers to a fraudulent or ineffective remedy, product, or idea presented as beneficial or legitimate.

• First past the post

  This electoral system declares the candidate with the most votes in a constituency as the winner, even if they do not achieve an absolute majority.

• Get a second wind

  To experience a renewed burst of energy or enthusiasm after feeling tired or discouraged.

• In your corner

  To be supportive of someone and advocate for them, especially during a difficult time.

• On the home stretch

  Nearing the final part or stage of a task, project, or journey.

• Put through its paces

  To thoroughly test someone or something to assess their full capabilities, performance, or suitability for a task.

• The gloves are off

  This idiom signifies that a competition, conflict, or negotiation has become very serious, open, and unrestrained, with all pretense of politeness or rules discarded.

• Take the reins

  To assume control, leadership, or responsibility for a situation or organization.

• Up to scratch

  Meeting the required standard or quality.

• An old hand

  A person who is very experienced and skilled in a particular activity or job.

• Foot in mouth

  To accidentally say something embarrassing, tactless, or foolish, causing oneself social awkwardness or regret.

• Toe the line

  To conform strictly to rules, expectations, or a given standard of behavior.

• Wrap someone around your little finger

  To have complete control over someone, easily manipulating them to do one's bidding.

• Heart-to-heart

  A sincere and intimate conversation, often about personal feelings or important matters.

• Make your blood run cold

  To cause a feeling of intense fear, horror, or dread.

• Your goose is cooked

  You are in serious trouble or doomed to fail, with no way out of a bad situation.

• Grin and bear it

  To accept a difficult or unpleasant situation with a forced smile and without complaint.

• The straw that broke the camel's back

  The final, seemingly minor problem or burden that pushes someone or something beyond its limits, leading to a collapse or breakdown.

• Horse sense

  Horse sense refers to practical, robust common sense, especially in handling everyday situations and problems.

• Meet one's Waterloo

  To suffer a final, decisive defeat or downfall, often after a period of great success.

• To Turn a Blind Eye

  To intentionally ignore something undesirable or unethical that one is aware of, often to avoid responsibility or confrontation.

• To be on the warpath

  To be extremely angry and ready for conflict or confrontation.

• Back the wrong horse

  To support a person, idea, or cause that ultimately proves unsuccessful or disadvantageous.

• A one-horse town

  A one-horse town is a small, often isolated community with very few amenities or opportunities.

• Change horses in midstream

  To make a major alteration or replace a leader during an ongoing, critical, or difficult undertaking.

• Wild horses couldn't drag me away

  This phrase signifies an extreme determination to stay in a particular place or situation, or to continue doing something, despite any difficulty or temptation to leave.

• A horse of a different color

  Something entirely different or a separate and distinct matter from what is currently being discussed.

• Charley horse

  A sudden, painful, involuntary muscle spasm or cramp, often occurring in the leg or thigh.

• Get back on the horse

  To recover from a failure or setback and try again.

• Saddle up

  To prepare a horse for riding, or more broadly, to get ready to begin an activity or journey.

• Switch horses in midstream

  To make a fundamental change in leadership, plans, or approach while a project or endeavor is already underway, often at a critical or difficult point.

• To get on one's high horse

  To behave in a self-important or arrogant way, often implying moral superiority.

• To get back in the saddle

  To resume an activity, position, or way of life after a period of absence, difficulty, or setback.

• Take a bath

  To wash one's body by immersing oneself in a tub of water, often for hygiene or relaxation.

• To play your cards close to your chest

  To keep your intentions, plans, or advantages secret and not reveal them to others.

• To pull back the curtain

  To reveal the truth or inner workings of something previously hidden or kept secret.

• To wear rose-tinted glasses

  To view a situation or past event in an overly optimistic or idealized way, often ignoring its negative aspects.

• To whistle past the graveyard

  To feign bravery or ignore a looming danger by acting cheerful or unconcerned.

• To sugarcoat the truth

  To make an unpleasant or difficult truth seem more palatable or acceptable by presenting it in a deceptively positive or less harsh way.

• To bury one's head in the sand

  To deliberately ignore an obvious problem or danger, often hoping it will simply disappear.

• To be at the end of one's rope

  To have reached the limit of one's patience, endurance, or resources, feeling unable to cope further.

• To be out of luck

  To no longer have any good fortune, opportunity, or a chance for a positive outcome.

• Rose-tinted glasses

  To view a situation, person, or past event in an overly optimistic or idealized way, ignoring negative aspects.

• The emperor has no clothes

  This phrase describes a situation where an obvious truth is ignored or denied by many, often due to fear, deference, or collective delusion, until someone brave enough points it out.

• The end of the line

  This phrase refers to a point where all options are exhausted, no further progress is possible, or something has reached its definitive conclusion.

• Going down the rabbit hole

  To delve deeply and obsessively into a complex or unfamiliar subject, often leading to a long and convoluted series of discoveries or distractions.

• Chef's whites

  Chef's whites refer to the traditional white uniform, typically consisting of a jacket, trousers, and toque, worn by chefs in professional kitchens.

• Station chef

  A station chef, also known as a chef de partie, is a cook responsible for a specific section of a professional kitchen, such as grilling, sauces, or pastry.

• Long hours

  Extended periods spent working, often exceeding typical full-time expectations or standard shifts.

• Brigade de cuisine

  The brigade de cuisine is a hierarchical system used in professional kitchens, organizing staff into specialized roles to ensure efficiency and order.

• Apron strings

  Apron strings refer to the metaphorical ties of a mother's overprotective influence or a child's dependence, typically implying an adult son who remains overly attached to his mother.

• Arbitrage

  Arbitrage is the simultaneous buying and selling of an asset in different markets to profit from a price discrepancy.

• Dog eat dog world

  A "dog eat dog world" describes an intensely competitive and ruthless environment where individuals prioritize their own success, often at the expense of others.

• Hit the trail

  To leave a place and begin a journey, often implying the start of a long trip or hike.

• Go west, young man

  This phrase encourages someone to seek new opportunities, often by moving to a less developed or different region where prospects are perceived to be more plentiful.

• Wild West

  The Wild West refers to the period and region of the American frontier in the 19th century, particularly known for its lack of established law, rapid expansion, and iconic figures like cowboys and outlaws.

• Pan for gold

  To search diligently for something valuable or profitable, often by sifting through a larger quantity of less desirable material, much like literally separating gold from gravel in a river.

• Six-shooter

  A six-shooter is a type of revolver, particularly one with a cylinder designed to hold six cartridges.

• Strike it rich

  To suddenly and unexpectedly acquire a large amount of wealth or achieve great financial success.

• Dust up

  A dust up is a minor fight, quarrel, or argument, often brief and not particularly serious.

• Circle the wagons

  To prepare for an attack or criticism by forming a defensive and united front.

• Howdy partner

  This is a friendly, informal greeting, often used to playfully evoke a Western or cowboy persona.

• The last frontier

  This phrase refers to the final unexplored, undeveloped, or challenging area of human endeavor or geographic expansion.

• Draw

  To finish a game or contest with an equal score, resulting in neither side winning.

• Homestead Act

  The Homestead Act was a series of United States federal laws granting settlers 160 acres of public land, often for free or at a very low cost, if they lived on and cultivated it for five years.

• Ghost town

  A town that has been deserted by its inhabitants, leaving behind empty buildings and an eerie silence.

• Git along little dogies

  An encouraging phrase, often used playfully, telling someone to keep moving forward or to continue on their way.

• Wanted dead or alive

  This phrase indicates that a person is being sought, and their apprehension, whether alive or deceased, is acceptable.

• Land rush

  A sudden, frantic race or competition to acquire land, especially when newly available for settlement or development.

• Claim jumping

  Claim jumping refers to the illegal act of taking possession of another person's previously established mining claim, property rights, or even an intellectual property niche.

• Pioneer spirit

  The courage, determination, and innovative mindset required to explore new territories, overcome obstacles, and break new ground.

• Gold rush

  A gold rush describes a period of rapid migration and intense prospecting for gold in a newly discovered mining area, often leading to significant social and economic upheaval.

• Tenderfoot

  A newcomer or novice, especially one unaccustomed to hardship or outdoor life.

• Law of the gun

  A situation where power and control are maintained through force and violence rather than legal authority or moral principles.

• Greenhorn

  A person who is new to a place or activity and lacks experience.

• Trail boss

  The person in charge of a cattle drive, or by extension, a leader who manages a difficult operation or group with decisive authority.

• Iron horse

  An "iron horse" is an archaic or poetic term for a railway locomotive or a train.

• Range war

  A violent conflict between rival groups, typically in the American West, over access to land, water, or grazing rights for livestock.

• Gunslinger

  A person, especially in the American Old West, who is skilled with a handgun and notorious for their involvement in armed conflicts or duels.

• Showdown

  A final, decisive confrontation or encounter, often between opposing parties.

• Quick draw

  The ability to draw a firearm, especially a pistol, from its holster with exceptional speed, often used to describe a person possessing this skill.

• Boomtown

  A boomtown is a town that experiences extremely rapid growth in population and economic activity, typically due to a sudden discovery of a valuable resource or new industry.

• Manifest Destiny

  The 19th-century belief that the United States was divinely ordained to expand its dominion across the North American continent.

• Yeehaw

  An exclamation of excitement, joy, or triumph, often associated with cowboys and country culture.

• Hang 'em high

  To advocate for or inflict severe, often summary, punishment, particularly execution.

• Wagon train

  A line or convoy of covered wagons, typically used by pioneers traveling across the American West in the 19th century.

• Out of Dodge

  To leave a place quickly, especially one that is perceived as undesirable or dangerous.

• Prairie schooner

  A prairie schooner was a canvas-covered wagon, typically drawn by oxen or horses, used by American pioneers for westward migration across the vast plains.

• Oregon Trail

  A historic 19th-century wagon route across the American West, often invoked metaphorically to describe a long, difficult journey, frequently referencing a popular educational video game.

• Dead man's hand

  A poker hand consisting of two pairs—black aces and black eights—famously associated with the cards held by Wild Bill Hickok when he was murdered.

• Pony Express

  A swift and direct system for communication or delivery, named after the historic American mail service.

• Westward expansion

  The historical process in the 19th century where American settlers, pioneers, and their institutions moved westward across the North American continent.

• Blazing a trail

  To be the first to do something new and significant, making it easier for others to follow.

• Last stand

  A final, desperate defense against overwhelming odds, often made with the understanding that defeat is inevitable.

• Empty saddle

  The absence of someone who was formerly present, often signifying their death or a significant departure, especially in a context where their presence was notable.

• How the West was won

  This phrase refers to the historical process of American westward expansion, encompassing the settlement, conflict, and development of the western territories of the United States.

• Stick 'em up

  This is a command, usually issued by a robber or attacker, instructing someone to raise their hands in surrender.

• Head 'em up, move 'em out

  To gather people or things and begin an activity or journey with determination and speed.

• Home on the range

  This phrase refers to a place where one feels most comfortable, free, and belongs, often evoking a sense of wide-open, natural surroundings.

• Frontier justice

  This term refers to a system of law enforcement and punishment that is informal, often swift and harsh, typically found in areas where established legal institutions are absent or weak.

• Make tracks

  To depart from a place, usually with some haste or urgency.

• Stake a claim

  To formally assert one's right or ownership to something, often a piece of property or a position.

• Put your heads together

  To collaborate or consult with others to solve a problem or generate ideas.

• Talk until you're blue in the face

  To argue or explain something repeatedly and strenuously without success or getting the desired result.

• Brainchild

  A brainchild is an original idea, invention, or project that someone has developed.

• Bat an eyelid

  To show no reaction, surprise, or concern whatsoever.

• Stiff upper lip

  To suppress one's emotions and remain courageous and uncomplaining in the face of adversity or distress.

• Look down your nose at

  To regard someone or something with contempt, disdain, or a sense of superiority.

• By hand

  Performed or made using human hands rather than a machine or automated process.

• My right hand man

  A person's most trusted, capable, and indispensable assistant or subordinate.

• Palm off

  To deceptively sell or pass off something of inferior quality, or something unwanted, as valuable or desirable.

• Keep it close to your chest

  To keep information, plans, or intentions secret and private, not revealing them to others.

• Have the guts

  To possess the courage or bravery required to do something challenging or frightening.

• Get it off your chest

  To express something that has been bothering you, often a secret, complaint, or worry, to feel a sense of relief.

• Armchair critic

  Someone who offers opinions and criticisms from a position of detachment, without practical experience or involvement in the subject.

• Rub shoulders with

  To associate closely with someone, especially those who are famous, powerful, or influential, often in a social setting.

• Give the cold shoulder

  To intentionally ignore someone or treat them in an unfriendly manner, often as a sign of displeasure or rejection.

• Leg up

  An advantage or assistance that helps someone succeed or progress more easily.

• Shake a leg

  To hurry up or start moving quickly, often implying a need for urgency or action.

• Have an itchy foot

  To have a strong desire or restless urge to travel, explore new places, or move somewhere different.

• Get your back up

  To become suddenly defensive, angry, or ready to argue when feeling challenged or threatened.

• Get on my nerves

  To irritate or annoy someone intensely, causing a feeling of discomfort or frustration.

• Over my dead body

  An emphatic refusal to allow something to happen, implying one would rather die than permit it.

• Open-minded

  Willing to consider new ideas or opinions without prejudice.

• Heavy-handed

  Acting or governing in a forceful, insensitive, or overly strict manner, often lacking subtlety or tact.

• love at first sight

  The immediate experience of feeling a strong romantic attraction to someone the very moment you first see them.

• taking the plunge

  To commit to a significant decision or action, often one that involves risk or a major change.

• without a second thought

  To do something instantly or instinctively, without any hesitation, deliberation, or reconsideration.

• no stranger to

  To be no stranger to something means to be very familiar with it or to have experienced it frequently.

• setting the stage

  To prepare the conditions or circumstances for an event or situation to unfold.

• a tough nut to crack

  A difficult problem to solve or a person who is hard to understand or deal with.

• buttering someone up

  To flatter or praise someone excessively and insincerely, usually to gain their favor or something from them.

• to bite off more than you can chew

  To attempt a task or commitment that is too large or too difficult for one to handle effectively.

• pulling your leg!

  To playfully deceive someone or tell them something untrue as a joke.

• sick as a dog

  To be extremely ill, often experiencing intense nausea, vomiting, or a general feeling of profound misery.

• telling a good yarn

  To tell a long, engaging, and often embellished story, usually for entertainment.

• pull someone's leg

  To tease or joke with someone, often by telling them something untrue or playing a trick on them in a good-natured way.

• pulling a leg

  To playfully tease or trick someone, often by telling them something untrue.

• The chickens have come home to roost

  This idiom signifies that the negative consequences of one's past actions are finally manifesting and must be faced.

• Never say die

  To maintain a determined and optimistic attitude, refusing to give up hope even in the most challenging circumstances.

• You've made your bed, now lie in it.

  You must accept the unpleasant consequences of your own choices and actions.

• keeping up appearances

  To maintain an outward show of respectability, prosperity, or normalcy, often despite underlying difficulties or a different reality.

• trimming the sails

  To adjust one's plans, actions, or expectations to adapt to changing circumstances or conditions.

• spinning a yarn

  To tell a long, often elaborate or fictitious story.

• lucky dog

  A very fortunate person who experiences good luck often or unexpectedly.

• dog tired

  To be extremely exhausted or utterly worn out, often to the point of needing immediate rest.

• frog in the throat

  A feeling of hoarseness or a slight difficulty speaking, often due to a dry or irritated throat.

• barely scratch the surface

  To only deal with a very small or superficial part of a larger, more complex issue, topic, or task.

• You can't have the best of both worlds

  You cannot enjoy the advantages of two distinctly different or opposing situations simultaneously.

• Given the heave-ho

  To be dismissed, rejected, or expelled from a position, place, or situation, often abruptly and without ceremony.

• Cameo appearance

  A cameo appearance is a brief, often uncredited role in a performance, typically by a well-known person or the director of the work.

• A small cog in a large machine

  An individual who is an insignificant part of a much larger organization or system.

• Lump it (or like it)

  To accept an unpleasant or undesirable situation because there is no alternative and complaining is futile.

• A clean slate

  A fresh start or a new opportunity free from previous errors, mistakes, or commitments.

• What doesn't kill you makes you stronger

  This aphorism suggests that surviving difficult experiences and challenges will ultimately lead to increased resilience and personal growth.

• A curveball

  An unexpected and often problematic event, question, or situation that catches someone off guard.

• Constant reader

  A person who consistently reads the work of a particular author, column, or publication, often implying a loyal and dedicated following.

• A new lease on life

  To gain a renewed sense of energy, vitality, or purpose after a period of difficulty, decline, or stagnation.

• A bonanza

  A bonanza is a sudden and exceptionally large amount of good fortune, profit, or wealth.

• In a funk

  To be in a state of sadness, depression, or low spirits for a period of time.

• A spell of despondency

  A short, temporary period of feeling very sad, hopeless, or low in spirits.

• A gallery of rogues

  A collection or group of individuals who are dishonest, mischievous, or disreputable.

• Small potatoes

  Something or someone considered unimportant, insignificant, or trivial.

• Skeleton crew

  A skeleton crew is the absolute minimum number of people required to operate a service or organization.

• Tough as nails

  To be extremely resilient, strong, and enduring, both physically and mentally.

• Survival of the fittest

  The principle that only organisms best adapted to their environment are likely to survive and reproduce.

• Forty winks

  A short nap or brief period of sleep.

• One thing after another

  This phrase describes a continuous sequence of difficulties or problems that occur in quick succession.

• Skeletons in the closet

  A skeleton in the closet is a shocking or embarrassing secret that someone has kept hidden from others.

• The spitting image

  To be the exact likeness or copy of someone or something, often referring to a striking physical resemblance.

• The apple doesn't fall far from the tree

  Children often exhibit similar characteristics, behaviors, or appearances to their parents.

• To be thin-skinned

  To be easily offended or sensitive to criticism.

• Sound as a dollar

  To be in excellent and reliable condition, often financially or physically, suggesting robustness and trustworthiness.

• Escaping by a whisker

  To avoid danger, failure, or an undesirable outcome by the smallest possible margin.

• The calm before the storm

  A period of unusual quiet or peace that precedes a time of great trouble, activity, or chaos.

• A fish story

  An exaggerated or unbelievable tale, especially one that is difficult to believe.

• A tall tale

  A tall tale is a story that is greatly exaggerated or entirely untrue, often told for humorous effect.

• The shoe to drop

  The inevitable, often negative, event that everyone is waiting for to finally occur, marking the end of suspense.

• A trumped-up story

  A trumped-up story is a false or fabricated account, often created with the intention to deceive, mislead, or wrongly incriminate someone.

• A whopper

  An unusually large or impressive example of something, often used to describe a blatant lie.

• Royal Command

  A directive or order issued directly by a reigning monarch, carrying the weight of their sovereign authority.

• Hit or miss

  Referring to something that is unpredictable in quality or outcome, with an equal chance of being either very good or very bad.

• A toss-up

  A situation where the outcome is equally uncertain, with either option having an equal chance of success or occurrence.

• Take a leap of faith

  To commit to an action or decision based purely on trust or belief, despite a lack of complete proof or certainty about the outcome.

• A plum job

  A plum job is an excellent position that is easy, highly desirable, well-paying, and often comes with good benefits or prestige.

• Beside the point

  Something that is irrelevant or not pertinent to the topic or discussion at hand.

• Run-of-the-mill

  Ordinary, average, or unexceptional; lacking any special or distinctive qualities.

• Ubiquitous

  Something that is present, appearing, or found everywhere.

• The law of the jungle

  This phrase describes a situation where the strongest or most ruthless prevail, and there is no real order, morality, or justice beyond the struggle for survival.

• Sink or swim

  To succeed or fail entirely through one's own efforts, without any external help.

• Plentiful as dirt

  Extremely abundant and common, often to the point of being unremarkable or unwanted.

• A train wreck

  A disastrous or chaotic situation that is often fascinating or compelling to observe despite its awfulness.

• A fiasco

  A fiasco is a complete and often humiliating failure, especially of something that was planned to be a success.

• To make a hash of something

  To perform a task so badly that it is completely ruined or muddled.

• The lap of luxury

  To live a life of extreme comfort, wealth, and indulgence.

• A living hell

  An extremely difficult, unpleasant, or painful situation or experience that feels inescapable.

• To be down on one's luck

  To be experiencing a period of misfortune, bad luck, or difficult circumstances.

• To have staying power

  To possess the ability to endure, remain popular, or continue to be effective over a long period.

• A sour note

  An unpleasant or regrettable aspect that spoils an otherwise positive situation or event.

• A sucker born every minute

  This cynical saying suggests that gullible people are constantly appearing, making it easy for others to exploit them.

• The center of attention

  The person or thing that everyone is currently focused on or interested in.

• Money burns a hole in one's pocket

  To have a strong and immediate desire to spend money as soon as it is acquired.

• Lump in one's throat

  A sensation of tightness or blockage in the throat, often due to strong emotion like sadness, sentimentality, or fear, making it difficult to speak or swallow.

• A cold shoulder

  To intentionally ignore someone or treat them in an unfriendly or dismissive manner.

• A cool reception

  To be met with a less than enthusiastic, often unfriendly or indifferent, welcome or response.

• To get the cold shoulder

  To be treated in an intentionally unfriendly, unwelcoming, or dismissive manner.

• A watershed moment

  A critical turning point that marks a significant change in direction or outcome, much like a geographical divide determines the flow of water.

• A good chinwag

  A long, informal, and friendly conversation, often characterized by gossip or catching up.

• Chewing the fat

  To engage in a long, leisurely, and often casual conversation with someone.

• A heart-to-heart

  An honest, intimate, and often serious conversation between two people.

• A sticky wicket

  A sticky wicket refers to a difficult, awkward, or challenging situation that is hard to navigate.

• A tall order

  Something that is very difficult to achieve or highly demanding to fulfill.

• Home run

  A home run refers to a complete and outstanding success or achievement.

• A hard row to hoe

  To face a difficult or challenging task that requires significant effort and perseverance.

• A lump in one's throat

  A tight, constricted feeling in one's throat caused by strong emotion, often making it difficult to speak or swallow.

• That's beside the point

  This phrase indicates that a statement, fact, or action is irrelevant to the main topic or argument currently under discussion.

• A different cup of tea

  Something that is distinctly different from what was previously discussed or expected, often implying a change in nature or preference.

• A pet project

  A special project or task that someone undertakes out of personal interest or passion, often in addition to their regular duties.

• a dead duck

  Someone or something that is doomed to fail, be eliminated, or suffer an inevitable negative consequence.

• a sitting duck

  Someone or something is a sitting duck if they are in a vulnerable, exposed, and defenseless position, making them an easy target for attack, harm, or criticism.

• out to pasture

  To be retired from a job or active duty, often implying a forced or less dignified end to one's working life.

• I heard it through the grapevine

  To learn information informally, often through rumor or unofficial channels rather than direct, official sources.

• It's never too late to mend

  It is always possible to correct mistakes, improve a situation, or reconcile relationships, no matter how much time has passed.

• I heard through the grapevine

  To learn information informally, often through rumors or unofficial channels rather than direct sources.

• Hogwash

  Something that is nonsensical, absurd, or utterly false.

• Tripe

  Worthless or nonsensical talk or writing.

• Poppycock

  Poppycock is an informal term used to describe utter nonsense, foolish talk, or ridiculous ideas.

• A maverick

  A maverick is an independent-minded person who deviates from conventional thinking or behavior.

• An individualist

  A person who prioritizes individual liberty, self-reliance, and independent thought over collective norms or societal pressures.

• The thin end of the wedge

  A minor change or action that, if accepted, will lead to a series of undesirable and much more significant developments.

• False economy

  An action or decision that saves money in the short term but ultimately results in greater costs or problems later on.

• Sleepy hollow

  A peaceful, often isolated, and slightly eerie valley or community, reminiscent of the setting of Washington Irving's famous tale.

• Small town

  A small town is a municipality with a relatively limited population, often characterized by a close-knit community and a slower pace of life compared to larger cities.

• Backwater

  A backwater is a place, situation, or entity that is isolated, stagnant, or behind the times, typically lacking progress or innovation.

• Get on one's nerves

  To irritate or annoy someone intensely, often to the point of frustration.

• Live within your means

  To spend no more money than one earns, thereby avoiding debt and financial instability.

• A cakewalk

  Something that is extremely easy to accomplish or achieve.

• To make one's mark

  To achieve success, recognition, or leave a lasting and significant impression.

• To be at the pinnacle

  To be at the highest, most successful, or most celebrated point of something.

• A break in the clouds

  A moment of relief, hope, or improvement during a period of difficulty or despair.

• A banner day

  A banner day is an exceptionally successful, productive, or fortunate day.

• A pick-me-up

  A pick-me-up is a drink or item that provides a quick boost of energy, improves mood, or restores one's spirits.

• a rich lode of something

  This phrase refers to a plentiful and valuable source of something, often information, ideas, or resources.

• The rich get richer, and the poor get poorer

  This phrase describes an economic phenomenon where the wealthy accumulate more assets and resources, while the less fortunate experience a decline in their financial well-being.

• A chain is only as strong as its weakest link

  The overall effectiveness, security, or success of a system, group, or process is limited by its most vulnerable or defective part.

• To face the music

  To accept the consequences of one's actions, especially when they are unpleasant or difficult.

• A dead cert

  Something that is absolutely certain to happen, succeed, or be true.

• Fair game

  Someone or something that is considered a legitimate and acceptable target for criticism, attack, or exploitation.

• Laying down the law

  To assert one's authority or establish rules very clearly and forcefully, leaving no room for argument.

• Putting someone on notice

  To formally warn someone about an unsatisfactory situation, their conduct, or an impending action that will affect them.

• To galvanize

  To shock or excite someone into taking action, or to inspire a group of people to make significant changes.

• A second wind

  A renewed burst of energy or motivation that allows one to continue an effort after feeling exhausted.

• Stab in the dark

  To make a wild guess or an attempt without any real information or knowledge, hoping by chance to be correct or successful.

• A tour de force

  An outstanding display of skill, ability, or artistry that is particularly impressive or masterful.

• A grand finale

  This phrase refers to the spectacular, conclusive ending of an event, performance, or series.

• A gilded cage

  A gilded cage describes a situation where someone is provided with many luxuries and comforts but lacks freedom or happiness.

• A sugar-coated pill

  Something unpleasant, difficult, or undesirable that is made to seem more attractive or acceptable.

• A fat chance

  A very small or nonexistent possibility of something happening, often used sarcastically.

• A ghost of a chance

  A ghost of a chance refers to an extremely small or remote possibility of something happening or succeeding.

• Come into the limelight

  To gain significant public attention, recognition, or fame after a period of being unknown or less prominent.

• Meteoric rise

  A meteoric rise describes a very rapid, dramatic, and often spectacular ascent to prominence, success, or fame.

• Trouble on the horizon

  A warning that problems or difficulties are approaching in the near future.

• An open-and-shut case

  A very clear and straightforward situation or legal matter with an obvious outcome.

• Sitting on a powder keg

  To be in a highly dangerous, unstable, or explosive situation that could erupt into a crisis at any moment.

• A powder keg

  A powder keg refers to a highly volatile situation or region that is ready to explode into conflict or chaos at the slightest provocation.

• A house of cards

  A plan, organization, or situation that is inherently unstable, poorly constructed, and likely to collapse.

• A fusillade of invective

  A sudden, rapid, and continuous outpouring of harsh criticism or abusive language.

• a hail of abuse

  A hail of abuse refers to a sudden and overwhelming outpouring of harsh criticism, insults, or angry words directed at someone.

• a volley of insults

  A rapid succession of many harsh criticisms or offensive remarks delivered to someone.

• a hard bargain

  A deal or agreement that is difficult to achieve because one party is unwilling to compromise much on the terms or price.

• A difficult pill to swallow

  It refers to an unpleasant fact or situation that is hard to accept or endure.

• A card up one's sleeve

  To have a secret plan, advantage, or resource held in reserve for a strategic moment.

• Running like clockwork

  Operating with perfect regularity, precision, and efficiency, without any problems or interruptions.

• Killjoy

  A killjoy is a person who deliberately spoils the enjoyment or fun of others.

• Bogged down

  To be hindered or stuck in a difficult situation, preventing progress or movement.

• A rollicking good time

  A lively, enjoyable, and boisterous experience filled with fun and excitement.

• Dark horse

  A competitor or candidate whose abilities or potential are not publicly known but who surprises others with unexpected success.

• Maverick

  A person who acts independently and often defies conventional wisdom or group norms.

• A snipe hunt

  A snipe hunt is a foolish and often pointless search or a prank designed to trick someone into looking for something that does not exist or cannot be found.

• An iron fist in a velvet glove

  To exercise authority or power in a gentle, outwardly pleasant, or subtle manner while maintaining firm, unyielding control underneath.

• Cease and desist

  An order or request to immediately stop an activity and refrain from repeating it.

• Beating a dead horse

  To waste effort on something that is already over, decided, or exhaustively discussed, yielding no further results.

• Abandon ship

  To leave a difficult or failing situation, especially quickly and in a rush, due to impending disaster or collapse.

• Distance lends enchantment to the view.

  Things often appear more attractive or desirable when observed from a distance, without close inspection revealing their flaws or difficulties.

• Flunk a test

  To perform so poorly on an examination or assessment that one fails it.

• Cram for a test

  To study intensely and quickly in a short period, typically just before an examination.

• Card up one's sleeve

  A secret plan or advantage that one keeps hidden until the opportune moment.

• Nothing up one's sleeve

  To be completely transparent and honest, without any hidden motives or deceptive plans.

• Fool around

  To behave in a silly, playful, or irresponsible way, often when one should be serious or productive.

• weak link

  The weakest component or individual in a system, team, or chain that threatens the overall integrity or success of the whole.

• Wing it

  To improvise or do something without prior preparation, often in a spontaneous and unplanned manner.

• Chime in

  To interject or contribute to a conversation, often to express agreement or offer an opinion.

• Weigh in

  To contribute an opinion or offer a significant perspective to a discussion or situation.

• Not at my station

  This phrase signifies that an action or responsibility falls outside of one's designated social rank, professional role, or appropriate sphere of influence.

• A race against time

  A situation in which you must complete a task very quickly before a deadline or an impending event occurs.

• Wash one's dirty linen in public

  To discuss private, embarrassing matters or disagreements openly where others can hear or see them.

• It's a free-for-all

  A chaotic situation where everyone acts without rules or restrictions, often leading to disorder or intense competition.

• We're in uncharted territory

  To be in a new or unknown situation where there are no existing guidelines or precedents.

• Squared away

  To have everything organized, settled, or properly arranged.

• Dot the i's and cross the t's

  To pay meticulous attention to every small detail, ensuring that everything is absolutely correct and complete.

• Put one's shoulder to the wheel

  To apply concerted effort and work hard to help achieve a difficult task or common goal.

• Dead tired

  To be extremely exhausted and utterly devoid of energy.

• Thin as a rail

  To be extremely and noticeably skinny or slender.

• Anorexic

  Describing a person suffering from anorexia nervosa, an eating disorder characterized by an obsessive fear of gaining weight, a distorted body image, and self-starvation.

• A bag of bones

  A person or animal that is extremely thin, often to an unhealthy degree, with little flesh covering their skeletal frame.

• Ready for action

  Prepared and eager to begin a task, activity, or challenge without delay.

• A shell game

  A shell game is a deceptive scheme or trick, often involving misdirection, designed to cheat or mislead someone.

• the whole shebang

  Everything included; the entire collection or totality of something.

• the whole kit and caboodle

  To refer to every single thing or person associated with something, leaving nothing out.

• Cack-handed

  Clumsy, awkward, or inept, often specifically referring to someone who is left-handed or uses their left hand in an ungainly way.

• Lost for words

  To be unable to speak because one is too surprised, shocked, emotional, or pleased.

• At a loss for words

  To be so overwhelmed by emotion, surprise, or shock that one is unable to speak or articulate a response.

• From soup to nuts

  The phrase "from soup to nuts" means from beginning to end, or encompassing every part of something.

• A joker in the pack

  Someone or something unpredictable or potentially disruptive that can unexpectedly change the outcome of a situation.

• Cost a pretty penny

  To be very expensive or to require a significant amount of money.

• Dirt cheap

  Something that is dirt cheap is extremely inexpensive, costing very little money.

• To have it in for someone

  To intensely dislike someone and seek opportunities to harm, criticize, or undermine them.

• A greenhorn

  An inexperienced or naive person, especially a newcomer to a particular activity or place.

• A poker face

  An impassive expression that conceals one's true thoughts or feelings.

• Go down a rabbit hole

  To become deeply engrossed in a complex or time-consuming topic or activity, often to the exclusion of other things.

• Wax lyrical

  To speak or write about something with great enthusiasm, emotion, and often at considerable length.

• Shell out

  To spend a significant amount of money, often reluctantly or for something expensive.

• Settle up

  To pay a debt or clear an outstanding financial balance with someone.

• To be champing at the bit

  To be eagerly impatient to start an activity or achieve something.

• My nearest and dearest

  The people one loves most and considers closest, typically family and intimate friends.

• Tied to one's mother's apron strings

  To be excessively dependent on one's mother, often to the point of lacking independence or maturity.

• Sticking to mother's skirts

  To be overly dependent, timid, or unwilling to act independently, often referring to a child who stays close to their mother for security.

• In lockstep

  To act or progress in perfect, synchronized agreement or unison with others.

• Ivory tower

  A state of privileged seclusion or detachment from the practical concerns of the real world, often associated with intellectual or academic pursuits.

• To have 20/20 vision

  To have 20/20 vision means to possess perfect or excellent eyesight, and by extension, a clear and accurate understanding of a situation.

• Working one's fingers to the bone

  To work extremely hard and diligently, often to the point of exhaustion or physical strain.

• Clean bill of health

  A declaration or certification that a person or thing is in excellent health or condition, free from any problems or defects.

• Plain as day

  Extremely clear and obvious, leaving no room for misunderstanding.

• Beyond a shadow of a doubt

  Completely and absolutely certain, leaving no room for any uncertainty or question.

• It goes without saying

  This phrase is used to indicate that something is so obvious or clearly understood that it does not need to be explicitly stated.

• Level-headed

  Calm and sensible, especially in difficult situations, maintaining good judgment without becoming emotional or panicked.

• Dumb as a post

  Extremely unintelligent or stupid, showing no sign of understanding or mental activity.

• In fine fettle

  To be in excellent physical and mental condition, feeling healthy and vigorous.

• Happy as Larry

  Extremely happy, content, and cheerful.

• Pleased as punch

  To be extremely happy and highly satisfied, often with a sense of triumph or glee.

• Full of vim and vigor

  To be filled with great energy, enthusiasm, and vitality.

• Grinning from ear to ear

  To be smiling very broadly, often indicating great happiness, amusement, or satisfaction.

• Could eat a horse

  To be extremely hungry, so much so that one feels capable of eating a large and unusual amount of food.

• Off one's rocker

  To be crazy, insane, or mentally unsound.

• A screw loose

  To have a screw loose means someone is slightly eccentric, irrational, or mentally unsound.

• Crazy as a loon

  Extremely foolish, irrational, or insane.

• In a towering rage

  To be in a state of intense, uncontrollable anger.

• Spitting mad

  To be extremely and visibly angry, often to the point of showing physical signs of rage.

• Boiling mad

  To be intensely and visibly angry, as if one's emotions are at a boiling point.

• Wouldn't say boo to a goose

  Describes someone who is extremely timid, shy, and easily intimidated, often to the point of being unable to assert themselves even in minor situations.

• Dirt poor

  To be dirt poor means to be extremely poor or utterly destitute, possessing very little to nothing of value.

• Broke

  Having absolutely no money, often temporarily, and unable to afford basic necessities or luxuries.

• Stony broke

  To be completely without money; utterly penniless.

• Not have a penny to one's name

  To be extremely poor, possessing absolutely no money or assets whatsoever.

• Blow one's own horn

  To boast about one's own achievements or qualities, often in an excessive or uninvited manner.

• In tip-top shape

  To be in excellent physical condition, perfect health, or optimal working order.

• To give someone the slip

  To cleverly escape from someone who is pursuing or watching you.

• Artful dodger

  An artful dodger is a person who is clever and skillful at avoiding capture, responsibility, or difficult situations through cunning means.

• Outsmart someone

  To defeat or gain an advantage over another person by using superior intelligence, cunning, or wit.

• Strong as a horse

  Possessing exceptional physical strength and endurance.

• Weak as a kitten

  To be extremely feeble, lacking in strength, or very unwell.

• Frail as a bird

  This idiom describes someone or something as being extremely delicate, weak, or easily damaged.

• Hard-headed

  Resistant to persuasion or argument, often characterized by practicality, stubbornness, or a refusal to be sentimental.

• Set in one's ways

  To be inflexible or resistant to changing one's established habits, opinions, or routines.

• Dig one's heels in

  To refuse to change one's mind or compromise, especially when faced with opposition or pressure.

• A beeline

  To go directly and quickly towards a specific destination or goal.

• Blood drained from their face

  This phrase describes someone suddenly becoming very pale, typically due to intense fear, shock, surprise, or illness.

• White with fear

  To become extremely pale in complexion due to intense fright or terror.

• Ghastly pale

  Extremely and frighteningly lacking color, typically due to intense fear, shock, or severe illness.

• Scared stiff

  To be so intensely frightened that one becomes physically unable to move or react.

• Clean as a whistle

  Entirely free from dirt, impurities, or any undesirable elements, often implying a thorough and impeccable state.

• Bite off more than one can chew

  To attempt a task or commitment that is too large or difficult for one's capacity.

• Clear sailing

  A situation or period without difficulties, obstacles, or impediments to progress.

• To weigh one's options

  To carefully consider all available choices and their potential outcomes before making a decision.

• Quick as a wink

  Something that happens extremely fast or instantly.

• At breakneck speed

  To move or happen with extreme and often dangerous swiftness.

• There's more than meets the eye

  Something is more complex, interesting, or significant than it initially seems.

• On the chopping block

  To be in a position where one is likely to be eliminated, dismissed, or drastically cut.

• Right away

  To do something immediately, without any delay or hesitation.

• Like a shot

  To do something very quickly and without any delay.

• At a moment's notice

  Immediately, without any prior warning or time to prepare.

• Like greased lightning

  This phrase describes something moving or happening with extremely high speed and quickness.

• Snide remark

  A snide remark is a derogatory or critical comment that is delivered in a sarcastic or condescending way.

• The sticks

  A remote, rural area far from towns or cities, often implying a lack of amenities or sophistication.

• Bark up the wrong tree

  To make a mistake in an attempt to achieve something, often by pursuing a course of action that will not lead to the desired result.

• Pick up where one left off

  To resume an activity, conversation, or task at the exact point it was previously paused or interrupted.

• Go down with the ship

  To remain with a failing enterprise or situation until its complete ruin, often out of loyalty or a sense of duty.

• Timbuktu

  A metaphorical term used to refer to a very distant, remote, or inaccessible place.

• Clean slate

  A fresh start, free from past mistakes, obligations, or previous records.

• Wipe the slate clean

  To completely forget past mistakes or difficulties and start anew without any lingering blame or debt.

• Put your money on the wrong horse

  To make a poor choice or support a person or thing that ultimately fails or proves to be a bad investment.

• Make a last stand

  To defend one's position or beliefs to the very end, even when defeat is certain.

• Up against it

  To be facing severe difficulties, opposition, or a challenging situation with limited resources or options.

• Holding the short end of the stick

  To be in an unfavorable or disadvantageous position in a situation or deal.

• Left holding the bag

  To be left to face the blame or consequences of a difficult or undesirable situation, often when others involved have escaped responsibility.

• Provide a lifeline

  To offer crucial help or support to someone or something that is in a desperate or critical situation.

• Keep the books

  To meticulously record and maintain the financial transactions and records of an organization or individual.

• Close the books

  To finalize the financial accounts for a specific period, signifying the end of transactions and the beginning of reporting.

• Acid test

  An acid test is a definitive and rigorous evaluation that proves the true value, quality, or authenticity of something.

• Hard school

  A difficult or challenging experience that provides valuable, often unpleasant, lessons and builds resilience.

• Backing the wrong horse

  To support or invest in a person, idea, or enterprise that ultimately fails or proves to be unsuccessful.

• Flogging a dead horse

  To waste effort on something that cannot be changed or has no chance of success.

• Die-hard fans

  People who exhibit extreme and unwavering loyalty and devotion to a particular team, celebrity, band, or hobby, often demonstrating profound commitment despite challenges.

• Nervous wreck

  A person who is extremely anxious, stressed, or exhausted to the point of being unable to function properly.