English expression
Draw the line
Meaning
To set a firm limit on what you will do or allow.
In a sentence
I can help with editing, but I draw the line at writing someone else’s assignment.
THE IDIOM COLLECTION
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THE EXPRESSION COLLECTION
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English expression
Cut me some slack
Meaning
Be less strict or critical with me, especially because of difficult circumstances.
In a sentence
Please cut me some slack; this is my first time using the booking system.
English expression
Cry wolf
Meaning
To raise false alarms or ask for help unnecessarily, risking not being believed when help is really needed.
In a sentence
If you cry wolf about every minor delay, people may stop taking your warnings seriously.
English expression
Come to light
Meaning
To become known after previously being hidden or unknown.
In a sentence
A mistake in the timetable came to light during the final review.
English expression
A change of heart
Meaning
A change in how someone feels or what they think about something.
In a sentence
I planned to leave the club, but I had a change of heart after talking with the organiser.
English expression
By leaps and bounds
Meaning
Very quickly, especially when describing improvement or growth.
In a sentence
Her confidence improved by leaps and bounds after she joined the discussion group.
English expression
Blow your own trumpet
Meaning
To talk proudly about your own achievements, sometimes in a boastful way.
In a sentence
You do not need to blow your own trumpet every time the team succeeds.
English expression
Bite your tongue
Meaning
To stop yourself from saying something you want to say.
In a sentence
I had to bite my tongue when the speaker repeated the same mistake.
English expression
Better late than never
Meaning
Doing or receiving something late is preferable to it not happening at all.
In a sentence
I finally wrote the thank-you note—better late than never.
English expression
Behind the scenes
Meaning
Away from public view, where preparation or other less visible work happens.
In a sentence
Several volunteers worked behind the scenes to prepare the exhibition.
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