THE IDIOM COLLECTION
Go beyond the literal words. Learn what everyday expressions mean—and how to use them.
THE EXPRESSION COLLECTION
Someone who argues against a point for the sake of debate, even if they don’t actually disagree.
I don’t really think the plan will fail, but I’ll play devil’s advocate to test your reasoning.
To get straight to the main point without wasting time.
Let’s cut to the chase—are you going to accept the offer or not?
To narrowly succeed or barely manage to do something.
He caught the train by the skin of his teeth, just before the doors closed.
To start over from the beginning because the current attempt failed.
Our marketing plan didn’t work, so it’s back to the drawing board for the team.
Something that happens unexpectedly, without warning.
She called me out of the blue after five years of no contact.
To be too late to take advantage of an opportunity.
I didn’t apply for the scholarship in time, and now I’ve missed the boat.
To start supporting or following something that is already popular or successful.
After the team started winning, many new fans jumped on the bandwagon.
To achieve two things at the same time with a single effort.
By cycling to work, she kills two birds with one stone—she saves money and gets exercise.
To waste time feeling upset about something that has already happened and cannot be changed.
Yes, the vase is broken, but there’s no point crying over spilt milk.
To make more effort than is expected or required.
Our teacher always goes the extra mile to help struggling students.
PUT IT INTO PRACTICE
Use what you have learned in a short daily activity or a language game.
