English expression
Have a thick skin
Meaning
Be able to handle criticism or unkind remarks without becoming easily upset.
In a sentence
Working with public reviews has helped me develop a thick skin.
THE IDIOM COLLECTION
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THE EXPRESSION COLLECTION
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English expression
Test the waters
Meaning
Check people’s reactions or likely success before making a larger commitment.
In a sentence
We will test the waters with one evening class before launching a full programme.
English expression
You can’t teach an old dog new tricks
Meaning
A saying suggesting that established habits or skills are difficult to change.
In a sentence
“You can’t teach an old dog new tricks,” he joked when he reached for his familiar notebook.
English expression
Talk shop
Meaning
Discuss your work when you are away from work, especially with colleagues.
In a sentence
We promised not to talk shop during the picnic.
English expression
Take something to heart
Meaning
Think about advice or criticism seriously, often with a strong emotional reaction.
In a sentence
I took the criticism to heart and worried about it all evening.
English expression
Take the rough with the smooth
Meaning
Accept the unpleasant parts of a situation as well as the pleasant parts.
In a sentence
Running the club means taking the rough with the smooth.
English expression
Take your hat off to
Meaning
Express admiration for someone’s achievement or effort.
In a sentence
I take my hat off to the volunteers who organised the whole festival.
English expression
Take a dim view of
Meaning
Disapprove of something or regard it as unacceptable.
In a sentence
Our tutor takes a dim view of copying another student’s work.
English expression
Take a breather
Meaning
Have a short rest from an activity.
In a sentence
Let’s take a breather before we move the remaining boxes.
English expression
Stop someone in their tracks
Meaning
Make someone suddenly stop moving or stop what they are doing.
In a sentence
A familiar voice stopped me in my tracks as I crossed the hall.
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