ACT Meaning and
Definition
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Act (noun):
1. A deed or action performed by a person, group, or entity.
Example: The heroic act of saving a drowning child amazed onlookers.
2. A particular form of behavior, usually in response to circumstances.
Example: Her act of kindness towards the homeless man garnered praise from the community.
3. A single performance of a play, concert, or other artistic work.
Example: The theatergoers applauded the actors after the impressive second act.
4. A law or regulation passed by a legislative body.
Example: The new act aims to protect the environment and limit pollution.
5. A segment or division of a play, opera, or ballet, often used to indicate progress or development in the storyline.
Example: The tragic ending of the third act left the audience in tears.
Act (verb):
1. To take action; to do something.
Example: She decided to act upon her friend's advice and pursue her dreams.
2. To perform in a play, film, or other entertainment.
Example: The talented actor was hired to act in the upcoming movie.
3. To pretend or assume a particular role or behavior.
Example: He had to act confident in order to convince the hiring manager of his qualifications.
4. To exercise a specific function or operation.
Example: This medicine acts rapidly to relieve pain.
5. To behave in a way that shows a particular feeling or intention.
Example: She acted surprised in order to hide her true emotions.
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• A deed; a doing; power exerted; an exploit; a decree or law.
• To do; to exert power; to perform.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for ACT *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for ACT
Etymology of ACT
The word "act" originated from the Latin word "actus", which comes from the verb "agere", meaning "to do" or "to drive". In Old English, the term was spelled as "acte", and it referred to a deed or an action. The modern usage of "act" as a noun, specifically meaning a segment of a play or a theatrical performance, dates back to the 14th century. The verb form of "act" meaning to perform or play a role in a theatrical setting emerged around the late 15th century.
Idioms with the word ACT
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act/play the goat
To "act/play the goat" means to behave foolishly or mischievously, often in a playful or attention-seeking manner. It refers to someone who is engaging in silly or irresponsible behavior for entertainment or to create a humorous atmosphere.
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dress/look/act the part
The idiom "dress/look/act the part" means to adopt the appearance, behavior, or mannerisms that are expected or appropriate for a particular role, job, or situation. It entails appearing or behaving in a way that fits a specific role or character, typically to create a desired impression or to conform to certain expectations.
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Act your age!
The idiom "Act your age!" means to behave in a manner appropriate for your age or level of maturity, usually said to someone who is acting immature or childish.
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act up
The idiom "act up" refers to behaving in an improper or disruptive manner, usually as a result of misbehaving or causing trouble. It can also imply behaving in a way that deviates from the expected or normal behavior.
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act the goat
The idiom "act the goat" refers to engaging in silly, foolish, or playful behavior, often in a disruptive or attention-seeking manner. It implies behaving in a way that is not responsible or serious, similar to how goats are known for their playful antics and jumping around.
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act the fool
The idiom "act the fool" refers to behaving in a silly, foolish, or clownish manner. It typically implies engaging in behavior that is seen as foolish or lacking in seriousness, often for the purpose of entertaining others or seeking attention.
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act Out
The idiom "act out" typically means to express one's emotions or feelings in a physical or visible manner, often in a disruptive or exaggerated way. It refers to behaving impulsively or uncontrollably, often as a result of frustration, anger, or an attempt to gain attention.
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act on
The definition of the idiom "act on" is to take action based on or in response to something, such as advice, information, or instructions. It implies implementing or carrying out a course of action prompted by a particular stimulus or suggestion.
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act as
The idiom "act as" means to behave or perform in a certain way or to take on a specific role or responsibility temporarily or temporarily assume the position of someone/something else. It implies that the person is pretending or imitating the expected behavior or function.
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Act age!
The idiom "Act age!" can be defined as a phrase used to encourage someone to behave or portray themselves in a mature or responsible manner, regardless of their actual age. It implies that the person should exhibit behavior or attitude beyond their years.
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act (up)on sth
To "act (up)on something" means to take action based on a specific idea, information, or suggestion. It implies that someone is using the provided information or idea as a basis for making decisions, solving problems, or implementing certain actions. It often suggests a prompt and decisive response to a given situation.
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act sth out
The idiom "act something out" typically means to physically portray or perform a situation or scenario, often to express emotions, demonstrate a narrative, or reenact a real-life event. It can also refer to the act of embodying a specific behavior or role as a means of working through personal feelings or experiences.
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class act
The idiom "class act" refers to an individual who possesses qualities of elegance, sophistication, and exceptional behavior deemed admirable by others. It describes someone who conducts themselves with grace, dignity, and respect in various situations.
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act/play the fool
To "act/play the fool" means to behave in a silly, foolish, or nonsensical manner. It refers to someone intentionally behaving in an absurd or immature way, often for entertainment, attention, or to avoid serious situations.
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be/act your age
The idiom "be/act your age" is an expression used to advise someone to behave in a manner that is expected or appropriate for someone of their age. It implies that the person should display maturity, responsibility, and appropriate behavior for their chronological age.
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act (one's) age
The idiom "act (one's) age" refers to behaving in a manner that is appropriate for someone of their age or maturity level. It suggests that the person should not act childish, immature, or much younger than their actual age.
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act (up)on
The idiom "act (up)on" means to take action based on information, advice, or a particular situation. It implies that one is actively responding or directly following through with a decision or course of action.
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act of faith
The idiom "act of faith" typically refers to a belief or action that requires trust and belief in something, often without evidence or proof. It can also imply taking a leap of faith or facing uncertainty while maintaining conviction.
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act/be your age
The idiom "act/be your age" means to behave in a manner that is appropriate for one's chronological age or maturity level. It suggests avoiding childish or immature behavior and embracing a more mature and responsible attitude.
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clean (one's) act up
The idiom "clean (one's) act up" means to improve one's behavior or actions, typically by making positive changes or correcting problematic habits. It implies transforming oneself into a more responsible, organized, or morally upright individual. It often refers to cleaning up one's life, attitude, or conduct in order to avoid negative consequences or to gain respect from others.
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clean one’s act up
The idiom "clean one's act up" means to improve one's behavior, attitude, or performance, usually by making a conscious effort to eliminate or correct undesirable habits, mistakes, or flaws. It signifies a positive change in actions, often associated with becoming more responsible, reliable, or efficient.
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Dutch act
The idiom "Dutch act" refers to an action or behavior that intentionally causes failure or destruction, often with the aim of avoiding or evading responsibility or blame. It implies a deliberate act of sabotage or betrayal.
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high-wire act
The idiom "high-wire act" is used to describe a situation or task that is extremely risky, delicate, or challenging, often requiring a great deal of skill, balance, or precision. It comes from the idea of performing acrobatics or stunts on a high-wire, which involves walking or performing tricks on a narrow, elevated rope. The idiom is often used metaphorically to refer to any endeavor that involves a high level of danger, difficulty, or pressure.
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the Dutch act
The idiom "the Dutch act" typically refers to a situation where someone or a group of people selfishly abandon or betray others in pursuit of their own interests or benefit. It often implies betrayal or disloyalty, suggesting that the person or group involved prioritizes their own agenda without concern for the consequences for others.
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catch sb in the act
The idiom "catch sb in the act" means to witness or discover someone doing something wrong or illegal at the moment it is happening.
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Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery and Enforcement Act of 1989
The idiom "Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery and Enforcement Act of 1989" refers to a U.S. federal law enacted in response to the savings and loan crisis of the 1980s. It aimed to reform and strengthen regulations governing financial institutions, as well as to provide resources for their recovery. This act expanded the powers of federal banking regulators, established new regulatory agencies, and granted more authority to existing ones in order to prevent similar financial crises in the future.
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a juggling act
The idiom "a juggling act" refers to a situation or task that requires managing or balancing multiple, often conflicting, activities or responsibilities simultaneously. It implies handling diverse and demanding elements in a skillful and coordinated manner, much like a juggler skillfully tossing and catching multiple objects in the air.
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be caught in the act
"Be caught in the act" is an idiomatic expression that means to be discovered or observed while performing a particular action, usually an illicit or unacceptable one. It refers to getting caught red-handed, with evidence or witnesses present to prove one's wrongdoing.
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act something out
The idiom "act something out" refers to the act of physically or theatrically performing a situation, event, or scenario, often for the purpose of illustrating or demonstrating it to others. This can involve using gestures, facial expressions, and body language to depict a story or recreate a specific situation. It can also be used as a way to express and release emotions or frustrations.
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keep up an act
The idiom "keep up an act" refers to pretending or maintaining a false appearance or behavior, typically to deceive others or to hide one's true feelings or intentions. It involves consistently and convincingly presenting oneself in a particular way, often different from one's authentic self.
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be, stand, act, etc. shoulder to shoulder
The idiom "be, stand, act, etc. shoulder to shoulder" means to work together closely and cooperatively with someone, particularly in facing challenges or in joint efforts. It signifies solidarity, unity, and support in a common cause or endeavor. It emphasizes the idea of being side by side, physically or metaphorically, in order to confront and overcome difficulties.
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catch someone in the act (of doing something)
The idiom "catch someone in the act (of doing something)" means to witness or discover someone in the midst of committing a particular action, especially one that is secretive, wrong, or prohibited. It implies that the person is caught red-handed, providing clear evidence of their involvement in the act.
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get in(to) the act
The idiom "get in(to) the act" means to join or participate in a particular activity, often one that is already happening or well-established, in order to benefit or be involved. It can refer to becoming involved in a performance, project, group, or situation when one was not initially included.
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hard act to follow
The idiom "hard act to follow" refers to a situation where someone has achieved great success or set a high standard, making it challenging for those who come after to live up to or surpass their accomplishment.
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sharpen up your act
The idiom "sharpen up your act" means to improve or enhance one's performance, skills, or behavior, typically in a professional or public setting. It implies the need to become more polished, efficient, or effective in order to meet higher standards or expectations.
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caught in the act
The definition of the idiom "caught in the act" is to witness or discover someone in the midst of doing something wrong, illegal, or embarrassing, usually with evidence or proof.
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catch (one) in the act
The idiom "catch (one) in the act" means to witness someone doing something wrong or engaging in suspicious or illicit behavior at the moment it is happening. It refers to the act of catching someone red-handed or in the midst of their actions.
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couldn't act way out of a paper bag
The idiom "couldn't act their way out of a paper bag" is used to describe someone who is a terrible or extremely inept actor. It implies that the person lacks skill, talent, or ability to convincingly perform even the simplest acting task.
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do a vanishing act
To "do a vanishing act" means to suddenly and mysteriously disappear or leave without informing or giving any explanation. It implies that the person or thing in question is no longer present or cannot be found, often creating a sense of surprise, confusion, or concern.
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catch in the act
The idiom "catch in the act" means to witness or discover someone doing something wrong or illicit, typically at the exact moment the action is taking place. It implies catching them red-handed or in the midst of their guilty behavior.
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pull a vanishing act
To "pull a vanishing act" means to suddenly and completely disappear or to leave a situation or place without explanation or without being noticed. This idiom often implies a sense of mystery or evasion, as if someone has disappeared as if by magic, leaving no trace behind. It is commonly used to describe situations where someone unexpectedly and without warning removes themselves and cannot be found or contacted.
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a balancing act
The idiom "a balancing act" refers to a situation in which one must carefully manage or juggle multiple tasks, roles, or responsibilities simultaneously in order to maintain a desired equilibrium or outcome. It implies a delicate and often challenging situation that requires careful decision-making and adaptability.
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get/muscle in on the act
The idiom "get/muscle in on the act" is typically used to describe someone who joins or becomes involved in an activity or situation in an assertive or forceful manner, usually with the intention of benefiting from it. It implies that the person wants to be included or share in the success, attention, or advantages that others are already experiencing.
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read the riot act
The idiom "read the riot act" means to sternly reprimand or warn someone about their behavior, often with the intention of stopping their disruptive actions. It originated from The Riot Act, an 18th-century British law that required authorities to publicly read a proclamation before taking action against a group of more than 12 people illegally assembled. Hence, "reading the riot act" implies issuing a warning or ultimatum to prevent further disorder or disturbance.
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balancing act
A "balancing act" is an idiom that refers to the delicate and challenging task of trying to manage multiple conflicting demands or interests. It conjures the imagery of walking a tightrope or juggling objects to maintain equilibrium, indicating the need to carefully navigate different responsibilities or priorities to achieve a desired outcome.
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act the maggot
To "act the maggot" is an Irish idiom that means to behave mischievously, playfully, or annoyingly. It refers to someone engaging in childish or immature behavior, often causing trouble or being a nuisance.
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have (one's) act together
The idiom "have (one's) act together" refers to having one's life, plans, or affairs in order and being organized, prepared, and focused. It implies competence, efficiency, and the ability to handle responsibilities effectively.
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act as someone
The idiom "act as someone" refers to assuming a certain role or behaving in a manner that is typical of a particular person, often done temporarily or in a specific context. It implies taking on the characteristics, responsibilities, or duties associated with someone else's position or status.
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act for sm
The idiom "act for someone" means to take on the role or responsibility of representing or making decisions on behalf of another person. It often refers to a legal or professional capacity where someone is designated to act in the best interest of another party, such as an attorney acting for their client or a guardian acting for a minor or incapacitated person.
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read someone the riot act
The idiom "read someone the riot act" means to reprimand or strongly admonish someone for their behavior or actions. It originates from a historic British law called the Riot Act, which allowed authorities to order a crowd to disperse and gave them the authority to use force if the crowd did not comply. Reading someone the riot act figuratively implies issuing a warning or speaking forcefully to address unacceptable behavior.
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get one's act together
The idiom "get one's act together" means to organize oneself or improve one's behavior, performance, or situation in order to become more efficient, competent, or successful. It implies the need to focus, make necessary changes, and enhance one's overall ability to accomplish goals.
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in on the act
The idiom "in on the act" means to participate or become involved in a particular situation or activity, often in order to benefit or gain advantage from it. It refers to joining others who are already engaged in something.
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do, perform, stage a disappearing/vanishing act
The idiom "do, perform, stage a disappearing/vanishing act" refers to suddenly and mysteriously absconding or withdrawing from a situation, often without providing any explanation or leaving any traces behind. It implies that someone has chosen to evade responsibilities, escape scrutiny, or avoid confronting a difficult situation.
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go into act
The idiom "go into act" typically refers to someone suddenly performing or starting to behave in a certain way, often for a particular purpose or to get attention. It is often associated with putting on a show or pretending in order to achieve a specific outcome.
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It would take an act of Congress to do
The definition of the idiom "It would take an act of Congress to do" refers to a situation or task that is incredibly complex, difficult, or nearly impossible to accomplish. It implies that a significant amount of effort, bureaucracy, or official authorization would be required, similar to passing a law through the United States Congress.
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sb couldn't act, argue, fight, etc. their way out of a paper bag
The idiom "sb couldn't act, argue, fight, etc. their way out of a paper bag" is usually used to describe someone who lacks skill or competence in a particular area. It suggests that the person is so ineffective or incapable that they couldn't succeed even in a simple or easy task, represented by the act of getting out of a paper bag.
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couldn't act (one's) way out of a paper bag
The idiom "couldn't act (one's) way out of a paper bag" is often used to describe someone who has no acting skills or abilities. It implies that the person's acting is so poor that they would struggle even with the simplest acting tasks, such as pretending to escape from a paper bag. It highlights a lack of talent, competence, or skill in the field of acting or performing.
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clean up your act
The idiom "clean up your act" means to improve one's behavior, habits, or performance, often by eliminating or reducing negative or undesirable aspects. It implies making positive changes and getting rid of any inappropriate or unacceptable behavior.
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act of God
The idiom "act of God" refers to a sudden and unexpected event or disaster, typically a natural occurrence like a hurricane, earthquake, or flood, that is beyond human control and is not caused by human actions. This phrase is often used in legal and insurance contexts to refer to events that are considered unavoidable and for which no one can be held responsible.
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get act together
The idiom "get your act together" means to organize oneself, focus, and start performing or behaving in a competent or effective manner. It implies getting one's thoughts in order, improving productivity, or resolving any issues that may be hindering progress.
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couldn't act/argue/fight your way out of a paper bag
The idiom "couldn't act/argue/fight your way out of a paper bag" is a figurative expression used to imply that someone lacks a particular skill, ability, or competence. It suggests that the person being described is so inept or incapable that they are unable to perform even the simplest or most basic task or action.
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get in on the act
The idiom "get in on the act" means to become involved in an activity or situation, often when others are already participating or performing. It implies joining in and contributing one's effort or presence to take part in something that seems enjoyable, interesting, or advantageous.
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tough act to follow
The idiom "tough act to follow" refers to a situation where someone has accomplished something remarkable or extraordinary, making it difficult for the next person or performance to achieve the same level of success or recognition. It implies that the initial success or achievement set a high standard that is challenging for others to meet or surpass.
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clean up act
The idiom "clean up act" means to improve one's behavior, habits, or performance, often after receiving criticism or experiencing negative consequences. It refers to making a conscious effort to correct mistakes, change bad habits, or achieve better results.
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smarten up your act
The idiom "smarten up your act" means to improve one's behavior, performance, or appearance in order to be more presentable, professional, or efficient. It suggests the need to make changes or adjustments in order to enhance one's overall image or behavior.
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pull a disappearing act
The idiom "pull a disappearing act" refers to the act of suddenly and unexpectedly disappearing or vanishing without any explanation or notice. It is often used to describe someone who abruptly leaves a situation or avoids contact without giving any information or reason for their actions.
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catch somebody in the act
The idiom "catch somebody in the act" means to witness someone doing something wrong or illegal while they are doing it. It implies catching someone red-handed or in the moment of committing a wrongdoing.
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get one’s act together
The idiom "get one's act together" means to organize oneself, to become more focused and efficient, and to improve one's behavior or performance in a particular area or situation. It implies the need for someone to gather and arrange their thoughts, plans, or actions in order to achieve their goals or meet expectations.
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get in the act
The idiom "get in the act" means to become involved or participate in something that is already happening, usually in an enthusiastic or assertive manner. It can also imply joining others in a performance or a group activity.
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an act of faith
The idiom "an act of faith" refers to a deliberate action or decision that requires trust and belief in the absence of concrete evidence or certainty. It entails taking a risk or having confidence in something or someone, often religious or spiritual, without clear proof or guaranteed outcome. It embodies the notion of putting faith in something beyond mere logic or tangible proof.
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read sm the riot act
The idiom "read someone the riot act" means to strongly reprimand or admonish someone sternly for their actions or behavior, typically in a forceful and authoritative manner.
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get into the act
The idiom "get into the act" refers to when someone involves themselves or participates in an activity or situation, often unexpectedly or uninvited, in order to gain attention, recognition, or be a part of it. It implies someone joining in or taking part in something that was already happening.
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in the act (of doing something)
The idiom "in the act (of doing something)" refers to catching someone in the middle of an action, particularly when it is improper, immoral, or secretive. It suggests witnessing someone engaged in a behavior that they may not want others to know about or would be embarrassed by if discovered.
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the old pals act
The idiom "the old pals act" refers to a situation where personal relationships or friendships are used to show favoritism or give preferential treatment, particularly in professional or political settings. It suggests that individuals may receive special advantages or opportunities solely based on their personal connections rather than their qualifications or abilities.
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read (sb) the riot act
To "read (sb) the riot act" is an idiomatic expression that means to reprimand or scold someone severely for their misconduct or unruly behavior. It originates from the Riot Act, an English law passed in 1714, which authorized authorities to suppress public disturbances. Reading someone the riot act implies warning them of the consequences of their actions and demanding that they stop their unruly behavior immediately.
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do a disappearing act
The idiom "do a disappearing act" means to suddenly and unexpectedly disappear or leave without a trace or explanation. It is often used to describe a person who abruptly and mysteriously goes missing or becomes unavailable.
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an act of war
The idiom "an act of war" is used to describe a specific action or event that is considered a hostile or aggressive act, often initiated by a country or government, and typically seen as a cause for war or a justification for armed conflict between nations. It refers to a significant and deliberate action that is seen as a serious violation of international relations or treaties, potentially leading to military responses or larger-scale conflicts.
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be/get in on the act
The idiom "be/get in on the act" refers to wanting to be involved in something that others are doing, especially when it looks exciting or successful. It implies an eagerness to participate or contribute to a situation or activity in order to benefit or share in the advantages or attention it may bring.
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catch sm in the act (of doing sth)
The idiom "catch someone in the act (of doing something)" means to witness or discover someone in the act of doing something wrong or illegal, usually at the exact moment it is happening. It implies catching someone red-handed, providing concrete evidence of their actions.
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put on an act
The idiom "put on an act" means to pretend or feign a specific behavior, emotion, or persona in order to deceive or manipulate others, typically for personal gain or to conceal one's true feelings or intentions. It involves intentionally acting in a way that is not genuine or authentic.
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It would take an act of Congress to do sth.
The idiom "It would take an act of Congress" means that a task or action is extremely complicated, difficult, or unlikely to be accomplished without significant effort, planning, or bureaucracy. It implies that the process required to achieve the desired outcome is excessively complex, as if it would need the involvement and approval of the highest levels of government.
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act for
The idiom "act for" generally means to represent or serve as a substitute for someone else in a particular role or function. It implies assuming responsibility or performing duties on behalf of another person or entity.
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read (somebody) the Riot Act
The idiom "read (somebody) the Riot Act" means to strongly reprimand or scold someone for their inappropriate or unruly behavior, often in a stern and official manner. It implies delivering a serious warning or admonishment to someone who is behaving in an unacceptable or disruptive manner. The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the Riot Act of 1714 in England, which granted the authorities the power to suppress unruly gatherings, and required them to publicly read a specified proclamation to disperse the crowd before any action could legally be taken against them.
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It would take an act of Congress to do something.
The idiom "It would take an act of Congress to do something" means that achieving a particular action or goal would require an extensive or complicated process, often involving numerous bureaucratic procedures, legislation, or a significant effort. It implies that the task is challenging or seemingly impossible to accomplish without considerable time, effort, or external intervention.
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a hard act to follow
The idiom "a hard act to follow" means that someone or something has set a very high standard or achieved a remarkable level of excellence, making it difficult for others to match or surpass their performance or achievements. It typically refers to a person or a previous event that has created a remarkable impact.
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keep an act up
The idiom "keep an act up" means to continue or maintain a particular behavior, pretense, or performance, usually in a consistent and deceptive manner. It implies that someone is continuing to portray a false facade or pretending to be someone they are not.
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in the act
The idiom "in the act" typically means to catch someone in the process of doing something, especially something wrong, illegal, or suspicious. It refers to witnessing a person engaged in an action that reveals their true intentions or behavior.
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act/do sth on your own responsibility
The idiom "act/do something on your own responsibility" means that someone is solely accountable for their actions or decisions without seeking guidance or approval from others. It implies taking full ownership and bearing the consequences of their choices or behaviors independently.
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an act of God
The idiom "an act of God" typically refers to an event or phenomenon that occurs naturally and is beyond human control or influence. It is often used to describe unexpected or disastrous occurrences, such as natural disasters like earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, or other extraordinary events like lightning strikes or droughts. These events are considered to be unavoidable and caused by natural forces, rather than human actions or negligence.
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act of congress
The idiom "act of congress" refers to a process or action that is lengthy, difficult, or requires extensive effort. It is often used to describe something that takes excessive time or bureaucratic measures to accomplish, emphasizing the slow and complicated nature of governmental processes.
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a tough act to follow
The idiom "a tough act to follow" means that someone or something has set a very high standard or achieved great success, making it difficult for anyone or anything else that comes after them to be equally impressive or to meet the same level of excellence.
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a class act
The idiom "a class act" typically refers to someone who displays exemplary behavior, character, or skill, often characterized by elegance, grace, sophistication, or professionalism. It implies that the person or thing being described is of high quality, respectable, and deserving of admiration.
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do a disappearing/vanishing act
The idiom "do a disappearing/vanishing act" means to suddenly and inexplicably disappear or leave without any explanation or trace. It refers to someone's ability or tendency to vanish or disappear in a mysterious or unexpected manner.
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behave/act as if you own the place
The idiom "behave/act as if you own the place" refers to someone displaying arrogance, confidence, or excessive familiarity in their demeanor or actions, akin to how a person would behave if they were the owner or in complete control of a particular situation or location. It implies a sense of entitlement and disregard for others' authority or rules.
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clean up one's act
The idiom "clean up one's act" typically means to make an effort to improve one's behavior, habits, or lifestyle in order to become more responsible, respectable, or successful. It involves making positive changes to rectify past mistakes, improve personal conduct, or attain a higher level of professionalism.
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be a hard act to follow
The idiom "be a hard act to follow" means to be exceptionally accomplished or impressive, making it difficult for someone else to meet or exceed the same level or standard of performance or achievement.
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a balancing/juggling act
The idiom "a balancing/juggling act" refers to a situation or task that requires maintaining a delicate equilibrium between two or more conflicting or competing elements or demands. It implies the ability to handle multiple responsibilities or priorities simultaneously while ensuring none is neglected or compromised.
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get your act together
The idiom "get your act together" means to organize oneself and start behaving or performing in a more competent, efficient, or effective way. It suggests the need for an individual to get their life, priorities, or actions in order.
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a hard/tough act to follow
The idiom "a hard/tough act to follow" is used to describe a person or performance that is so impressive, skilled, or successful that it would be very difficult for anyone else to surpass or replicate their achievements. It implies that the following person or performance will face great challenges to live up to the expectations set by the previous one.
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be a hard/tough act to follow
The idiom "be a hard/tough act to follow" means that someone or something has performed exceptionally well or achieved great success, making it difficult for the next person or thing to match or surpass their accomplishments. It implies that the preceding performance or achievement sets a high standard which is challenging for others to live up to.
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act for someone
The idiom "act for someone" typically refers to the act of representing or substituting someone, typically in a professional or legal capacity, on their behalf. It implies the responsibility and authority to make decisions or take actions on behalf of another person.
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be in on the act
The idiom "be in on the act" refers to someone who is involved or participating in a particular venture or activity. It implies that the person is not merely observing, but actively contributing or sharing in the experience or opportunity.
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act (up)on something
The idiom "act (up)on something" means to take action or implement a decision or advice. It implies the act of following through with something discussed, instructed, recommended, or planned. It involves putting ideas or suggestions into practice or taking steps towards a specific goal or outcome.
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read (one) the riot act
The idiom "read (one) the riot act" means to sternly reprimand or scold someone for their misbehavior, usually in an authoritative manner, often to deter further misconduct. It implies issuing a warning or delivering a strong rebuke to someone who has acted in an unacceptable or unruly manner.
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clean act up
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act as sm
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play (or act) the (giddy) goat
To behave in a silly, foolish, or playful manner, often to amuse others or to seek attention.
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crab one's act (the deal, etc.)
To get angry, annoyed, or upset about something.
Similar spelling words for ACT
Conjugate verb Act
CONDITIONAL PERFECT
I
would have acted
you
would have acted
he/she/it
would have acted
we
would have acted
they
would have acted
CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE
I
would have been acting
you
would have been acting
he/she/it
would have been acting
we
would have been acting
they
would have been acting
CONDITIONAL PRESENT
I
would act
you
would act
he/she/it
would act
we
would act
they
would act
CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE
I
would be acting
you
would be acting
he/she/it
would be acting
we
would be acting
they
would be acting
FUTURE
I
will act
you
will act
he/she/it
will act
we
will act
they
will act
FUTURE CONTINUOUS
I
will be acting
you
will be acting
he/she/it
will be acting
we
will be acting
they
will be acting
FUTURE PERFECT
I
will have acted
you
will have acted
he/she/it
will have acted
we
will have acted
they
will have acted
FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
will have been acting
you
will have been acting
he/she/it
will have been acting
we
will have been acting
they
will have been acting
IMPERATIVE
we
Let´s act
PAST CONTINUOUS
I
was acting
you
were acting
he/she/it
was acting
we
were acting
they
were acting
PAST PARTICIPLE
acted
PAST PERFECT
I
had acted
you
had acted
he/she/it
had acted
we
had acted
they
had acted
PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
had been acting
you
had been acting
he/she/it
had been acting
we
had been acting
they
had been acting
PRESENT
I
act
you
act
he/she/it
acts
we
act
they
act
PRESENT CONTINUOUS
I
am acting
you
are acting
he/she/it
is acting
we
are acting
they
are acting
PRESENT PARTICIPLE
acting
PRESENT PERFECT
I
have acted
you
have acted
he/she/it
has acted
we
have acted
they
have acted
PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
have been acting
you
have been acting
he/she/it
has been acting
we
have been acting
they
have been acting
PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE
he/she/it
act
SIMPLE PAST
I
acted
you
acted
he/she/it
acted
we
acted
they
acted
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