Post on 26-Dec-2015
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PROVERBIDIOMS
A man’s home is his castle: Privacy and security are guaranteed in one’s home
A picture is worth a thousand words: A picture conveys much meaning
A stitch in time saves nine:The correction of a minor flaw promptly prevents the development of possibly serious major ones
A wallflower: One who does not participate in the activity at a social event because of shyness or unpopularity
A watched pot never boils:An activity seems to take even longer when one is anxious for it to finish
Ace in the hole: A hidden advantage or resource kept in reserve until needed
Across the board: Including all categories or members, especially in an occupation or industry: an across-the-board pay hike; an across-the-board policy decision
Airhead: A silly, rather unintelligent person
Airing one’s dirty laundry: To discuss private or embarrassing matters in public
All bent out of shapeUpset
All choked up To come near losing calmness or self-control from strong feeling
All ear:Acutely attentive: If you want to tell your story, we are all ears
All heartLoving or generous
All thumbsVery awkward and clumsy, especially with one’s hands
All washed upFailed; end to a person’s career
All wetEntirely mistaken
All work and no play makes Jack a dull boyIt is good to relax now and then
An apple a day keeps the doctor awayHealthy eating prevents illness
An axe to grindA selfish or subjective aim: He claimed to be disinterested, but I knew he had an ax to grind
An old head on young shouldersUncharacteristic wisdom in youth
Ants in the pantsA state of restless impatience: She's got ants in her pants
Apple of my eyeFavorite
Are you a man or a mouse?Are you courageous or timid?
At death’s doorNear to death; gravely ill or injured
At the end of one’s ropeThe limit of one's patience, endurance, or resources: After six months on strike, the workers were at the end of their rope.
Babe in the woodsNaïve; inexperienced in certain things
Babies must playA certain type of conduct must be expected from certain types of individuals
Baby kisserA person campaigning for votes in his quest for political office
Back to square oneThe starting point
Backed by moneySupported financially
Back-seat driverA person, for example a passenger in a car, who repeatedly gives advice without being asked for it
Bad news travels fastOthers quickly hear about bad news
Balancing actTrying to please two or more parties that are in opposition to each other
Ball and chainA person’s special burden
Ball game is overIt is too late to change things now
Banana noseLarge concave facial feature
Barefoot and pregnantWife confined to housework and child production
Bats in the belfryInsane; crazy
Beach bunnyBeautiful sun-bather who does not get in the water
Beachcomber1. One who scavenges along beaches
2. A seaside vacationer
Bear marketSlowing economy (US Stock Exchange)
Beating around the bushAvoid giving a direct answer
Beggars can’t be choosersIf you are asking for something, you do not have the right to be selective
Behind the eight ballIn an unfavorable or uncomfortable position
Belle of the ballA popular, attractive girl or woman, especially the most attractive one of a group
Big as a barrelFat
Big blowhardA boaster or braggart
Big cheesePerson of repute; a person of high rank
Big fish eat little fishIn the corporate world, large companies take over small companies or put them out of business
Big mouthOne given to loud, irritating, or indiscreet talk
Big timeThe most prestigious level of attainment in a competitive field: He made it to the big time with his latest film
BigfootA very large, hairy, humanlike creature purported to inhabit the Pacific Northwest and Canada. Also called Sasquatch
Big-heartedGenerous; kind
Bird dog1. One (such as a talent scout) who seeks out something for another
2. One who steals another’s dateBird in the hand is worth two in the bush
It’s better to have something than merely to hope for something moreBirds of a feather flock together
People of the same type seem to associate with each otherBlack as the ace of spades
Definite black colorBlackball
1. A negative vote, especially one that blocks the admission of an applicant to an organization 2. A small black ball used as a negative ballot 3. Ostracized or boycotted
Bleeding heartA person who is considered excessively sympathetic toward those who claim to be underprivileged or exploited
BlockheadA person regarded as very stupid
Blow one’s own hornTo brag or boast about oneself
Blowing the whistleTo expose wrongdoing in the hope of bringing it to a halt: an attorney who blew the whistle on governmental corruption
Boardwalk1. A walk made of wooden planks
2. A promenade, especially of planks, along a beach or waterfrontBone to pick with someone
Grounds for a complaint or disputeBonehead
A stupid person; a dunceBookworm
One who spends much time reading or studyingBoxing one’s ears
A slap or blow with the hand on the side of the head: He gave him a box on the earBrain drain
The loss of skilled intellectual and technical labor through the movement of such labor toward more favorable geographic, economic, or professional environments
Brain stormA sudden clever plan or idea
BrainyIntelligent; smart
BreadwinnerA person whose earnings are the primary source of support for his/her dependents
Break the iceTo relax a tense or unduly formal atmosphere or social situation
Bridge over troubled waterSolution to a perplexing problem
Broken heartSorrow
BrokenheartedOvercome by grief or despair
Bucket of boltsJalopy – An unreliable automobile
Bull in a china shop (like a)A very clumsy person; a tactless person
Bull marketA situation on the stock market when the prices of shares are likely to rise, allowing people to make a profit
Burn the candle at both endsTo exhaust oneself or one's resources by leading a hectic or extravagant life
Burning questionVital issue; crucial question
Burning rubber1. Jackrabbit start
2. Leave in a hurryBurying one’s head in the sand
Refusing to face somethingBushwhacker
1. To make one's way through thick woods by cutting away bushes and branches 2. To travel through or live in the woods 3. To fight as a guerrilla in the woodsButter someone up
To praise or flatter excessively: You are always buttering up the boss.Butterfingers
A person who tends to drop thingsButterflies in one’s stomach
Excited, nervousBuy the farm
To die, especially suddenly or violentlyCall girl
A woman prostitute hired by telephoneCall no man happy till he’s dead
Circumstances can change as long as one is aliveCan’t see the forest for the trees
Failing to realize the main issue because of being overattentive to detailsCar pool
1. An arrangement whereby several participants or their children travel together in one vehicle, the participants sharing the costs and often taking turns providing the vehicle and driver
2. A group, as of commuters or parents, participating in a car poolCarrying the torch
1. Crusade 2. To feel a painful, unreciprocated love: still carrying a torch for an old sweetheartCase closed
That’s final. No more discussion.Cast pearls before swine
To waste good acts or valuable things on someone who will not understand or be appreciativeCast-iron stomach
Ability to eat a variety of foods
Castles in the airFantasy
Cat got your tongue?Why are you silent?
Cat’s out of the bagTo let a secret be known
Catching some Z’sSleeping
Cauliflower earsDamaged ears of a boxer
Chain smokingTo smoke continually, as by lighting the next cigarette from the previous one
Chalk it up1. To earn or score: chalk up points
2. To credit or ascribe: Chalk that up to experienceCheapskate
A stingy person; a miserChewing someone’s ear off
Talking a lotChildren should be seen and not heard
Children should not talk too much when in the company of adultsChip off the old block
A child whose appearance or character closely resembles that of one or the other parent Also: “like father like son”
Chip on one’s shoulderA habitually hostile or combative attitude
ChiselerOne who uses unethical methods; cheat
Christmas comes but once a yearDon’t expect too many gifts
Cinderella storyOne that unexpectedly achieves recognition or success after a period of obscurity and neglect
Climb the ladderAdvancing in status, especially in business
Climb the wallsTo do something desperate when one is anxious, bored, or excited
Climbing the ladderAdvancing in status, especially in business
Climbing the wallTo do something desperate when one is anxious, bored, or excited
Closed shopA business or industrial establishment in which the employer by agreement hires only union members in good standing
Cloud nineA state of elation or great happiness: He was on cloud nine after winning the marathon
CoattailsTo be on someone’s coattails means to be following someone closely. Bad results are said to come on the coattails of a foolish action.
Cock and bullInsubstantial thing; all talk; an incredible story told as true
Cold feetFearfulness or timidity preventing the completion of a course of action
Cold war1. A state of political tension and military rivalry between nations that stops short of full-scale war
2. A state of rivalry and tension between two factions, groups, or individuals that stops short of open, violent confrontation
Colorful languageCharacterized by rich variety; vividly distinctive. Also, a euphemism for profanity
Come cleanTo confess all
Coming apart at the seamsCollapse; become ruined
Coming down in bucketsRaining profusely
Coming out of the closet1. To reveal one’s secret/private interests
2. Reveal that one is a homosexualCook your goose
To ruin (one's) chances of success: The speeding ticket cooked his goose with his father. Her goose was cooked when she was caught cheating on the test.
Cool catIn control of oneself
Counting sheepTrying to put self to sleep by imagining
CrackpotAn eccentric person, especially one with bizarre ideas
Crib sheetsSomething used for cheating in an examination
CroakedDied
Crossing the lineGoing too far
Crutch1. Something used for assistance or support; a prop.
2. inappropriate reliance on someone or something. He always uses a manuscript as a crutch when he gives a talk.
Cry one’s eyes outTo weep inconsolably for a long time
Cut the rugDance
Cutting cornersTo do something in the easiest or most inexpensive way
Cutthroat Severe; intense, unrelentingDaddy-longlegs
Any of various spiders of the order Phalangida, with a small, rounded body and long, slender legs. Also called harvestman
Days are numberedSomeone or something does not have long to live or stay
Dead men tell no talesBeware that you do not get killed so that the information remains a secret
Dead of winterColdest part of winter
Dear John letterLetter written to end a relationship
Dime a dozenPlentiful and easy to get. Farm laborers are a dime a dozen. What I need is a foreman
Dirt cheapVery inexpensive
Do you think money grows on trees?Money is hard to obtain and must be earned
Doesn’t have a leg to stand onLacking a justifiable or logical basis for defense or support
Doesn’t measure upDoes not have the necessary qualifications: A candidate who just didn't measure up
Dog (he or she is a)A worthless person. A lazy dog. Also, ‘ugly,’ especially of women.
DoggoneDarn; an informal American word used to emphasize what you are saying: It’s a doggone shame!
Dog-tiredFatigued, often to the point of exhaustion
Don’t bite off more than you can chewDo not begin something you are not able to finish
Don’t count your chickens before they hatchDo not depend on making a profit or gain before it materializes
Don’t get carried away1. Don’t get overly imaginative
2. Excited or moved to (extreme) action
Don’t judge a book by its coverDo not make a judgment based on external, superficial data
Don’t kick a man when he’s downDon’t add to the misfortunes of somebody who is already in an unfortunate situation
Don’t let the grass grow under your feetDo not procrastinate or waste time
Don’t look a gift horse in the mouthDo not be critical or suspicious of something one has received without expense
Don’t make wavesDo not cause a disturbance or controversy
Don’t put all your eggs in one basketDo not risk everything on a single venture
Don’t put the cart before the horseDo not do something in the wrong order
Don’t put your foot in your mouthDo not say something that you will regret
Don’t rock the boatDon’t disturb the balance or routine of a situation: He has an easygoing managerial style and won't rock the boat unless absolutely necessary.
Don’t throw a monkey wrench into the worksSomething that disrupts: He threw a monkey wrench into our plans
Don’t throw out the baby with the bathwaterTo discard something valuable along with something not desired, usually unintentionally
Don’t upset the apple cartChange how things are or are being done, often unexpectedly. Similar to “Don’t rock the boat”
Door prizeA prize awarded by lottery to the holder of a ticket purchased at or before a function
Down in the dumps (down in the mouth)Discouraged; sad; dejected
Drinks are on the houseAt the expense of the establishment; free: Food and drinks on the house
Drop in the bucketInsignificant amount
Dutch treatAn outing, as for dinner or a movie, in which all persons pay their own expenses
Eagle flies aloneAn outstanding person separates himself from the crowd. Like “It is lonely at the top”
Ear to the groundObservant; alert to the situation
Eat your heart outTo be consumed by jealousy
Eating one’s wordsTo retract something that one has said
Egg on the faceEmbarrassment; humiliation: If you do that, you will end up with egg on your face
EggheadAn intellectual; a highbrow
Eighty-six itTo refuse to serve (an unwelcome customer) at a bar or restaurant; to throw out; eject. To throw away; discard
Empty barrels make the most noiseThose who call attention to themselves usually have little content
Even the Devil will swear on a stack of BiblesOne’s word is only as good as his reputation
Even the score/Settle a scoreAvenge for past wrongs
Every family has at least one black sheepA member of a family or other group who is considered undesirable or disreputable
Every man has his priceEach person is willing to agree to something as long as the inducement is sufficient
Eye of the stormIn the middle of turmoil
Eyes in the back of the headBe aware of something that one apparently should not know about
Face of the mountainSide of the mountain with exposed rock
Fall guy1. A scapegoat
2. A gullible victim; a dupeFallen star
Famous person with tarnished imageFalling out
DisagreementFalling over backwards
To overexert oneself to do or accomplish something: We fell over backward to complete the project on time
FanA spirited follower of sports events or entertainers
Feathers will flyThere will be a fight
Feeling blueGloomy; depressed
Fifth wheelAn extra and unnecessary person or thing
Fifty-fifty1. Divided or shared in two equal portions: a fifty-fifty split
2. Being equally likely and unlikely or favorable and unfavorable: He had a fifty-fifty chance of surviving
Fighting tooth and nailDo everything you can in order to prevent it or achieve it
Finger in every pieBe simultaneously involved in many activities
Finger-licking goodDelicious
Fish storyAn implausible, boastful story
Flat as a boardVery flat
Fly-by shootingAttacking in passing. Compare “drive-by shooting”
Foot in the doorThe first step toward getting or doing something; a start toward success
Foot of the bedThe end opposite the head, or top, of the bed
FootlooseHaving no attachments or ties; free to do as one pleases
Forbidden fruit is the sweetestAn indulgence or a pleasure that is illegal or is believed to be immoral
Forked tongueLiar
Four-eyesOne who wears eyeglasses (derogatory)
Foxy ladySlang. An attractive woman
Frog in the throatHoarseness
From the word “go”From the very beginning. Like it has always been
Fruit of one’s laborResult; outcome
Full of baloneyNonsense
Full of hot airKnown for empty, exaggerated talk
Fun & games1. Light amusement
2. Something trivially easyFunnier than a barrel of monkeys
Very funny
Games people playThe posturing people do when dealing with each other
Get a grip on yourselfGet yourself under control
Get under one’s skinTo irritate or stimulate; provoke
Getting carried awayYou are so eager or enthusiastic about something that you behave in a hasty or foolish way
Getting in on the ground floorInformal. The beginning of a venture, especially regarded as a position of advantage: investors vying to get in on the ground floor of a development project
Getting it off one’s chestTalk out something that has been bothering you.
Getting on someone’s backHarassing; pestering someone to complete an assigned job
Getting one’s feet wetBegin to take part; do something for the first time
Getting one’s licks inExpressing one’s feelings, especially in an argument
Getting the sackBe dismissed from a job
Getting to first baseSlang. The first stage or step toward completion or success
Gingerbread moldingElaborate ornamentation, especially in architecture
Give and takeThe practice of compromise
Give him enough rope and he’ll hang himselfAllow someone freedom to continue a wrong/foolish course and he will suffer the consequences
Give him the needleTo goad, provoke, or tease
Glass jaw 1. Sports. Vulnerability of a boxer to a knockout punch. 2. Vulnerability, especially of a public figure, to destructive criticismGlued to our seats
To pay rapt attentionGo fly a kite
Cease being an annoyance. Often used in the imperative.Go through the roof
To become extremely angry: When I told her about breaking the window, she went through the roof.Going ’round in circles
Without any progress
Going along for the ride1. For the company/to make up the numbers (without taking part)
2. Being in a group for the fun or the credit without doing any of the workGoing down in flames
To be deposed or to fail in a catastrophic mannerGoing downhill
DeterioratingGoing Dutch
To pay one's own expenses on a date or outingGold digger
A person who uses charm to extract money or gifts from othersGone over the edge
To do too much; be extravagantGood clean fun
AmusementGot your goat
To make a person disgusted or angry. The boy’s laziness all summer got his father’s goatGrab bag
Slang. A miscellaneous collection: The meeting evolved into a grab bag of petty complaintGreen thumb
An extraordinary ability to make plants grow wellGreen-eyed monster
Jealousy; envyGreenhorn
An inexperienced or immature person, especially one who is easily deceivedHandiwork
Work performed by hand. The product of a person's efforts and actionsHandlebar mustache
A long, curved mustache resembling a handlebarHands are tied
Be restricted (by regulations/rules)Hands of time
Time; course of timeHands off! Leave it alone!
Hang in thereTo persevere despite difficulties; persist: She hung in there despite pressure to resign
HangdogSomeone who looks guilty or ashamed
Hang-upsA psychological or emotional difficulty or inhibition
Hat in handIn a humble and respectful manner
Head in the clouds1. Imaginary; unreal; fanciful2. Inattention
Heads will rollSomebody will be in grave trouble
Heard it through the grapevineThe informal transmission of information, gossip, or rumor from person to person
Heart of stone A nature without pity
Heavy-footed Having a ponderous, lumbering gait
Hedges have eyesSeemingly confidential matters are sometimes found out
High roller1. One who spends freely and extravagantly, as for luxuries or entertainment
2. One who gambles rashly or for high stakes 3. An organization, such as a large corporation, that spends or invests liberally or rashlyHigh seas
The open waters of an ocean or a sea beyond the limits of the territorial jurisdiction of a country: piracy on the high seas
Hit man1. A man hired by a crime syndicate as a professional killer
2. A hatchet manHit the sack
To go to bedHitch your wagon to a star
Have high goalsHitting the jackpot
To become highly and unexpectedly successful, especially to win a great deal of moneyHog-tie
1. To tie together the feet or legs of; to make helpless 2. Informal. To impede or disrupt in movement or action Hold on to your hat!
Prepare for a sudden surprise or shockHold the phone
Slang: To stop doing what one is engaged in doing. Often used in the imperative: Hold the phone!Hold your tongue
Keep quiet!Holding a gun to someone’s head
Forcing someone to do somethingHole in the wall
A small, very modest, often out-of-the-way place
Holy RollerUsed as a disparaging term for a member of any of various religious denominations in which spiritual fervor is expressed by shouts and violent body movements
Home is where you hang your hatA place to relax or sleep is equivalent to home, especially for a transient person
Home sweet homeHome is a good place to be
Honesty is the best policyTruthfulness, fairness in dealing with others, and refusal to engage in fraud, deceit
Horseless carriageAn automobile
HorseplayRowdy or rough play
Hot dateExceptionally desirable romantic appointment
Home is where your heart isWherever one’s family/partner lives is equivalent to home
Hot dog1. A frankfurter, especially one served hot in a long soft roll
2. Slang: One who performs showy, often dangerous stunts, as in skiing or surfingHot pants
Very brief, tight shorts worn by women as an outer garmentHotter than a $2 pistol
Illegal; stolenHung out to dry
Betrayed. Left without supportHungry enough to eat a horse
Very hungryI get a kick out of you
1. To get a special pleasure from someone or something 2. You make me laughI made it with my own two hands
I made it myselfI smell a rat
To suspect that something is wrongI was framed
When someone invented evidence or deliberately lied so as to incriminate you falselyI’ll eat my hat
I’ll admit I was wrongI’ll scratch your back, you scratch mine
Do somebody a favor in the hope that he will do something for youIf the hat fits, wear it or If the shoe fits, wear it
If the counsel is appropriate, apply it
Imitation is the sincerest form of flatteryTo imitate someone is to acknowledge that he is doing something well
In a stewMental agitation: in a stew over the lost keys
In hot waterTrouble; difficulty: He got into hot water over the car deal
In it up to one’s neckHeavily involved
In one door and out the other /In one ear and out the other1. Not remembered/ignored2. Without any influence or effect; unheeded: Since his mind was already made up, my arguments went in one ear and out the other
In the darkIn a state of ignorance; uninformed: They kept me in the dark about their plans
Iron curtainThe military, political, and ideological barrier established between the Soviet bloc and Western Europe after World War II
It takes all kinds to build a worldOne should tolerate everybody
It’s a dog-eat-dog worldRuthlessly acquisitive or competitive
It’s a jungle out thereA place or milieu characterized by intense, often ruthless competition or struggle for survival: the corporate jungle
It’s a man’s worldThis system gives males an advantage
It’s in the bagAssured of a successful outcome; virtually accomplished or won
It’s no use crying over spilt milkTo regret in vain what cannot be undone or rectified
It’s on the houseAt the expense of the establishment; free: food and drinks on the house
It’s the drinks talkingOverconfident speech due to the influence of alcohol
It’s written all over your faceIt’s obvious
Joy ride1. A ride taken for fun and often for the thrills provided by reckless driving
2. A hazardous, reckless, often costly ventureJumping on the bandwagon
Become involved in an activity or cause because it is suddenly fashionable to do so or because they think it is likely to be successful
Just desertsGet what one deserves, especially punishment
Just for kicksFun: Let's go to the show just for kicks
Keep it under your hatKeep it secret
Keep your head above waterRemain out of debt
Keep your shirt onTo remain calm or patient: The plane doesn't land for another hour, so keep your shirt on
Keeping one’s feet on the groundTaking a practical, realistic view
Keeping up with the JonesesEnsure that one’s social standing and material possessions are equal to that of one’s neighbors
Key playerImportant/principal person
Keyed upExpectant; excited
Kick the bucketTo die
Killing timeDoing something pointless while waiting for a long time
Killing two birds with one stoneTake the opportunity to do two things simultaneously
Knock on woodHopefully, with luck (comes from a superstitious practice)
Knocking the stuffing out of someoneDefeat; soundly beat/thrash somebody
Knot in one’s stomachA feeling of tightness: a knot of fear in my stomach
Laughing all the way to the bankBenefit financially from the unfortunate circumstances or unwise choices of someone else
Lay down the law State firmly what the rules are; to give strict orders
Lean over backwards To make an effort greater than is required
Leave one’s mark/ Leaving one’s mark on the world Distinguish oneself/leave an impression
Left holding the bag Leave someone to take all the blame; to leave someone appearing guilty
Leg up onHelp someone to reach a higher level
LemonAn item that is unsatisfactory or defective: Their new car turned out to be a lemon.
Let sleeping dogs lieLeave alone, lest more problems be caused
Let the chips fall where they mayTo pay no attention to the displeasure caused others by your actions
Let’s call a spade a spadeTo speak directly, precisely, and forthrightly; not water down a message
Let’s stick togetherUnite with
Life has its ups and downsAlternating periods of good and bad fortune
Life is a two-way streetRelationships involve give and take
Lifting a fingerDoing something to help
Lightning never strikes the same place twiceThe same accident or good thing does not happen twice
Like day and nightCompletely opposite
Like father, like sonA child whose appearance or character closely resembles that of one or the other parent Also:“chip off the old block”
Long and winding roadThere are many steps and it takes long time in order to reach one’s goals
Look before you leapBe cautious before acting
Lose (Losing) one’s headTo lose one's poise or self-control. To act without thinking. Panic
Losing battle Having no chance of success
Lost one’s marblesGo mad
Love is blindShortcomings of a loved one are overlooked
Love nestFirst home purchased by a new couple
Lucky at cards, unlucky at loveSuccessful in endeavors other than marriage
Make hay while the sun shinesMake the best of an opportunity
Making mountains out of molehillsTo exaggerate a minor problem
Man of the worldA sophisticated, worldly-wise man
Man who is his own doctor has a fool for a patientSomeone who acts on his own, without getting advice, is a fool (the opposite of ‘in a multitude of counselors there is accomplishment’)
Man-eater1. An animal, such as a tiger, that eats or is reputed to eat human flesh
2. A cannibal 3. Slang. A woman who is considered dangerous or threatening to menMany hands make light work
The task will be completed quicker if everyone helpsMelt into someone’s arms
Swoon in someone’s arms during a hugMen seldom make passes at girls who wear glasses
Girls who wear glasses are unattractiveMind’s eye
1. The inherent mental ability to imagine or remember scenes 2.The imaginationMoney burning a hole in one’s pocket
Have more money than one is accustomed to, and be eager to spend itMoney talks
Wealth conveys advantages/privilegesMoney under the rug
Illegal fundingMoneybags
1. Moneybags (used with a sing. or pl. verb). Wealth 2. Moneybags (used with a sing. verb). A rich, often extravagant personMore the merrier
The more people there are, the betterMusic hath charms to soothe the savage beast
Music exerts a powerful influenceMy ears are burning
I’m the subject of conversationMy heart has wings
This experience makes my heart swell with happinessMy heart is in my mouth
Be very apprehensiveMy mouth is watering
Appealing to the sense of taste; appetizing: the mouthwatering aroma of a baking pieNeedle in a haystack
Something hard to findNever cross a bridge until you come to it
Do not worry about problems that may never arise
Never hit a man below the beltTreatment that is not according to the rules; unfair
Never loan money to a friendFriendship may be jeopardized in a business relationship
New brooms sweep cleanA new appointee performs his job with vigor
NightcapA usually alcoholic drink taken just before bedtime
Nine-to-fiveRegular daytime work hours, as in an office
No man is an islandEveryone needs someone
No one knows what goes on behind closed doorsWhat happens in secret would surprise you
No strings attachedUnconditional; without any obligation
No-show1. One that is expected but does not appear, especially:
2. A person who reserves a place, as on an airplane, but neither uses nor cancels the reservation 3. A person who buys a ticket for an event but does not attend 4. A person who unexplainably fails to keep an appointmentNot playing with a full deck
Lack of intelligence or mental healthNumber two
An assistant/deputyNursing a drink
Sipping slowlyNut
A crazy or eccentric personOff one’s rocker
CrazyOff the wagon
No longer abstaining from alcoholic beveragesOld goat
A lecherous manOld hat
1. Behind the times; old-fashioned: Last year's styles will be old hat soon 2. Overused; trite: That prank is old hatOn a roll
Undergoing or experiencing sustained, even increasing good fortune, or success: The stock market's on a roll.
On a roller-coaster rideSomething, such as an action, event, or experience, that is marked by abrupt, extreme changes in
circumstance, quality, or behavior: “the demographic roller coaster caused by the baby boom” (American Demographics)
On easy streetA condition of financial security or independence
On the ballAlert, competent, or efficient: a teacher who is really on the ball
On the fenceUndecided as to which of two sides to support; uncommitted or neutral
On the tip of one’s tongueNot quite remembered
On the wagonAbstaining from alcoholic beverages
On the warpathA hostile course or mood
On top of the worldIn a position of great happiness or success
One foot in the graveAlmost dead
One for the roadNightcap
One man’s meat is another man’s poisonWhat is good for one is not good for all
One-night stand1. A performance by a traveling musical or dramatic performer or group in one place on one night only 2. Slang. A sexual encounter that is limited to only one occasion
One-on-oneConsisting of or being direct communication or exchange between two people: one-on-one instruction
Open and shut caseEasily settled
Open shopA business or factory in which workers are employed without regard to union membership
Out on a limb1. Exposed to danger 2. In a difficult, awkward, or vulnerable position
Out to pastureRetired
Over a barrelIn a very awkward position from which extrication is difficult: During the negotiations the opposing faction had us over a barrel.
Over the hillPast one’s best
Pain in the neckOne that is a source of annoyance; a nuisance
Painting the town redTo go on a spree
PanhandleTo approach strangers and beg for money or food
Passing the buckTo shift responsibility or blame to another
Passing the hatTo take up a collection of money
Pat on the backA word or gesture of praise or approval: He received a pat on the back for doing a good job
Peanut galleryOnlookers; hecklers
Pencil pusherOne whose job involves writing and other paperwork
People who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stonesDo not complain about others if you are as bad as they are
Pick-me-up1. A drink, often an alcoholic beverage, taken as a stimulant or a cure for a hangover
2. Other item(s) to lift one’s spiritsPie in the sky
An unrealistic wish or hope Piece of cake
Something very easy to doPiece of the pie
A sharePiece together
To join into a wholePieces of the puzzle
All the relevant factorsPig
Informal: A person regarded as being greedy or grossPigs in a blanket
1. Oysters, chicken livers, or other choice morsels wrapped in thin slices of bacon 2. Sausage wrapped in dough and bakedPink slip
A notice of termination of employmentPipe down
Stop talking; be quietPlaying games
To be evasive or deceptive: Quit playing games and tell me what you wantPlaying God
Assuming superhuman role
Playing second fiddleTake a minor, secondary role
Poison one’s mindTo have a harmful influence on one’s thinking; corrupt
Poker faceA face lacking any interpretable expression, as that of an expert poker player
Poking (stir up) a hornets nestCreate trouble
Politics make strange bedfellowsSelfish interests result in unusual alliances
Pot MarijuanaPotbelly
A protruding abdominal regionPot calling the kettle black Criticizing others for the very fault one possessesPothead
One who habitually smokes marijuanaPothole
1. A hole or pit, especially one in a road surface. Also called chuckhole 2. A deep, round hole worn in rock by loose stones whirling in strong rapids or waterfallsPotluck
1. Whatever food happens to be available for a meal, especially when offered to a guest: Having arrived unannounced for supper, we had to take potluck
2. A meal at which each guest brings food that is then shared by all. Also called potluck supper 3. Whatever is available at a particular time: The scheduled flight was canceled and passengers had to
take potluck on the other airlinesPractice what you preach
Do what one tells others they should doPretty as a picture
Very prettyPrice on one’s head
Reward for capturing/killing someonePull up a chair
Please sit downPulling one’s leg
To get someone to accept a ridiculous story as true; to fool or trick someonePulling the rug out from under
To remove all support and assistance from, usually suddenlyPulling up stakes
To clear out; leave: She pulled up stakes in New York and moved to FloridaPuppet
One whose behavior is determined by the will of others
Pushing up daisiesDead and buried
Put a feather in your capAn act or deed to one's credit; a distinctive achievement
Put our heads togetherTo consult and plan together: Let's put our heads together and solve this problem
Put that in your pipe and smoke itA rude way of telling someone to accept a situation and not to try and change it
Put through the wringerSubject to a severe trial or ordeal
Put to rest1. To bury (a dead body); inter
2. To settle (an issue, for example), especially so as to be free of it: The judge's ruling put to rest the dispute between the neighbors.
Put your best foot forwardA favorable initial impression: He always has his best foot forward when speaking to his constituents. Put your best foot forward during an employment interview.
Put your money where your mouth isTo live up to one's words; act according to one's own advice
Put your shoulder to the wheelTo apply oneself vigorously; make a concentrated effort
Putting oneself into one’s workExerting oneself vigorously
Putting two and two togetherTo draw the proper conclusions from existing evidence or indications
Queer as a $3 billEccentric; homosexual
Raining cats and dogsPour with heavy rain
Raising a red flagWarning
Rat raceA difficult, tiring, often competitive activity or routine
Rats desert a sinking shipAbandoning a lost cause
Red tapeOfficial forms and procedures, especially when oppressively complex and time consuming
Red-letter dayMemorable date/event
Riding highTo experience success
Riding the railsTraveling by train
Robbing the cradleTo have a romantic or sexual relationship with someone significantly younger than oneself
Rock around the clockDance all night
Rocks in one’s headTo be stupid; not have good judgment
Roll of the diceChance
Rolling in moneyWealthy
Roof over one’s headDwelling; shelter
Rooted to the spotFixed; still
Roots (to have them somewhere)The condition of being settled and of belonging to a particular place or society
Sad sackA person regarded as extremely inept or clumsy
Sandwich boardTwo large boards bearing placards, hinged at the top by straps for hanging over the shoulders with one board in front and the other behind, used for picketing or advertising
Sawing logsSnoring
Secondhand1. Previously used by another; not new
2. Dealing in previously used merchandise 3. Obtained, derived, or borrowed from another; not originalSeek and you shall find
Don’t give upSeesaw
1. A long plank balanced on a central fulcrum so that with a person riding on each end, one end goes up as the other goes down. Also called dandle, dandle board, teedle board, teeter, teeter-totter
2. The act or game of riding a seesaw 3. A back-and-forth or up-and-down movement, as of the lead between two contesting partiesSelf-made man
Someone from a humble background who has become wealthy entirely by his own effortsSeven seas
All the oceans of the worldSharp tongue
Talk angrily/sarcasticallyShe stole his heart
Acquire somebody’s love/affection
Shirt off one’s backThe maximum one is able to give or lose: The only thing those swindlers didn't take was the shirt off my back.
Shoetree1. A form made of wood, metal, or other inflexible material inserted into a shoe to stretch it or preserve its shape
2. Also a stand made to store multiple pairs of shoesShoot one’s mouth off
To speak indiscreetlyShot in the arm
Something that boosts one's spiritsShould have one’s head examined
CrazyShowstopper
1. A performance or performer that evokes so much applause from the audience that the show is temporarily interrupted
2. A particularly arresting person or thing, especially one that draws attention away from others or brings a course of action to a halt
SidekickAssistant or a close companion
Sidewalk saleCommerce outside of the store
Sidewinder1. A small rattlesnake (Crotalus cerastes) of the southwest United States and Mexico that moves by a distinctive lateral looping motion of its body and has two hornlike scaly projections above its eyes
2. A powerful swinging punch delivered from the sideSign of spring
Indication that spring is comingSign of the times
Characteristic of now (the present)Sinking ship
Lost causeSit on it
Deliberately take no actionSitting ducks
Easy targets or victimsSitting on a fence
Be uncertainSitting pretty
ProsperousSkeleton crew
Minimum number of people to perform a task
Skeleton in the closetA source of shame or disgrace, as in a family, that is kept secret
Sliding scaleA scale in which indicated prices, taxes, or wages vary in accordance with another factor, as wages with the cost-of-living index or medical charges with a patient's income
Slow boat to ChinaTakes a long time
Slow but steady wins the raceDeliberateness and determination will lead to success
Small worldWhat a coincidence!
Smarty-pantsA person regarded as obnoxiously self-assertive
Smoke so thick you can cut it with a knifeVery thick smoke
Snake in the grassA treacherous person
Snug as a bug in a rugVery comfortable
Something is rotten in DenmarkSomething is wrong with the ones in charge
Something up one’s sleeveKeep something secret or for later use
Song and dance1. Slang. An excessively elaborate effort to explain or justify
2. An elaborate story or explanation intended to deceive or mislead, often meant to get pitySorehead
One who is easily offended, annoyed, or angeredSour grapes
Denial of the desirability of something after one has found out that it cannot be reached or acquiredSpill the beans
To disclose a secretSpreading oneself thin
Taking on many responsibilitiesSquare off
To assume a fighting stance; prepare to fightStabbed in the back
To harm (someone) by treachery or betrayal of trustStag party
A social gathering (often in celebration of a forthcoming wedding) for men onlyStarstruck
Fascinated by or exhibiting a fascination with fame or famous people
Stay in one’s shell1. Be stealthy (Marked by or acting with quiet, caution, and secrecy intended to avoid notice)
2. ShyStewed
To be in a state of anxiety or agitationSticking one’s neck out
To make oneself vulnerable; take a riskStick-in-the-mud
Someone who is old-fashioned and fights changeStomach’s growling
HungryStone face
ExpressionlessStone’s throw away
A short distanceStoned
Intoxicated; drunkStonewall
1. To engage in delaying tactics 2. To refuse to answer or cooperateStraight from the horse’s mouth
Direct from a reliable sourceStretch one’s legs
To go for a walk, especially after a lengthy period of sittingString around my finger
ReminderStrong stomach
Not easily disgustedStubborn as a mule
ObstinateStuck up
ConceitedStuffed shirt
A person regarded as pompous or stiffSweep it under the rug
ConcealSweetening the kitty
1. To make something more worth pursuing to someone. 2. To increase the pay or benefit for an action in order to persuade someone to do itSweetest grapes hang highest
The best rewards are the most difficult to obtain
Swept off one’s feetTo cause an immediate and strongly positive response in (a person); impress deeply, especially romantically
Tables are turnedTo reverse a situation and gain the upper hand
Take a load off your feetSit down
Take the bull by the hornsTo deal with a problem directly and resolutely
Take to the cleaners1. To rob or swindle
2. To take all the money or possessions of, as in a divorce action 3. To subject to withering criticismTaking a bath
To experience serious financial loss: “Small investors who latched on to hot new issues took a bath in Wall Street” (Paul A. Samuelson)
Taking the fallTake responsibility for someone else’s illegal or hurtful action. To be the only one punished among a group of offenders
Taking the high groundA position of superiority over others, especially competitors or opponents: He used negotiations as a way to gain the psychological and intellectual high ground.
Taking the law into one’s own handsTo mete out justice as one sees fit without due recourse to law enforcement agencies or the courts
Tall tale (tail)An exaggerated or unlikely account
Team playerMarked by devotion to teamwork rather than individual achievement
Ten-foot poleSymbol of avoidance: I wouldn’t touch that with a ten-foot pole.
That is a horse of a different colorSomething altogether separate and different
That is how the cookie crumblesThat is the inevitable (undesirable) result
That is icing on the cakeAn even more luxurious fringe benefit.
That rings a bellTo arouse an often indistinct memory
The big appleNew York City
The early bird catches the wormA person who arises early in the morning gets much accomplished; if you arrive early, you get ahead of others
The handwriting is on the wallAn ominous indication of the course of future events: He saw the writing on the wall and fled the country.
The higher they rise, the farther they fallThe more successful one is the more he has to lose
The sky is the limitThere is no upper limit
The way to a man’s heart is through his stomachThe best way for a woman to endear herself to a man is by feeding him
There are more ways to kill a dog than by hangingThere is more than one way to do something
There is more than one way to skin a catThere is more than one way to do something
There is no fool like an old foolOne who is duped repeatedly is especially foolish
There is no smoke without fireA rumor is usually based, however remotely, on fact
This is where I draw the lineLimit
This place is for the birdsObjectionable or worthless
Thorn in one’s sideAnnoyance
Throw in the cardsGive up
Throw in the hat (Throw one’s hat in the ring)To enter a political race as a candidate for office
Throw in the towelTo give up; to admit defeat
Throw the book at him1. To make all possible charges against (a lawbreaker, for example)
2. To reprimand or punish severelyThrowing one’s weight around
Be domineering. To use one’s influence or position in a showy mannerThumbs up
An expression of approval, success, or hopeTied up
To keep occupiedTighten one’s belt
To begin to exercise thrift and frugalityTilting at windmills
Struggle against imaginary/trivial issues or opposition
Time fliesTime passes more quickly than one realizes
Tip of the icebergA small evident part or aspect of something largely hidden: Afraid that these few reported cases of the disease might only be the tip of the iceberg.
To lose one’s headTo lose one's poise or self-control. To act without thinking. Panic
Tongue hanging outVery thirsty
Too many cooks spoil the brothThe outcome will be bad if too many people try to help
Top drawerThe highest level of society, authority, or excellence
Tree houseA structure built among the limbs of a tree, usually for recreation
T-shirtA short-sleeved, collarless undershirt
Two heads are better than oneTwo people cooperating have a better chance of solving a problem than one working independently
Under the table1. In secret.
2. Into a completely intoxicated state: drank themselves under the tableUnder the weather
Somewhat indisposed; slightly illUnderdog
1. One that is expected to lose a contest or struggle, as in sports or politics. 2. One that is at a disadvantageUp a tree
In a situation of great difficulty or perplexity; helplessUp against a wall (Back to the wall)
1. In a situation from which there is no escape 2.. An extreme or desperate position or state of defeat or ruinUp in arms
Extremely upset; indignant; ready to fightUp in the air
Not yet decided; uncertainUp on one’s high horse
A mood or an attitude of stubborn arrogance or contempt: Get down off your high horse and apologize.Uphill battle
Hard task. Especially a long struggleVariety is the spice of life
Changes in one’s activity make life interesting
Walk softly and carry a big stickProceed cautiously, but use authority/power to control when necessary
Walking a thin lineWalking along the edge between appropriateness and offense. He’s walking a thin line between expressing his opinion and becoming and apostate.
Walking papersA notice of discharge or dismissal
Walking the plankTo be forced, as by pirates, to walk off a plank extended over the side of a ship so as to drown
Walls have earsOne might be overheard
Water under the bridgeA past occurrence, especially something unfortunate that cannot be undone or rectified
We can make beautiful music togetherWe would be a compatible couple
We’re all in the same boatIn similar (difficult) circumstances
Wear many hatsHave many responsibilities
Weight of the world on one’s shouldersA very heavy load of responsibility or worry
Wet blanketOne that discourages enjoyment or enthusiasm
What’s eating you?What is upsetting you?
When clouds are seen wise men put on their coatsSmart people heed warnings and plan for the future
When one door shuts another opensWhen one opportunity is lost, another appears
When poverty knocks at the door, love flies out the windowEconomic woes are the source of many marital problems
When the chips are downAt the most important or dangerous time
Whistle while you workEnjoy your work
Whistle-blowerOne who reveals wrongdoing within an organization to the public or to those in positions of authority
White elephant1. A rare, expensive possession that is a financial burden to maintain2. A useless, unwanted object
Wild goose chaseUseless journey/search
Wild horses couldn’t drag it out of meNothing could cause me to divulge the information
Window on the world1. Strategic location for observation
2. Watching a certain group of people, like in a school or in a company, might give you insight on what people everywhere are like
WinterkillDeath (plants, for example) resulting from exposure to extremely cold winter weather
Wolf in one’s bellyHungry
Woman driverDriver oblivious to others
World on a stringTo be carefree. She has the world on a string means that she has everything she needs and is happy-go-lucky
Would look alright with a bag over his (or her) headGood body, ugly face
Wound upExcited
Yellow streak up (down) one’s backCowardice
Yellow-belliedSlang. Cowardly
Yes manOne who slavishly agrees with a superior; a sycophant
You are what you eatHealth depends on diet
You cannot be in two places at onceOne has limitations
You cannot have your cake and eat it tooOne is unable to choose both of two desirable but mutually exclusive options
You cannot keep a good man downA determined person will succeed
You cannot take it with youMoney is useless after death
You couldn’t punch your way out of a paper bagVery feeble/weak
You have a screw looseBe slightly mad; to act in a strange way
You have to take the good with the badExpect positive and negative experiences in life
You hit the nail right on the headTo be absolutely right
You would forget your head if it was not screwed onYou are very forgetful
You’ll have your head handed to youYou’ll be killed or chastised severely
You’re in good handsWell cared for
Your number’s upYou’re in grave trouble/going to die
Zip your mouthStop talking