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THE IDIOM COLLECTION

Say more with an idiom.

Go beyond the literal words. Learn what everyday expressions mean—and how to use them.

THE EXPRESSION COLLECTION

Explore the idiom collection.

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604 idiomsPage 25 of 61

English expression

Get a grip

Meaning

To make an effort to control your emotions and act more calmly.

In a sentence

I needed to get a grip before answering the difficult email.

English expression

Fight a losing battle

Meaning

To keep trying hard at something when success is impossible or no longer realistically achievable.

In a sentence

Without fixing the leaking pipe, we were fighting a losing battle to keep the floor dry.

English expression

Feel the pinch

Meaning

To experience financial pressure because costs are high or income has fallen.

In a sentence

We began to feel the pinch when our travel costs rose.

English expression

Easy come, easy go

Meaning

Something gained easily, especially money, may be quickly spent or lost without much regret.

In a sentence

The unexpected gift money soon went on a weekend trip—easy come, easy go.

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