THE IDIOM COLLECTION
Go beyond the literal words. Learn what everyday expressions mean—and how to use them.
THE EXPRESSION COLLECTION
An informal, insulting expression suggesting that someone lacks good judgement or behaves irrationally; not a medical description.
In the comedy, a rude character sneers, “He’s not playing with a full deck,” after a decision he dislikes.
To skip details and tell something briefly.
To make a long story short, we missed the flight and had to take a train.
To try every possible way to achieve something.
The police left no stone unturned in their search for the missing child.
To watch, check or look after someone or something; the level of attention depends on the situation.
Could you keep an eye on the soup while I answer the door?
To start something too early, before the right time.
They jumped the gun by announcing the product before it was ready.
A saying used to suggest that cooperation requires both people, or that both people have contributed to a disagreement.
Don’t just blame him for the argument—it takes two to tango.
Saying or doing something without thinking, because you are feeling strong emotions at the time.
I didn’t mean to yell at you—I just said it in the heat of the moment.
To trust or believe someone, even if you’re not sure they are telling the truth.
I didn’t have proof, but I decided to give her the benefit of the doubt.
To experience the same unpleasant treatment you have given to others.
After years of playing pranks on his friends, he finally got a taste of his own medicine.
To accept the unpleasant consequences of your actions.
He knew he’d made a mistake and it was time to face the music.
PUT IT INTO PRACTICE
Use what you have learned in a short daily activity or a language game.
