Idioms, Figures of Speech, and Proverbs

IDIOMS, FIGURES OF SPEECH, AND PROVERBS

Kevin Crittenden Version03Aug14

IDIOMS – Idioms are groups of words that have a special meaning apart from their literal meaning.  For example, a person who “runs for office” is not actually running but rather seeking public office.

PROVERB – a short, pithy saying in general use, stating a general truth or piece of advice.  For example, the proverb “where there’s a will, there’s a way” expresses in a few alliterative words the idea that all things are possible if desired enough.

PITHY – concise and forcefully expressive.

FIGURE OF SPEECH – An imaginative comparison between two things that are basically unlike but have at least one thing in common.  Example: “I’m so nervous I feel like I have butterflies in my stomach.” 

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A bit much:            This means that something is annoying.

A chain is no stronger than its weakest link: - This means that processes, organizations, etc, are no stronger than the weakest person involved.

A day late and a dollar short: - You may have done something necessary but it came too late so will not fix the problem.

A fool and his money are soon parted – This means that a foolish person will spend his money unwisely. 

A little bird told me – This is a reference to a source of information that the teller does not want to divulge. 

A little learning is a dangerous thing – Sometimes people act on incomplete information and do foolish things.  They leap to the wrong conclusions.

AOK – A phrase that means everything is all right.  Everything is AOK.

Anything goes – Everything is permissible.

A penny for your thoughts – If somebody seems deep in thought and you want to know what they are thinking about, you would say this to them.

A penny saved is a penny earned – It is better to save money than to spend it foolishly.

A picture is worth a thousand words – Sometimes you can communicate something by showing a picture much more easily than if you try to write a description.

A pretty penny – Said of something that costs a lot of money.

A rising tide lifts all boats – Everybody benefits when the economy does well.

A rolling stone gathers no moss – Somebody who is active and ambitious will do better than others.

A watched pot never boils – Things will not go any faster if you keep checking on them.

About face – Said of somebody who has changed their mind completely about an issue.

Above board – This means ethical and legal.  Honorable people always conduct their business above board.

Absence makes the heart grow fonder – Separation can strengthen the bond between people.

Ace in the hole. – If I say “You might think you’ve won but I’ve got an ace in the hole”, it means that I have a secret resource which will help me win.  Another way of saying this is “I have an ace up my sleeve.”  The reference is to the Ace in the game of Poker which is the highest (and most powerful) card.

Acid test – This is a critical test to see if something will work.

Acquire a taste – Develop a liking for something.

Actions speak louder than words – This means that what you actually do tells more about your character than what you say you’ll do.

Across the board – This applies to everybody. 

Add fuel to the fire – This means making a situation worse such as gossiping about somebody without knowing any facts.

Add insult to injury – This means doing some action that makes things worse.

After your own heart – Said of someone who thinks like you do.

Age before beauty – Usually said to an older person as you let them go ahead of you through a door.  It is used in a humorous manner.

Ahead of the pack – This means to be in front in some kind of competition.

All ears -  If I say “I’m all ears”, it means that you have my full attention. 

All Bark And No Bite – Said of someone who makes threats but never actually does anything.

All Greek to me – When you encounter something that you cannot understand, you say “It’s all Greek to me!”

All in a lather, All lathered up - This is said of somebody who is really troubled by something.

All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.  – This means that it is better NOT to study or work too much without some time to have fun. 

An act of God – This refers to a natural disaster such as a hurricane or tornado.

An act of war – This is an action which will possibly result in war.

An apple a day keeps the doctor away.  -  This is an old saying which is advising people to eat healthier so they won’t get sick.

An Arm And A Leg – This refers to the cost of something very expensive.

An axe to grind -  If I say “He has an axe to grind,” I mean that the person has a problem which is uppermost in his thoughts.  Often the problem is with another person. 

Ants in the pants.  – If I say that “Eric seems to have ants in the pants,” it means that he his restless and cannot sit still.   He is very fidgety and wants to move around.

Apple of My Eye – Said of someone who is very dear to you.

Around the bend – Acting foolishly or irrationally.  Not in your right mind.  I thought John had gone around the bend when he began talking about moving to the South Pole.

As easy as ABC – Something that is very easy to do. 

As easy as apple pie – Something that is very easy to do. 

As High As A Kite – Said of someone who is very elated.

As we speak – Something is happening right now while we are talking.

At a loss – Unable to decide how to act in a situation.  At a loss for words – unable to think of the right thing to say.

At the drop of a hat – Without hesitation, immediately.  He knew that he would accept the job offer at the drop of a hat.

At the end of one’s rope – This describes a person who has tried everything to solve a problem and still has no solution.  Also someone who is very tired and has no more energy. 

At the end of the day – At the end of some process, when everything has occurred, when all the arguments have been presented.  Example:  I could recommend which type of job you should try to get but at the end of the day, since you’ll be the one  working, you should be the one to choose.  (same as: When all is said and done.)

Babe in Arms – A very young baby carried by an adult.  An innocent or naïve person.

Babies must play.  -  This is said to people who are acting like children; it is a reminder that their behavior is not appropriate.

Back seat driver -  Think of a passenger in a car who is always telling the driver what to do.  This is a person who is always telling the person in charge of something how to do his/her job.

Back To Square One – This means starting all over again from the beginning.

Back To The Drawing Board – This also means starting all over again.

Back to the salt mines – Time to get back to work.  Break time is over.

Bad apple – A bad person

Bad call – A mistake; the wrong decision.  He made a bad call when he decided to sell his Apple stock.

Bad news travels fast.  – This means that something bad that happens is quickly spread by people so that everybody knows it very quickly.

Baker's Dozen – This is one more than the regular 12 in a dozen.  So it means 13 of something.

Ball and chain – Somebody’s wife in a pejorative sense. 

Barking Up The Wrong Tree – This means you are looking in the wrong place.

Beat A Dead Horse – Continue arguing about an issue that has already been resolved.

Beating Around The Bush – This means to talk indirectly about an issue rather than discuss it straight on.

The bee’s knees – The best of something.

Beggars can’t be choosers – A person who is very poor (or in need of something) should be happy to get anything at all rather than complain about whatever it is that he gets. 

Behind the 8 ball.  -  This means that someone is under pressure to get something done.

Bend over backwards – Said of someone who takes extraordinary measures to get something done.   Example:  “Jane bent over backwards to get health care benefits for her mother.”

Bent out of shape – Upset and angry.  John was bent out of shape because his wife had damaged the car.

Best of both worlds – A situation in which a person can have the benefit of two different opportunities.  Because John found a part-time job after he retired, he was able to have the best of both worlds, namely more money and more free time.

Between A Rock And A Hard Place – This is said of someone who is stuck between two bad options.

A bird in the hand is better than two in the bush -  This means to be happy with what you have rather than risk losing it to obtain something that you think is much better.

Birds of a feather flock together.  – This means that people generally gather in groups with a common interest.

Bite Your Tongue – You would say this to someone to prevent them from mentioning a topic you don’t wish to hear.

A Bitter Pill to Swallow – Unwelcome news that is hard to hear and accept.  Myra’s layoff was a bitter pill for her to swallow.

A Blessing In Disguise – This is said of something that may seem to be a disadvantage but actually works in your favor.

Blood Is Thicker Than Water – Family relationships are stronger than other friendships.

Blow one’s own horn – This means to go around bragging about yourself.

Bolt down – Eat hurriedly.

Bone to pick with someone  -  This means that you have a problem with someone that you want to discuss with them. 

Bookworm -  This describes someone who loves to read books.

Born with a silver spoon in their mouths – Having wealth and success by virtue of being born into a wealthy family.

Borrow trouble – Worry about a hypothetical troubling event in the future which may not happen.

Bottom line – The end result

boy toy – A young man who is dating a much older woman.

Breadwinner  – This term describes the person who provides financial support for the family.

Break a leg – This is another way of saying “Good luck!”

Break the ice – When you are at a party and don’t know anyone, you can feel shy and uncomfortable.  Someone who comes up to you and introduces themselves is said to be “breaking the ice.”  Or you can initiate conversation with a stranger and “break the ice.”

A breeze – This is something that is very easy to do.  That math test today was a breeze!  I’m sure I got an A on it.

A brick and mortar store – An actual physical store as opposed to an online store.

Bridge over troubled water  -  This refers to someone or something that can help you through difficult times.

Bring home the bacon – Earn a living for your family.

Broken heart-  This describes the situation when someone has lost a loved one or broken off a relationship.

Brook no nonsense – Unwilling to tolerate any nonsense.

Bun in the oven – Pregnant.  Have you seen Mary?  It looks as if she has a bun in the oven.

Burn the candle at both ends  – This term describes a very busy person.

Busy as a bee – Said of someone who is extremely busy.

Butter someone up – Saying nice things to someone else and/or doing things for them in the hopes of getting something good in return.

Butter wouldn’t melt in her mouth – Said of someone who looks too innocent to have done something wrong.

Butterfingers – This refers to someone who drops things.

Butterflies in one’s stomach – A feeling of being nervous about something.

Can't Cut The Mustard – This is said of someone who doesn’t have the ability to do something.

Can’t hold a candle to – This means that something is inferior to something else, it can’t measure up, it falls short in comparison.  When it came to artistic ability, Jenny couldn’t hold a candle to Irene.

Can’t see the forest for the trees – Said of someone who is so focused on the details of a project that they lose sight of the main idea of the project.

Cash on the barrelhead -  Cash only.  No credit cards or checks.

Cast iron stomach – This refers to someone who can eat anything or can deal with difficult situations without being affected.

Castles in the air – Building castles in the air means having grandiose plans with little chance of success.

Catch hell – To be severely scolded about something.

Cat got your tongue?  – Said to someone who is struggling to find the words to make a response.

Cat’s out of the bag – If someone spills (tells) a secret, then it is no longer a secret.  The cat is out of the bag.

Cauliflower ears – Describes a boxer’s ears – they are misshapen because of all the abuse they’ve taken.

Charley Horse – A muscle cramp, usually in the leg.

Checkered past – Someone who has a checkered past is someone who has engaged in dubious, possibly unlawful activities in their life.

Chew on this – Think about this for awhile.  Ponder something.

Chew someone out – This means to verbally scold somebody.

Chew the fat – Talk about something.

Children should be seen and not heard – This expresses the idea that children should be well-behaved and not interfere with adults.

Chip off the old block – Said of a child who is just like his or her parent.

Chip on one’s shoulder – Said of someone who carries a grudge; is unforgiving.

Chiseler – A cheapskate, someone who is tight with money (doesn’t like to spend any money.)

Chow down – To eat something.

Christmas comes but once a year – This expresses the idea that you should not expect treats and good things too often.

Climb the ladder – To “climb the ladder” means to achieve success and promotions in the work place; to get to a higher position of responsibility.

Climb the walls – If you are really anxious or upset and want to do something but have to just sit there then you are said to be “climbing the walls.”

Close but no Cigar – Describes something that was almost but not quite successful.  The idea is that a cigar used to be given as a prize for winning a contest.

Cloud 9 – A reference to being in a heavenly place; a place of great joy and contentment. For instance, “Eric was on cloud 9 because that cute girl smiled at him.”

Cock and Bull Story – An unbelievable tale.

Cold turkey – This describes stopping a behavior (such as addiction) abruptly.  Joe decided that day to give up cigarette smoking cold turkey.

Colorful language – Someone is said to use “colorful language” if they use a lot of swear words.

Come Hell or high water – A difficult or nearly impossible situation.

Come rain or shine – Something will happen no matter what the circumstances.  Despite the last minute difficulties, the company decided to release its new product come rain or shine.

Come to pass – Happen.  Finally, it came to pass that Angela graduated from high school.

Coming down in buckets – Said of rain if it raining really hard.

Compare apples and oranges – Compare two dissimilar items which really shouldn’t be compared.

Continue in this vein – Continue in the same manner.

Cool as a cucumber – Remaining calm under duress.  Not anxious.

Cool cat – Someone who is “cool”, “hip”, very suave and sophisticated.

Corner  the market -  To be almost the only one selling a particular product.  The Mycroft Music Company, after 75 years in the business, has virtually cornered the market on harpsichords.

Corporate ladder – Climbing the corporate ladder means advancing by means of promotions.

Couch potato – Somebody who spends a lot of time sitting on the couch watching television.

Counting sheep – A method of trying to get to sleep.  If you have trouble sleeping, you might try “counting sheep.”  You’ll get so bored, you’ll fall asleep.

Cream of the crop – The best in a group of something.

Croaked – This is a slang term that means “died.”

Crocodile tears – Shedding crocodile tears means that you give an outward appearance of feeling sad but inward you are very happy. 

Cross Your Fingers – A superstitious way of making something happen.  Good luck.

Crutch – This is something that a person depends on to do something with the implication that the person really doesn’t need it.  For instance:  “ He uses his calculator as a crutch to keep from having to calculate the answer himself.”

Cry one’s eyes out – To really be sad about something. 

Cry wolf – Raising a false alarm. Saying that something is dangerous when it really is not.

Cup Of Joe – A cup of coffee

Curiosity Killed The Cat – Being too inquisitive can lead to trouble.

Cut to the Chase – You would say this to somebody if they are taking too long to get to the point. 

Dark horse – Somebody (usually a candidate) who was fairly unknown but who has risen to prominence against the odds.

Dead men tell no tales – If you’ve done something bad or illegal, you do not any witnesses.  If you did have a witness and they died, then they couldn’t tell anybody what you did.

Dead Ringer – Somebody who looks remarkably like somebody else.

Dead to the world – Fast asleep so unaware of anything going on around them.

Deep pockets – Someone (or a company) with a lot of money is said to have deep pockets. 

Devil’s Advocate – Someone who takes an opposing side in an argument for the sake of discussion.  They do not necessarily agree with the side they are taking.

Diamond cut diamond – Diamond is the hardest substance known which means that a diamond can only be cut by another diamond.  This phrase refers to opponents who are equally tough.  The outcome of any disagreement will result in mutual injury.

Digs – Home.  The place where you live.

Dime a dozen – This means that something is really common; not valuable.  It can be bought cheaply.

Doesn’t have a leg to stand on – If someone makes a statement, then this means that there is nothing solid, no facts or evidence, to support that statement. 

Dog Days of Summer – The hottest days of summer.

Donkey’s years – A very long time.

Don’t bite off more than you can chew – Don’t try to take on too much at one time.  Don’t try to do 5 things at once. 

Don’t count your chickens before they hatch– If you are expecting something, better wait until you get it before taking action. 

Don’t get me wrong -  Don’t misunderstand me.  

Don’t judge a book by its cover – This means don’t evaluate a person by how he or she looks.

Don’t let the grass grow under your feet – If a good opportunity presents itself, don’t delay in acting on it.  Move quickly.

Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth – If somebody gives you a present, accept it graciously and don’t try to find fault with it.

Don’t put all your eggs in one basket– Don’t put all your hopes on one outcome. For instance, when you apply to college, apply to several, not just the one you hope to get into.  Then, if you don’t get accepted to the one you want, you’ll have other options available to you.

Don’t put the cart before the horse – This means don’t rush into things, otherwise you’ll skip some necessary steps.

Don’t put your foot in your mouth – Don’t say something that you will regret saying later.

Don’t throw a monkey wrench into the machinery – If something is working smoothly, don’t cause problems.

Don’t throw out the baby with the bath water– Don’t be too hasty in discarding things; there may be something very valuable that you should keep. 

Doozy – Said of something that is beyond ordinary.

A Doubting Thomas – Someone who is skeptical and needs physical proof in order to believe something.

Down in the dumps – This means feeling sad.

Down To The Wire – Said of an issue that is under a time constraint and takes until the last minute before being resolved.

Drag your feet – Procrastinate.  “George, quit dragging your feet!  Those leaves need to be raked up now!”

Drastic Times Call For Drastic Measures – When a situation is urgent, you need to act desperately.

Drink like a fish – To drink alcohol excessively.

Drive someone up the wall – To really annoy somebody

Drop in the bucket – This is said of something that is only a very small part of what must still be done. 

Drop someone a line; drop a note – Write a letter to someone

Dropping Like Flies – This is said when a large number of people are affected by something.

Dry Run – A rehearsal

Ear to the ground – If you keep your ear to the ground, it means that you are paying attention to what is going on around you; especially taking note of things that are being said so that you have knowledge about a situation.

The early bird catches the worm – If you are competing for something, you will be successful if you put extra effort into getting it. 

Easy Street – Somebody is said to be on Easy Street if life is very good for them.  They don’t have to work hard for the things that they want.

Eat your heart out – Said to somebody that you think is jealous of something that you have. 

Egg in the face – If you are embarrassed, then you are said to have egg in the face.  Something that makes you look ridiculous.

Eighty-six it – Throw it away. 

Every Cloud Has A Silver Lining – Every bad situation has the promise of something good.

Everything But The Kitchen Sink – A whole bunch of stuff has been included.

Evil eye – A malicious glance (If looks could kill . . .)   Robin saw her boyfriend talking with Terri and immediately gave her the evil eye.

Eyes in the back of the head – Somebody is said to have “eyes in the back of their head” if they always know what’s going on.  Like your mother or your teacher.  They always know what you are up to.  If the teacher is writing something on the board and you pass a note to Quincy, she’ll know.

The Fat was in the fire -  The situation was very bad.

Fed up – When somebody says they’re fed up, it means that they have had enough.  “I’m fed up with the neighbors playing loud music so late!”

Feeding Frenzy – A vigorous action by a number of people, for example people milling about on Black Friday to get the best deal.

Feeling blue – This means feeling sad.  

Field day – An enjoyable time.

Fifth Wheel – Somebody who is extraneous, like a third person on a date.

Finding Your Feet – Becoming more comfortable and capable in a new situation.

Finger licking good – Food that is so tasty that you want to lick your fingers to get every last morsel.

Fish out of water – Someone who is out of his element – in a situation for which he is not prepared or comfortable.

Fix – A dilemna.  If you are in a fix, you are in a predicament and need help.

Fixed In Your Ways – Unwilling to change your habits.

Flash In The Pan – Said of someone who looks very capable for a brief time but cannot sustain it.

Flea Market – A temporary place where people go to swap or buy things.

Flesh and Blood – This refers to your family.

Floats your boat – Makes you happy.  Whatever floats your boat.

Flying off the handle – Acting in haste and emotionally without thinking. 

Flying under the radar – Doing something in secret so that the activity is not noticed.  The IRS didn’t notice the discrepancies in George’s tax return because he managed to fly under the radar.

Foam at the mouth – To be very angry and show it.

Food for thought -  Something to think over seriously.

Fools' Gold – This is said of something that looks good but isn’t really valuable.  Fools’ gold is a rock (iron pyrite) that looks like gold.

Foot in the door – When you take the first step in doing a difficult project, you’ve got your foot in the door.  This expression comes from the time when salesmen went door-to-door in the hopes of selling things to people.   If they could get their “foot in the door,” then they had a much better chance of being able to demonstrate their products and make a sale.

For the birds – Useless or worthless.

Forbidden Fruit is the Sweetest – This expression is used to describe the feeling you might have when you want something you can’t have.  You desire it even more.

Forked Tongue – This means saying one thing but meaning another.  You don’t mean what you say. 

Fork over – Hand over (Give) something to someone.

Free ride – Something received in return for no effort.  Mary had a free ride through college because her parents paid for everything.

Frog in the throat – Someone who has a raspy voice because of a cold is said to have a “frog in the throat.”

From Rags To Riches – To start off being poor and then work hard to become rich.

From the frying pan into the fire – A bad situation has just gotten worse.

From the get-go – From the very beginning. 

Fruit of one’s labors – This is the payoff, or dividend of the work that you have done.  You put a lot of work into something and get something good as a result.

Fruitcake – describes someone who acts nutty or weird.  Nutty as a fruitcake.

Fuddy-duddy – An old-fashioned person who is set in their ways. 

Full of baloney– This expression is used to describe someone who doesn’t know what they are talking about.

Full of beans– This expression is used to describe someone who doesn’t know what they are talking about.

Full of hot air – This is also used to describe someone who doesn’t know what they are talking about.

Funnier than a barrel of monkeys – An event or a person that makes you laugh.

Funny farm – An institution for people with mental problems.

Get a grip! -  Get control over yourself. 

Get down to brass tacks – To get to the heart of the matter.

Get in on the ground floor – To become involved in something from the very beginning.  An exciting opportunity suddenly arose and Jason wanted to get in on the ground floor so he could double his investment.

Get off my back! – This expression is said to someone who continues to  bug you.  (nag at you or annoy you)

Get off your high horse!  - You should become less haughty, less arrogant.

Get on my soapbox – Express a strong opinion about something.  When Phil started belittling women’s rights, I had to get on my soapbox and offer a rebuttal.

Get over it – To move past an issue that is bothering you; come to some resolution.

Get something off my chest -  To express your frustration, to talk about something that’s bothering you.

Get this straight – Ensure that you have a correct understanding of something. 

Get under one’s skin – This is said of someone who really irritates you.

Get Up On The Wrong Side Of The Bed – To start off a day feeling grumpy and irritable.

Get your act together – Shape up and start acting rationally.

Get your feet wet – Experience something for the first time, especially something that involves risk.

Get your walking papers – To be fired or let go from a job.

Gin up – Boost, increase or exaggerate.  When George gave his speech, he ginned up his sales figures to make it seem like he was more successful than he really was.

Give someone more rope – To extend a deadline, be more lenient with someone, allow them more time.

Give someone the slip – To get away from somebody.

Glad eye – an inviting gaze.  John noticed Sally giving him the glad eye at the Christmas party.

Go ballistic – Really lose your temper

Go fly a kite! – You say this to someone who is bugging you; essentially it means “Leave me alone.”

Go for broke – Put everything you have into making something successful.

Go off on a rant – Start talking loudly and emotionally about something that you are displeased about.

Go out on a limb – Put yourself in a precarious situation in order to get something needful done.

Go over like a lead balloon – Said of something that is received badly by the audience.

Go over well – If something goes over well, it meant it was successful and liked.

Go the extra mile – To put in extra effort.

Go through the roof – Said of somebody who is really mad.  For example, “Sara forgot to do her chores before going out with her friends and her dad went through the roof.”

Going against the grain – This means doing something you don’t believe in because you have no choice in the matter. 

Going down a blind alley – Choosing a course of action that cannot succeed.

Going downhill – This is said of something that is getting worse.  “John is coming down with a cold; he seems to be going downhill fast.”

Going to hell in a handbasket – A situation that is deteriorating quickly.

Good egg – a nice person

Good Samaritan – A person who stops and helps somebody in trouble.

Grand – A thousand dollars. 

Graveyard shift – If somebody is working at night (after midnight), then they are working the graveyard shift.

Gravy Train – An easy life.

Greatest thing since sliced bread – A really good idea.

Great Minds Think Alike – Smart people come to the same conclusions about things.

Greener Pastures – Better circumstances.  The grass is always greener (somewhere else).

Greenhorn – This  is a term for a person who is new at doing something.

Green thumb – A person who is good at growing plants is said to have a green thumb.

Gut feeling – A personal, visceral feeling about something.

Hands are tied – This is an expression used to mean that the person is helpless in a situation.  Example:  “I’d really like to help you out but my hands are tied.”

The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world – This acknowledges that mothers have a lot of power and influence.

The handwriting is on the wall – This  means that a project is about to come to an end; the signs are there.

Had her number (Have someone’s number) – Means that you know their true personality.

Hand over fist – Very quickly.  Once Matt started his new business, he started making money hand over fist. 

Hand to mouth – Only having just enough money to live on with nothing extra.  John had been laid off from work 7 months ago and was now forced to live a hand to mouth existence.

Hang back – To wait before doing something.

Hang dog – Someone who is feeling depressed (blue) is said to have a “hang-dog” look.

Hanging in there – This means persevering in the face of adversity.  It was a long, grueling race but he hung in there because he had promised his family that he would finish.

Hang out to dry – See Hung out to dry.

Happy as a clam – Feeling quite happy.

Happy Camper – Someone who is feeling quite happy.

Haste Makes Waste – Doing something in too much of a hurry means doing a sloppy job.

Having second thoughts – Having already made a decision about something, now you are rethinking your decision and wishing you had decided differently.

Head in the clouds – Said of someone who cannot keep his mind on the things around him.

Head Over Heels – Excessively, joyfully in love.

Heard it through the grapevine – This means that someone has heard some news (usually a rumor) in an indirect manner.  Example:

            Joe:  “I hear you are getting a promotion.  Congratulations!”

            Mary:  “How did you hear that?”

            Joe: “ Oh, I heard it through the grapevine.”

Heavy lifting – The major portion of the work.  As usual, management took the credit for the successful project even though our team had done the heavy lifting.

He Lost His Head – This means that he became too angry and acted poorly.

High horse – A contemptuous attitude or arrogance.  Get off your high horse means to become less arrogant, less haughty.

High on the Hog – Living in luxury.  You could see that Malcolm was living high on the hog with his expensive clothes and high-end automobiles.

Highway robbery – An exorbitant price for something.  Have you seen what they’re charging for that watch? It’s highway robbery!

High-wire act – A risky job or operation.

Hitched - Married

Hit me up – (Hit up) – To ask someone for something

Hit The Books – This means to study hard.

You hit the nail on the head – Said to someone who expresses precisely the nature of a problem or succinctly expresses an idea.

Hit the sack/Hit the hay – This  means going to bed.  “I’m tired, I think I’ll hit the sack.”

Hitch your wagon to a star – Try to have lofty goals if you want to succeed.

Hocus Pocus – Magic

Hold Your Horses – Be patient, wait for a bit.

Hole in the wall – Usually a small business.  “There’s a hole in the wall Mexican restaurant right around the corner that serves the best burritos.”

Home is where the heart is – This means that no matter where you are, you always wish you could be back home.

Honesty is the best policy – This means that if you do not tell the truth, you often will get into trouble.  So the best course of action is to be an honest, truth-telling person.

A House Divided Against Itself Cannot Stand – If a team cannot work together, the project will be unsuccessful. 

Hung out to dry – If somebody has been “hung out to dry,” it means that somebody has deliberately gotten them into trouble.   This term comes from the old custom of washing clothes and then hanging the wet wash on a clothesline to dry.

Hungry enough to eat a horse – You might say this if you want to express how very hungry you are.

I don’t buy it – This phrase means that you are not believing somebody’s explanation.

I was framed – This means that somebody has set you up – created a situation in which it looks like you have done something wrong when you haven’t done anything wrong.  Example:  Joe steals money from Susan’s purse, then spreads the rumor that Fred did it.  Joe has framed Fred by making it seem as if Fred were the guilty party.  (The one who did the stealing.)

Icing on the cake  – This phrase is used to describe a situation in which the outcome yields more than was expected.  For instance, if you were expecting to be paid $20 but were paid $25, then the extra $5 is icing on the cake.

If It's Not One Thing, It's Another – Said when there are a number of things going wrong in succession.

If the shoe fits, wear it – This means that if somebody tells you something about yourself that you don’t particularly like but know it to be true, you should acknowledge it.   
Mary:  “John said that I was too bossy!  Can you believe it?”
Alice:  “Well, if the shoe fits, wear it.”

I’ll eat my hat – You might say this to indicate that you really believe that something won’t happen.  Example “If the boss gives me a raise, I’ll eat my hat.”

Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery – This phrase means that the best way to flatter someone is to do what they do. 

In a nutshell – In a concise manner.  Briefly.

In a stew – This is said of somebody who is really troubled by something.  “I’ve got a really important test tomorrow and I’m in a stew about it.”  Also “In a lather” is a similar expression.

In it up to one’s neck – This means that somebody is really involved in something.

In hot water – Said of somebody who is in trouble.

In my shoes – If you had been in my shoes means:  “If you were me. . .”

In no time at all – Instantly

In one ear and out the other – This phrase means that somebody isn’t paying attention to what is being said.

In short order – Quickly.  

In some fashion or other -  A goal has been achieved; how you got there or accomplished it does not matter. 

In the bag – Said of something that has a certain outcome – a “done deal.”

In the dark – Said of somebody who doesn’t have complete information about something.  Example:  “I’m working in the dark because the boss forgot to give me the design requirements.”

In The Heat Of The Moment – A short space of time when you are overwhelmed by events and often act rashly.

In Your Face – If somebody is acting aggressively towards you in a personal confrontation, then they are in your face. 

It takes two to tango – In a conflict, both parties are responsible.

It’s a dog-eat-dog world – This means that everybody is very competitive.

It's A Small World – Said when you see familiar people in unusual or distant places.

It’s anyone’s call – Describes a situation where the outcome is uncertain.

It’s no use crying over spilled milk – This means that if you make a mistake, don’t spend a lot of time lamenting the fact, get on with making amends.

It’s written all over your face – This phrase pertains to somebody who is trying to keep a secret but can’t hide the fact – their expression gives them away.

Ivy League – Describes certain high-level universities such as Princton, Harvard, Yale etc.

Jaywalk – To walk across the street in between pedestrian crosswalks.

Joshing – Kidding.  “Are you joshing me?” means “are you kidding me?”

Jump down someone’s throat – To criticize someone strongly.  When John failed to meet the important deadline, the boss jumped down his throat.

Just for grins – Just to have a pleasurable experience.

Just a hunch – A feeling that you have about something that is not supported by any evidence.

Keep an even keel – Maintain things in a steady state without perturbations.  Don’t rock the boat.  Remain calm.above

Keep An Eye On Him – Watch that person closely

Keep your chin up – Try to stay cheerful under unhappy circumstances

Keep your head above water – This means don’t get too involved in something or else you may be overwhelmed. 

Kick the bucket – This means to die.  Somebody “kicked the bucket.”

Killing two birds with one stone – This means solving two problems with one action.

Kiss it goodbye – Part with something forever.

Kitty-corner – Diagonally across.  

Knee Jerk Reaction – An automatic response. 

Knock on wood – This is a way of warding off bad happenings.  Example:  “I’m hoping to get that job, knock on wood.” 

Knock their socks off – Surprise someone completely. 

Know the Ropes – Become familiar with something such as a procedure.

Last but not least – Said to emphasize that the last thing or person mentioned is as important as the others mentioned.

Lemon – This refers to an inferior product.  If you buy a car and it has a lot of problems, then you refer to it as a “lemon.”

Leave one’s mark – This means doing something that has a lasting effect.  Example:  “Mr. Hughes left his mark on the world by teaching high school in an exemplary fashion for 35 years.”

Left in the lurch – To have deserted someone when they were in trouble.  When the police came knocking on the front door, I ran out the back and left John in the lurch.

Left to my own devices – Left without any directions, free to do as I choose.

Lend me your ear/ lend an ear – I want to talk with you.

A Leopard Can't Change His Spots – You cannot change your nature.

Let Bygones Be Bygones – Don’t dwell on past events.

Let Sleeping Dogs Lie – Don’t stir up past troubles.

Let someone walk all over you – To allow someone to take advantage of you, to use you for their own gain.  Once again, she did not stand up for herself but allowed her husband to walk all over her. 

Let The Cat Out Of The Bag – To tell a secret when you weren’t supposed to.

Let the chips fall where they may – This means that some action has been taken which will result in consequences and there is nothing to be done about it. 

Let’s call a spade a spade – This means to be clear about some negative action.  Don’t try to disguise the severity of the action by using “nicer” words.

Level headed – Keeping calm in a situation; thinking clearly.  Not flying off the handle.

Level playing field – A situation where both sides have an equal chance at succeeding.

Life has its ups and downs – This means that sometimes things are going well and you feel good and other times things are not going well.  This saying helps to remember that when you are feeling bad, the situation will change for the better eventually.

Life is a two-way street– This means that if you ask someone for something, you should reciprocate by doing something for them.

Light as a feather – Said of something or someone who does not weigh very much.

Lightning never strikes in the same place twice – This means that the same misfortune or bad luck will not happen to the same person.  (It should be noted that lightning in reality DOES sometimes strike in the same place, i.e. a tower) 

Like a chicken with its head cut off – In a frenzied manner.

Like father, like son – This expression means that if the father has some character trait, then the son will have it as well. 

Like night and day – This is said of something that is going between two extremes.  Example:  “Yesterday, Mary seemed so very happy.  Today she seems very sad.  It’s like night and day.”

Lion’s share – The greater portion of something.

Lip service – To give or pay lip service to something is to pretend to support an idea but not do anything to help it succeed.  Although Terry paid lip service to the idea of a carwash as a fundraiser, when the day came to actually participate, Terry was nowhere to be found.

Long and winding road– This means that there is a long way to go to achieve something and there will be difficulties along the way. 

Long in the Tooth - Old

Look before you leap – This means that you should always be cautious before embarking on something.  Don’t act rashly (in too much of a hurry.) 

Look the other way – Purposely ignore something

A Loose Cannon – Someone who acts without following the rules or using caution.

Lose one’s head – This expression means that the person isn’t thinking straight (clearly).  Example:  “John seems to have lost his head over some girl.”

Mad as a hatter – Insane.

Make a pig of myself – Eat too much.  There was so much good food at the potluck so I made a pig of myself.

Make hay while the sun shines – This means to get busy and so something while you have the opportunity. 

Make No Bones About – To tell something in a straightforward manner and without reservations.

Many hands make light work– This means that a tedious job is much easier if there are many people helping to do it. 

Mind your own business – Stop prying into my affairs.  Also, “mind your own beeswax” or “Keep your nose out of my affairs.”

Money is no object – The cost of something does not matter.

More than meets the eye – There is more to this issue than you are telling me.  You are seeing only a small part of everything involved.

Mumbo Jumbo – Incoherent or nonsensical speech

Mum's the word – Say this to someone when you don’t want them to speak about a subject.  “There’s a surprise party for Jane this Saturday so mum’s the word.”

My eyes were bigger than my stomach – I took more food than I could eat.

Needle in a haystack – This expression is used when there is a very hard job to do.  “It’s like trying to find a needle in a haystack.”

Nest Egg – This refers to your savings; what you will use to retire on.

Never Bite The Hand That Feeds You – Don’t treat any person badly who has helped you.

New kid on the block – A term for a person that is newly hired or recently arrived.

New York Minute – A minute which passes by very quickly in a fast-paced environment.

Next to nothing – Almost nothing

No Dice – Said when you do not agree to something.

No strings attached – This expression means that a person who has been given a gift is under no obligations.  For instance, if you get a gift of $20 with no strings attached, it means you can use it however you want.

Nosy Parker – This is someone who is prying into other people’s affairs.

Nothing to sneeze at – Said of something that should be taken seriously.  This new sick leave policy is nothing to sneeze at. 

Not Playing With a Full Deck – Said of someone who is mentally challenged.

Nursed a grudge – Continued to feel resentment about something.

Off and running – Starting and then fully involved in some activity.

Off On The Wrong Foot – A bad start to a relationship

Off one’s rocker – This means that someone is acting crazy.

Off the cuff – Unrehearsed.  During her speech, Janice made some off-the-cuff remarks.

Off The Hook – Relieved of the responsibility for some situation.

Off the Record – Said of something told in confidence that should not be shared or made public.

Old as dirt – Ancient.  Usually used in a humorous way to describes someone’s age.

Old as the hills - Ancient.  Usually used in a humorous way to describes someone’s age.

Old money – Inherited wealth built up over many generations.

On a bender – Getting drunk, intoxicated.

On Pins And Needles – Excited and nervous about something

On The Fence – Undecided about something

On the fly – (On the spur of the moment), - Extemporaneous. Doing something without any preparation.  He decided on the fly to drive to Las Vegas.

On The Same Page – In agreement with

On the tip of one’s tongue– This means that you can almost but not quite remember something.  Example:  “I know that girl but I can’t quite remember her name.  It’s on the tip of my tongue.”

On the up and up – Said of an ethical person; someone who follows the rules.

Once in a blue moon – Very rarely occuring. 

One man’s meat is another man’s poison – Something that is good for you may not be good for somebody else.  

Other fish to fry – Other options or choices that take precedence over THIS choice.  Sorry, Boss, I’d like to do that report but right now I have other fish to fry.

Out Of The Blue – (Out of the clear blue sky) Unexpectedly

Out on a limb – This expression means that a person is taking a risk.

Out On The Town/Painting the town red – Enjoying oneself by going out.

Out to pasture – This is said of someone who is no longer working, usually because they have retired. 

Over a barrel– This means that you are in a helpless position. 

Over My Dead Body – When you refuse to allow someone to do something.

Over the hill – This is said of someone who is older and no longer able to do the things he or she used to do.  

Over the Top – Excessively.

Packs a punch – Has a powerful effect.  

Pain in the neck – This expression means that a person is making a nuisance of themselves.

Painting the town red – This means to really celebrate something. 

Pass The Buck – Assign responsibility to somebody else so you don’t have to deal with it.

Pearls before swine– Swine are pigs so this expression means that certain people cannot appreciate the good things they are being shown or given.  A pearl has great value but a pig has no appreciation of that.

Pedal to the metal – Go full speed while driving

Pick up the tab – Pay for everybody.  We all went out for lunch and the boss picked up the tab.

Piece of cake – This expression means that some task is really easy.

Pig In A Poke –Something you buy without first examining it.  A “poke” is an old term for a bag. 

Pig Out – To eat a lot

People who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones – This means that you should not point out faults with other people if you have similar faults yourself.  As an example, you should avoid saying “Lisa can’t understand simple fractions!” when you are struggling with Social Studies.

Pipe Down – Said as an order to someone to be quiet.

Playing second fiddle– If someone is said to be playing second fiddle, it means that there is somebody else who is more important.

Plays fast and loose with something – To treat somebody or something recklessly.  The lawyer played fast and loose with the facts of the case in order to win.

Plays favorites – Shows a definite preference to somebody in a group; especially if all members of the group should be equally treated.  

Poison one’s mind – This means that someone has said something derogatory (bad) which makes you think badly about something.  Example:  “I really liked Mary until Sam told me that she cheated on her math test.  It poisoned my mind against her.”

Pot belly – This means that someone has a large stomach. 

Practice Makes Perfect – Expresses the idea that continued practise will improve your skills.

Practice what you preach – This means that you should not give advice to someone else that you are not willing to follow yourself.   As an example, don’t tell John to quit smoking if you are a smoker yourself.

Pretty as a picture– This is said of someone (usually a girl) who is very pretty.  The idea is that she is so beautiful that she is worth painting a picture of.

Pull the plug – Put an end to something.  Stop a process.

Pull up a chair – If someone says this to you, they are inviting you to sit with them.

Pulling one’s leg – This means to kid somebody.  Example:  “Joe told me that he has a pet Anaconda but I think he’s pulling my leg.” 

Pulling your weight – Carrying your fair share of the load, handling your responsibilities.

Pushing up daisies – This is said of someone who has died and been buried.  “He lived a long life but now he’s pushing up daisies.”

Put a feather in your cap– A feather in your cap is an accomplishment – something that you can be proud of.

Put a lid on it – Stop doing whatever it is you are doing.  Stop talking.

Put a sock in it – Another way of saying “Be quiet!”

Put my two cents in – To offer my opinion.  Similar to weigh in.  

Put on hold – Wait.  The boss put our project on hold indefinitely.  The project must wait until the boss says to work on it again.

Put our heads together – This is similar to “two heads are better than one” and means we can work together to solve something that would be difficult for one person alone.

Put your money where your mouth is – This is said to someone who is talking about doing something but not doing it.  This expression means “Just go do it and quit talking about it.”

Racing against the clock – If you are racing against the clock,then you have a short amount of time in which to get something done.  

Raincheck ( rain check) – A postponement of something.

Raining cats and dogs– This means that it is raining very hard.

Rat race– This is a description of a very busy work life.

Riding shotgun – Sitting in the front passenger seat.  Or “sitting shotgun.”

Ring someone up – Call someone on the telephone

Rise and Shine – Time to get out of bed in the morning.

Roll with the punches - This means that we need to accept the difficult circumstances that we sometimes find ourselves in, to be able to deal well with difficulties or criticism.

Rome wasn’t built in a day – A large project should not be rushed.

Roof over one’s head – This refers to your house.

Rooted to the spot – This is said of someone who is so caught up in a situation that they can’t move.  Example:  Suddenly the bear turned towards him.  He wanted to run but was rooted to the spot because his legs didn’t want to work.

Rotten to the core – Someone who is completely bad.  Having no redeeming qualities.

Rough around the edges – Impolite, not smooth or polished.  In need of further refinement.  Living alone for so long in the wilderness had made John a little rough around the edges when it came to being in polite society.

Rough patch – A time of trouble.  He’s going through a rough patch right now because his wife is leaving him.

Rub shoulders with – Be in close proximity to

Rule Of Thumb – A rough estimate.

Run out of steam – Lose energy.

Salad days – The days of your youth.

Save money for a rainy day – Prepare for hard times in the future, usually by setting aside (saving) some money.

Saved By The Bell – Rescued at the last possible moment

Sawing logs – This means sleeping because snoring sounds like sawing logs.

Scapegoat – One who takes the blame for something

Scot-free – Without having to suffer a consequence

Screw up your courage – Bolster your confidence in order to initiate some action that is scary.

See it coming – To know that a situation is going to occur. 

Self-made man – This is a description of a man who has achieved success through his own efforts and initiative instead of depending on others.

Set someone off – Upset somebody, make them angry.

She stole his heart – When a man falls in love with a woman, she can be said to have stolen his heart.

Shoot one’s mouth off  – This is said of someone who is talking rashly or bragging.

Shot in the arm – This is said of something that gives one needed energy.  Example: “Boy I was dreading that math assignment but when the teacher praised me in front of the class, it was like getting a shot in the arm.  Now I’m not afraid of the assignment anymore.”

Sick As A Dog – Very ill.

Shoulda Coulda Woulda - An expression of regret in thinking about what should have (shoulda), could have (coulda) or would have (woulda) happened had you made a different decision.

            Example:

            John:  “Boy, if only I have bought Apple stock when it first came out.  I’d be a             millionaire now!”

            Fred:  “Yeah, me too.  Shoulda coulda woulda.”

Side note -  On a side note – As a side note – This is information which is not necessarily directly related to the topic.

Silver lining - Every Cloud Has A Silver Lining – Every bad situation has the promise of something good.

Sitting on a fence – This describes somebody who can’t make up their mind.  It is like sitting on a fence because you could fall either forwards or backwards.

Sixth Sense – A paranormal feeling, ESP (extrasensory perception) such as telepathy or clairvoyance.

Skid Row – The poor, run-down part of a city

Sky is falling – This describes a situation when a person thinks that something very bad is going to happen whether or not it really is going to happen or not. 

Sky’s the limit  – This phrase is used to mean that there is no limit on your activity, usually spending.  “Buy anything you want, the sky’s the limit.”

A Slap on the Wrist – A minor consequence for some offence.

Slipped my mind – This means you’ve forgotten something.  I was scheduled for an appointment at 1:30 but it slipped my mind so I had to reschedule for a different day.

Slow as molasses in January – A very slow process.  John’s a good person but he’s as slow as molasses in January when it comes to getting his work done.

Slow but steady wins the race – This means that somebody who does their work well and methodically will succeed in the end better than somebody who does their work too quickly and carelessly.

Smell A Rat/Something’s fishy – To detect something wrong (unethical) about something.

Something up one’s sleeve – This describes somebody who is hiding something (such as information) which they will use to their advantage later.  The expression is taken from the game of Poker when a person who is cheating conceals an ace in their sleeve.

Something’s rotten in Denmark – This describes a situation when it is suspected that something as yet undiscovered is not right.

Son of a Gun – A mischievous but likeable person.  A scamp or scalawag or rascal.

Sour grapes  – This phrase is used to mean that something you really wanted but couldn’t have wasn’t that good anyway.   It is a loser’s way of making themselves feel better when they couldn’t win the prize.

Southpaw – Someone who is left-handed.

Speak softly and carry a big stick – A proverb  advising the tactic of caution and non-aggression, backed up by the ability to do violence if necessary.    Also “Walk softly and carry a big stick.”

Spitting Image – Someone who looks almost exactly like someone else.

Spun up – In a state of anxiety.  Agitated.

Start From Scratch – To begin again from the start.

Steal Someone's Thunder – To take attention away from or take credit for someone elses accomplishments.

A Stitch in time saves nine  – This means that quick action to fix something going wrong will save a lot of time later on because there will not be as much damage.

Stone face – This describes somebody who is not showing any emotion.

Straight from the horse’s mouth  – When you are told information directly from the source rather than an intermediate party, then you are getting that information “straight from the horse’s mouth.”

Stretch one’s legs – This means to get up after sitting for a long time.

Strong Stomach  – This means that you can handle difficult situations and not be upset by unpleasant things.

Struck a chord – Reminded someone of something; was familiar.

Stubborn as a mule – This describes somebody who refuses to change his or her mind.

Stuffed shirt  – This describes somebody who is pompous and formal.  No fun to be with.

Sunday best – Your best clothes, the ones you would wear to church. 

Sweep it under the rug – This means to conceal something in the hopes that it won’t be discovered by others.  “The couple tried to sweep the embarrasing incident under the rug.”

Sweet-talk – The use of flattery to get you to do something

Take a shine to – Develop an affection for someone.  It was very clear that Andrew had taken a shine to the new office girl.

Take heart – Be encouraged.

Take on a matter – What is your take on this matter is similar to asking “What is your opinion about this matter?”  

Take (something) for granted – To expect something or someone to be available to you without expressing gratitude.  

Take the bull by the horns  – This means to take action in a difficult situation rather than procrastinate.

Take with a grain of salt – To use caution before believing what somebody is saying.

Taken the wrong way -  Misunderstood, usually causing an undesirable result.  “Don’t take this the wrong way, Melissa, but you don’t seem interested in your work lately.”

Talk turkey – This means to talk frankly; to talk business.

Tall tale – This is something that isn’t true but is innocuous rather than malicious.  The Paul Bunyan stories are examples of tall tales.

A Taste Of Your Own Medicine – This means being treated badly the same way that you mistreat others.

Tearjerker – A very sentimental story or movie.

Ten foot pole  – This is used to describe a situation that you wish to remain clear of.  Example: “John has the measles, so right now I wouldn’t touch him with a ten foot pole!”

That rings a bell – This means that something somebody said or perhaps a picture you see  has triggered a memory.

That's a horse of a different color  – This means that you’re talking about something else which does not relate to the original topic.

That’s how the cookie crumbles – If a situation has an outcome that you were not hoping for or expecting, then you (or somebody else) can say this.

The Ball Is In Your Court – It’s now your turn to take action.

The Best Of Both Worlds – If there are two choices, you can choose both.

The Bigger They Are The Harder They Fall – This conveys a sense of optimism when facing an opponent who is bigger than you are.

The last straw – This is used in the situation when there is a series of setbacks (things going wrong) and then there is one more setback which causes one to stop trying.

The third time’s a charm – If you’ve failed at two attempts, then the third try should succeed.

The Whole Nine Yards - Everything

There’s a method to my madness – My actions may not make sense to you but they all have a purpose.

There is no fool like an old fool – This means that older people can make mistakes too but it seems worse than when a younger person does the same.  The older person should know better.

There is no such thing as a free lunch – You can’t get something for nothing. 

There’s more than one way to skin a cat  – This means that there are at least two different ways to get something done.

Thorn in one’s side  – This describes a person (or issue) that is particularly bothersome and irritating.

Throw in the towel  – This phrase is used to describe a situation in which somebody is giving up on trying to do something. 

Throw the book at – This means to impose the full consequences of someone’s bad actions.  To punish or criticize as severly as possible.

Throw under a bus – Cause somebody else to take the blame for a bad situation.

Ticking Time Bomb – This describes a person who is under a lot of stress and whose actions are therefore unpredictable.  This person is ready to explode (lose his temper) at any moment.   Also knows as a Walking Time Bomb.

Tie the knot – get married.

Tied up – If somebody is “tied up at the moment,” it means that they are too busy to accept one more activity ( such as seeing you). 

Tighten one’s belt – This means that times are tough; you do not have as much money, so must cut back on spending.

Time flies – Or “time flies when you are having fun” which means that pleasurable activities often seem to go by quickly. 

Tin ear – Having no musical ability. Although my parents wanted me to take piano lessons, it was quickly discovered that I have a tin ear so they stopped sending me.

Toe the line – To obey the rules.  Johnny decided he’d better toe the line if he wanted his dad to agree to take him to the movie.

To make a long story short – Said by a narrator near the end of a long story to attempt to keep the audience engaged. 

To my way of thinking – In my opinion

To no avail – A fruitless endeavor; an effort which did not result in anything useful.

Too many cooks spoil the broth – If too many people get involved in a project, especially in trying to lead it, then the project may not get done properly.

A Toss-Up – Said of a situation where the outcome is unclear.

Tongue-in-cheek – This implies that a statement is not to be taken seriously.

Tongue-tied – Unable to get the words out correctly, speechless with embarrassment or shyness

Touched upon -  Mentioned briefly.  In our meeting, we only touched upon the subject of retirement because we were running out of time.

Tough as nails – This describes someone who is very strong in character with a strong will.  Very determined.

Train wreck – describes someone whos life is a mess.

Tread carefully – Be very careful in proceeding with this matter.  Be wary and cautious.

Troubled waters – A time of difficulty and problems.

Try a different tack – Start using a different method for accomplishing something.

Turn A Blind Eye – Choose to ignore something you know isn’t ethical or legal.

Turn in – Go to bed for the night.

Turn the tables – Reverse the situation.  If I tell a lie about you, then you can turn the tables on me by telling lies about me. 

Two heads are better than one – If you are trying to solve something by yourself and are having trouble, it is often helpful to ask for advice from another person.

Two is company but three’s a crowd – If an activity is meant for two people, then a third person is not wanted.  For instance, if you are going on a date, you don’t want your little sister tagging along.  The sister would be a “third wheel”; extraneous.

Under the weather – This means feeling sick.

Until the cows come home – A very long time.

Until the fat lady sings – Until the very end.

Up against the wall – This describes a feeling of helplessness; there is no escape.  For instance, if you have a project due tomorrow and cannot possibly complete it on time, then you are “up against a wall.”

Up in the air – This is said of something that has not been decided yet or the outcome is not yet known.  “Are we going to get Christmas off this year?”  “I don’t know, the boss hasn’t decided so it’s still up in the air.”

Variety is the spice of life – This means that different experiences enhance one’s life.  When you continue to do the same things day after day, you are living “in a rut” and it can become boring.

Wag the Dog – Purposely divert attention away from something of great importance.

Wake Up Call – An event that causes someone to be aware of a bad situation. 

Walk all over someone - To take advantage of someone, to use them for your own gain.  Once again, she did not stand up for herself but allowed her husband to walk all over her.

Wallflower – A description of somebody who is shy.  This type of person stands against the walls at parties; often the walls are covered with wallpaper which has a pattern of flowers so the person blends into the wall, becoming a “wallflower.”

Walls have ears -  This is a warning that secrets which are spoken aloud, seemingly in confidence, can be overheard.

Watched pot never boils – This expresses the sentiment that if you are in a hurry for something to happen, if you spend your time focused on that event, it will seem to take forever.

Water under the bridge – Said of events and decisions that took place in the past; why continue to talk about them now?

Way to a man’s heart is through his stomach – An old recipe for romance.  It was felt that women who knew how to cook were better able to attract a husband.

We are all in the same boat – This means that everyone is facing the same challenges.

Wear many hats – This is said of someone who shoulders many responsibilities.

Wear Your Heart On Your Sleeve – Don’t keep your emotions and feelings hidden.

Weather the storm – To be patient during a bad situation and wait until things get better.

Weigh in – to offer your own opinion.  Similar to putting your two cents in.  When I heard my coworkers talking about health care, I decided to weigh in on the matter.  

Weight of the world on one’s shoulders – Someone who has a heavy feeling of responsibility and is feeling very depressed often walks around with stooped shoulders giving the idea that they are carrying around a very heavy weight. 

Well-seasoned – Experienced.

Went south – Said of a situation that has taken a turn for the worse.

Wet behind the ears – Refers to someone who is brand-new at something.  A neophyte, novice, tyro, greenhorn.  The new stock clerk filed the envelope in the wrong folder because he was still wet behind the ears.

What’s the scoop? – What information can you give me?

When all is said and done - At the end of some process, when everything has occurred, when all the arguments have been presented.  Example:  I could recommend which type of job you should try to get but when all is said and done, since you’ll be the one  working, you should be the one to choose.  (Same as: At the end of the day).

When It Rains, It Pours – When one thing happens, then probably many other related things will happen as well.

When one door shuts another opens – When you don’t get what you want in one area, often time another opportunity will open up that wasn’t there before.  For instance, if you did not get the “dream job” you were really hoping for, then very soon, another job will become available to you.

When pigs fly/ When hell freezes over  – This indicates something that will never happen

Where there’s smoke there’s fire – This has to do with rumors.  If it is rumored that somebody did something, most likely they really did.  This type of rumormongering can ruin people’s reputations.  For instance if somebody tells you:  “I heard that Bob stole $20 from the coffee fund at work,” then you are apt to think badly of Bob, whether or not he really did steal the money.

Whole enchilada – The entire amount.  Everything.

Wild and woolly – Rough and uncultured.  Lawless. 

Win over – To persuade somebody to do something.

Wine and Dine – Treat someone to an expensive dinner.

Wishy washy – Can’t make a decision, feeling or acting ambivalent about something

With an eye towards – With an intention of doing something.  I’m saving up my allowance with an eye towards buying a new bicycle someday.

Without A Doubt – With absolute certainty.

Wrap my head around – To gain an understanding of something.  I had trouble wrapping my head around the fact that my nephew was so grown up now.

Wrapped around the axle – In a difficult situation with no idea how to proceed.  Similar to spun up. 

Wrapped up – Completely absorbed by something.  John was so wrapped up in his work that he didn’t notice Jane standing there.

Writing on the wall – A portent of something bad

X marks the spot – Shows the place where something is located. 

You are what you eat – The activities that you engage in and the people that you associate with help to form your character.

You can’t be in two places at once – If you are busy and somebody asks you to do something else which precludes you from continuing to do your first activity, you would then say “I’m sorry but I can’t be in two places at once.”

You can’t have your cake and eat it too – You cannot do two mutually exclusive activities at the same time.

You Can't Judge A Book By Its Cover – Appearances will not tell you everything about a person.

You can’t take it with you – This expresses the idea that no matter how much wealth and possessions you gain over your lifetime, you will not be able to take any of it beyond the grave.  It will do you no good once you are dead.

You crack me up – This means that you make me laugh.

You light up my life – Something about you gives me great joy!

You’re a heel – You are not a nice person.

You’re breaking my heart – Something that you are doing is causing me emotional pain.

Your Guess Is As Good As Mine – I have no idea either.

You’ve got me wrapped around your little finger – I’ll do anything for you.

Zero Tolerance – This indicates that a rule will be followed exactly – there is no room (allowance) for leniency.