against the grain »
Contrary to what is expected; especially, of behavior different from what society expects.
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all's fair in love and war »
unpleasant behavior is acceptable during love and conflict.
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apple does not fall far from the tree »
A child grows up to be very similar to its parents, both in behavior and in physical characteristics.1842, E. A. Freidlaender (translator), Frederika Bremer (author), The Neighbours, ch. 10:It is impossible to look at Madam Rhen, without at once making the conclusion that she is pleasantness, hospitality, and loquacity itself; nor can one look upon her daughter Renetta without thinking, "the apple does not fall far from the tree!"1978, Dr. Isador Rosenfeld, "Doctor Asks Patient
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blot one's copy book »
To damage one's own reputation through bad behavior.
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born in a barn »
Engaging in the annoying behavior of inappropriately, and usually neglectfully, leaving open a door or window.
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calling card »
An attribute, object, or behavior which is distinctly characteristic of someone or something.
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carrot and stick »
Simultaneous rewards for good behavior and punishments for bad behavior.
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cat that ate the canary »
A person whose appearance and behavior suggest guilt mixed with other qualities, such as satisfaction or feigned nonchalance.
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deer in the headlights »
A mental state of high arousal caused by anxiety fear, panic, surpriseand/or confusion, or substance abuse. The behavioral signs are like a deer subjected to a car's headlights, such as widely opened eyes and a lack of motor reactions.
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den of iniquity »
A place of immoral behavior, usually of a sexual type.
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do a »
To emulate the behavior/behaviour that is generally attributed to the individual named.
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do as I say and not as I do »
Don't imitate my behavior but obey my instructions.
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freak flag »
Unconventional or unrestrained behavior; extreme, nonconformist views; the side of one's personality which harbors a tendency toward such behavior or such views.
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give as good as one gets »
To behave toward others in a manner resembling or commensurate with their behavior towards oneself, especially in a situation where one is insulted or otherwise ill-treated.
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go with the flow »
To act as others are acting, conforming to common behavior patterns with an attitude of calm acceptance.
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