Idioms

Get the advantage over someone

Did you have a nice time at the dance last night? To tell you the truth, I would have enjoyed myself more if I had been able to go with Teresa instead of Elena. Why didn't you ask Teresa in the first place? I was about to, but Ben "got the jump on me." How did he manage that? He told her that he'd take her to dinner and then the dance in his brand new car.

To be confronted with the consequences of your actions

He needs to "face the music" and apologize for hurting her feelings. OR Instead of complaining about my test score, I'm going to face the music and just study harder next time.

To work harder at something.

He's really "stepping his game up". He's going to the gym twice a day. OR I need to step my game up and study English more.

For very little money

I picked up the perfect chair for the living room the other day. Awesome. I know you've been looking for some time. Where did you finally come across what you wanted? I was really quite lucky. I got it "for a song" at a little furniture store because the owners of the store were right in the middle of their spring liquidation sale. I even had enough money to buy an end table!

To do something extra or more than what is necessary

I went the "extra mile" and did the reading assignment for the next two weeks. OR She went the extra mile and brought three homemade desserts to the birthday party.

Not as bad-tempered as one appears

On occasion Mr. Hopkins speaks harshly to his students, especially when they fail to complete their homework assignment. Nevertheless, they all know that his "bark is worse than his bite."

Money can influence people

We've been waiting for three months to get delivery on our car, and people who put in their order after us have already gotten theirs. Well, "money talks." Why don't you try giving the dealer a little something extra to move things along. I refuse to pay extra for a service that is owed to me as a client. If you want to have your car maybe you should reconsider.

Set aside for future use

We've been working on this sales report for some time now. Don't you think we should take a break for dinner? Now that you mention it, I am hungry. Let's put the report "on ice" and grab a bite to eat.

A coincidence or a surprise.

What a "small world!" She saw someone from her high school while traveling in Germany. OR It turns out that my new co-worker Sarah is friends with my cousin. What a small world!

Chat informally

What are you going to do this afternoon? Oh, I don't have anything planned. Why don't you come over to my place? We can listen to some records and "shoot the breeze." That sounds good. I'd like to relax until my folks get back from shopping.

Wake up in a bad mood

What's the matter with Bernard today? He started shouting from the moment he stepped into the office. I don't know. He usually doesn't act that way at all. I guess he "got up on the wrong side of the bed." Hopefully he'll relax as the day goes on.

a discreditable or embarrassing fact that someone wishes to keep secret.

When Bob ran for public office he never imagined that the press would uncover so many "skeletons in his closet." He was forced to withdraw his name from the election.

Do not agitate a potential source of trouble

You'd better not say anything to the owner of the building about painting your apartment. If I were you I'd "let sleeping dogs lie." The last time you asked him to do some repairs, he raised your rent.

Follow through with a stated intention

You've been promising to take us to Disneyland for the past two years. Since the kids are free, how about "putting your money where your mouth is?" You don't have to remind me. I have every intention of doing it. But you yourself know that in the past we have been unable to go because of other financial obligations. Things have eased up and it looks like we'll be able to go this year.

Escape punishment

After robbing a neighborhood bank, the robbers sped off in a waiting car and "got away clean."

Behave properly or leave

Al had been constantly reprimanded for being negligent on the job. Finally, in desperation his supervisor exclaimed, "shape up or ship out!" Al admitted that he had not been taking his work seriously.

Concealed

All right, Sara. We know that you're planning something big for Jean-Paul's birthday. Mind telling us what you have "up your sleeve?" I wanted to make his birthday a very special event. Jean-Paul has a sister living in France, and I sent her an airplane ticket so that she could be here for his birthday.

Out of danger

Although Eric was well on his way to recovering from his bout with pneumonia, he was still not "out of the woods." The doctors told him that he would have to take it easy and avoid exposure to cold.

Become involved in too many activities

Although Teresa has always been an excellent student, her grades have been going down lately because she is "spreading herself too thin." Besides spending a great deal of time in sports, she got a part-time job as a clerk in a department store.

Keep something as a secret

Although the contestants were most anxious to know who won the prizes in the piano competition, the judges "kept the results under their hats" so that the formal announcements could be made in public at the awards ceremony.

Go down in defeat

Andy did exceptionally well in all of the track events, but he "bit the dust" in the high jump competition. Much to the disappointment of his fans.

Pay too high a price

At last Mr. Smith came upon the rare stamp he had been seeking at an auction. Since many other stamp collectors would also be bidding for it, he realized that he would have to "pay through the nose" in order to have it.

Inform beforehand

Bob was going to retire from teaching in June, and the foreign language department was planning on presenting him with some luggage at his retirement dinner. He wasn't supposed to know about it, but someone "let the cat out of the bag."

Try hard

Can you do anything about repairing this TV set? I'm not much of an electrician, but I'll "give it my best shot." Thanks! At this point I'll take all the help I can get.

Easy, effortless

Can you help me hook up my new TV? I'm having trouble with all these connections. Sure. That's "duck soup" for me. Well, with all your experience in electronics, I had no doubt you were the one to ask.

Take more food that one can eat

Chris, why don't you finish eating that third helping of dessert? I guess my "eyes were bigger than my stomach" when I said I wanted more. I'm not surprised. The same things happens to me.

Can't talk

Come on, Connie! Tell us what you think about our little ride down the rapids yesteryda. Well, uh... Wasn't it exciting? I, uh.. What's the matter? "Cat got your tongue?"

Laughing very hard

Danny was hilarious at the party the other night. He had us all "in stitches." I didn't realize that he was such a comedian.

live your life with a deeper appreciation of the world around us. Take the time to notice the important things in life.

Dave Barrett had been a hard worker all of his life. He was forced to retire from his job at the age of 62 when he had a heart attack. After that his wife tried to encourage him to relax, take it easy, and "stop to smell the roses" along the way.

An easy decision.

Deciding to sleep late on a Saturday is a "no-brainer," it's my day off! OR Choosing chocolate ice cream over vanilla is a no-brainer, chocolate is my favourite!

To be hasty

Denise was planning on telling her grandparents that the doctor said she was going to have twins, but when her dad found out he "jumped the gun" and told them before Denise could say a word. He was just so excited.

Play around

Did you hear about Dave's back injury? No. How did he get hurt? Well, after the coach left the gym he decided to stay and "horse around" on the parallel bars. He somehow lost his grip and fell on his back.

Reveal a secret

Did you know that Harry was going to take Kathy on a cruise? Yes, he was planning on surprising her with the tickets for their anniversary, but someone "spilled the beans." What a shame! That was supposed to have been a surprise.

Dressed elegantly

Did you see Hilda at the party last night? Yeah, she was really "dressed to the teeth!" She wanted to make a good impression in Bill.

Extremely angry

Did you see how Bill came in to work this morning? OMG he was so "hot under the collar!" What was that about? He said he got stuck in traffic and arrived late for an important meeting.

Become very angry

Don's father "hit the ceiling" when he was informed that his son had been detained by the police for disorderly conduct. He had often warned his son not to keep company with that group of boys.

Persevere

During the depression years the Smith's had a great deal of trouble with their business, but somehow or other they were able to "hang on."

Quite a different matter

Eric likes to play jokes on his friends, but he makes sure that nobody gets hurt by any of his pranks. A prank that hurts someone is a "horse of a different color!"

thinking or acting as though one is more important than others

Eva arrived at the party dressed in a designer gown and a new mink coat. She had a large diamond pendant around her neck and was bragging to everyone about her recent shopping sprees. She walked around the room acting "high and mighty" and ignored even her closest friends.

A kind of food that feels familiar and can remind you of your childhood or food from home.

For an American, "comfort food" might be mashed potatoes or a slice of apple pie with ice cream. OR After traveling around Europe for six months, he just wanted to eat some comfort food made by his mom.

Go away

For the past three hours Jerry had been trying to convince Linda to go to the art exhibit with him. She had been refusing all along and finally in desperation she told him, "Go fly a kite!"

a person who breaks things or who often makes mistakes or causes damage in situations that require careful thinking or behavior.

George was a large, burly man. He stood 6 feet, 7 inches tall and weighed well over 250 pounds. He was seen at a reception dressed in a suit and tie, nervously drinking tea from a delicate china cup. Someone commented that he looked like a "bull in a china shop."

Something defective

Have you seen Joanne's new car yet? Yeah. It looks good, but she's had nothing but problems with it. That's too bad. It sounds like she got a real "lemon."

Become run-down

Have you seen their house lately? It's really "gone to the dogs." It's true, but I'm sure that it can be fixed up to look like new. I guess with a little carpentry work and some paint it would look pretty decent.

Fool someone

Hey Al. I was invited to be a judge for the Miss American Beauty Pageant! Really! Come on, you're "pulling my leg!" No, honestly!

Hand over, give

Hey Dan, how come you look so sad? It's nothing really. I bumped into Ralph and he asked me to "fork over" the ten bucks I owed him. Did he expect you to pay him back right then and there? Yes, and it was all the money I had.

Stop bothering someone

Hey John, I'm bored. Come on, let's go out and do something. Sorry, I'm right in the middle of studying for a physics exam. I can't. You've been studying for a long time. Why don't you take a break? Come on! Let's go! Forget studying for awhile! Look! "Get off my back!" I'm not going.

Bothering or worrying someone

Hey, Alice. What's been "eating you" lately? Don't you realize how rude and irritable you've become? I know. I'm really sorry for how I've been acting.

Return a favor

Hey, Bea. I need some help stacking these boxes. Can you give me a hand? OK. And I need some help cleaning up the house. How about your helping me out after that? OK. If you "scratch my back, I'll scratch yours." No problem, I'll even do the windows.

Clumsy and awkward

Hey, Luke. Can you help me out? I don't seem to be able to button up the back of my dress. Sure. I guess I'm "all thumbs" because I'm so nervous. I'm already late for my date.

A successful outcome is worth the effort

Hi Benito. How's it going? OK. Remember that teaching job for which I applied? Yeah. Well, I was finally hired, but I had a bit of a rough time before I got it. Between all that paperwork and all those interviews, I'm all worn out. Thank goodness it's all over. Great! "All's well that ends well."

Enthuse and excite

Hi John, what's new? Oh, nothing too much with me, but you ought to see Alfredo's new car. It'll "knock your socks off!" So, he finally got that Italian sports car he's been dreaming about. Yep and you should see all the custom features it has. I can hardly wait to go for a ride in it.

Feel that something is wrong

How come the front door is open? Didn't you close it before we went shopping? I'm sure I did. I can't understand it. Frankly, I "smell a rat". Me, too, I'm convinced that something is definitely wrong here. We'd Better call the police.

Take a risk

How come they're asking me to act as their guide through the jungle? Evidently they think you're the only one who can lead them to the lost temple. That jungle has danger lurking around every corner. Why should I "stick my neck out" for them? They didn't even pay me!

Fail at something

How did you do on the history exam? I think I "blew it." There was a section on the Civil War, and that's the chapter in the book I studied the least.

Carouse and have a good time

How did you enjoy your vacation to Europe last summer? It was wonderful. I'll never forget the time we had when we were in Rome. There was no end to the things to see and do. And how was the night life? Great! We "painted the town red" the first three nights we were there. Didn't that get expensive? I guess, but we were too excited to think about the cost.

From a reliable source

How did you find out that Jill was engaged? I got the information "straight from the horse's mouth." You mean Jill told you herself?

Disgust someone

How was your date? Well it started fine, but he really "turned me off" when we went for a snack after the movies. What did he do? He kept talking with his mouth full.

Feel wonderful

I bumped into Nick at the barbershop yesterday. He looked great, but I noticed he had a slight limp when he walked. I guess you didn't know that he had an operation on his knee. No, how's he feeling? He says he's "feeling like a million dollars" now. Apparently the pain in his knee is all gone.

Be dismissed, fired

I feel sorry for Richard. He was feeling quite depressed when I ran into him. Did he tell you what was bothering him? Among other things, he informed me that he "got the ax at work." That's strange. He's always been a conscientious worker. I wonder why they let him go. Evidently he had a disagreement on company policies with one of the top executives.

Lose a great deal of money

I happened to bump into Doug at lunch yesterday. What's he up to? He wasn't doing so well. For one thing, he told me he "lost his shirt" at the races. He always did like to bet on the horses. I'm not surprised. Yeah, at this rate he'll never have a penny to his name!

In a fortunate position

I heard that Michael and Jennifer got a good price when they sold their house. Yeah, now they're "sitting pretty." As a matter of fact, they're thinking of going on a long vacation.

Betray someone

I heard that poor Mark landed in jail. Yeah, His so-called girlfriend "sold him down the river" and claimed the reward on him. I can't believe it. I thought she was so devoted to him.

To have a positive or optimistic attitude about something.

I'm sorry you had a bad day, but "keep your chin up." Tomorrow will be much better than today. OR Keep your chin up and think positively. Everything will work out for the best.

To have very little energy or motivation.

I've been studying for this test all day, and now I'm "running on fumes." OR After two hours of working out at the gym this morning with no breakfast, I'm running on fumes.

Maintain one's position

In spite of the fact that it was inadvisable to have a controversial figure address the club, the chairman "stuck to his guns" and insisted that it would make good sense to hear the other side of the question before taking a vote on the issue despite a number of members trying to make him change his mind.

Help out and support someone

Is it true that Don got into some trouble at work last week? Yeah, he was reproached for not turning in his sales reports, but his secretary "went to bat for him." What was she able to do? She admitted that she had misplaced the reports that he gave her to be typed. So it was her fault, not his. Yep.

Pay one's bills

It's almost impossible trying to keep up with the high cost of living. Yeah, things are so expensive nowadays that it's very difficult to "make ends meet."

Die

It's been said that the old man knew of a buried treasure, but he "kicked the bucket" before telling anyone where it was. If the treasures exists, the old man took it with him to his death.

Everyone has different interests and tastes

It's hard to understand how Millie and Ron ever got together. She has always gone in for sailing and he can't stand to be on water. He enjoys the opera and she likes jazz. You know what they say: "Different strokes for different folks!"

Accept the consequences

It's no wonder you have a stomachache. I told you not to eat so much candy. You don't listen, and now you're going to have to "face the music." The trouble is, I can't stop with just one or two, especially chocolate.

To lose all your money

Jake had made some bad investments with his money. He ended up "losing his shirt" over these unfortunate financial decisions, and his retirement would not be so comfortable after all.

Dull or boring person who spoils the happiness of others

James was not invited to go on the outing with the rest of the group because he's such a "wet blanket." On many other occasions he kept others from having fun by his pessimism and lack of enthusiasm. It's understandable that no one wants him around.

One should not criticize when one is equally at fault

Janet has often criticized her friend Louie for driving too fast, yet she herself had her license suspended for exceeding the speed limit. Louie once tried to tell her that "people who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones," but it didn't do much good.

Express one's opinions loudly

Jim doesn't play tennis very much, but he's always "shooting off his mouth" about how good he is. Yet he's fooling nobody. Jim is somewhat of a braggart and everyone knows that he gives opinions without knowing all the facts.

Admit the truth

Joe feels rather badly because he's always being criticized for his sloppy personal appearance. With reason. "If the shoe fits, wear it," I always say. Still, I can't help feeling sorry for the guy. He doesn't seem to want to improve his appearance. Evidently, he himself can't see anything wrong with the way he looks.

underestimate someone

Just because he does not say very much is no reason to "sell him short." Actually, he's a profound thinker and a most talented writer. People do not give him the credit he deserves because they think he's shy.

In danger of being lost

Lately Tom's been more conscientious about the accuracy and quality of his work with the company. He was warned that his job was "on the line" because of his lack of concern for his duties.

Improvise as one goes along

Let's go to the movies. Sure, and what'll we do after that? Oh, I don't know. Let's "play it by ear." I'd like to have more of a definite plan. Don't be like that. It's more fun this way.

Protest strongly

Listen! Don't try to use any of your sister's clothes without asking her first. She's liable to "raise a stink" if she finds something missing. I'm sure that there won't be a problem. She's borrowed some of my things before, and I've never really said anything. I doubt she'll mind.

Go to bed

Listen, Kim. We're going to be really busy with moving tomorrow, and we've got to get an early start. Yeah, I know. We'll need all the rest we can get. What do you say we "hit the hay" now? Agreed. It's going to be a long day.

Take care in speech and action

Listen, Larry. If you want an invitation to Clarissa's party you'd better "mind your P's and Q's." But I haven't been doing anything to offend her.

Lead someone on dishonestly

Liz had high hopes of marrying Dean. When he ran off with another women, she realized that he was just "stringing her along" and had no intentions of ever marrying her.

Initiate action

Look! You've been talking about repairing the roof for weeks now. Don't you think it's about time to "get the ball rolling?" I know, but I've been busy with other things. I promise I'll get to it this weekend. The time is now. According to the weather report it's supposed to rain tomorrow.

Be successful and happy

Marc finished school at the top of his class and he was offered an excellent position with an accounting firm. Now he feels that he "has the world by the tail." Everything has been working out for him lately.

Arriving early gives one an advantage

Marc, the lines for the concert are going to be miles long! If you expect tickets for you and Jenny , remember the old saying, "The early bird catches the worm." Yeah, I'd hate to miss out. I'll have to get up early if I want to get tickets.

Good luck

Marie Perez was playing the lead role in her community theater's production of Oklahoma. Just as she was about to walk on stage on opening night, her best friend whispered, "Break a leg!"

Hurry

Mary you always take such a long time to put on your makeup. Come on, "shake a leg"! I'll be finished in a minute. Be patient. You've got to hurry or else we won't arrive on time to see the last show.

Boast

Michael's last novel was a best seller. He has no need to "toot his own horn" about his literary accomplishments. His readers and critics alike will now become aware of his talent.

A person or business that appears and disappears rapidly

Mr. Cardoni hired an independent contractor to make some repairs on his home. He paid the contractor in advance. However, the contractor never arrived to begin the repair job. Mrs. Cardoni was not surprised, as she had warned her husband that the contractor ran a "fly-by-night" operation.

an exceptional aptitude for gardening or for growing plants successfully

Mr. Gomez always had a beautiful garden. In fact, he had won many awards for his vegetables and flowers. Last year, his "green thumb" produced the largest pumpkin in the county and he won a $100 prize.

Deceive someone

Mr. Jones had been telling Louise how efficient she was and how much he admired her work at the office. He had promised her a promotion in the near future, but she soon discovered that he was "feeding her a line" when he passed her by and gave the promotion to someone less capable.

to become aware of what is really happening

Mr. Taylor heard that his grandson had received bad grades recently at school. Since this news was upsetting to Mr. Taylor, he went to see his grandson. He scolded the boy and said, "you'd better "wise up" and start studying more, or you'll never finish school and get a good job!"

a premonition, portent, or clear indication, especially of failure or disaster

Mr. Wells "saw the writing on the wall" and bought his new home just before home mortgage interest rates went up. He will save a great deal of money over the entire 30-year mortgage period.

wasting time idely

Mrs. Patterson asked her son Robert to mow the lawn. He mowed half of it and then began playing basketball with some friends. When Mrs. Patterson saw her son playing basketball, she exclaimed, "Every time I give you some work to do, you end up "goofing off!"

To get the best out of two situations.

My new job pays well and I also love waking up to go to work every day. It's the "best of both worlds." OR This dessert is the best of both worlds. It's actually really healthy, and tastes great too.

To end badly.

My speaking presentation will "go down in flames" if I don't practice a lot. The couple were fighting all the time, and eventually their relationship went down in flames.

Someone who has many good qualities and would make a great partner.

Not only is she beautiful, but she is very intelligent and has a kind heart. "She's a great catch!" OR Everyone has a different opinion of a great catch. To me, someone who shares similar interests with me is a great catch.

achieve two aims at once

On Saturday morning, Rachel had several errands to run and some shopping to do. However, she had promised to visit her sister that morning. How would she ever get everything accomplished? She decided to "kill two birds with one stone" by asking her sister to go with her while she rant errands and finished her shopping.

talk with someone about unimportant things for a long time

Peter and John saw each other often, and today would be no exception. They planned to spend the afternoon sitting on a park bench, just "shooting the breeze."

Sick and failing

Poor Mike. He was one of the greatest musicians I've ever known, but when I saw him the other day he looked like he was "on his last legs." Yeah, he hardly plays anymore.

Flee in a hurry

Poor Rich has always had his problems with the police. When he found out that they were after him again, he had to "take it on the lamb" in order to avoid being caught and thrown in jail.

Give unwillingly

Say, Greg. Did you finally get that computer that you wanted so much? Not yet. I needed to raise a couple of hundred dollars more. Is it going to take you a while to raise the money? It would have taken me forever, but dad said he'd "cough up" the money I need since I'm going to be using the computer for my school work.

Abandon someone

Say, Jill. I thought that John was going to help you with the dishes tonight. So did I. But he "left me high and dry." Where did he go? Well, he got a call from some of his pals at work to go bowling and left.

No longer a young person

Sharon Willis was shocked when she received the news that she was expecting a baby at the age of 44. Her doctor gave her specific instructions on how to care for herself. Sharon knew she needed to follow all of the doctor's orders, as she was "no longer a spring chicken."

To wait for something.

She asked her professor for the exam results, but he told her to "sit tight" and wait for them. OR The queue for the restaurant is really long, so I guess I have to sit tight for a while.

To compose yourself, or to calm down.

She was really upset about her test score, but she "pulled herself together" and studied harder for the next test. OR I know you're very excited about the concert, but you need to "pull yourself together."

to deal with things as they happen, and not to make plans or to worry about the future

Since discovering that he has cancer, Joseph has started living life "one day at a time." He doesn't seem to worry about the future, and he's in a good mood most of the time.

Make peace

Somebody told me that you and Doug have been quarreling over the construction site of the new building. Yeah, but we worked out the problem and decided to "bury the hatchet." Glad to hear it, you guys usually work so well together. Well, once we came to the conclusion that we both had the same goal we were able to put our feelings aside.

Exert influence

Steven had been unsuccessful in getting tickets for the opening game of the season. However, he "pulled some strings" with the manager of the team and he got excellent seats.

Bother someone

Students! Would you please stop making so much noise! Pick up your clothes and toys! It's hard enough trying to keep this house clean without your throwing your things all over the place! Clara, I know that the children "get in your hair," but you should try not to let it upset you so much.

Becoming angry with someone

That's it Greg! You'd better not come in after midnight again tonight! I know, dad. You don't have to "jump down my throat!" I told you that I'd make it home around 11:30. I'm not going to be late. Well, you've said that before and you come in at 2:30 in the morning. You can't get mad at me for being angry. I've got good reason.

At the limit of one's ability to cope

The Jone's housekeeper was completely useless! Poor Mrs. Jones felt that she was "at the end of her rope" when she walked into the house and saw the children crying and unfed, dirty dishes in the sink, and clothes strewn all over the place. She had had to leave the house and children in someone else's care while she was off on business. Now that she came back to all of this disorder and disarray she felt overwhelmed.

to get down to the serious stuff.

The community newsletter was due to the printer in 24 hours and Harriett hadn't found time to write her article. She told her husband, I'll have to "get down to the nitty-gritty" and finish this article even if it takes all night.

In a risky position

The members of the committee realized that their position against expanding the student aid program was an unpopular one, and that they were going "out on a limb" by voting against the program. Nevertheless, their position was justified to a certain extent and they felt that other budgetary considerations were of greater urgency.

Something from a long time ago.

The phrase 'pulling my leg' is old school, not many people say that anymore. OR The Walkman and CD players are really old school, we have iPods and smartphones to play music on now!

Make a getaway

The police were chasing the thief through the streets of the city, but he managed to "give them the slip." No wonder, it was so crowded he could get lost in the crowds.

Celebrate

The prerequisites for admission to the Theater Arts School are quite demanding, and those students who were finally accepted had reason to "kick up their heels." It was only natural that those who made it through exams and interviews would want to go out and have a good time.

Wear one's finest clothing

The reception for the new Swedish ambassador at the Jennison's was quite lavish. Naturally, everybody was "dressed to kill."

Insincere talk

The salesman tried to convince a group of investors that the properties he was selling would soon be worth much more money than he was asking. However, no one bought anything from him because they felt he was giving them a "snow job."

A critical time when action needs to be taken.

The soccer team is down by one goal and there's five minutes left. Now it's "crunch time" to score. OR My essay is due tomorrow and it's crunch time. I still have to write three more pages.

Uninteresting and Meaningless

They went to a poetry reading, but they got bored and restless. As far as they were concerned, it was "for the birds!" They left at intermission.

To have no good defense for on'e opinions or actions

Tom maintains that the firm owes him some back wages for having worked overtime. However, he "won't have a leg to stand on" unless he can prove that he put in all of those extra hours.

to view something with skepticism

Tom was known for his boasting. He constantly bragged that he caught the largest fish or owned the most expensive car in town. When Tom's neighbor approached me to discuss some new tale Tom had told, I simply said, Just remember, take everything Tom says "with a grain of salt."

in debt

Unfortunately, Peter had to sell his neighborhood hardware store. Because of competition from the bigger stores in the shopping center, he was going "in the hole" every month. His store was small and did not generate enough income to meet expenses.

Brighten up and become active

Up to now the guests at the party had been eating and making small talk, but when the rock band arrived, everyone "came alive."

speak continuously and at great length.

Vera Harris was a talkative woman. Her husband, Horace, was just the opposite. He was very quiet and reserved. All of Horace's friends and Vera could "talk a blue streak."

Endure a difficult situation

We really had a frightening experience when we went hunting last month. What happened? We got lost in the wilderness and had to "bite the bullet" until help arrived. Did you manage OK? Barely. We weren't prepared for the cold weather and we couldn't find any shelter. We almost froze by the time they found us.

Make foolish statements

We were discussing ethnic traditions and customs with Fred the other day, and he showed just how little he knew about other cultures. What do you mean? Well, he said that as far as he could tell, there wasn't much difference in behavior and temperament between the English and the Hispanics. It's plain to see that he was "talking through his hat." True, but Fred thinks he's an authority on everything. It was difficult to convince him that he was talking ignorantly. He's got a reputation for making foolish, inaccurate statements.

Try very hard

When Joan first started teaching she was afraid that she would have a lot of trouble getting used to kids and the faculty. Her fears turned out to be unfounded, since everybody "bent over backwards" to help her and make her feel comfortable adjusting to the school.

Not talk about

When Mary was planning a surprise birthday party for her boss, she wanted her co-workers to "zip up their lips" about the party. Mary said she would be very disappointed if her boss found out about the birthday plans.

Strange and suspicous

When the security guard saw a light in the store after closing hours, it seemed to him that there was something "fishy" going on. He called the central office and told them.

Annoy someone greatly

Wow! What a great set of drums! Yeah, they're great, but I can't play on them when my folks are at home. They say I "drive them up a wall" with all the loud banging. I get the same thing at home when I turn up the volume on my stereo.

To get rid of bad feelings or negative emotions.

know you've had a bad day Ben, how about we go for a run to "shake it off?" OR She couldn't shake off feeling scared after walking home alone in the dark.