Reference
Browse idiomatic expressions with a plain-language meaning and a short example. Usage can vary between regions and situations.
This is a finite curated collection. Each entry includes its source link and attribution/license notes.
To make a first interaction less awkward or formal.
“The host asked an easy question to break the ice.”
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To describe the essential point accurately.
“You hit the nail on the head when you said the instructions were unclear.”
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Feeling slightly ill or unwell.
“I'm a little under the weather, so I'll join by phone.”
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Very rarely.
“We eat at that restaurant once in a blue moon.”
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Something that is very easy to do; informal.
“After a little practice, the setup was a piece of cake.”
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To reveal information that was meant to be kept secret.
“Maya spilled the beans about the surprise before the party.”
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To be extremely expensive; informal and often exaggerated.
“The concert tickets cost an arm and a leg.”
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To avoid saying something directly.
“Rather than beat around the bush, he explained the delay.”
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To stop working for now, often because enough has been done.
“We've finished the urgent edits; let's call it a day.”
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To face a difficult or unpleasant task instead of postponing it.
“I finally bit the bullet and booked the appointment.”
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Doing something late is preferable to not doing it at all.
“She sent a thank-you note a week later—better late than never.”
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It is your turn or responsibility to make the next decision or take action.
“I've shared the proposal; now the ball is in your court.”
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To work or study late into the night.
“He burned the midnight oil to finish the report.”
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To save time or money by skipping steps, often reducing quality or safety.
“The contractor refused to cut corners on the wiring.”
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To become difficult to control.
“The discussion got out of hand when everyone started talking at once.”
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To reveal a secret, often by accident.
“I let the cat out of the bag when I mentioned the planned visit.”
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Sharing the same understanding or expectations about something.
“Let's review the deadline so the whole team is on the same page.”
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To tease someone by making them believe something untrue, usually playfully.
“I was only pulling your leg about the extra meeting.”
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To avoid choosing between options or taking a clear position.
“The committee cannot sit on the fence forever; it must choose a date.”
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A setback that later turns out to have a beneficial result.
“Missing that train was a blessing in disguise; I met the project lead at the station.”
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