Give someone the cold shoulder
To deliberately ignore someone or treat them without friendliness or interest.
After our argument, he gave me the cold shoulder at lunch.
THE IDIOM COLLECTION
Go beyond the literal words. Learn what everyday expressions mean—and how to use them.
THE EXPRESSION COLLECTION
To deliberately ignore someone or treat them without friendliness or interest.
After our argument, he gave me the cold shoulder at lunch.
To make an effort to control your emotions and act more calmly.
I needed to get a grip before answering the difficult email.
Very energetic and enthusiastic.
The children were full of beans after the outdoor games.
From the very beginning of something.
The tutor made the expectations clear from the word go.
For a very low price.
We bought the second-hand shelves for a song.
To suddenly react with intense anger.
He flew off the handle when he saw the missing booking.
To keep trying hard at something when success is impossible or no longer realistically achievable.
Without fixing the leaking pipe, we were fighting a losing battle to keep the floor dry.
To experience financial pressure because costs are high or income has fallen.
We began to feel the pinch when our travel costs rose.
Honestly and according to the rules, without cheating.
She won the quiz fair and square.
Something gained easily, especially money, may be quickly spent or lost without much regret.
The unexpected gift money soon went on a weekend trip—easy come, easy go.
PUT IT INTO PRACTICE
Use what you have learned in a short daily activity or a language game.