English expression
In a pickle
Meaning
In an awkward or difficult situation.
In a sentence
We are in a pickle: the keys are inside and the door has locked itself.
THE IDIOM COLLECTION
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THE EXPRESSION COLLECTION
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English expression
In a heartbeat
Meaning
Immediately and without hesitation.
In a sentence
I would take that course again in a heartbeat.
English expression
In a bind
Meaning
In a difficult situation with no easy or attractive choice.
In a sentence
I am in a bind because both interviews are at the same time.
English expression
Hold your horses
Meaning
Stop and think carefully before acting or deciding.
In a sentence
Hold your horses—we have not checked whether the tickets are refundable.
English expression
Have your hands full
Meaning
To be so busy with something that you have little or no time for anything else.
In a sentence
I have my hands full organising the training day.
English expression
Keep your ear to the ground
Meaning
To pay close attention to what is happening and what people are saying.
In a sentence
Keep your ear to the ground for any evening classes opening nearby.
English expression
Have a soft spot for
Meaning
To feel a special affection or strong liking for someone or something.
In a sentence
I have a soft spot for the little bookshop where I bought my first novel.
English expression
Go the distance
Meaning
To keep going until the end of a competition.
In a sentence
My aim in my first marathon is simply to go the distance.
English expression
Go hand in hand
Meaning
To be closely connected and often happen or exist together.
In a sentence
Good teamwork and clear communication go hand in hand.
English expression
Go down a treat
Meaning
To be enjoyed very much or received with enthusiasm.
In a sentence
The warm muffins went down a treat after the walk.
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