Abbreviations.com Convert.net Definitions.net Lyrics.net Phrases.net Quotes.net References.net Rhymes.net Synonyms.net USZip.com  Bookmark and Share
Phrases.net
Search for Phrases:  
 Browse Alphabetically:
   A   B   C   D   E   F   G   H   I   J   K   L   M   N   O   P   Q   R   S   T   U   V   W   X   Y   Z   #   
 Random Phrase 

We've found 236 phrases for ding (0.162 seconds):



a good beginning makes a good ending » Search a good beginning makes a good ending on Amazon!   Search a good beginning makes a good ending on Google!
Good beginnings promise a good end; start off on a good note to reap the benefits at the end. 
a house is not a home » Search a house is not a home on Amazon!   Search a house is not a home on Google!
A home is not merely a building but requires inhabitants and a friendly atmosphere. 
a picture paints a thousand words » Search a picture paints a thousand words on Amazon!   Search a picture paints a thousand words on Google!
A visualisation is a better description than a verbal description.1971, David Gates (of Bread), If, from Manna album:If a picture paints a thousand wordsThen why can't I paint you;The words will never showThe you I've come to know.1989, Alan Kay, quoted in K?o-tung Huang, Timothy D. Huang, Introduction to Chinese, Japanese and Korean Computing, World Scientific, ISBN 9971506645, p. 9:Most human beings, no matter how familiar they are with abstract symbols, respond to voice and images better than written language. In other words, A picture paints a thousand words.2006, Paul Shakespeare, Building a Dune Buggy: The Essential Manual, ISBN 1904788734, p. 52:See accompanying diagram: a picture paints a thousand words, and all that! 
a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down » Search a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down on Amazon!   Search a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down on Google!
An otherwise unpleasant situation can be pleasant when a pleasant aspect is deliberately introduced.1999, Eli Yassif, The Hebrew Folktale: History, Genre, Meaning, Indiana University Press, ISBN 0253335833, page 372,One is known as the "sweetening parable," that is to say a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down. Thus, when the aim is to preach to the people, to guide them along the "bitter," arduous path of upholding burdensome precepts and prohibitions, a tale can lighten the load, make the "medicine" easier "to swallow."2001, Maureen Reagan, First Father, First Daughter: A Memoir, Little, Brown, ISBN 0316736368, page 319,It put some fun into the tedious business of preparing for a presidential debate. A spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down, right?2004, John Hoover, How to Work for an Idiot: Survive & Thrive... Without Killing Your Boss, Career Press, ISBN 1564147045, page 11,If a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down, a barrel of laughs can wash down the big pills you might need to swallow. 
above the salt » Search above the salt on Amazon!   Search above the salt on Google!
Of high standing or honor. 
according to » Search according to on Amazon!   Search according to on Google!
According to him, every person was to be bought. - Thomas Babington Macaulay. 
according to » Search according to on Amazon!   Search according to on Google!
According to the directions, the glue takes 24 hours to dry. 
according to » Search according to on Amazon!   Search according to on Google!
Based on what is said or stated. 
according to » Search according to on Amazon!   Search according to on Google!
In a manner conforming or corresponding to; in proportion. 
according to » Search according to on Amazon!   Search according to on Google!
Our zeal should be according to knowledge. - Thomas Sprat. 
according to Hoyle » Search according to Hoyle on Amazon!   Search according to Hoyle on Google!
In strict accordance with the rules, especially of card games; in the proper or expected manner. 
all kidding aside » Search all kidding aside on Amazon!   Search all kidding aside on Google!
Used to attempt to make a serious point in a jocular conversation. 
all out » Search all out on Amazon!   Search all out on Google!
The state of a side having no more men to bat, thus ending its innings. 
and how » Search and how on Amazon!   Search and how on Google!
Used to strongly confirm preceding utterance. 
and then some » Search and then some on Amazon!   Search and then some on Google!
Used to confirm preceding utterance, while implying that what was said or asked is an understatement. 
ark ruffian » Search ark ruffian on Amazon!   Search ark ruffian on Google!
Rogues who, in conjunction with watermen, robbed, and sometimes murdered, on the water, by picking a quarrel with the passengers in a boat, boarding it, plundering, stripping, and throwing them overboard, etc. A species of badger. 
as long as » Search as long as on Amazon!   Search as long as on Google!
Depending upon some condition or requirement; provided that; if, assuming; so long as. 
at arm's length » Search at arm's length on Amazon!   Search at arm's length on Google!
Avoiding a close relationship. 
at cross-purposes » Search at cross-purposes on Amazon!   Search at cross-purposes on Google!
Mutually misunderstanding each other's plans, intentions or meanings. 
at heart » Search at heart on Amazon!   Search at heart on Google!
In spirit; according to one's beliefs, views or feelings; deep down, really, fundamentally. 
bail out » Search bail out on Amazon!   Search bail out on Google!
To secure the release of an arrested person by providing bail money. 
ball-breaker » Search ball-breaker on Amazon!   Search ball-breaker on Google!
A person or task which is excessively demanding or punishing. 
banged up » Search banged up on Amazon!   Search banged up on Google!
Spending time in prison or jail. 
bar none » Search bar none on Amazon!   Search bar none on Google!
Without exception; excluding nothing else of the same kind. 
barrow man » Search barrow man on Amazon!   Search barrow man on Google!
A man under sentence of transportation; alluding to the convicts at Woolwich, who are principally employed in wheeling barrows full of brick or dirt. 
bawl out » Search bawl out on Amazon!   Search bawl out on Google!
To deliver a loud, hard scolding or lecture; to reprimand. 
be left holding the baby » Search be left holding the baby on Amazon!   Search be left holding the baby on Google!
To be left with the responsibility of resolving a problem. 
bee's knees » Search bee's knees on Amazon!   Search bee's knees on Google!
Something excellent, outstanding
behind the bit » Search behind the bit on Amazon!   Search behind the bit on Google!
An equestrian term, meaning that the horse is evading the bit. 
behind the counter » Search behind the counter on Amazon!   Search behind the counter on Google!
Of drugs, dispensed by a pharmacist without needing a doctor's prescription or other form of compliance. 
below the belt » Search below the belt on Amazon!   Search below the belt on Google!
Of a punch, landing illegally, below the opponent's waist. 
below the belt » Search below the belt on Amazon!   Search below the belt on Google!
Unfair; dirty; not according to the generally accepted rules. 
belt and suspenders » Search belt and suspenders on Amazon!   Search belt and suspenders on Google!
Redundant systems, affording mutual backup in the event of one failing. 
bill of goods » Search bill of goods on Amazon!   Search bill of goods on Google!
A set of misleading or deceptive claims; misinformation. 
bitter end » Search bitter end on Amazon!   Search bitter end on Google!
That part of an anchor cable which is abaft the bitts and thus remains onboard when a ship is riding at anchor. 
bleeding edge » Search bleeding edge on Amazon!   Search bleeding edge on Google!
Something very current, or modern where there may actually be a hazard or risk in using it, such as with potentially unstable software. The term relates to a sword. 
blue state » Search blue state on Amazon!   Search blue state on Google!
A state of the United States voting Democratic in a given election, or tending to vote Democratic in general. 
break new ground » Search break new ground on Amazon!   Search break new ground on Google!
To begin excavating and levelling earth for a new building, or, originally, for cultivation. 
break the ice » Search break the ice on Amazon!   Search break the ice on Google!
To start to get to know people, by avoiding awkwardness. 
bridge » Search bridge on Amazon!   Search bridge on Google!
The piece, on string instruments, that supports the strings from the sounding board. 
bulletproof » Search bulletproof on Amazon!   Search bulletproof on Google!
Capable of withstanding a direct shot by a bullet fired from a gun. 
busy work » Search busy work on Amazon!   Search busy work on Google!
Work or activity performed with the intention or result of occupying time, and not necessarily to accomplish something productive; routine work of low priority undertaken for the sake of avoiding idleness. 
but seriously folks » Search but seriously folks on Amazon!   Search but seriously folks on Google!
Directs attention to immediately preceding failed attempt at humor. 
buzz up » Search buzz up on Amazon!   Search buzz up on Google!
To allow entrance into a building from a higher floor by triggering an electronic lock. 
by one's lights » Search by one's lights on Amazon!   Search by one's lights on Google!
According to one's understanding. 
calling card » Search calling card on Amazon!   Search calling card on Google!
A small printed card which identifies the bearer, traditionally presented for introduction when making a social visit to a home or when attending a formal social event or business meeting. 
carry someone's water » Search carry someone's water on Amazon!   Search carry someone's water on Google!
To do someone's bidding; to serve someone's interests. 
charity mugger » Search charity mugger on Amazon!   Search charity mugger on Google!
A person employed by a charity, or by an intermediary fundraising agency employed by the charity, who stands in the street and invites passersby to set up standing orders or direct debits to make regular donations to the charity. 
cite chapter and verse » Search cite chapter and verse on Amazon!   Search cite chapter and verse on Google!
To speak authoritatively, providing detailed factual information. 
close down » Search close down on Amazon!   Search close down on Google!
To stop trading as a business. 
close off » Search close off on Amazon!   Search close off on Google!
To seal or block the entrance to a road, an area, or a building so that people cannot enter. 
close up » Search close up on Amazon!   Search close up on Google!
To shut a building or a business for a period of time. 
clue stick » Search clue stick on Amazon!   Search clue stick on Google!
A metaphorical stick used to beat information or understanding into a slow learner. 
coals to Newcastle » Search coals to Newcastle on Amazon!   Search coals to Newcastle on Google!
A pointless venture, in the sense of sending something to a place where it's made, or where they already have an abundance. 
concrete jungle » Search concrete jungle on Amazon!   Search concrete jungle on Google!
An urban or other populated area containing a high density of buildings constructed of concrete or similar materials, especially one which lacks greenery and which seems unattractive, harsh, or unsafe. 
cut one's coat according to one's cloth » Search cut one's coat according to one's cloth on Amazon!   Search cut one's coat according to one's cloth on Google!
Live according to your means. 
dead last » Search dead last on Amazon!   Search dead last on Google!
The standings, often by a considerable margin to the next-to-last-place finisher or after an exceptionally poor showing or season. 
deadstick landing » Search deadstick landing on Amazon!   Search deadstick landing on Google!
When a pilot lands a plane after the engine has died; a landing lacking any propulsion control. 
debris field » Search debris field on Amazon!   Search debris field on Google!
Any area, non-dependent of locale, space, or contour, that contains the debris of wreckage, impact, sinking, or other material that once constituted a complete object. Debris fields can be found at the site of air crashes, water vessel sinking, explosions of buildings, collapses, and other events that render a whole entity into components, pieces, or other non-whole items. 
developments » Search developments on Amazon!   Search developments on Google!
A group of building complexes or apartments. Often used for low income housing. 
don't be penny wise and pound foolish » Search don't be penny wise and pound foolish on Amazon!   Search don't be penny wise and pound foolish on Google!
Don't be careful when it comes to spending small amounts of money, but careless when spending much larger amounts.Don't focus on minutiae and lose sight of the big picture; don't obsess over tiny inconsequential efficiencies while glaring inefficiencies are going on elsewhere. 
don't shit where you eat » Search don't shit where you eat on Amazon!   Search don't shit where you eat on Google!
(idiomatic, vulgar) One should not cause trouble in a place, group, or situation in which one regularly finds oneself.1998 April 14, Nelson Navarro, "Ever faithful, ever true," Manila Standard (Philippines) (retrieved 12 Aug. 2011):The guiding principle is Don't shit where you eat. Office romances are always destructive of morale and objectivity.2003 Oct. 8, Jonathan Valania, "Rush Limbaugh Is a Big Pussy," Philadelphia Weekly (retrieved 12 Aug. 2011):Limbaugh was scheduled to deliver the keynote speech at the NAB convention in, of all places, Philadelphia, thus violating the cardinal law of the animal kingdom: Don't shit where you eat.2006 Sept. 19, Michael Musto, "NY Mirror," Village Voice (retrieved 12 Aug. 2011):Mitchell refused to indulge in on-set romances with either gender. "You don't shit where you eat," he told me, plainly. 
double talk » Search double talk on Amazon!   Search double talk on Google!
Speaking in a mixture of real English and English-sounding gibberish, for humorous effect. 
drag » Search drag on Amazon!   Search drag on Google!
To move a mouse cursor while holding down a button on the mouse, often to move something on the screen. 
dumb down » Search dumb down on Amazon!   Search dumb down on Google!
To convey some subject matter in simple terms, avoiding technical or academic language, especially in a way that is considered condescending. 
eye of the beholder » Search eye of the beholder on Amazon!   Search eye of the beholder on Google!
The evaluation depending on perception of person who sees and considers. 
faceplant » Search faceplant on Amazon!   Search faceplant on Google!
The act of landing face first, often associated with bailing during extreme sports. 
fair enough » Search fair enough on Amazon!   Search fair enough on Google!
An expression used to concede a point; denotes that, upon consideration, something is correct or reasonable; an expression of acknowledgment or understanding
fall over » Search fall over on Amazon!   Search fall over on Google!
To fall from an upright or standing position to a horizontal or prone position. 
fire drill » Search fire drill on Amazon!   Search fire drill on Google!
An organised practice to prepare occupants of an office, school or other public building for evacuation in the event of a fire. 
flower » Search flower on Amazon!   Search flower on Google!
Typically including sepals, petals, stamens, and ovaries; often conspicuously colourful. 
fold up » Search fold up on Amazon!   Search fold up on Google!
To make or become more compact by folding
follow suit » Search follow suit on Amazon!   Search follow suit on Google!
To play a card of the same suit as the previous or leading card. 
food chain » Search food chain on Amazon!   Search food chain on Google!
The feeding relationships between species in a biotic community. 
for all intensive purposes » Search for all intensive purposes on Amazon!   Search for all intensive purposes on Google!
For all highly demanding purposes.[1]. 
friend with benefits » Search friend with benefits on Amazon!   Search friend with benefits on Google!
A friendship with no reserves when it comes to the release of shared sexual tension thus leading to sexual fraternization. 
from the Department of the Bleeding Obvious » Search from the Department of the Bleeding Obvious on Amazon!   Search from the Department of the Bleeding Obvious on Google!
So obvious it was unnecessary to say. 
get a handle on » Search get a handle on on Amazon!   Search get a handle on on Google!
To build or acquire a basic level of understanding or control. 
get a room » Search get a room on Amazon!   Search get a room on Google!
A jocular or sarcastic expression commanding a couple to stop displaying affection in public, and to rent a hotel or motel room to continue amorous activities in private. 
gird up one's loins » Search gird up one's loins on Amazon!   Search gird up one's loins on Google!
To prepare oneself for something demanding
give away the store » Search give away the store on Amazon!   Search give away the store on Google!
To transact, trade, or negotiate badly, by paying, providing, or conceding too much to the other party. 
give somebody the runaround » Search give somebody the runaround on Amazon!   Search give somebody the runaround on Google!
Especially by providing useless information or directions . 
go out » Search go out on Amazon!   Search go out on Google!
To leave, especially a building
greenwash » Search greenwash on Amazon!   Search greenwash on Google!
A false or misleading picture of environmental friendliness used to conceal or obscure damaging activities. 
ground rules » Search ground rules on Amazon!   Search ground rules on Google!
The basic rules or standards; whatever someone must know before proceeding
hair-splitting » Search hair-splitting on Amazon!   Search hair-splitting on Google!
The act of finding exceedingly small differences which are probably neither important nor noticeable to most people. 
hair-splittingly » Search hair-splittingly on Amazon!   Search hair-splittingly on Google!
With exceedingly small differences which are probably neither important nor noticeable to most people. 
hand in hand » Search hand in hand on Amazon!   Search hand in hand on Google!
Holding or clasping hands. 
head and shoulders » Search head and shoulders on Amazon!   Search head and shoulders on Google!
To a considerable degree; better; outstanding
hen's teeth » Search hen's teeth on Amazon!   Search hen's teeth on Google!
Anything very rare or impossible to obtain is said to be like finding hen’s teeth. 
hiding to nothing » Search hiding to nothing on Amazon!   Search hiding to nothing on Google!
A situation in which victory has little or no value, but defeat has a huge cost. 
high ground » Search high ground on Amazon!   Search high ground on Google!
A location which is at a relatively high elevation, especially in comparison to the immediate surrounding area. 
hold up one's end » Search hold up one's end on Amazon!   Search hold up one's end on Google!
I'm holding up my end and you had better hold up yours. 
hold your fire » Search hold your fire on Amazon!   Search hold your fire on Google!
Do not discharge your weapon. Used originally for weapons needing a spark or lighting of a fuse to ignite gunpowder, now sometimes used to mean any weapon launching a projectile. 
holding pattern » Search holding pattern on Amazon!   Search holding pattern on Google!
A path taken by an aircraft waiting to land. 
holding pattern » Search holding pattern on Amazon!   Search holding pattern on Google!
Any failure to advance; useless or unproductive activity. 
honorable mention » Search honorable mention on Amazon!   Search honorable mention on Google!
An award or recognition given to something that does not make it to a higher standing but is worth mentioning in an honorable way. 
hot potato » Search hot potato on Amazon!   Search hot potato on Google!
A child's game in which players pass a ball or other item between them, with the object of avoiding being left holding the item when time expires. 
hustle and bustle » Search hustle and bustle on Amazon!   Search hustle and bustle on Google!
A large amount of activity and work, usually in a noisy surrounding
in black and white » Search in black and white on Amazon!   Search in black and white on Google!
Explicitly, in writing, clearly and without doubt or misunderstanding, without any grey areas. 
in detail » Search in detail on Amazon!   Search in detail on Google!
Thoroughly; including every detail. 
in full swing » Search in full swing on Amazon!   Search in full swing on Google!
Proceeding fully, quickly, or completely; thoroughly begun and in progress. 
in spite of » Search in spite of on Amazon!   Search in spite of on Google!
Despite, irrespective of, notwithstanding
in the wind » Search in the wind on Amazon!   Search in the wind on Google!
Impending or in the offing; imminent. 
in vain » Search in vain on Amazon!   Search in vain on Google!
Without success; ending in failure. 
into detail » Search into detail on Amazon!   Search into detail on Google!
Thoroughly; including every detail. 
is the Pope Catholic » Search is the Pope Catholic on Amazon!   Search is the Pope Catholic on Google!
The answer to the question is, obviously, resoundingly affirmative. 
it's all Greek to me » Search it's all Greek to me on Amazon!   Search it's all Greek to me on Google!
I tried reading the instructions, but it’s all Greek to me.. 
jack of all trades, master of none » Search jack of all trades, master of none on Amazon!   Search jack of all trades, master of none on Google!
A person who has a competent grasp of many skills but who is not outstanding in any one. 
kangaroo court » Search kangaroo court on Amazon!   Search kangaroo court on Google!
A judicial or quasi-judicial proceeding, or a group which conducts such proceedings, which is without proper authority, abusive, or otherwise unjust. 
keep down » Search keep down on Amazon!   Search keep down on Google!
To lie low. To stay concealed by not standing up. 
keep your friends close, and your enemies closer » Search keep your friends close, and your enemies closer on Amazon!   Search keep your friends close, and your enemies closer on Google!
One should be on their toes and alert of their surroundings if malicious people are around, to ensure such people can't wreak havoc in one's life. 
landing strip » Search landing strip on Amazon!   Search landing strip on Google!
A cultivated pubic hair pattern in which much of the pubic hair is removed, leaving only a central vertical line or rectangle. 
landing strip » Search landing strip on Amazon!   Search landing strip on Google!
A runway for aircraft, especially one which is auxiliary or temporary. 
last burst of fire » Search last burst of fire on Amazon!   Search last burst of fire on Google!
A state of exertion where one gives one's all; expending all of one's remaining energy in a final effort to achieve one's goal. 
lead » Search lead on Amazon!   Search lead on Google!
Vertical space in advance of a row or between rows of text. Also known as leading
leading lady » Search leading lady on Amazon!   Search leading lady on Google!
starring actress 
leaf through » Search leaf through on Amazon!   Search leaf through on Google!
Rapidly reading short sections at random. 
leave somebody high and dry » Search leave somebody high and dry on Amazon!   Search leave somebody high and dry on Google!
To abandon somebody; to stop providing assistance at a crucial moment. 
leave somebody holding the bag » Search leave somebody holding the bag on Amazon!   Search leave somebody holding the bag on Google!
To abandon somebody, leaving the responsibility or blame. 
lex dubia non obligat » Search lex dubia non obligat on Amazon!   Search lex dubia non obligat on Google!
(law) A doubtful law is not binding
life of the party » Search life of the party on Amazon!   Search life of the party on Google!
A person who participates in entertainment events in a very enthusiastic manner and who has a leading role in inspiring others to join in the spirit of festivity. 
loaded for bear » Search loaded for bear on Amazon!   Search loaded for bear on Google!
Thoroughly equipped, as for a demanding task or confrontation. 
lock up » Search lock up on Amazon!   Search lock up on Google!
To cease responding, to freeze. 
man up » Search man up on Amazon!   Search man up on Google!
To "be a man about it"; to do the things a good man is traditionally expected to do, such as: taking responsibility for the consequences of one's actions; displaying bravery or toughness in the face of adversity; providing for one's family, etc. 
managerial inbreeding » Search managerial inbreeding on Amazon!   Search managerial inbreeding on Google!
Bad management, caused by managers making poor selection choices in recruitment, rewards, and promotions of the staff that report to them, leading to another generation of managers who lack the necessary skill sets to reward and promote the most effective staff. 
mark up » Search mark up on Amazon!   Search mark up on Google!
To add coding to text so that it will display properly on a computer. 
mince words » Search mince words on Amazon!   Search mince words on Google!
To restrain oneself in a conversation by withholding some comments or using euphemisms. 
mix up » Search mix up on Amazon!   Search mix up on Google!
misunderstanding 
mixed bag » Search mixed bag on Amazon!   Search mixed bag on Google!
Something tending to have both good and bad results or characteristics; something having a mixture of advantages and disadvantages. 
moment of truth » Search moment of truth on Amazon!   Search moment of truth on Google!
A deciding instant; the time when a test determines or makes it apparent whether something will succeed. 
move heaven and earth » Search move heaven and earth on Amazon!   Search move heaven and earth on Google!
To do whatever is necessary, including extreme or unusual actions; to go to extremes. 
no frills » Search no frills on Amazon!   Search no frills on Google!
Basic or simple; providing only what is necessary, without anything extra or fancy. 
not in Kansas anymore » Search not in Kansas anymore on Amazon!   Search not in Kansas anymore on Google!
No longer in quiet and comfortable surroundings; in the big city. 
off the radar » Search off the radar on Amazon!   Search off the radar on Google!
Unlikely to happen, or be important in the near future or tending to escape detection or attention. 
old hat » Search old hat on Amazon!   Search old hat on Google!
Something uninteresting, hackneyed, or passé due to overuse or long-standing familiarity.. 
on course » Search on course on Amazon!   Search on course on Google!
Proceeding smoothly as planned. 
on high » Search on high on Amazon!   Search on high on Google!
"According to those on high there is no global warming". 
on one's feet » Search on one's feet on Amazon!   Search on one's feet on Google!
Being standing up. 
on one's high horse » Search on one's high horse on Amazon!   Search on one's high horse on Google!
Self-righteous; proceeding on the belief one is more correct or proper than others. 
on the bubble » Search on the bubble on Amazon!   Search on the bubble on Google!
Holding the last qualifying position with qualification still in progress, and thus liable to lose that position. 
on the face of » Search on the face of on Amazon!   Search on the face of on Google!
Notwithstanding
on the straight and narrow » Search on the straight and narrow on Amazon!   Search on the straight and narrow on Google!
Honest; proceeding according to rules and plans. 
on the uptake » Search on the uptake on Amazon!   Search on the uptake on Google!
In understanding or in the ability to absorb new information; especially in the phrases "quick on the uptake" and "slow on the uptake". 
on track » Search on track on Amazon!   Search on track on Google!
Proceeding as planned, as expected, or in a manner consistent with an established pattern. 
orange up » Search orange up on Amazon!   Search orange up on Google!
To make more prominent by making orange or adding orange colour. 
out of sight » Search out of sight on Amazon!   Search out of sight on Google!
In hiding
ox is in the ditch » Search ox is in the ditch on Amazon!   Search ox is in the ditch on Google!
This is a big problem; there is unavoidable or demanding work ahead. 
pan out » Search pan out on Amazon!   Search pan out on Google!
To succeed; to proceed according to plan; to result or end up. 
paper » Search paper on Amazon!   Search paper on Google!
A written document that reports scientific or academic research and is usually subjected to peer review before publication in a scientific journal or in the proceedings of a scientific or academic meeting . 
peel out » Search peel out on Amazon!   Search peel out on Google!
To start abruptly from a standing stop, accelerating rapidly, especially so as to produce skid marks. 
play hardball » Search play hardball on Amazon!   Search play hardball on Google!
To use every means possible to achieve a goal, especially in disregarding the harm caused. 
play it by ear » Search play it by ear on Amazon!   Search play it by ear on Google!
To play a song according to how it sounds, rather than from a written score. 
poison pen » Search poison pen on Amazon!   Search poison pen on Google!
A usually intentionally rude, spiteful, and/or condescending piece of writing directed at a person, group, lifestyle, way of thought, or other target. 
pop out » Search pop out on Amazon!   Search pop out on Google!
To leave a room or building with the expectation of returning soon. 
pound of flesh » Search pound of flesh on Amazon!   Search pound of flesh on Google!
Something which is owed and which will be hurtful or difficult to provide; a debt owed to someone who is merciless and demanding
proverbs come in pairs » Search proverbs come in pairs on Amazon!   Search proverbs come in pairs on Google!
Alternative form of proverbs run in pairs.1979, Irving Howe, John Hollander, David Bromwich, Literature as Experience: An Anthology, Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, ISBN 0155511130, page 325:Sometimes proverbs come in pairs, the first one providing the context, the second, the revision. 
pull my finger » Search pull my finger on Amazon!   Search pull my finger on Google!
A phrase used when playing a prank regarding flatulence, in which a mark is asked to pull the finger of the person playing the prank, who simultaneously flatulates so as to suggest a causal relationship between the pulling of the finger and the resulting expulsion of gas. 
pull somebody's leg » Search pull somebody's leg on Amazon!   Search pull somebody's leg on Google!
To tease someone; to lead someone on; to goad someone into overreacting. It usually implies teasing or goading by jokingly lying. 
punch bowl waterfall » Search punch bowl waterfall on Amazon!   Search punch bowl waterfall on Google!
A plunging waterfall descending from a narrow stream into a pool. 
put the cat among the pigeons » Search put the cat among the pigeons on Amazon!   Search put the cat among the pigeons on Google!
Professor Stephen Hawking put the cat among the pigeons last week with his cheery remarks about comet Machholz-2, which some astronomers believe could be heading our way. — The Times, 19 September 1994. 
rag-chewing » Search rag-chewing on Amazon!   Search rag-chewing on Google!
A phrase used by morse code operators for a longer than usual conversation, generally a conversation extending about 30 minutes. 
rebound relationship » Search rebound relationship on Amazon!   Search rebound relationship on Google!
A relationship proceeding a longterm relationship, usually short in duration and used to help mend the "broken heart". 
red herring » Search red herring on Amazon!   Search red herring on Google!
A clue that is misleading or that has been falsified, intended to divert attention. 
red state » Search red state on Amazon!   Search red state on Google!
A state of the United States voting Republican in a given election, or tending to vote Republican in general. 
ringside seat » Search ringside seat on Amazon!   Search ringside seat on Google!
Any vantage point providing an excellent view. 
rocking horse shit » Search rocking horse shit on Amazon!   Search rocking horse shit on Google!
A metaphor for something exceedingly rare or, more likely, nonexistent. 
rough sledding » Search rough sledding on Amazon!   Search rough sledding on Google!
A difficult period of time. 
round out » Search round out on Amazon!   Search round out on Google!
To make more complete by adding details. 
run for the roses » Search run for the roses on Amazon!   Search run for the roses on Google!
A hard-fought competition or demanding challenge of any kind. 
screw back » Search screw back on Amazon!   Search screw back on Google!
To cue the cue ball in such a way as to impart backspin. On impact, the ball will follow a reverse trajectory according to the spin. 
seagull approach » Search seagull approach on Amazon!   Search seagull approach on Google!
The occurence of casual, ill-informed and hasty decisions or comments made by outside authorities who lack an understanding of the local issues or a real understanding of the facts of a particular situ. 
see the light » Search see the light on Amazon!   Search see the light on Google!
To gain an understanding of something previously not understood, especially in a sudden insight. 
seller's market » Search seller's market on Amazon!   Search seller's market on Google!
An excess of demand over supply, leading to abnormally high prices; a market condition favoring the seller. 
set in one's ways » Search set in one's ways on Amazon!   Search set in one's ways on Google!
Driven by habit; inclined or determined to continue according to one's custom or established preferences. 
shoot first and ask questions later » Search shoot first and ask questions later on Amazon!   Search shoot first and ask questions later on Google!
To take action with serious consequences without delay, preserving the benefit of surprise by not providing indication of one's intent. 
shotgun wedding » Search shotgun wedding on Amazon!   Search shotgun wedding on Google!
A wedding in which the bride is already pregnant. 
shroud » Search shroud on Amazon!   Search shroud on Google!
Especially, the dress for the dead; a winding sheet. 
skip out » Search skip out on Amazon!   Search skip out on Google!
To shirk; to avoid attending or to leave early, especially without permission. 
smear campaign » Search smear campaign on Amazon!   Search smear campaign on Google!
An effort to damage or call into question someone's reputation, by propounding negative propaganda. 
snazz up » Search snazz up on Amazon!   Search snazz up on Google!
To improve appearance or appeal by increasing stylishness or functionality, or by adding other attractive features. 
so long as » Search so long as on Amazon!   Search so long as on Google!
Depending upon some condition or requirement; provided that; if, assuming; as long as. 
so much as » Search so much as on Amazon!   Search so much as on Google!
Even; suggests a minimum, especially regarding what might be expected. 
soapbox » Search soapbox on Amazon!   Search soapbox on Google!
A crate for packing soap, or, by extension, any inexpensive crude platform raised above the surrounding level to give prominence to the person on it, especially when used for speeches. 
soft touch » Search soft touch on Amazon!   Search soft touch on Google!
A comfortable situation; an easy task or undemanding occupation, especially one which is comfortably remunerative. 
spanner » Search spanner on Amazon!   Search spanner on Google!
A hand tool shaped like a small crank handle, for winding the spring of a wheel lock on a musket. 
spark off » Search spark off on Amazon!   Search spark off on Google!
To initiate something by providing the necessary conditions. 
speak to » Search speak to on Amazon!   Search speak to on Google!
To give evidence regarding something; to attest for. 
spice up » Search spice up on Amazon!   Search spice up on Google!
To enhance the flavor of something by adding spice to it. 
spill over » Search spill over on Amazon!   Search spill over on Google!
To enter into another zone by way of accident or overcrowding; to overflow. 
stand out » Search stand out on Amazon!   Search stand out on Google!
To be obvious or conspicuous, in contrast to one's surroundings. 
stand up » Search stand up on Amazon!   Search stand up on Google!
To bring something up and set it into a standing position. 
sword and sorcery » Search sword and sorcery on Amazon!   Search sword and sorcery on Google!
Of or pertaining to a genre of narratives—including short stories, novels, television shows, films, and computer games—which combines wizardry and other fantastical supernatural elements with violent combat using medieval weaponry.. 
tack up » Search tack up on Amazon!   Search tack up on Google!
To prepare a horse for riding by equipping it with tack. 
take a powder » Search take a powder on Amazon!   Search take a powder on Google!
To leave in a hurry; run away; scram; depart without taking leave or notifying anyone, often with a connotation of avoiding something unpleasant or shirking responsibility. 
take a spin » Search take a spin on Amazon!   Search take a spin on Google!
To go for a ride; especially, to try riding or driving something. 
take down » Search take down on Amazon!   Search take down on Google!
To remove a temporary structure such as scaffolding
take the bull by the horns » Search take the bull by the horns on Amazon!   Search take the bull by the horns on Google!
To confront a difficulty, rather than avoiding it. 
take the cake » Search take the cake on Amazon!   Search take the cake on Google!
To be especially good or outstanding
take the offensive » Search take the offensive on Amazon!   Search take the offensive on Google!
To attack instead of defending; to be bold and proactive. 
talk down » Search talk down on Amazon!   Search talk down on Google!
To speak condescendingly or as though the listener is inferior. 
the finger » Search the finger on Amazon!   Search the finger on Google!
An obscene gesture, typically consisting of extending the middle finger at somebody. 
the man » Search the man on Amazon!   Search the man on Google!
The oppressive powers that be, including the government and corporations; the system, as coordinated outside of one’s control.. 
the proof is in the pudding » Search the proof is in the pudding on Amazon!   Search the proof is in the pudding on Google!
Alternative form of the proof of the pudding is in the eating. 
the proof of the pudding is in the eating » Search the proof of the pudding is in the eating on Amazon!   Search the proof of the pudding is in the eating on Google!
The only real test of something is as what it is intended to be used for. 
three Rs » Search three Rs on Amazon!   Search three Rs on Google!
The basic education any child can expect to receive, but not necessarily limited to reading, writing and arithmetic. 
three Rs » Search three Rs on Amazon!   Search three Rs on Google!
The basic education received in primary schools. Literally; reading, writing and arithmetic. 
throw dirt enough, and some will stick » Search throw dirt enough, and some will stick on Amazon!   Search throw dirt enough, and some will stick on Google!
If enough allegations are made about someone or something, then even if they are all untrue, people's opinion of the person or thing will be diminished.1759, John Wesley, letter to John Downes, Rector of St. Michael's, Wood Street, read at Wesley Center Online at [1] on 14 Oct 06.I hope...that you are ignorant of the whole affair, and are so bold only because you are blind...And blind enough; so that you blunder on through thick and thin, bespattering all that come in your way, according to the old, laudable maxim, 'Throw dirt enough, and some will stick.'1857, Thomas Hughes, Tom Brown's Schooldays, read at fullbooks.com on 14 Oct 06,But whatever harm a spiteful tongue could do them, he took care should be done. Only throw dirt enough, and some will stick.1864, John Henry Newman, Apologia Pro Vita Sua, Penguin Classics (1994), p. 10,Archbishop Whately used to say  
throw down » Search throw down on Amazon!   Search throw down on Google!
To cause something one is holding to drop, often forcefully. 
throw enough mud at the wall, some of it will stick » Search throw enough mud at the wall, some of it will stick on Amazon!   Search throw enough mud at the wall, some of it will stick on Google!
Try the same thing (or similar things) often enough, and, even if the general standard is poor, sometimes one will be successful.2001, And still no one is shouting stop. read in The Kingdom archives at [1] on 02 Nov 06,Many team managers are of the philosophy that if you throw enough mud at the wall some of it will stick. They believe that team preparation is all about physical fitness. They run the players into the ground and they believe they will be "flying on the day".2001, Robert McCrum, Let them eat cake, in The Observer 16 Dec 01, read on Guardian Unlimited site at [2] on 02 Nov 06,Australian publishing boomed and in the past 10 years the country's literary culture has undergone a mini golden age, capped by Carey's triumph at the 2001 Booker Prize. As one Australian arts administrator said to me many years ago: 'Listen, mate, if you throw enough mud at the wall, some of it will stick.'2001, Chris Collin, Re: 2-cp speys on The Strathspey Server mailing list archive at [3] on 02 Nov 06,I am finding that "if you throw enough mud at the wall, some of it will stick". It doesn't always work of course (especially on the nights when the class is mostly the beginners), but the class seems to thrive on the challange.2005, Ray Craft (poster on The right scale blog), Fitzhooie and his Burden, read at [4] on 02 Nov 06,Prosecutors everywhere have bad habits of overcharging lots of cases, knowing that if the throw enough mud at the wall some of it will stick.2005, Sean Kelleher, Spike Milligan: His part in our downfall in Business 07 Aug 05, read at [5] on 02 Nov 06,As long as there is negligible regulation and enforcement anyone can actually try and do the job...Weak regulation allows the industry to build strategies on full time recruitment. The theory goes: throw enough mud at the wall, some of it will stick.c2005, Everything You've Learned About Marketing Is Wrong, read on LINC Performance website at [6] on 02 Nov 06,They have the money to continue to believe in the repetition side of the equation. You throw enough mud at the wall, some of it will stick. But it still isn 
throw out » Search throw out on Amazon!   Search throw out on Google!
To dismiss or expel someone from any longer performing duty or attending somewhere. 
throwing money away » Search throwing money away on Amazon!   Search throwing money away on Google!
The act of spending money foolishly; wasting money without regard of the consequences. 
to that end » Search to that end on Amazon!   Search to that end on Google!
For that reason, with that goal, intending to produce that result. 
tooth and nail » Search tooth and nail on Amazon!   Search tooth and nail on Google!
Viciously; with all one’s strength or power; without holding back.. 
tower block » Search tower block on Amazon!   Search tower block on Google!
high-rise building 
trench mouth » Search trench mouth on Amazon!   Search trench mouth on Google!
Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis, a severe bacterial infection of the gums, typically characterized by inflammation, bleeding, deep ulceration, necrotized tissue, pain, fever, enlarged lymph nodes, fatigue, and halitosis. 
turn back » Search turn back on Amazon!   Search turn back on Google!
No turn a dial anticlockwise or adjust a clock or other meter to an earlier time or reading
turn tricks » Search turn tricks on Amazon!   Search turn tricks on Google!
To work as a prostitute, providing sexual services for money. 
twenty-twenty hindsight » Search twenty-twenty hindsight on Amazon!   Search twenty-twenty hindsight on Google!
Perfect understanding of events only after they have happened. 
two cents » Search two cents on Amazon!   Search two cents on Google!
A nearly worthless amount, alluding to placing a copper penny on each of the eyelids of a pauper's or slave's body before burial. 
up front » Search up front on Amazon!   Search up front on Google!
Open, honest; tending to disclose information; truthful. 
urban fabric » Search urban fabric on Amazon!   Search urban fabric on Google!
The physical aspect of urbanism, emphasizing building types, thoroughfares, open space, frontages, and streetscapes; while excluding without prejudice to this useful term, environmental, functional, economic and sociocultural aspects. 
valley of death » Search valley of death on Amazon!   Search valley of death on Google!
Death; or a place or period where death is impending
valley of death » Search valley of death on Amazon!   Search valley of death on Google!
The phase of a startup business beginning with the entrepreneur's fulltime commitment to it and ending when the business has achieved sustainable cash flow. 
wake up and smell the coffee » Search wake up and smell the coffee on Amazon!   Search wake up and smell the coffee on Google!
To face reality and stop deluding oneself. 
wall in » Search wall in on Amazon!   Search wall in on Google!
To enclose by surrounding with walls. 
warts and all » Search warts and all on Amazon!   Search warts and all on Google!
Of or pertaining to a description or other depiction which reveals the full range of characteristics of a person or thing, including the shortcomings and imperfections. 
wash out » Search wash out on Amazon!   Search wash out on Google!
To lose traction while going around a turn, especially in cycling, motorsports and skiing/snowboarding
wedding ring » Search wedding ring on Amazon!   Search wedding ring on Google!
jewellery item 
whistle past the graveyard » Search whistle past the graveyard on Amazon!   Search whistle past the graveyard on Google!
To enter a situation with little or no understanding of the possible consequences. 
whistle walk » Search whistle walk on Amazon!   Search whistle walk on Google!
The path slaves took to deliver food from the kitchen building of a plantation to the main dining room. Slaves were expected to whistle during this walk in order to assure their masters that they were not eating the food. 
white wedding » Search white wedding on Amazon!   Search white wedding on Google!
A wedding in which the bride is still a virgin. 
whole shebang » Search whole shebang on Amazon!   Search whole shebang on Google!
A building or house and everything in it. 
wind down » Search wind down on Amazon!   Search wind down on Google!
Lower by winding something. 
with bated breath » Search with bated breath on Amazon!   Search with bated breath on Google!
"holding one's breath". 
write down » Search write down on Amazon!   Search write down on Google!
In a simple or condescending style. 
   Like Phrases.net?  Why won't you tell a friend about us?

Pages: previous page  1 next page [All]
Phrases.net |  Login |  Add New Phrase |  Your List |  Tools |  Become an Editor |  Tell a Friend |  Awards |  Testimonials |  Press |  News |  Forum new! |  APIs |  About
Copyright ©2001-2011 STANDS4 LLC. All rights reserved.  Terms of Use  |  Privacy Policy  |  Advertise  |  Contact Us  Follow us on Facebook! Follow us on Twitter!