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THE IDIOM COLLECTION

Say more with an idiom.

Go beyond the literal words. Learn what everyday expressions mean—and how to use them.

THE EXPRESSION COLLECTION

Explore the idiom collection.

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604 idiomsPage 61 of 61

English expression

Break the ice

Meaning

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in an awkward or uncomfortable situation.

In a sentence

To break the ice at the party, she told a funny story about her dog.

English expression

Bite the bullet

Meaning

To face or do something difficult or unpleasant with determination, often after hesitation.

In a sentence

I didn’t want to visit the dentist, but I finally bit the bullet and went.

English expression

A blessing in disguise

Meaning

An event that seems unfortunate at first but later brings a benefit that was not initially obvious.

In a sentence

The postponed interview was a blessing in disguise because it gave me more time to prepare.

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