Idioms (Z)
meaning: the time when something has to be decided (there can be no more waiting)1. "Well everyone, after 3 weeks of debate, this is zero hour. It is now, or never meaning: no lenience; no breaking of the law will be allowed1. Recently the government announced it would introduce a…
Idioms (Y)
meaning: to tell a lie - and have somebody believe it - for a joke1. "No, no, don't call her. I was just yanking your chain. She isn't really on a date with her ex-boyfriend." meaning: to be a coward; to be prone to cowardice1. He is a nice guy,…
Idioms (X)
meaning: the special unspecific talent that makes some people better than normal people (usually used in the performing arts)1. I don't know what it is about Anne, she just seems to have the x-factor. I mean, her singing isn't great, and her dancing is often out of time, but people…
Idioms (W)
meaning: waiting and ready to take over or act if needed; waiting and ready to take over a job once the current person leaves1. They don't need to worry too much: even if the boss leaves, they have Dave waiting in the wings, ready to take over. meaning: an event…
Idioms (V)
meaning: to say all the things that make you angry about something; to release all your anger1. It was usual on Friday afternoon for the boss to vent his spleen at one of the interns. That is why he had them in the "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to vent…
Idioms (U)
meaning: to change an opinion to the opposite1. "I'm pleased you have u-turned on your decision to leave college: getting an education is important." meaning: an action that was not necessary, especially an action that hurts others1. "I know Phillip hurt your feelings, but killing his pet fish was uncalled…
Idioms (T)
meaning: to reverse the fortunes of two things or people1. Traditionally United have been the stronger team in the city, but recently City have turned the "For years you made me make your coffee, clean up your office, and do all your dirty work. But now the tables have turned,…
Idioms (S)
meaning: safe and out of danger1. Last Monday the children disappeared. The parents were relieved when, on Tuesday morning, they were found safe and sound, hiding in an old "Don't worry about the money, it's locked safe and sound at the office." meaning: a reliable person who won't allow something…
Idioms (R)
meaning: to try and remember something; to think deeply on a subject1. "I know I have seen him before, but I have been racking my brain all morning and still don't know where."2. "I'll rack my brain and see if I can think of something to do for her birthday."…
Idioms (Q)
meaning: the most important woman in the group1. "There is no doubt that Anne is the queen bee in the office; whatever she says is listened to by everyone." meaning: it will certainly happen, we just don't know when1. The people will get tired of these politics soon. It is…