English expression
Beat someone to it
Meaning
To do something before another person who also intended to do it.
In a sentence
I was going to make the tea, but you beat me to it.
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THE EXPRESSION COLLECTION
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English expression
Be poles apart
Meaning
To be completely different or strongly opposed.
In a sentence
The two proposals are poles apart in cost and ambition.
English expression
Be no picnic
Meaning
To be difficult or unpleasant rather than easy and enjoyable.
In a sentence
Moving all the equipment upstairs was no picnic.
English expression
Be music to your ears
Meaning
To be news or words that you are very pleased to hear.
In a sentence
The offer of extra volunteers was music to my ears.
English expression
Be in your element
Meaning
To feel happy and comfortable because you are doing something you enjoy and do well.
In a sentence
She is in her element when she is teaching small groups.
English expression
Be in two minds
Meaning
To be unable to decide because you see reasons for different choices.
In a sentence
I am in two minds about joining the evening course.
English expression
Back in the saddle
Meaning
Doing an activity again after a period away from it.
In a sentence
After a month away from rehearsals, I was glad to be back in the saddle.
English expression
At the top of your game
Meaning
Performing at your best in a skill, job or activity.
In a sentence
She was at the top of her game during the final presentation.
English expression
At the crack of dawn
Meaning
Very early in the morning, especially around daybreak.
In a sentence
We left at the crack of dawn to set up the market stall.
English expression
At full stretch
Meaning
Working at your maximum capacity, with no room to take on more.
In a sentence
The kitchen team is at full stretch preparing meals for the festival.
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