a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down »
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.
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a stopped clock is right twice a day »
A normally unreliable person or instrument can occasionally provide correct information, even if only by accident.
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about turn »
A complete change of opinion, direction, etc.
|
about turn »
An about face; a military command to a formation of soldiers to reverse the direction in which they are facing.
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above and beyond »
More than is expected or required.
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according to »
According to the directions, the glue takes 24 hours to dry.
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according to Hoyle »
In strict accordance with the rules, especially of card games; in the proper or expected manner.
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actions speak louder than words »
It is more effective to act directly than to speak of action.
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add up to »
To have a particular effect.
|
against the grain »
Contrary to what is expected; especially, of behavior different from what society expects.
|
all at once »
Unexpectedly; without warning; all of a sudden.
|
all nations »
A composition of all the different spirits sold in a dram-shop, collected in a vessel into which the drainings of the bottles and quartern pots are emptied.
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all right, my lover »
An informal affectionate greeting.
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all things being equal »
Without considering or being affected by external factors.
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all wet »
Utterly incorrect; erroneous; uninformed.
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almost doesn't count »
Near success (or correctness) is not deemed success (or correctness).
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along the lines »
In a general direction or manner.
|
amber nectar »
Lager beer.
|
angle for »
To try to obtain something by subtle indirect means. Political manoeuvres, suggestion, etc.
|
answer back »
To issue echo characters, protocol responses, reflexive connection requests, etc.
|
any press is good press »
Being mentioned in the media is beneficial to the subject because it gets publicity.
|
any way one slices it »
From any perspective; in every case.
|
apple of somebody's eye »
A favourite, a particular preference, or a loved one; the object of somebody's affections.
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as far as »
With respect to; as relates to.
|
as well »
To the same effect.
|
asleep at the switch »
Neglectful of an important task, responsibility, or opportunity.
|
at cross purposes »
Against one another; contrary in direction or goals.
|
back burner »
A section of a stove used to keep some pots warm while one focuses on others.
|
backseat driver »
A passenger in a car who insists on giving the driver directions.
|
baggage »
In a metaphorical sense, factors that restrict a person's freedom, often in an intellectual or psychological way: emotional baggage.
|
bang for the buck »
Efficiency; cost-effectiveness; value.
|
bang on about »
To keep talking endlessly about the same subject.
|
bang up job »
Something done very well; something performed above average or better than expected.
|
barrel »
A metallic tube, as of a gun, from which a projectile is discharged.
|
basket case »
One made powerless or ineffective, as by nerves, panic or stress.
|
bat a thousand »
To achieve perfection.
|
bat away »
To knock an object, usually a ball.
|
bawl out »
To deliver a loud, hard scolding or lecture; to reprimand.
|
be in for »
To be able to expect or anticipate; to be about to suffer, generally said of something unpleasant.
|
beam up »
To teleport another person or object in the same manner.
|
bear on »
To influence, have an effect on.
|
beat one's head against a stone wall »
To waste effort on a futile project.
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because you touch yourself at night »
Used to humourously deflect a request for a reason.
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before you can say Jack Robinson »
Very quickly. Quicker than you expect.
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believe you me »
An emphatic form of "believe me"; you [the subject] had better believe me [the speaker].
|
big boy »
A large object or person.
|
bill of goods »
A collection of items purchased or offered for sale.
|
bird's-eye view »
The view from directly or high above.
|
bite the bullet »
To accept a negative aspect of a situation in order to continue moving forward.
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black »
Absorbing all light and reflecting none; dark and colourless.
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blessing in disguise »
A misfortune that has an unexpected benefit.
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blow a kiss »
To kiss one's hand, then blow on the hand in a direction towards the recipient.
|
blow off »
To shoot something with a gun, causing it to come disconnected.
|
blue state »
A state of the United States voting Democratic in a given election, or tending to vote Democratic in general.
|
board up »
To block doors or windows with boards, either to prevent access or as protection from storms, etc.
|
boot camp »
Indoctrination, physical fitness training and basic instruction in service-related subjects for recruits in the Navy and Marine Corps.
|
borganism »
An organization of autonomous organisms that exhibit collectivism: individual "units" that have merged to yield a unified construct. Such an amalgam may possess a collective consciousness, arguably an emergent phenomenon of social networking.
|
born in a barn »
Engaging in the annoying behavior of inappropriately, and usually neglectfully, leaving open a door or window.
|
bottom of the line »
The worst, the most lackluster, or lowest quality currently on the market, especially among selections in a product line.
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bowl a googly »
Something unexpected, underhand or requiring a quick reaction or correction.
|
brass ring »
Figuratively, a prize or goal. Often used with respect to employment goals e.g. promotion, better job, etc.
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break the back of »
To achieve the greater part of some project.
|
break up »
Of a telephone conversation, to cease to be understandable because of a bad connection.
|
brickbat »
For example, it's quite common for magazines to have a section called Bouquets and Brickbats for compliments and criticisms.
|
bridge »
A device which connects two or more computer buses, typically in a transparent manner.
|
bridge »
A system which connects two or more local area networks at layer 2.
|
bridge »
A valence bond, atom or chain of atoms that connects two different parts of a molecule; the atoms so connected being bridgeheads.
|
bridge »
An edge which, if removed, changes a connected graph to one that is not connected.
|
bridge »
An unintended solder connection between two or more components or pins.
|
bridge »
Any of several electrical devices that measure characteristics such as impedance and inductance by balancing different parts of a circuit.
|
bright-line rule »
A clearly defined rule or standard, comprised of objective factors, which leaves little or no room for varying interpretation.
|
brown bag »
A short presentation or seminar on a given subject, especially one given at lunchtime.
|
brown power »
The production of electricity made from conventional sources, such as coal, oil, natural gas and nuclear power.
|
bulletproof »
Capable of withstanding a direct shot by a bullet fired from a gun.
|
bung up »
To close an opening with a cork, cork like object or other improvised obstruction.
|
burn one's bridges »
To destroy one's path, connections, reputation, opportunities, etc.
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but seriously folks »
Directs attention to immediately preceding failed attempt at humor.
|
buzz up »
To allow entrance into a building from a higher floor by triggering an electronic lock.
|
call on »
In a classroom, to select a student.
|
call on »
To request or ask of somebody; to select for a task.
|
call on »
To correct; to point out an error or untruth.
|
calling card »
A prepaid card or credit card, usually electronically readable, used to pay the charges when making a telephone call.
|
calling card »
An attribute, object, or behavior which is distinctly characteristic of someone or something.
|
cancel out »
To neutralize the effect of something.
|
cast off »
To discard or reject something.
|
castle in the air »
A visionary project or scheme; a day-dream; an idle fancy; a pipe dream; any plan, desire, or idea that is unlikely to be ever realized; a near impossibility.
|
cat and mouse game »
Two individuals and/or groups repeatedly keeping check on each other in a suspicious or self-protective way, often with the goal of one or both parties trying to gain a malicious advantage over the other.
|
cat's pyjamas »
A highly sought-after and fancy example of something, usually referring to inanimate objects.
|
catch a cold »
To become infected with cold.
|
catch on »
To begin to understand; to realize or detect.
|
caucus race »
A political competition; the game of campaigning and one-upmanship to get votes and be elected.
|
caucus race »
The competitive process in which a political party selects their candidate, esp. presidential; a primary election via caucus.
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caveat lector »
Reader beware.
|
charge up »
To recharge, to give electrical power to something.
|
charity mugger »
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.
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chat up »
In a friendly, open, or casual manner, sometimes also in a charming or affected manner, usually to curry favor, and sometimes flirtatiously with the intention of establishing a romantic or sexual encounter or relationship with that person.
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check out »
To examine or inspect; to espy.
|
cherry pick »
To select only the best from a range of options.
|
cherry picking »
Selecting only the best from a group or other range of choices.
|
chew out »
To lecture, scold, reprimand, or rebuke.
|
chopped liver »
A person or object which is not worthy of being noticed; someone or something insignificant.
|
clean code »
Software code that is formatted correctly and in an organized manner so that another coder can easily read or modify it.
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clear up »
To clarify, to correct a misconception.
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close enough for government work »
It is not worth investing additional time on perfecting this thing.
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close to home »
Affecting people close to, or within, ones family circle.
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close, but no cigar »
That's almost correct, but not quite.
|
cock a snook »
To spread one hand, place the thumb on the nose and wriggle some of the fingers as a gesture of disrespect.
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cold shoulder »
A deliberate act of disrespect; a slight or snub.
|
cold turkey »
The physiological effects of such a withdrawal.
|
collect dust »
To remain untouched and unused for a long period of time.
|
collect one's thoughts »
To become mentally composed, especially after being distressed, surprised, or disoriented; to become calm or organized in one's emotional state or thinking, as in preparation for a conversation, speech, decision, etc.
|
come about »
To tack; to change tack; to maneuver the bow of a sailing vessel across the wind so that the wind changes from one side of the vessel to the other; to position a boat with respect to the wind after tacking.
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come across »
To give an appearance or impression; to project a certain image.
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come on »
A statement or sometimes action reflecting sexual or relational interest.
|
come out with »
To say something unexpected.
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come short »
Fail to meet (expectations or standards)
|
come to »
To befall; to affect; to happen to; to come upon.
|
come to a head »
To suddenly make mature or perfected that which was inchoate or imperfectly formed.
|
come to grips »
To confront or deal with directly.
|
come up »
To emerge or become known, especially unexpectedly; to come to attention, present itself.
|
come up »
To begin to feel the effects of a recreational drug.
|
company »
In non-legal context, any business, without respect to incorporation.
|
conversation piece »
interesting object
|
cooking with gas »
Now doing something in an effective way.
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cordon off »
To protect from intrusion by enclosing in a rope barrier.
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could not get elected dogcatcher »
Is unpopular.
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count on »
To rely upon, trust, or expect.
|
cream of the crop »
The best or most desirable among some selection.
|
crop up »
To occur, especially suddenly or unexpectedly.
|
curveball »
An unexpected turn of events initiated by an opponent or chance.
|
cut it »
To suffice; to be effective or successful.
|
cut somebody some slack »
To be patient or lenient with somebody; to relax standards or expectations.
|
cut the mustard »
To suffice; to be good or effective enough.
|
cut to the chase »
To get to the point; to get on with it; to state something directly.
|
damp squib »
Anything that doesn’t work properly, or fails to come up to expectations..
|
dark horse »
A candidate who is nominated unexpectedly, without previously having been discussed or considered as a likely choice.
|
dark horse »
An unexpected success.
|
darn tootin' »
Absolutely correct; speaking the truth.
|
dead as a doornail »
Unquestionably dead. Used for both inanimate objects and once living beings.
|
dead duck »
A project that is doomed to failure from the start.
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dead shot »
Perfect shooter
|
death by spellcheck »
The problems caused by spellcheckers being incapable of correcting most homophone confusions.
|
deathblow »
Something that prevents the completion, or ends the existence of some project etc.
|
debris field »
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.
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deep thinker »
A person whose thoughts are profound; an intellectual.
|
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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desperate times call for desperate measures »
In adverse circumstances actions that might have been rejected under other circumstances may become the best choice.
|
die »
Followed by for. Often expressing wider contextual motivations, though sometimes indicating direct causes.
|
die »
Followed by with. Now rare as indicating direct cause.
|
do a number on »
To damage; to treat harshly; to produce ill effects.
|
don't get me started »
About the subject currently being discussed.
|
don't shit where you eat »
(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 »
Speaking in a mixture of real English and English-sounding gibberish, for humorous effect.
|
down on one's luck »
Unlucky or undergoing a period of bad luck, especially with respect to financial matters.
|
down to the wire »
At the very end of a process or project, especially one with a fast-approaching deadline.
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drain the swamp when up to one's neck in alligators »
(idiomatic) When performing a long and complex task, and when you've gotten utterly immersed in secondary and tertiary unexpected tangential subtasks, it's easy to lose sight of the initial objective. This sort of distraction can be particularly problematic if the all-consuming subtask or sub-subtask is not, after all, particularly vital to the original, primary goal, but ends up sucking up time and resources (out of all proportion to its actual importance) only because it seems so urgent.
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draw the short straw »
To select the shortest straw or other object while drawing straws.
|
drive-by media »
Media professionals who "spray" a bunch of repetitive misstatements, mistaken and misinterpreted news reports to cause excitement and confusion. They then figuratively "drive off" leaving the cleanup of their mess and hysteria to others, to correct and properly explain and interpret.
|
drop the writ »
To call a federal or provincial election.
|
drug of choice »
Substance that a suspect is addicted to.
|
dumb down »
To convey some subject matter in simple terms, avoiding technical or academic language, especially in a way that is considered condescending.
|
e mail »
electronic message
|
end up »
To conclude, turn out, sometimes unexpectedly.
|
end up »
To arrive at a destination, sometimes unexpectedly.
|
eureka moment »
The moment of a sudden unexpected discovery.
|
Every rose has it's thorns »
everything, even if it seems perfect, has faults
|
every which way »
All over; in every direction.
|
eye candy »
Any object or sight with considerable visual appeal.
|
face to face »
In person; directly; in the physical presence of somebody.
|
face value »
No more or less than what is stated; a literal or direct meaning or interpretation.
|
facts on the ground »
Some aspects of the situation in a particular location.
|
fair enough »
An expression used to concede a point; denotes that, upon consideration, something is correct or reasonable; an expression of acknowledgment or understanding.
|
fair game »
An goal or object that may legitimately be sought.
|
fair sex »
Women collectively.
|
fall off »
A hip hop term; to completely lose the plot in terms of artistic direction.
|
fall short »
To be less satisfactory than expected; to be inadequate or insufficient.
|
fifteen minutes of fame »
A very short time in the spotlight or brief flurry with fame, after which the person or subject involved is quickly forgotten.
|
fifth wheel »
A type of trailer hitch, which consists of a horseshoe-shaped plate on a multi-directional pivot, with a locking pin to couple with the kingpin of a truck trailer.
|
fight off »
To resist, particularly an infection or an emotion.
|
final cut »
A group, after a selection process getting rid of other candidates.
|
fire off »
To ask an unexpected question rapidly.
|
fire on all cylinders »
To operate as effectively as possible.
|
fishtail »
The tail of a fish, or an object resembling this.
|
fit as a fiddle »
Perfectly fit; in excellent health.
|
flap one's gums »
To speak idly; to talk without effect.
|
flash in the pan »
A transient occurrence with no long-term effect.
|
for all intents and purposes »
For every functional purpose; in every practical sense; in every important respect; practically speaking.
|
for goodness' sake »
This interjection expresses frustration, exasperation, annoyance.
|
for goodness' sake »
This interjection expresses surprise or amazement.
|
for the love of »
Used to form interjections expressing exasperation.
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for the nonce »
For the time being, with the expectation that the situation may change.
|
fork over »
Hundreds of spectators forked over the 70 bucks for tickets.
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four-eyes »
A person who wears spectacles.
|
front runner »
The most likely winners in a contest, election, etc.
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full of beans »
Incorrect; uninformed; exaggerating or expressing falsehood.
|
game plan »
Any strategy devised to reach a given objective.
|
garbage in, garbage out »
(computing, information technology) If input data is not complete, accurate, and timely, then the resulting output is unreliable and of no useful value.1963, Raymond Crowley, "Robot Tax Collector Seeks Indications of 'Fudging'," Times Daily (Alabama, USA), 1 April (retrieved 26 July 2010):Officials explained that the quality of the computer's work depends on the quality of the data fed into it. Neil Hoke, administrative assistant to Stewart, quoted an adage of computer men: "Garbage in, garbage out."2008, Roger K. Lewis, "'In Architectural Design, Brains and Talent Trump the Best Software," Washington Post, 19 July (retrieved 26 July 2010):The old caveat "GIGO"
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get a room »
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.
|
get in »
To be elected to some office.
|
get in »
To secure membership at a selective school.
|
get into trouble »
To perform an action which is illegal, prohibited, forbidden or proscribed and to become subject to punishment for such action.
|
get on somebody's case »
To lecture, berate, or complain to somebody, especially to find fault or criticize.
|
give a sneck posset »
To give someone a cold reception; to close the door on someone; to reject them.
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give face »
To honor; to pay respect.
|
give somebody the brush-off »
To rebuff, snub or curtly reject someone.
|
give somebody the cold shoulder »
To snub, resist or reject somebody; to regard somebody distantly.
|
give somebody the runaround »
Especially by providing useless information or directions .
|
give someone the chair »
To execute a person by means of the electric chair.
|
give the time of day »
To acknowledge somebody; to give somebody any respect or attention.
|
go all the way »
To continue to the conclusion of a task or project.
|
go along for the ride »
To accompany someone passively, or to take a passive role in a project.
|
go blue »
Of states and counties, to be carried by a Democratic candidate in a given U.S. election.
|
go by the board »
To be superseded, rejected, or obliterated; to pass by with little consequence; to amount to nothing.
|
go in off »
To pot the cue ball accidentally after hitting the object ball.
|
go native »
Of a contractor or consultant, to begin working directly as an employee for a company and cease to work through a contracting firm or agency.
|
go red »
Of states or counties, to be carried by a Republican candidate in a given U.S. election.
|
go to someone's head »
To strongly affect a person, especially to the detriment of their senses or mental faculties.
|
grab bag »
A gift, purchase, etc. whose contents are concealed until after a selection is made.
|
grab bag »
Any random assortment, selection or possibility.
|
grace period »
A length of time during which rules or penalties do not take effect or are withheld.
|
grate »
A horizontal metal grille through which water, ash, or small objects can fall, while larger objects cannot.
|
gunboat diplomacy »
The pursuit of foreign policy objectives with the aid of conspicuous displays of military power.
|
halfway decent »
Good - better than expected.
|
hard done by »
Used, cheated, dejected.
|
has-been »
A formerly popular or influential person whose popularity or effectiveness has peaked and is now in decline. Typically said of professionals or celebrities whose primary success is behind them.
|
hatchet job »
A treatment which serves primarily to disparage its subject; a piece of criticism which aims to destroy a reputation.
|
haul off »
To alter course so as to get farther away from an object.
|
have a bun in the oven »
To be pregnant; to be expecting a baby.
|
have a screw loose »
A phrase meaning that the subject is insane or irrational.
|
have a seat »
A polite directive to sit down.
|
have eyes in the back of one's head »
To be particularly, especially uncannily, observant; a perceived ability to see in all directions at once.
|
have one's work cut out for one »
To face a large task or project.
|
head up »
To lead or take the lead; to direct; to take charge.
|
head-on »
Direct, abrupt, blunt or unequivocal; not prevaricating.
|
head-on »
Of a collision, from the front or in the direction of motion.
|
hell hath no fury like a woman scorned »
A woman will make someone suffer if they reject her.
|
high road »
A course of action which is honorable, dignified, or respectable.
|
hit a snag »
To encounter an unexpected problem or delay.
|
hit one out of the ballpark »
To hit a fair ball so well that the ball flies over all of the spectators' seats and lands outside the stadium.
|
hit one out of the ballpark »
To produce a spectacular achievement.
|
hit someone for six »
Be affected in a devastating way by some unexpected news.
|
hold one's own »
To stand up to; to give a respectable performance; to provide worthy competition.
|
hold your fire »
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.
|
hoover up »
Into a vacuum cleaner, irrespective of brand.
|
hoover up »
Quickly, especially by taking it into the mouth directly from the plate rather than using cutlery.
|
horse's mouth »
Source; someone who directly experienced or witnessed something.
|
hot potato »
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.
|
how do I get to Carnegie Hall »
A set phrase, spoken as a rhetorical question, which is answered "Practice, practice, practice!" or sometimes with the humorous literal directions to Seventh Avenue between 56th and 57th.
|
how do you like them apples »
Directed jestingly or mockingly at someone who has received surprising information, ridiculing the situation.
|
how's the weather »
Indicating a change of subject to unimportant topics.
|
idiot mittens »
Mittens connected by yarn or string running through one sleeve, along the back and out the other sleeve of a coat, to prevent the mittens becoming lost. Generally worn by small children.
|
if all you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail »
With limited tools, single-minded people apply them inappropriately or indiscriminatelyIf a person is familiar with a certain, single subject/has with them a certain, single instrument, they may have a confirmation bias to believe that it is the answer to/involved in everything.
|
if it ain't broke, don't fix it »
Leave something alone; avoid correcting, fixing, or improving what is already sufficient, as it could end up being detrimental
|
in for an inch, in for a mile »
Given that one is partly involved in or committed to a project, action, position, etc., there is no reason to refrain from becoming fully involved or fully committed.
|
in line »
Suitable or appropriate; keeping with expectations, norms, ideals, or rules.
|
in one's pocket »
Subject to one's whims because of bribery.
|
in so far as »
With respect to.
|
in spite of »
Despite, irrespective of, notwithstanding.
|
in the clear »
Not guilty or not suspected of wrongdoing.
|
in the dock »
Under scrutiny; subject to critical inspection.
|
in the doghouse »
In trouble; the subject of somebody's anger or disapproval.
|
in vain »
In a disrespectful manner, especially when concerning religion.
|
inside baseball »
Technical matters concerning baseball not apparent to spectators.
|
it's all grist to the mill »
Everything referred to in the present context has some sort of use.1999, Simon Blackburn, Think: A Compelling Introduction to Philosophy (Oxford University Press paperback, ISBN 0199690871), ch. 7 section 6: "Kant
|
it's not what you know but who you know »
For success, and especially to obtain employment, one's knowledge and skills are less useful and less important than one's network of personal contacts.1951, G. P. Bush and L. H. Hattery, "Federal Recruitment of Junior Engineers," Science, vol. 114, no. 2966, p. 456:Eighty-four students referred to political influence as a disadvantage of federal employment with such remarks as: "There are too many political connections necessary . . . it's not what you know but who you know
|
ivory tower »
A sheltered, overly-academic existence or perspective, implying a disconnection or lack of awareness of reality or practical considerations.
|
jack in »
To insert an electronic coupling into a receptacle; to connect to something, whether involving a physical medium or not.
|
jump ship »
To depart a project without warning.
|
just like that »
Unexpectedly, without warning.
|
keep from »
To protect or preserve from.
|
keep it up »
To maintain one's erection.
|
keep one's eye on the ball »
My ethos has always been to be very straight with people, tell it as it is. It doesn't often make people happy but I found that over a period of time it's better to be that way. So being straight, also being very focused on your objectives, keep your eye on the ball and not get deflected away from it.
|
kick in »
To kick or strike so as to cause the object struck to collapse or fall inwards.
|
kick in »
To start or connect suddenly.
|
kick in »
To contribute, especially to a collection of money.
|
kick out »
To stop, stall, or disconnect suddenly.
|
kids will be kids »
You cannot expect children to act like adults.
|
kind »
Affectionate, showing benevolence.
|
knacker's yard »
A place to send a person or object that is spent beyond all reasonable use.
|
knee high to a grasshopper »
Short; especially relating to when the subject was a small child.
|
knock on wood »
A self-directive to undertake the customary action to ward off bad luck.
|
knock up »
In the morning as by knocking at the door; rouse; call; summon; also, to go door-to-door on election day to persuade a candidate's supporters to go to the polling station and vote. See also knocker up.
|
knock-on effect »
A secondary, often unintended effect.
|
knock-on effect »
The continued running of an engine after the ignition has been turned off; dieseling.
|
knowledge is power »
With knowledge and/or education, one's potential or ability to succeed in the pursuit of his objectives will certainly increase.
|
labor of love »
A task performed voluntarily without expectation of reimbursement; an altruistic work or undertaking.
|
laced-up »
Fixed in the sprockets of the projector.
|
landing strip »
A cultivated pubic hair pattern in which much of the pubic hair is removed, leaving only a central vertical line or rectangle.
|
last word »
The finest, highest, or ultimate representative of some class of objects.
|
laughing stock »
An object of ridicule, someone who is publicly ridiculed; a butt of sport.
|
lay about »
To strike blows in all directions.
|
leaf through »
Rapidly reading short sections at random.
|
lean and mean »
Efficient because of having nothing in excess of what is needed, and single-minded in one's objective.
|
leave well enough alone »
To leave something alone; to avoid attempts to correct, fix, or improve what is already sufficient.
|
leave well enough alone »
To leave something alone; to avoid attempts to correct, fix, or improve what is already sufficient
|
lemon law »
A law dealing with defective items, especially automobiles, and consumers' rights.
|
less is more »
That which is less complicated is often better understood and more appreciated than what is more complicated; simplicity is preferable to complexity; brevity in communication is more effective than verbosity.1855, Robert Browning, "Men and Women":Well, less is more, Lucrezia: I am judged.1954, "'Less Is More'," Time, 14 Jun.:The essence of Mies's architectural philosophy is in his famous and sometimes derided phrase, "Less is more." This means, he says, having "the greatest effect with the least means."2007, Gia Kourlas, "Dance Review: An Ordered World Defined With Soothing Spareness," New York Times, 3 Mar. (retrieved 22 Oct. 2008):The program, which features two premieres
|
light bucket »
Nickname for a reflecting telescope, especially one with a relatively large aperture and suitable for observing deep sky objects such as nebulae and galaxies.
|
like water off a duck's back »
Without immediate or lasting effects.
|
line one's pockets »
To accumulate personal wealth, especially in an illegal or morally objectionable manner.
|
live by the sword, die by the sword »
One who uses violence can expect a violent response. It is better to try to use peaceful means wherever possible.(figuratively) One can expect dire outcomes from any vice; used to convey poetic justice.
|
live up »
To fulfil the expectations placed upon.
|
live wire »
An electrical wire through which there is a flow of electrical current.
|
long shot »
Something unlikely; something that has little chance of happening or working. The term arose from the accuracy of early ship guns, which were effective only at close range and unlikely to hit the mark at any great distance.
|
look after »
To watch or protect; to keep safe.
|
look before you leap »
Don't jump into something too precipitously; be at least a bit foresightful or circumspect.
|
look forward »
To anticipate or expect; especially, to expect something to be pleasant.
|
look forward to »
To anticipate, expect, or wait for, especially with a feeling of approval or pleasure.
|
look off »
To mislead by directing one's apparent attention away from one's true object of intent.
|
look up to »
To show respect or admiration for.
|
lose face »
To lose the respect of others, to be humiliated or experience public disgrace.
|
love is blind »
A person who is in love can see no faults or imperfections in the person who is loved.
|
lucky dip »
A selection solely at random.
|
make a monkey out of »
To cause a person, organization, or action to appear foolish or inferior; to subject someone or something to ridicule..
|
make no bones about »
To see no difficulty in, have no objection to.
|
man up »
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 »
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.
|
map out »
To organise the basic plan for a project.
|
march to the beat of a different drum »
To do things in one's own way regardless of societal norms and expectations.
|
matter of course »
An expected or customary outcome.
|
matter of fact »
A more factual correction.
|
measure up »
To meet expectations; to be as good as.
|
memory lane »
A set of recollections available to be reviewed, especially accompanied by a feeling of nostalgia.
|
mess up »
To make a mistake; to do something incorrectly; to perform poorly.
|
mighty oaks from little acorns grow »
Something great can come from a modest beginning.Don't give up on the project - mighty oaks from little acorns grow!
|
mind one's p's and q's »
To be very careful to behave correctly.
|
mind-numbing »
Excessively boring, tedious, or dull; repetitive; of an activity, etc., lacking any interest or variety that might serve as intellectual stimulation.
|
monkey business »
Wasting time, or effort, on some foolish project.
|
monkey wrench »
A problem, obstacle or dilemma; something unexpected or troublesome.
|
mop up »
To fix problems; to correct or repair.
|
mother hen »
An outspoken and overprotective woman dealing with others' affairs.
|
music to one's ear »
Some unexpected good news; a favorable outcome after some initial confusion or delay.
|
no brainer »
Something that supposedly doesn’t take much intellectual thought. Whoever says that something is a no brainer is usually the one with no brains.
|
no great shakes »
Unexceptional; not special or noteworthy; not very effective.
|
no man is an island »
All people are connected to other people and dependent on other people.1623, John Donne,
|
no screaming hell »
Something that is not particularly effective or impressive; something that is below expectations.
|
noarch »
Short for "no architecture". It is a term used mainly in package management systems to mark packages which are architecture independent. Such packages usually contain graphics, documentation or similar data that can be used on any architecture.
|
nobody's perfect »
Used when someone's mistakes or flaws are acknowledged, to remind that everyone else makes mistakes and has flaws1995, New York Magazine Vol. 28, No. 5, 30 January 1995, The de-moralization of society (Book Review)Hypocrisy, particularly in sexual matters, is excused on the grounds that hey, nobody's perfect, and at least folks back then felt bad enough to lie.2000, Madonna, Nobody's PerfectI feel so sad. What I did wasn't right. I feel so bad and I must say to you: Sorry, but nobody's perfect. Nobody's perfect. What did you expect? I'm doing my best
|
nose test »
An inspection of an object using the sense of smell, as for freshness of food.
|
nose test »
An inspection of the nasal passages or a trial of their function, as for breathing difficulties.
|
not all it's cracked up to be »
Not as good as claimed; falling short of expectations.
|
not on your tintype »
An answer indicating outright rejection or denial; no way; absolutely not.
|
not touch something with a ten foot pole »
Ambrose Bierce , The Fiend's Delight In conclusion, his respect for letter-writing ladies is so great that he would not touch one of them with a ten-foot pole.
|
not touch something with a ten foot pole »
Ambrose Bierce, The Collected Works of Ambrose Bierce, Vol. 8.
|
now you're cooking »
A phrase, often given in response, meaning that the subject has switched to a more suitable or more efficient approach.
|
object lesson »
A lesson taught using a familiar or unusual object as a focus.
|
object lesson »
A punishment intended as a deterrent to others.
|
object lesson »
An example that typifies a principle.
|
object lesson »
Anything used an example or lesson which serves to warn others as to the outcomes that result from a particular action or behavior, as exemplified by the fates of those who followed that course.
|
odd and curious »
A way to designate special coins, namely coins that are both odd and imperfect or seriously damaged.
|
off the chain »
Free from work or direct supervision. In reference to slave labor, where workers are chained, or to the figurative chain of workers of an assembly line.
|
off the hook »
Of a telephone, having an open connection; not hung up.
|
off the mark »
Inaccurate; not correct or appropriate.
|
off the radar »
Unlikely to happen, or be important in the near future or tending to escape detection or attention.
|
on a full stomach »
Directly after eating, after a meal.
|
on all fours »
Similar in nature or effect to something else; consistent.
|
on end »
Upright; erect; endways.
|
on one's high horse »
Self-righteous; proceeding on the belief one is more correct or proper than others.
|
on steroids »
To a greater degree, exaggerating the characteristics of the previously named object.
|
on the blink »
Functioning erratically, malfunctioning; not working or not working well. Usually refers to a mechanical or electronic device.
|
on the defensive »
Prepared to defend or protect against criticism, attack or aggression.
|
on the line »
On a level with the eye of the spectator; said of a picture, as hung in an exhibition of pictures.
|
on the plus side »
Positively; from a favorable view or perspective.
|
on the right track »
Using the correct general approach to a particular task or problem; pursuing something in a promising way.
|
on track »
Proceeding as planned, as expected, or in a manner consistent with an established pattern.
|
one at a time »
Individually, as opposed to collectively; slowly or methodically, figuratively.
|
one-man band »
An organisation or business that is effectively run by only one person.
|
one-night stand »
A single sexual encounter between two individuals, where at least one of the parties has no immediate intention or expectation of establishing a longer-term sexual or romantic relationship. As the phrase implies, the relationship lasts for only one night.
|
one-night stand »
An occasion when a performer or team of them expects to perform at a theater for a single evening.
|
ontogeny recapitulates phylogeny »
(biology, social sciences, art, philosophy) The physical, cultural, moral, or intellectual development of each individual passes through stages similar to the developmental stages of that individual's species, society, or civilization.1905, J. A. Harris, "The Importance of Investigations of Seedling Stages," Science, New Series, vol. 22, no. 554, p. 186:With reference to seedling stages the statement that ontogeny recapitulates phylogeny must be made with great reserve.1961, M. E. Wolfgang, "Pioneers in Criminology: Cesare Lombroso (1835-1909)," The Journal of Criminal Law, Criminology, and Police Science, vol. 52, no. 4, p. 367:Haeckel maintained that ontogeny recapitulates phylogeny, and this idea was incorporated by Lombroso into his parallelism between the criminal and the child.2002, B. S. Jackson, "Models in Legal History: The Case of Biblical Law," Journal of Law and Religion, vol. 18, no. 1, p. 11:For even if we accept that "ontogeny recapitulates phylogeny," those responsible for the drafting of ancient legal documents were not children, and are hardly to be endowed with some form of infantile mentality.
|
out of character »
Inconsistent with one's personality, disposition, or usual expected behaviour.
|
out of house and home »
In a manner that deprives one of dwelling or some aspect thereof.
|
out of nowhere »
In an unexpected or inexplicable manner of arrival or occurrence.
|
out of the blue »
Unexpectedly; without warning or preparation.
|
out the door »
Exact, correct.
|
over the top »
Bold; beyond normal, expected, or reasonable limits; excessive; outrageous.
|
paint with a broad brush »
To describe a class of objects or a kind of phenomenon in general terms, without specific details and without attention to individual variations.
|
pan out »
By swirling dirt or crushed rock in a pan of water, in the manner of a traditional prospector seeking gold.
|
paper »
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 .
|
paper trail »
A written record, history, or collection of evidence.
|
par for the course »
To be expected; normal; common; usual.
|
pass muster »
To adequately pass a formal or informal inspection.
|
payback's a bitch »
Usually a complete sentence as an interjection: I am amused that someone got their revenge on you...but you certainly had it coming.
|
payback's a bitch »
Usually a complete sentence: I will get revenge when you least expect it.
|
peashooter »
A toy gun, consisting of a tube through which peas or small objects are blown.
|
peashooter »
Any small or ineffective gun.
|
perfect storm »
A powerful hurricane or other major weather disturbance, especially as produced by a combination of meteorological conditions.
|
perfect storm »
A situation where a calamity is caused by the convergence and amplifying interaction of a number of factors.
|
perp walk »
The intentional public display before news cameras of someone in police custody, especially someone famous or notorious, for the purpose of satisfying public interest, demonstrating the authorities' effectiveness, or shaming the person.
|
pick one's nose »
The act of picking one's nose, insertion of a finger or other object into one's nostril.
|
pick up »
To collect an object, especially in passing.
|
pick up »
To collect a passenger.
|
pick up »
To notice, detect or discern, often used with "on".
|
pickle »
An affectionate term for a loved one.
|
piece of ass »
A very attractive woman, when considered as a sex object.
|
pile up »
To collect or accumulate, as a backlog.
|
pink slip »
An automobile roadworthiness inspection certificate.
|
pitch a tent »
To have an erection that shows through the trousers.
|
plan on »
To expect; to prepare future actions based on.
|
play possum »
To feign death; to remain quiet and still to escape attention or remain undetected; to lay low.
|
plead the fifth »
To invoke the Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution, which protects witnesses from being forced to incriminate themselves.
|
plead the fifth »
To refuse to answer a question, or refuse to speak, especially when the response would reflect badly on the speaker.
|
point blank »
The distance between a gun and a target such that it requires minimal effort in aiming it. In particular no allowance needs to be made for the effects of gravity, target movement or wind in aiming the projectile.
|
point of no return »
The point in an aircraft's flight when there is insufficient fuel to reverse direction and return to the place of origin.
|
point the finger »
To accuse; to direct or imply blame.
|
poison pen »
A usually intentionally rude, spiteful, and/or condescending piece of writing directed at a person, group, lifestyle, way of thought, or other target.
|
pony in the barn »
An exciting and real prospect, something to be legitimately excited about.
|
pop out »
To leave a room or building with the expectation of returning soon.
|
power chord »
A chord or combination of notes used in rock music and typically selected to sound good at high volume and high levels of distortion. Power chords make extensive use of intervals such as open fourths and fifths.
|
power point »
electrical socket
|
power up »
To turn the electrical power on to a device as a precondition to make it operational.
|
power up »
To become ready for operation as a result of the provision of electrical power.
|
practice makes perfect »
If one practices an activity enough, one will eventually master it.
|
private eye »
A private personal detective, employed to gather information about someone.
|
puddle jumper »
A small passenger airplane, typically used for shorter connecting trips to smaller airports.
|
pull together »
To unite for a common objective.
|
push one's luck »
To take an excessive risk or to attempt some task unlikely to succeed, especially after having already been unexpectedly lucky.
|
put about »
To change direction.
|
put one's mind to it »
To apply oneself; to exert a directed effort.
|
put out »
The statistic of the number of outs a defensive player directly caused.
|
put something into perspective »
To compare with something similar to give a clearer, more accurate idea.
|
put through the wringer »
To interrogate or scrutinize closely; to subject to some trial or ordeal.
|
rag bagger »
A sailboat, usually a cruising sailboats which tend to carry and store lots of supplies along the deck, or any sailboat that looks like a neglected vessel, or messy vessel.
|
raise the bar »
To raise standards or expectations, especially by creating something to a higher standard.
|
raise the spectre »
To cause concern that something unfortunate might happen.
|
rake »
A garden tool with a row of pointed teeth fixed to a long handle, used for collecting grass or debris, or for loosening soil.
|
rake »
The direction of slip during fault movement. The rake is measured within the fault plane.
|
ramp up »
Of a project or operation, to start up.
|
rat race »
An activity or situation which is congested with participants and which is hectic or tedious, especially in the context of a busy, modern urban lifestyle.
|
reckon on »
To plan on; to expect.
|
reckon upon »
To plan upon; to expect.
|
red state »
A state of the United States voting Republican in a given election, or tending to vote Republican in general.
|
reflect on »
To think carefully about something, and give it due consideration.
|
reflect on »
At run-time using reflection.
|
reflect on »
To give an impression of .
|
reflect upon »
To reflect on.
|
ride shotgun »
To assist and protect.
|
ride tall in the saddle »
To ride a horse in an erect, imposing manner.
|
right as rain »
Correct; factually accurate.
|
ring false »
To seem to be incorrect, or implausible.
|
ring off »
To finish a telephone conversation and disconnect.
|
roadwarrior »
A person who carries a mobile device such as a laptop or PDA and uses wireless internet connections to work.
|
rock up »
To turn up to a place or function unexpectedly, or without notice or prior warning.
|
root cause »
An initiating cause of a chain of events which leads to an outcome or effect of interest.
|
round off »
To change the shape of an object to make it more circular.
|
rule out »
To reject an option from a list of possibilities.
|
rumor campaign »
A method of persuasion in which damaging rumors or innuendo are deliberately spread concerning a person or other target, while the source of the rumors tries to avoid detection.
|
run after »
To make a determined effort to win someone's affections.
|
run roughshod over »
To treat roughly or without care, respect, or moderation; to act without control; to damage.
|
run something up the flagpole »
To float an idea that one suspects might be controversial.
|
scrape together »
To collect, assemble or gather small amounts , from various sources, with some difficulty.
|
screen out »
To use a screen, grate, sieve or similar means to separate large from small objects or particles.
|
screw back »
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.
|
send somebody packing »
To expel or eject somebody; to chase off or force out.
|
separate the wheat from the chaff »
To select only that which is of value.
|
serpentine »
Sinuous; curving in alternate directions.
|
set aside »
To disagree with something and reject or overturn it.
|
set straight »
To correct; to make right or true.
|
settle on »
To make a decision or selection; to decide.
|
shape up »
To improve; to correct one's bad habits or behavior.
|
shotgun approach »
An approach in which the subject is indiscriminate and haphazard, using breadth, spread, or quantity in lieu of accuracy, planning, etc.
|
show somebody the door »
To dismiss or reject; to exclude someone who was formerly included.
|
shroud »
That which clothes, covers, conceals, or protects; a garment.
|
side issue »
An issue or topic which is not of direct significance to a primary concern.
|
sight unseen »
Not having seen the object beforehand.
|
silver bullet »
Any straightforward solution perceived to have great effectiveness or bring miraculous results.
|
silver screen »
The cinema screen onto which movies are projected.
|
sit out »
To lean out to the windward side of a sailboat in order to counterbalance the effects of the wind on the sails.
|
slam dunk »
A task expected to present no difficulty.
|
slippery slope »
A logical argument that follows a chain of events or causes and effects to some conclusion.
|
smart off »
To show disrespect verbally.
|
smell like a rose »
To be regarded as appealing, virtuous, or respectable; to be untainted or unharmed.
|
smell test »
An assessment of a subject's ability to detect and distinguish odors.
|
smell test »
An inspection of an object using the sense of smell, as for freshness of food.
|
smoke signal »
An indirect message or indication, especially concerning a future event.
|
snake oil »
A fraudulent, ineffective potion or nostrum; panacea.
|
so much as »
Even; suggests a minimum, especially regarding what might be expected.
|
soft spot »
A sentimental fondness or affection.
|
sort out »
To organise or separate into groups, as a collection of items, so as to make tidy.
|
spanner »
A problem, dilemma or obstacle; something unexpected or troublesome.
|
spark spread »
The difference between the cost of the fuel required to produce a unit of electricity, and the price of that same unit of electricity.
|
spectator sport »
A sporting activity which has a relatively high ratio of watchers to direct participants.
|
spectator sport »
An activity which consists of watching or observing.
|
spectator sport »
Something, especially a process or activity, which is a popular object of observation; an activity which a person prefers to watch rather than to participate in.
|
spic and span »
Perfectly clean.
|
spot check »
A cursory inspection or examination or the inspection or examination of a sample of something.
|
spot on »
Exact or correct.
|
squint like a bag of nails »
To squint very much, as though one's eyes were directed as many ways as the points of a bag of nails.
|
squirrel away »
To stash or hide; to hoard, collect, save, or accumulate; to create a reserve, stash, or hoard of some supply, so as to recall a squirrel's burying of nuts.
|
staircase wit »
Thinking of an idea or course of action too late to use it effectively, or the tendency to do so.
|
stand by »
To wait in expectation of some event; to make ready.
|
stand corrected »
Said to acknowledge someone who corrects something that one says or writes that was not correct.
|
stand on end »
To stand erect, bristle, especially from fear.
|
step down »
To gradually reduce something, a little at a time, as an electronic step down transformer.
|
stew in one's juices »
To be alone and self-absorbed in an uncomfortable state of mind, especially while experiencing the unpleasant effects of one's own actions.
|
stick up »
To protect one's status.
|
stick up for »
To defend or protect.
|
stickhandle »
To deal capably and swiftly with a situation, especially in a manner which deflects potential problems.
|
still water runs deep »
A person with a calm appearance has, or may have, considerable inner emotion, character, or intellect
|
still waters run deep »
A person with a calm appearance has, or may have, considerable inner emotion, character, or intellect.
|
stop the lights »
An interjection expressing exasperation or incredulity. or to illustrate the humour in a situation.
|
straight from the horse's mouth »
Directly from the source; firsthand.
|
straight from the shoulder »
Done in a direct manner; blunt.
|
straighten out »
To correct or rectify.
|
straighten out »
To correct; to stop doing something wrong.
|
stuffed shirt »
One who is overly official or officious; somebody in charge but not necessarily in power or effective.
|
suck hind tit »
To be the youngest or most neglected child.
|
sure enough »
Just like one would expect.
|
swing state »
A state which may vote Democratic or Republican, in a given election or generally; a purple state.
|
swot up on »
To study particularly hard to learn a subject quickly.
|
take a shot in the dark »
To try on something without having any knowledge about the subject.
|
take effect »
To become active; to become effective.
|
take exception »
To take offense; to object or protest.
|
take its toll »
To affect, especially negatively; to damage or degrade; to cause destruction.
|
take liberties »
To behave disrespectfully, especially to make unwanted sexual advances.
|
take the biscuit »
To be particularly bad, objectionable, or egregious.
|
take the cake »
To be particularly bad, objectionable, or egregious.
|
take to task »
To lecture, berate, admonish, or hold somebody accountable for his or her actions.
|
talk like an apothecary »
To use hard or gallipot words: from the assumed gravity and affectation of knowledge generally put on by the gentlemen of this profession, who are commonly as superficial in their learning as they are pedantic in their language.
|
talk of the town »
A subject discussed by many people.
|
talk out one's ass »
To speak authoritatively on a subject which one actually knows little about; to exaggerate.
|
task force »
A group of people working towards a particular task, project, or activity, especially assigned in a particular capacity.
|
teething troubles »
Small problems such as are to be expected with some any new and untried system or product.
|
tell off »
To speak to someone rudely, disrespectfully or angrily; to berate; to unleash one's fury verbally towards someone.
|
telling off »
A reprimand, reproach, or lecture.
|
that's the way life is »
That is the way things happenCertain things cannot be changed, helped or improved; struggle and objection are pointless.1935, Louis Bromfield, The Man Who Had Everything [1], page 279:That's the way life is, and there's no use trying to go against it.1979, Jay Edward Abrams, A Theology of Christian Counseling: More Than Redemption [2], ISBN 0310511011, page 45:There are no standards, no values; that's the way life is. Learn to accept it and slide with it. Stop fighting it.2002, B. Eugene Ellison, Rings of the Templars, ISBN 059524050X, page 337:Shit happens; that's the way life is. In fact, I want you to take an additional thousand for your efforts.
|
the bigger they are, the harder they fall »
The larger something is, the more disastrous and spectacular its downfall
|
the more things change, the more they stay the same »
A proverb making the observation that turbulent changes do not affect reality on a deeper level other than to cement the status quo.
|
the name of the game »
The overall purpose; the principal goal, or objective.
|
the shoemaker's children go barefoot »
One often neglects those closest to oneself.
|
the way to a man's heart is through his stomach »
Cooking for a man is a good way to win his affections.
|
the whole shooting match »
Everything; the entire collection, endeavor, or activity.
|
there is an exception to every rule »
Usually said in a situation when the rule is incorrect and unusable.
|
there ya go »
You have done it precisely correctly.
|
there you go »
You have done it, or are doing it, correctly.
|
there's no accounting for taste »
When it comes to subjective matters of taste, people have wildly different opinions.Disagreements about matters of taste can't be objectively resolved.
|
think over »
To ponder or reflect on a subject.
|
thorn in the flesh »
Ivar Specto. The Soviet Union and the Muslim World, 1917-1958.
|
three Rs »
The basic education any child can expect to receive, but not necessarily limited to reading, writing and arithmetic.
|
three Rs »
The basic precepts of any subject matter.
|
throw a spanner in the works »
To be a problem, dilemma or obstacle, something unexpected or troublesome.
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throw dirt enough, and some will stick »
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
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throw down »
To accomplish or produce something in a grand, respectable, or successful manner; to "represent".
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throw one's weight around »
To exercise influence or authority especially to an excessive degree or in an objectionable manner.
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throw somebody a curve »
To surprise; to introduce something unexpected or requiring a quick reaction or correction.
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throw to the dogs »
To remove or cast out someone or something out of one's protection, such as into the streets.
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throw to the wolves »
To remove or cast out someone or something out of one's protection, such as onto the streets, especially towards predators.
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throw up »
To erect.
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thumb one's nose »
To act disrespectfully, especially by flouting the object of disrespect.
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thumb one's nose »
To place a thumb upon the tip of the nose, usually while simultaneous wiggling one's fingers, in a gesture of disrespect.
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tie up »
link, connection
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tiger team »
A specialized group tasked with testing the effectiveness of an organization's ability to protect assets by attempting to circumvent, defeat or otherwise thwart that organization's internal and external security.
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timeserver »
A device, node or program that distributes the correct time to clients in a network.
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tip one's hat »
To acknowledge or show respect; to honor.
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tip one's hat »
To briefly remove or tap one's hat as a gesture of greeting, deference, or respect.
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to a fare-thee-well »
To the greatest extent or to completion; to a state of refinement or perfection.
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to a T »
Precisely; exactly; perfectly; with great attention to detail.
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to all intents and purposes »
For every functional purpose; in every practical sense; in every important respect; practically speaking.
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to the victor go the spoils »
The winner of a conflict wins additional benefits, beyond just the subject of the conflict.
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today we are all »
An expression indicating that the speaker empathizes with members of an identifiable group that was the subject of a disaster, and projects that others empathize as well.
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tomato tomato »
Uses insignificant pronunciation difference to dismiss a correction to one's adherence to an alternative standard.
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top dog »
In a competition, the one expected to win.
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top of the line »
The best, fanciest, or highest quality, especially among selections in a product line.
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toss-upness »
The quality of being a toss-up, usually used in reference to a toss-up state in American presidential elections.
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touch up »
To make slight corrections or adjustments; to fill in or perfect.
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trench mouth »
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.
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trick of the trade »
A shortcut or other quick, or very effective way of doing things, that professional workers learn from experience.
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trick out »
To trick out; to mod or customize an object, typically for the purpose of both personalization as well as enhancing the object's performance capabilities and more particularly for the purpose of performing stunts with that object.
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try out »
To undergo a test before being selected for a team etc.
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tune in »
To select a channel, station, etc., as on television or radio.
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turn a blind eye »
To ignore or deliberately overlook, especially with respect to something unpleasant or improper.
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turn away »
To avert or deflect something.
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turn back »
To reverse one's direction and retrace one's steps.
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turn down »
To reposition by turning, flipping, etc. in a downward direction.
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turn out »
To refuse service or shelter; to eject or evict.
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turn up »
To show up; to appear suddenly or unexpectedly.
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turn up for the book »
A very unexpected, usually pleasant, surprise.
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twenty-twenty hindsight »
Perfect understanding of events only after they have happened.
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two wrongs don't make a right »
(ethics) A wrongful action is not a morally appropriate way to correct or cancel a previous wrongful action.1915, William MacLeod Raine, The Highgrader, ch. 15:"But when it comes to taking what belongs to another
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under a cloud »
Under suspicion; subject to critical inspection.
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under fire »
Subjected to enemy attack.
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under one's nose »
Directly in front of one; clearly visible.
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under one's wing »
Under one's protection, sponsorship, or tutelage.
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under pressure »
Being subjected to physical pressure.
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under pressure »
Subjected to pressure.
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under the impression »
Thinking or making assumptions, often incorrectly.
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under the influence »
Drunk; intoxicated; affected by alcohol.
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under the radar »
Without attracting notice; in an undetected or secretive manner.
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up the creek without a paddle »
In a difficult situation with no means of rectifying it.
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urban fabric »
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.
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venus flytrap »
insect-eating plant
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vote in »
To collectively approve a nominee into an office or position as a result of voting.
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walk in on »
To enter suddenly or unexpectedly while something is happening; to intrude or interrupt by entering.
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warts and all »
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.
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wash over »
To pass unnoticed so that one is unaffected by it.
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wash over »
Said of the way an emotion affects one suddenly.
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watch one's mouth »
In the imperative form, used as a warning to avoid or stop using inappropriate language, especially profanity, or disrespectful utterances.
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watch one's mouth »
To be careful about what one says, especially with regard to disrespectful or profane language.
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watch over »
To guard and protect.
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way out of a paper bag »
A minimal level of competence or effectiveness, as used in phrases where one is unable to perform such.
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weaker vessel »
A woman; women collectively.
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wear off »
To diminish in effect.
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wear out »
To cause to become damaged, useless, or ineffective through continued use, especially hard, heavy, or careless use.
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wear out »
To deteriorate or become unusable or ineffective due to continued use, exposure, or strain.
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wee small hours »
He worked into the wee small hours to get everything perfect for the opening day.
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what it says on the tin »
Exactly what is described or what one would expect from the name.
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whatever it takes »
Anything that may be required to achieve an objective.
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when you're up to your neck in alligators, it's easy to forget that the initial objective was to drain the swamp »
Only because it seems so urgent.
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whisper campaign »
A method of persuasion in which damaging rumors or innuendo are deliberately spread concerning a person or other target, while the source of the rumors tries to avoid detection.
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whistle walk »
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.
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who's 'she', the cat's mother%3F »
A rebuke especially directed towards children for having referred to their mother, or any other woman in the third person, instead of using a properly respectful title or their name when appropriate.
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wild horses »
A force not subject to human control and normally stronger than a man.
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willy nilly »
Without regard for consequences or the will of those affected.
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winter rat »
An old, unattractive automobile, purchased for little money, to be driven during brutal Great Lakes winters while the owner's "good" car remains garaged and protected from corrosive road salt for the season.
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work like a charm »
works great - exactly as expected
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work out »
To conclude with the correct solution.
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world »
An individual or group perspective or social setting.
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world »
Human collective existence; existence in general.
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worm's-eye view »
A view of an object from below, from the ground.
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wrap up »
To fold and secure something to be the cover or protection for something.
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wrap up »
To wear more clothes as protection from the weather; to bundle up.
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you made your bed, now sleep in it »
A moralizing rejection said to someone looking for an easy out, especially of a situation they put themselves into.
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