Correct spelling for an [Infographic]

rule sth with an iron hand/fist To "rule something with an iron hand/fist" means to exercise strict and complete control or authority over a situation, organization, or people, often by using harsh, forceful, and uncompromising methods. It implies a dominant and authoritarian leadership style that brooks no dissent or opposition.

settle an (old) score The idiom "settle an (old) score" means to seek revenge or to resolve past conflicts or disputes between individuals or groups. It typically refers to taking action to address a perceived injustice or wrongdoing that has been lingering or unresolved for a long time.

set an example The idiom "set an example" means to behave in a way that serves as a model for others to follow. It refers to someone demonstrating ideal or admirable behavior that influences or inspires others to behave similarly.

settle (old) scores, at settle an (old) score The phrase "settle (old) scores" or "settle an (old) score" means to seek revenge or rectify a past wrong or injustice. It refers to resolving a long-standing resentment or grievance by leveling the playing field or getting even with someone who caused harm or treated unfairly in the past.

be an item To "be an item" is an idiomatic expression used to describe two people who are romantically involved or in a romantic relationship. It signifies that they are a couple or are dating each other.

strike an attitude The idiom "strike an attitude" refers to the act of assuming a particular posture, pose, or pose in a deliberate and dramatic manner. It often connotes a display of confidence, assertiveness, or a desire to draw attention to oneself. The term comes from the world of theater and refers to the exaggerated poses and gestures actors assume to convey emotion or character. In everyday language, "striking an attitude" can imply putting on a show or adopting a theatrical posture for effect.

what an idea! The idiom "what an idea!" is an expression used to convey surprise or admiration towards a particularly clever or inventive suggestion or concept. It typically indicates a positive response to an innovative or imaginative proposal.

lend an ear The idiom "lend an ear" means to listen attentively and sympathetically to someone, generally offering support, understanding, or advice.

an early bath The idiom "an early bath" refers to a situation where someone's participation or involvement in something is cut short or prematurely ended, often due to poor performance, misconduct, or failure. It is commonly used in sports or competitive contexts, suggesting that a player or participant is forced to leave the game or event before its completion.

be an easy mark, at be easy game/meat The idiom "be an easy mark" means to be someone who is easily fooled, deceived, or taken advantage of. It refers to individuals who lack awareness or who are easily manipulated, making them vulnerable targets for scams or exploitation. The alternative phrases "be easy game" or "be easy meat" have the same connotation, with "game" and "meat" highlighting the vulnerability and potential victimization of a person.

keep your/an eye on sth/sb The idiom "keep your/an eye on something/somebody" means to monitor or watch something/somebody closely and attentively. It implies maintaining careful observation or staying alert to any changes, potential problems, or developments related to the subject at hand.

the idea of it!, at what an idea! The idiom "the idea of it!" or "at what an idea!" is an expression used to convey surprise, disbelief, or astonishment at a specific suggestion or thought. It is typically used in response to an unexpected or unusual idea that is being proposed or discussed. The phrase highlights the speaker's reaction to the notion while emphasizing its unexpected or innovative nature.

an aidemmoire The idiom "an aidemmoire" refers to a written reminder or memorandum used to help someone remember or recall certain information, tasks, or points. It is commonly used when someone needs to keep important details at hand or refresh their memory.

an Aladdin's cave The idiom "an Aladdin's cave" refers to a place or room that is full of diverse and valuable treasures or an abundant collection of interesting and exciting things. The phrase is derived from the tale of Aladdin, a character in the Middle Eastern folk tale "Aladdin and the Magic Lamp." In the story, Aladdin discovers a magical cave filled with precious jewels and, as a result, the idiom represents a place of great wealth or variety. Figuratively, it can also describe a place where one can find an astonishing array of objects or a multitude of choices.

rope sm or an animal up The idiom "rope someone or an animal up" means to securely restrain or tie someone or an animal using a rope. It implies the act of binding or immobilizing someone or an animal with a rope to prevent them from escaping or causing harm.

rub (sm or an animal) down The idiom "rub (someone or an animal) down" typically refers to the act of massaging or applying ointment or lotion to something or someone's body in order to relieve muscle soreness or provide relaxation.

shoot (sm, sth, or an animal) down The idiom "shoot (someone, something, or an animal) down" generally means to forcefully or decisively reject or discredit someone or something, often in an argument or discussion. It implies dismissing their ideas, opinions, or proposals completely or without consideration. The phrase draws its imagery from shooting down a target or shooting a flying object out of the sky, suggesting a swift and definitive rejection.

take or an animal in The idiom "take after an animal" means to resemble or show characteristics similar to a particular animal, usually in terms of physical appearance or behavior.

put an animal out The idiom "put an animal out" often refers to either euthanizing an animal or removing it from a certain environment or situation, typically in order to alleviate its suffering or protect others from harm.

put an animal down The idiom "put an animal down" typically refers to the act of euthanizing or causing the death of a sick, injured, or suffering animal, usually performed by a veterinarian.

fix an animal The idiom "fix an animal" typically refers to the act of sterilizing or neutering a pet, usually performed by a veterinarian, to prevent them from reproducing.

fence an animal in The idiom "fence an animal in" means to enclose or confine an animal within a fence or barrier, typically to prevent it from roaming or escaping. This idiom can also be used metaphorically to describe the act of restricting or confining someone or something within certain limits or boundaries.

dead in or an animal's tracks The idiom "dead in or an animal's tracks" means to come to an abrupt halt or stop suddenly, similar to how an animal might freeze or stop instantly upon sensing danger or a threat. The phrase implies that something has ended or been halted abruptly and completely without any further progress or movement.

boot or an animal out The idiom "boot or an animal out" typically refers to forcefully removing or expelling someone or something from a particular place or situation. It implies using authority or physical force to eject someone or something.

scare (sm or an animal) off To "scare (someone or an animal) off" means to frighten or intimidate someone or an animal to the point where they quickly move away or retreat. It implies causing fear or alarm to create a distance between the scaree and the person or thing doing the scaring.

as an aside The idiom "as an aside" refers to a comment or remark thrown in to a conversation or speech, typically not directly related to the main topic being discussed. It serves as additional information, often sharing a personal opinion, a side note, or a digression from the primary subject matter.

cop an attitude The idiom "cop an attitude" means to adopt a hostile or confrontational attitude, often characterized by defensiveness, rudeness, or disdainful behavior. It refers to someone displaying a negative or disrespectful demeanor towards others.

set (sm or an animal) on (sm or an animal) The idiom "set (someone or an animal) on (someone or an animal)" typically means to cause or enable one person or animal to attack or pursue another person or animal. It implies instigating or commanding someone or something to take aggressive or confrontational action against another.

snarl at (sm, sth, or an animal) The idiom "snarl at (someone or something or an animal)" refers to the act of growling or making an aggressive, low, and throaty sound, usually with a display of teeth. It conveys the idea of expressing anger, hostility, or threat towards the mentioned person, thing, or animal.

be an easy/soft touch The idiom "be an easy/soft touch" means to be someone who is easily convinced, persuaded, or manipulated, especially when it comes to giving or lending money or providing help. It refers to someone who is considered gullible or easily taken advantage of in terms of generosity or kindness.

an early bird The idiom "an early bird" refers to a person who wakes up or starts their day early, typically rising before others. It is often used to describe someone who is punctual, proactive, and efficient in completing tasks or taking advantage of opportunities.

boot sm or an animal out The idiom "boot someone or an animal out" means to forcefully or abruptly expel or remove someone or an animal from a place or situation. It suggests a strong and decisive action taken to get rid of the person or creature in question.

spring (up)on (sm, sth, or an animal) The idiom "spring (up) on (someone/something/ an animal)" generally means to unexpectedly or suddenly approach or confront someone, something, or an animal, often with aggression or force. It implies surprising or catching the person or entity off-guard.

stimulate (sm or an animal) into sth The phrase "stimulate (someone or an animal) into something" means to encourage or provoke someone or an animal to engage in a particular behavior, action, or state of being. It indicates the act of inciting or inspiring someone or an animal to enter into a desired state or perform a specified activity.

straight as an arrow The idiom "straight as an arrow" means to be extremely accurate, precise, or honest in one's actions, behaviors, or intentions. It implies that the person or thing being referred to is unwavering, reliable, and has a clear and focused path without deviation.

call sm (or an animal) off sm or sth The idiom "call someone (or an animal) off someone or something" means to order or request for someone or an animal to stop attacking or pursuing someone or something. It can be used both literally, referring to physical actions, or figuratively, to indicate stopping someone from further criticizing or bothering someone or interfering with something.

calm sm (or an animal) down The idiom "calm someone/something down" means to soothe, pacify, or relax someone or an animal who is agitated, excited, or upset. It refers to the act of reducing someone's or something's level of stress, anxiety, or excitement in order to restore a state of tranquility or peace.

chain sm (or an animal) up The idiom "chain someone (or an animal) up" means to restrain or confine someone or something by using chains. It implies keeping someone or an animal in captivity or preventing their freedom of movement.

chase sm (or an animal) in(to) sm place The idiom "chase someone (or an animal) into some place" means to pursue or force someone or something to enter a specific location or area, typically in a persistent or determined manner.

swift as an arrow The idiom "swift as an arrow" means to be very fast or speedy. It refers to the speed and swiftness with which an arrow travels through the air when shot from a bow.

tough as an old boot The idiom "tough as an old boot" refers to someone or something that is extremely resilient, strong, or durable. It implies that the person or object can withstand difficult conditions or adversity without being affected.

coax (sm or an animal) in (to sth) The idiom "coax (someone or an animal) in (to something)" means to persuade, convince, or tempt someone or an animal to engage in a particular action or behavior. It often involves using gentle and patient persuasion, often to encourage someone or an animal to do something they may be hesitant or unwilling to do.

train sth on (sm, sth, or an animal) The idiom "train something on someone/something" means to focus or direct something such as one's attention, aim, or sights on a particular person, thing, or animal. It implies a deliberate act of aiming or pointing something towards a specific target, either literally or metaphorically.

train (sm or an animal) as sth The idiom "train (someone or an animal) as something" means to educate, teach, or prepare someone or something to fulfill a specific role, skill, or function. It often implies a deliberate and systematic process of instruction and practice to acquire desired abilities or behavior.

not trust sb an inch The idiom "not trust someone an inch" means to have no trust or faith in someone at all. It implies a complete lack of confidence in the person's intentions, reliability, or trustworthiness.

cry (sth) out (to sm or an animal) The idiom "cry (something) out (to someone or an animal)" refers to expressing or vocalizing something in a loud and desperate manner to grab someone's attention or seek help. It implies a sense of urgency or distress in the crying out.

at an early date The idiom "at an early date" refers to a specific point or time in the near future, typically implying that something will happen or be addressed promptly or without delay. It suggests that action or attention will be given within a reasonable amount of time.

wake (sm or an animal) up The idiom "wake someone up" or "wake an animal up" means to rouse or stir someone or an animal from sleep or a state of inactivity or unconsciousness. It refers to the act of causing someone or something to become alert or aware again after being asleep or idle.

whale into (sm or an animal) The idiom "whale into (someone or an animal)" typically means to attack or assault someone or something with great force or intensity. It implies a vigorous or aggressive action, as if one is pummeling or beating the target repeatedly. The phrase "whale into" often suggests a physical confrontation involving punching, hitting, or striking.

hide from sm (or an animal) The idiom "hide from someone (or an animal)" means to make oneself or something else out of sight or unnoticed by that person or animal, often for the purpose of avoiding being seen or caught.

drive sm (or an animal) out The idiom "drive someone or something out" means to force someone or something to leave a particular place or area. It usually implies using force, persuasion, or aggressive action to remove the individual or animal from a location, often to eliminate a threat or unwanted presence.

quiet (sm or an animal) down The idiom "quiet (someone or an animal) down" means to make someone or an animal calm, peaceful, or less agitated, often by reducing noise, commotion, or excitement. It implies the need for serenity and silence to restore tranquility.

at an end The idiom "at an end" means that something has come to a conclusion or is finished. It indicates that a certain period or event has reached its completion or final stage.

finish (sm or an animal) off The idiom "finish (someone or an animal) off" means to complete the killing of someone or an animal, usually in a violent or forceful manner, in order to ensure their death. It can also be used metaphorically to indicate concluding or ending something with a decisive or final action.

lay an egg The idiom "lay an egg" generally means to fail or to be unsuccessful in a particular endeavor or performance. It is often used to describe a situation where an expected result or outcome turns out to be disappointing, embarrassing, or subpar. This phrase derives from the literal act of a hen laying an egg, which is a natural, expected occurrence. However, if a hen fails to lay an egg, it would be considered an unusual and unsuccessful event in that usual process, leading to the figurative meaning of the idiom.

Go fry an egg! "Go fry an egg!" is an idiomatic expression used as a dismissive or sarcastic retort to tell someone to go away or leave you alone. It implies that the person being addressed should occupy themselves with a menial task or something trivial rather than bothering or irritating you.

place an order To "place an order" means to make a request or give instruction to purchase goods or services from a supplier or seller. It often involves specifying the desired items, quantity, and any other specific details related to the purchase.

draw sm (or an animal) The idiom "draw someone (or an animal)" refers to the act of attracting or luring someone or an animal towards a particular place, person, or situation. It can be used metaphorically to describe the ability to captivate or entice someone's attention or interest.

make sm an offer The idiom "make someone an offer" means to propose or suggest a deal or proposition to someone, typically in a negotiation context. It implies inviting the person to discuss and potentially accept or reject the presented offer.

lock (sm or an animal) (up) in (sth) The idiom "lock (someone or an animal) (up) in (something)" means to confine or imprison someone or an animal in a particular place or enclosure, typically by securing the door or entrance. It implies restricting freedom of movement or preventing escape.

parade (sm or an animal) out The idiom "parade (someone or an animal) out" refers to the act of displaying or showcasing someone or something in a public manner, often for the purpose of garnering attention, recognition, or approval. It can also imply a lack of authenticity or genuineness, suggesting that the person or animal is being used as a mere spectacle or ploy.

make an example of sb The idiom "make an example of sb" means to punish or discipline someone publicly, often in a harsh or severe manner, in order to serve as a warning or deterrent to others. It is done to showcase the consequences of a particular behavior or wrongdoing.

make an example of sm The idiom "make an example of someone" means to punish or discipline a person severely in order to deter others from behaving similarly. It is a way to demonstrate the consequences of a specific action by punishing someone publicly or harshly.

give an inch The idiom "give an inch" means to make a small concession or compromise, often with the understanding that the other party may take advantage and demand more. It refers to giving someone a slight advantage or leeway, which may lead to them demanding even more in return.

keep an eye out The idiom "keep an eye out" means to be vigilant, watchful or alert for something or someone. It implies paying close attention and actively looking for a specific thing or person, often in order to spot or notice their presence or arrival.

keep an eye on The idiom "keep an eye on" means to watch or monitor something or someone closely, usually to ensure their safety or to prevent any negative or unwanted outcome. It implies being vigilant and attentive in observing a particular situation or person.

bat an eye The idiom "bat an eye" means to show no emotional reaction, particularly when something surprising, shocking, or unusual occurs. It refers to maintaining a calm and composed demeanor, usually in response to unexpected or bizarre situations.

an aboutface The idiom "an about-face" refers to a complete and sudden change in attitude, opinion, or direction, typically used when someone or something completely reverses their previous stance or course of action. It implies a shift from one extreme to another or a complete reversal of one's position or behavior.

float an idea The idiom "float an idea" means to propose or suggest an idea, often to gauge its reception or generate discussion. It refers to the act of introducing an idea into a group or conversation, like releasing it into the air or water to see how it will be received and whether it will stay afloat or sink.

fence (sm or an animal) out The idiom "fence (someone or an animal) out" refers to the act of creating a physical barrier, usually made of a fence, to keep someone or an animal outside or prevent them from entering a specific area. It signifies the action of erecting a boundary to keep something or someone away or at a distance.

feed (sm, sth, or an animal) with sth The idiom "feed (someone, something, or an animal) with something" means to provide food or nourishment to someone, something, or an animal. It can be used both in a literal sense, referring to providing food to someone or an animal, as well as in a metaphorical sense, indicating the provision of something essential or necessary to fulfill a need or sustain someone or something.

gun sm (or an animal) down The idiom "gun (or an animal) down" means to shoot someone or something with a gun, causing severe injury or death. It is often used metaphorically to describe the act of forcefully and swiftly bringing an end to someone's or something's progress or existence.

help sm (or an animal) out (of sth) The idiom "help someone out (of something)" means to assist or aid someone in getting out of a difficult or challenging situation. It can also be used in the context of helping an animal escape from a dangerous or undesirable place.

hold (sm, sth, or an animal) back (from sm or sth) The idiom "hold (someone, something, or an animal) back (from someone or something)" means to restrain, restrict, or prevent someone or something from advancing, progressing, or reaching a certain destination or goal. It can refer to physical or metaphorical contexts where someone or something is being stopped or held in check.

hit sm (or an animal) on sth The idiom "hit someone (or an animal) on something" typically refers to accidentally striking or colliding with someone or an animal using a specific object or body part. This action is not intentional and usually occurs due to a lack of awareness or attention.

part (sm or an animal) from (sm or an animal) The idiom "part (someone or an animal) from (someone or an animal)" means to separate or remove one individual or thing from another individual or thing. It implies a disconnection or division between two entities that were previously together or associated.

keep (sm, sth, or an animal) back (from sm or sth) The idiom "keep (someone, something, or an animal) back (from someone or something)" is a phrase used to describe the act of preventing or restraining someone or something from approaching, reaching, or interacting with another person, thing, or place. It implies holding back or restraining any forward movement or action.

pen (sm or an animal) in (sm place) The idiom "pen (something or an animal) in (somewhere)" means to confine or restrict someone or something within a specific place or area. It implies the act of keeping something enclosed or limited, as if it were confined within a pen or enclosure.

let (sm or an animal) (get) out (of sth) The idiom "let (someone or an animal) (get) out (of something)" means to allow someone or an animal to leave a place or enclosure, usually in order to provide freedom or release from confinement.

take an oath The idiom "take an oath" means to make a formal, binding promise or vow, usually done in a legal or solemn context. It is a commitment to telling the truth, fulfilling responsibilities, or upholding a particular belief or cause.

pen (sm or an animal) up The idiom "pen (someone or an animal) up" means to confine or restrict someone or an animal within a specific area or enclosure, usually by physically enclosing them with a fence or barrier. It implies the act of confining or containing something to limit its movement or freedom. This expression is often used when referring to keeping animals or livestock in pens or enclosures for various purposes, such as for safety, control, or containment. It can also be used metaphorically to describe the act of confining or constraining someone or something's actions or freedom.

take pity (on sm or an animal) The idiom "take pity (on someone or an animal)" means to feel sympathy or compassion towards someone or an animal in a difficult or unfortunate situation and to take action to help or alleviate their suffering. It involves having a kind and empathetic response towards their plight or circumstances.

pull (sm or an animal) down The idiom "pull (someone or an animal) down" typically means to hinder, discourage, or undermine someone's progress, success, or morale. It refers to any action or behavior that weakens or attempts to bring someone down from a position of strength or achievement.

make an end of The idiom "make an end of" means to bring something to a decisive or final conclusion, to finish or complete something, or to eliminate or eradicate something completely.

see with half an eye The idiom "see with half an eye" means to perceive or understand something very clearly and easily, often without much effort or attention. It implies that the situation or information is obvious or apparent and can be easily recognized or comprehended even with minimal observation or attention.

an item The idiom "an item" refers to two people who are romantically involved or in a relationship, typically in the early stages or in a manner that is not yet publicly known or confirmed.

keep an eye open/out (for somebody/something) The idiom "keep an eye open/out (for somebody/something)" means to watch carefully or to be attentive in order to notice or find someone or something. It implies remaining vigilant or alert in order to observe or be aware of any developments, changes, or occurrences related to the person or thing in question.

an aide-mÃ©moire The idiom "an aide-mÃ©moire" refers to an object or written note that serves as a reminder or prompt to help recall important information or tasks. It is something that serves as a memory aid or a tool to jog one's memory.

an iron fist/hand The idiom "an iron fist/hand" refers to someone who exercises strict control and power, often involving forceful or authoritarian methods. It implies ruling or governing with a firm and uncompromising approach, showing little tolerance for dissent or opposition. It describes a person or authority figure who maintains strict discipline and enforces their will through intimidation or coercion.

an itchy palm The idiom "an itchy palm" refers to a superstitious belief that if someone's palm is itching, it is interpreted as a sign of impending financial gain or receiving money in the near future.

an old dear The idiom "an old dear" is used to refer to an elderly person, typically a woman, who is affectionately regarded and esteemed by others due to her age, perceived wisdom, or warm personality. It implies a sense of endearment and respect for their long-standing presence in the community or social circle.

an old fogey/fogy The idiom "an old fogey/fogy" refers to a person who is regarded as old-fashioned, conservative, or resistant to change. It is usually used to describe someone who holds traditional or outdated views and is not willing to adapt to new ideas or trends.

an old one The idiom "an old one" typically refers to a joke, story, or statement that has been widely known or used for a long time. It often implies that the idea or remark is unoriginal, predictable, or stale.

an old shoe The idiom "an old shoe" typically refers to someone who is familiar, comfortable, or trustworthy. It is often used to describe a person who is reliable, dependable, and can be counted on in various situations.

blink of an eye The idiom "blink of an eye" is defined as an extremely brief or almost instantaneous period of time. It refers to something happening or occurring so quickly that it is comparable to the action of blinking, which occurs within a fraction of a second.

burst with (an emotion) The idiom "burst with (an emotion)" means to be overwhelmed or filled with a particular intense emotion, such as happiness, joy, pride, or anger, which becomes almost uncontrollable or physically evident. It implies that the person is experiencing such a strong emotion that it feels as if they might burst or explode.

cast an/(one's) eye over (something) The idiom "cast an/(one's) eye over (something)" means to quickly and casually examine or glance at something. It refers to taking a brief look or making a cursory observation of a particular object, situation, or information without engaging in detailed analysis or prolonged study.

eye opener, an The idiom "eye opener" refers to something that is surprising or enlightening, often causing a person to gain a new perspective or understanding of a situation. It can be an experience, event, or information that challenges one's preconceived notions or reveals previously unknown facts or truths. In essence, an "eye opener" is something that opens or broadens a person's eyes metaphorically, helping them to see things in a different way.

give (someone) an out The idiomatic expression "give (someone) an out" refers to providing someone with an opportunity or excuse to avoid a situation or take a different course of action without facing any consequences or embarrassment. It typically involves offering the person a graceful or non-confrontational way to exit or withdraw from a particular circumstance.

half an eye The idiom "half an eye" typically means to be aware of something or to pay limited attention to it. It suggests that while one may not be fully focused or engaged, they still have a vague or partial awareness or observation of the situation or events.

have, etc. an/the edge on/over somebody/something The idiom "have, etc. an/the edge on/over somebody/something" means to have an advantage or superior position over someone or something in terms of skill, ability, knowledge, or resources. It suggests that one party has a slight but significant advantage that gives them the upper hand in a particular situation or competition.

hold an eel by the tail The idiom "hold an eel by the tail" means to be engaged in a difficult or precarious situation that is challenging to control. It implies trying to handle something slippery and elusive, like an eel, which can easily slip out of your grip and cause turmoil.

in a/the flash of an/the eye The idiom "in a/the flash of an/the eye" means to happen very rapidly or quickly, usually referring to something that occurs within a very short period of time or instantaneously.

in an ideal/a perfect world In an ideal/a perfect world means in a hypothetical or imagined situation where everything goes exactly as desired or planned, without any difficulties, flaws, or imperfections. It is often used to contrast with the reality or current situation, highlighting an unrealistic and wishful scenario.

in the twinkle of an eye The idiom "in the twinkle of an eye" refers to something that happens very quickly or instantaneously, in the blink of an eye. It emphasizes the swift and immediate nature of an action or occurrence.

keep (one's)/an eye on (someone or something) The idiom "keep (one's)/an eye on (someone or something)" means to watch, monitor, or be attentive to someone or something, often to ensure their safety, security or well-being, or to prevent any misbehavior or harm. It implies being vigilant, observant, and maintaining constant awareness of the person or thing being referred to.

keep an eye open The idiom "keep an eye open" means to be alert and watchful for something or someone. It implies attentiveness and diligence in observing one's surroundings or monitoring a situation.

keep an/your eye on somebody/something The idiom "keep an/your eye on somebody/something" means to watch or monitor someone or something closely and attentively. It implies being vigilant, observant, and maintaining constant awareness of their actions or developments.

keep half an eye on (someone or something) The idiom "keep half an eye on (someone or something)" means to loosely monitor or watch someone or something, giving only partial attention or focus. It implies keeping a minimal level of awareness or observation without fully committing or being fully engaged.

make an example of The idiom "make an example of" means to punish or discipline someone in a severe or public manner in order to serve as a warning or deterrent to others who may engage in similar actions or behavior. It involves subjecting someone to harsh consequences to demonstrate the consequences of their actions.

make an issue of The idiom "make an issue of" means to unnecessarily focus on or cause a dispute or argument about a particular matter, often making it seem more important or problematic than it actually is. It involves exaggerating or overreacting to a situation, causing unnecessary conflict or disagreement.

make an offer The idiom "make an offer" refers to the act of offering something, usually goods or services, for sale or exchange. It conveys the idea of proposing or presenting an offer or proposition to someone in a business transaction or negotiation.

not budge/give/move an inch The idiom "not budge/give/move an inch" means to stubbornly refuse to change one's opinion, position, or stance on something, even in the face of pressure or persuasion. It implies that someone is resolute and unwilling to compromise or yield.

not trust (one) an inch The idiom "not trust (one) an inch" means to have no trust or faith in someone. It conveys a complete lack of confidence in someone's honesty, reliability, or intentions.

old story, an The idiom "old story" is used to describe something that is well-known and familiar to the point of being boring or repetitive. It implies that the information or situation being discussed is not new or interesting anymore.

you're an angel The idiom "you're an angel" is a phrase used to express deep appreciation, gratitude, or admiration towards someone for their kind or helpful actions. It is typically used as a way to thank someone for their selfless and supportive behavior, implying that they are like a guardian angel.

pull an attitude The idiom "pull an attitude" refers to exhibiting a negative or confrontational behavior, often characterized by arrogance, insolence, or disrespect. It implies that an individual is intentionally adopting a challenging or defensive demeanor.

take an early bath To "take an early bath" is an idiomatic expression that means to suffer a significant setback or failure, usually in a competitive situation or endeavor. It implies that a person or team is eliminated or defeated early on or prematurely.

coax (someone or an animal) in (to something) The idiom "coax (someone or an animal) in (to something)" means to gently persuade, convince, or urge someone or an animal to participate or enter into a specific situation, event, or place. It often involves using gentle and persistent methods to encourage cooperation or compliance.

skin an eel by the tail The idiom "skin an eel by the tail" means to handle a difficult or delicate situation in a skillful or cautious manner, often involving complex or intricate tasks. It implies navigating through challenges with caution, patience, and expertise, much like the delicate process of skinning an eel while holding onto its slippery tail.

put an end The idiom "put an end" means to bring something to a stop or to bring something to a conclusion or resolution. It suggests taking action to terminate or finish a particular situation or activity.

with an eye on The idiom "with an eye on" means having a purposeful or vigilant focus on something, typically with the intention of closely monitoring, observing, or pursuing it. It suggests paying attention to a particular issue, person, or situation, often in anticipation of potential opportunities or challenges.

fence (someone or an animal) out The idiom "fence (someone or an animal) out" refers to the act of using a physical barrier, typically a fence, to keep someone or an animal away or prevent them from entering a specific area or property. It implies creating a boundary or separation by installing a fence to restrict access or deter unwanted individuals or animals from entering a particular space.

finish (someone or an animal) off The idiom "finish someone or an animal off" means to complete the act of killing, defeating, or destroying someone or something, often to end their suffering or put an end to a particular situation. It can refer to physically ending someone's life or figuratively defeating or overpowering someone in a contest, argument, or competition.

put an idea in(to) (someone's) head The idiom "put an idea in(to) (someone's) head" means to suggest or introduce an idea to someone, often with the intention of influencing their thoughts, beliefs, or behavior. It implies that the idea may not have previously been considered by the person, but after it is suggested, they start contemplating it or giving it serious thought.

do (someone) an honor To "do (someone) an honor" means to bestow a special privilege or recognition upon someone. It implies showing respect or admiration towards the person, typically by offering them a distinction or opportunity that is considered prestigious or esteemed.

in an perfect world The idiom "in a perfect world" refers to a hypothetical situation or scenario where everything is ideal, flawless, or behaves according to one's desires or expectations. It implies a contrast between an imaginary, idealized reality and the imperfect nature of the actual world we live in.

in an ideal world The idiom "in an ideal world" means a hypothetical situation or imagined circumstance that is perfect, flawless, or near-perfect, but unlikely or unrealistic in reality. It implies an acknowledgment of imperfections, limitations, or compromises in the actual world we live in.

make an issue (out) of The idiom "make an issue (out) of" means to excessively or unnecessarily focus on or highlight a certain matter or problem, often causing it to become more significant or complicated than it actually is. It refers to someone deliberately making a big deal out of something that may not warrant such attention or concern.

keep (someone or an animal) in The idiom "keep (someone or an animal) in" means to confine or restrict the movement or freedom of a person or animal. It suggests keeping someone or something inside a particular place, typically for their own safety, containment, or control.

let (someone or an animal) (get) out (of something) The idiom "let (someone or an animal) out (of something)" refers to allowing someone or an animal to exit or be released from a restricted or confined space. It can be used both literally, where someone physically opens a door or gate to let someone or an animal out, and figuratively, where someone is given freedom or relief from a difficult or challenging situation.

an iron curtain The idiom "an iron curtain" refers to a metaphorical barrier or division between countries or people that represents a strict and oppressive separation. It was famously used by Winston Churchill in 1946 to describe the ideological and physical separation between Eastern and Western Europe during the Cold War era.

eye for an eye, an The idiom "an eye for an eye" is a proverbial phrase rooted in the principle of justice, vengeance, or retribution. It essentially means that the punishment or harm inflicted upon someone should be equivalent to the injury or offense they have committed. The phrase often conveys the idea that the punishment should fit the crime, implying a sense of fairness or reciprocity.

have/get an eyeful The idiom "have/get an eyeful" generally means to see something in great detail or to see something visually striking or impressive. It often implies a visual experience that might leave a lasting impression or evoke strong emotions.

not budge/give an inch The idiom "not budge/give an inch" refers to someone refusing to change their position or opinion, even slightly, despite pressure or persuasion from others. It implies a strong determination to stick to one's position or stance without any compromise or concession.

with an eye to something/to doing something The idiom "with an eye to something/to doing something" refers to being attentive or mindful of a specific goal, intention, or purpose. It implies that someone is considering or planning for a future event or outcome while keeping it in mind during their current actions or decision-making process.

keep an eye on somebody/something The idiom "keep an eye on somebody/something" means to monitor or watch someone or something closely, typically to ensure their well-being, safety, or proper functioning. It implies being attentive, cautious, and aware of any developments or changes.

send on an errand The idiom "send on an errand" means to ask or instruct someone to go somewhere or do something specific on one's behalf. It typically refers to delegating a task or requesting assistance from someone to carry out a specific assignment or chore.

earn an honest buck The idiom "earn an honest buck" means to make money through ethical and legitimate means, typically by working hard and honestly. It emphasizes the value of integrity and fair compensation for one's effort or labor.

live on the smell of an oil rag The idiom "live on the smell of an oil rag" means to live in a meager or impoverished manner, surviving with very little money or resources. It suggests that one's lifestyle is so modest that the only sustenance is the faint scent of an oil rag, which implies a lack of material wealth and comfort.

have a memory like an elephant The idiom "have a memory like an elephant" means having an exceptional or remarkable ability to remember things or events from the past with great clarity and detail. It is often used to describe someone with an excellent memory or the ability to recall information effortlessly.

calm someone (or an animal) down The idiom "calm someone (or an animal) down" means to soothe or pacify someone or an animal who is agitated, anxious, or upset, thereby helping them regain a sense of tranquility or composure. It involves using comforting words, gestures, or actions to reduce stress or tension and restore a state of calmness.

itâ€™s an ill wind (that blows nobody any good) The idiom "itâ€™s an ill wind (that blows nobody any good)" means that even in a negative or unfortunate situation, there is often someone who benefits or gains something positive from it. Essentially, it suggests that even when something bad happens, there can be some silver lining or unexpected advantages for someone.

all good things (must) come to an end The idiom "all good things (must) come to an end" means that enjoyable or positive experiences or situations cannot last forever and will eventually come to a conclusion or conclusion.

have an out The idiom "have an out" typically means to have a means of escape, a solution, or an alternative plan in a difficult or challenging situation. It suggests that someone possesses a way to avoid or resolve an unfavorable circumstance.

confuse sm or an animal with sth The idiom "confuse someone or an animal with something" means to mistake or mix up someone or a living creature with another thing or situation, often due to similarities or confusion. It implies a lack of clarity or understanding in distinguishing between different entities or circumstances.

never give a sucker an even break The idiom "never give a sucker an even break" means to wittingly or unfairly take advantage of someone who is naive, gullible, or easily fooled. It suggests that individuals who are easily deceived or manipulated should not be given a fair or equal opportunity, as they are more susceptible to being taken advantage of. The phrase implies that those who are more savvy or cunning should exploit this vulnerability in order to gain an advantage for themselves.

in an interesting condition The idiom "in an interesting condition" is a euphemism used to delicately refer to a woman who is pregnant.

an albatross round your neck The idiom "an albatross round your neck" refers to a burdensome or troublesome situation or responsibility that one is bound to carry or endure, often due to their own actions or circumstances. It is based on a reference to Samuel Taylor Coleridge's poem "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner," where the sailor is forced to wear the dead albatross around his neck as punishment for killing the bird, which brings him misfortune and guilt.

within an inch of your life The idiom "within an inch of your life" means to beat or attack someone so severely that they are near the point of death or great harm. It is often used to describe a violent beating or assault where the person is barely able to survive.

an iron hand in a velvet glove The idiom "an iron hand in a velvet glove" refers to someone who appears gentle, kind, or lenient on the outside, but is actually firm, authoritative, or strict on the inside. It suggests that while someone may appear soft and gentle, they possess a hidden strength or enforce their will and authority in a subtle yet powerful manner.

an ace in the hole The idiom "an ace in the hole" refers to a secret or hidden advantage or resource that can be used strategically or in times of need, often kept as a backup plan to gain an advantage over others or to ensure success. It implies having a powerful and unexpected solution or card up one's sleeve that can be played when necessary.

send someone (out) on an errand The idiom "send someone (out) on an errand" means to ask or instruct someone to go somewhere to perform a task or job. It commonly refers to sending someone to a specific location to complete a specific errand or chore.

not give/budge/move an inch The idiom "not give/budge/move an inch" means to refuse to change or compromise in any way, or to be extremely stubborn and unwilling to yield or make even the smallest concession in a situation. It implies an unwavering stance or determination, regardless of the circumstances or arguments presented.

an uphill struggle/battle/task The idiom "an uphill struggle/battle/task" refers to a challenging or difficult endeavor that requires great effort and determination to achieve success. It implies that the task is comparable to climbing a steep hill, as it involves facing obstacles, obstacles or unfavorable circumstances that make progress slow and arduous.

dope someone (or an animal) up The idiom "dope someone (or an animal) up" generally means to administer drugs or substances to someone or an animal, typically to provide relief from pain, illness, or to alter behavior.

an old wives' tale The idiom "an old wives' tale" refers to a traditional belief, story, or superstition that is widely held but lacks any scientific basis or evidence. It is often passed down through generations, especially amongst older women, but is generally regarded as false or misleading.

down with (an illness) The idiom "down with (an illness)" is used to describe someone who is currently suffering from or affected by a particular illness or ailment. It implies that the person is unwell and experiencing the symptoms and effects of the specific illness mentioned.

cost (sb) an arm and a leg The idiom "cost (sb) an arm and a leg" refers to something that is excessively expensive or valuable. It is used to describe situations where someone has to pay a very high price for something, often figuratively meaning a significant sacrifice or loss.

an uphill battle/fight/struggle The idiom "an uphill battle/fight/struggle" refers to a situation that is challenging, difficult, and requires a lot of effort and determination to accomplish or overcome. It implies that the task at hand is comparable to trying to climb a steep hill or mountain, where progress is slow and obstacles are plentiful.

(as) common as an old shoe The idiom "(as) common as an old shoe" refers to something or someone that is familiar, ordinary, and unremarkable. It suggests that the subject is well-known and presents no surprises or novelty.

an axe hanging over someone The idiom "an axe hanging over someone" refers to a situation where there is a looming threat or impending danger that could have detrimental consequences for a person. It suggests that there is an imminent possibility of severe repercussions or punishment, similar to the impending strike of an axe.

take no for an answer The definition of the idiom "take no for an answer" is to refuse to accept rejection or refusal and not be persuaded or dissuaded. It refers to someone who is persistent and determined to achieve their desired outcome, regardless of initial denials or objections.

an uphill fight The idiom "an uphill fight" refers to a challenging, difficult, or arduous struggle or battle. It suggests that the task or endeavor at hand requires significant effort and determination to overcome obstacles and reach a desired goal. The phrase alludes to the physical difficulty of climbing a steep hill, where progress is slow and requires continuous exertion to make any headway.

an acid test The idiom "an acid test" refers to a rigorous or decisive examination or evaluation to determine the true worth or quality of something or someone. It often involves a challenging or demanding situation that puts someone or something to the ultimate test, revealing their true abilities, character, or potential.

strain for an effect The idiom "strain for an effect" refers to the act of putting excessive effort or attempting too hard in order to achieve a desired result or create a certain impression. It suggests going beyond what is necessary or natural, potentially leading to an artificial or forced outcome.

an eleventh-hour decision The idiom "an eleventh-hour decision" refers to a choice or action that is made at the last possible moment, usually right before a deadline or before a significant event is about to occur. It implies that the decision was not made well in advance or was delayed until the final moment.

have an early/a late night The idiom "have an early/a late night" typically refers to the time someone goes to bed or stays awake until. It can be used to describe either going to bed or staying awake earlier or later than usual, often indicating altered sleep patterns or lifestyle choices.

offer an olive branch (to someone) The idiom "offer an olive branch (to someone)" is used to express the act of extending a gesture of peace, reconciliation, or conciliation towards someone with whom there has been an argument or conflict. It refers to making an effort to establish harmony and resolve differences. The phrase originates from an ancient practice of offering an olive branch as a symbol of peace, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome.

It's an ill wind The idiom "It's an ill wind" means that even though something may seem negative or unfortunate at first, it can still have some positive or beneficial outcomes. It suggests that even in difficult or challenging situations, there might be opportunities or silver linings to be found.

get up an appetite The idiom "get up an appetite" means to do something or go through an activity that causes one to feel hungry or have a desire to eat. It suggests that engaging in physical or mental exertion can stimulate one's hunger.

bring an amount of money in The idiom "bring an amount of money in" means to earn or generate a specific sum of money. It refers to the act of securing or obtaining a particular financial amount.

do yourself an injury The idiom "do yourself an injury" means to harm oneself physically or emotionally, intentionally or unintentionally. It suggests that one's actions or behaviors might lead to negative consequences or self-inflicted harm.

offer an olive branch The idiom "offer an olive branch" means to make a gesture of peace or reconciliation, typically in an attempt to end a conflict or mend a strained relationship. It originates from the ancient Greek and Roman customs of offering an olive branch as a symbol of peace and goodwill.

on the back of an envelope The idiom "on the back of an envelope" refers to a calculation, plan, or idea that is made quickly and without much thought or analysis. It suggests a rough estimation or an informal approach, often used to outline something briefly or sketchily.

boil with (an emotion) The idiom "boil with (an emotion)" means to be consumed or overwhelmed by a strong or intense emotion. It implies that the emotion is so powerful that it feels as if it is heating up or bubbling within a person, potentially leading to a loss of control or the need for immediate expression.

do somebody an honour The idiom "do somebody an honour" means to show someone special recognition, respect, or favor; to bestow a privilege or distinction upon someone. It implies that someone is being given a privilege or treated in a way that highlights their importance or worthiness.

an open sesame The idiom "an open sesame" refers to something that provides easy access or a way to accomplish or achieve something effortlessly. It originates from the phrase used in the story of "Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves," where "open sesame" is the magical password that grants access to a hidden cave filled with treasures. The idiom has come to represent a key or solution that unlocks or opens doors to success or opportunity.

in the wink of an eye (or in a wink) The idiom "in the wink of an eye" (or "in a wink") means to happen very quickly or in an instant. It refers to something that occurs so swiftly that it seems to happen in the time it takes to blink or close one's eyes momentarily.

have an ace up your sleeve The idiom "have an ace up your sleeve" means to have a secret advantage or resource that can be used to gain an advantage over others, especially in a situation where it is unexpected or unknown.

will not take no for an answer The idiom "will not take no for an answer" means that someone is determined and persistent in achieving a desired outcome or obtaining a positive response, even if met with refusal or resistance. They refuse to accept rejection or a negative reply and will continue to pursue their goal.

have an/(one's) ear to the ground The idiom "have an/(one's) ear to the ground" means being alert, attentive, and close to the source of information concerning a specific situation or topic. It refers to actively seeking or keeping oneself informed about current events, trends, or developments by paying attention to what is happening in one's surroundings or within a particular community. The phrase implies being well-connected, having reliable sources, or being knowledgeable about the latest updates, often used to describe someone who is particularly astute or well-informed.

hold out/offer an olive branch The idiom "hold out/offer an olive branch" means to make a gesture of peace or reconciliation, usually after a disagreement or conflict. It symbolizes a willingness to resolve differences and promote harmony between parties.

confine or an animal to The idiom "confine an animal to" refers to the act of restricting or limiting an animal's movements or access to a certain area or space. It means to keep the animal within specified boundaries, such as a cage, pen, or specific area, usually for the purpose of control, safety, or training.

an albatross around your neck The idiom "an albatross around your neck" refers to a heavy burden or a constant problem that one has to carry or bear, which can hinder progress or cause difficulties in achieving success. It originates from Samuel Taylor Coleridge's famous poem "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner," where the speaker kills an albatross, which is believed to bring bad luck upon the crew. As a punishment, the mariner is forced to wear the albatross around his neck, symbolizing the burden of guilt and consequences of his actions.

not bat an eyelid (or eye) The idiom "not bat an eyelid (or eye)" means to not show any surprise, dismay, or emotion in response to something unexpected or shocking. It implies remaining calm and composed in the face of a surprising or unusual situation.

an/the olive branch The idiom "an/the olive branch" refers to a peace offering or gesture of reconciliation. It originated from the ancient practice of extending an olive branch, symbolizing peace, to someone as a sign of goodwill or an attempt to end a conflict.

an educated guess An educated guess refers to a prediction or estimation made based on available information and a certain level of knowledge or expertise in a particular subject area. It involves using logical reasoning and analysis to make an inference or assumption when the complete information is not available.

blush with (an emotion) The idiom "blush with (an emotion)" means to show signs or display the outward manifestation of a particular emotion, typically one that is intense or overwhelming. It refers to the physical reaction of blushing, which involves the reddening of the face due to embarrassment, shyness, anger, excitement, or any other strong emotion.

harness sm (or an animal) to sth The idiom "harness (someone or an animal) to something" means to attach or connect them to a specific task, objective, or responsibility. It can be both a literal and metaphorical expression. Literally, it refers to fastening an animal, such as a horse, to a cart or vehicle using a harness. Metaphorically, it implies utilizing someone's skills, energy, or efforts for a specific purpose or goal. It suggests directing their abilities or resources towards a particular endeavor to maximize their potential or achieve desired outcomes.

an inside job The idiom "an inside job" refers to a situation or a crime that is committed by someone within an organization or a group. It implies that the responsible party has insider knowledge or access, allowing them to carry out the task more easily.

an iron fist The idiom "an iron fist" refers to a person who exercises strict control or authority over others, usually through harsh or forceful methods. It implies authoritarian behavior, displaying a heavy-handed and uncompromising approach to ensure compliance or dominance.

an attack The idiom "an attack" refers to a sudden and aggressive act intended to harm, damage, or overpower someone or something physically, emotionally, mentally, or verbally. It can also be used more metaphorically to describe a forceful criticism or an intense and persistent effort against an idea or concept.

throw an eye over (something) The idiom "throw an eye over (something)" means to quickly and casually glance or look at something without giving it thorough attention or analysis. It implies a cursory or brief observation rather than a detailed examination.

take an interest The idiom "take an interest" means to show curiosity, concern, or involvement in something. It refers to actively engaging in or paying attention to a particular topic, activity, or person.

you can't teach an old dog new tricks The idiom "you can't teach an old dog new tricks" means that it is challenging or nearly impossible to teach or change someone (especially an older person) to do something differently, especially if they are set in their ways or resistant to change.

within an inch of life The idiom "within an inch of life" typically refers to a severe beating or attack that leaves someone very close to death or in a life-threatening condition.

an elder statesman The idiom "an elder statesman" refers to a highly respected and influential person, usually in politics or public life, who has extensive experience and wisdom. They often hold a prominent position and are seen as a guiding figure, providing guidance and advice to younger individuals and contributing to the overall welfare and progress of their country or organization.

earn an honest penny The idiom "earn an honest penny" means to make a fair and honorable living by working hard and conscientiously. It implies earning a decent income through legitimate means, often implying that the person is reliable, trustworthy, and diligent in their work.

scrape up an acquaintance The idiom "scrape up an acquaintance" typically means making minimal effort to establish or develop a superficial relationship with someone.

an ivory tower The idiom "an ivory tower" refers to a metaphorical place or state of mind where someone is isolated or detached from the practical realities and concerns of everyday life. It implies a situation where a person is removed from the problems, challenges, or experiences of the real world and instead exists in a secluded and idealistic environment. This idiom often alludes to academics, scholars, or intellectuals who are disconnected from the practical aspects of society and are only concerned with abstract or theoretical ideas.

come within an ace of (something) The idiom "come within an ace of (something)" means to be very close to achieving or accomplishing something, but ultimately falling just short or narrowly missing out on it. It implies a near miss or a close call.

cram for an examination The idiom "cram for an examination" means to study intensively or quickly and to try to memorize a large amount of information in a short period of time, usually right before an exam.

beat to within an inch of life The idiom "beat to within an inch of life" means to severely beat someone or something, causing extreme pain or damage but stopping just short of killing them. It implies a brutal and merciless attack, leaving the recipient in a state of near-death or severely injured.

keep an/(one's) ear to the ground The idiom "keep an/(one's) ear to the ground" refers to being attentive, alert, or aware of what is happening or about to happen. It involves staying connected to the current situation, being observant, and staying informed to gather important information or insights.

come within an inch of doing sth The idiom "come within an inch of doing something" means to come extremely close to doing or achieving something, but ultimately falling short or narrowly missing out. It implies that the person was very close to accomplishing the desired outcome, but circumstances or luck prevented them from doing so.

have a soft spot (in one's heart) for sm or an animal The idiom "have a soft spot (in one's heart) for someone or an animal" means to have a strong affection or a special fondness for a particular person or creature. It implies feeling a deep emotional connection or attachment towards them, often resulting in a willingness to be more forgiving, sympathetic, or lenient towards their actions or needs.

coax (someone or an animal) out of something The idiom "coax (someone or an animal) out of something" means to gently persuade or manipulate someone or an animal to relinquish or abandon something, often through the use of kind words or actions. It involves convincing or cajoling someone to let go of their resistance, reluctance, or attachment to a particular thing or situation.

pull down (an amount of money) The idiom "pull down (an amount of money)" is used to describe earning or making a specific amount of money, typically in a job or business context. It suggests the successful attainment of a particular financial sum.

make an honest woman of The idiom "make an honest woman of" typically refers to a situation in which a man promises to marry a woman with whom he is in a romantic relationship, particularly if they are living together or have had a child together. It implies that by marrying her, the man is making their relationship more socially acceptable or legitimate. The idiom reflects a traditional view that marriage is necessary to establish a committed, respectable, and legally recognized relationship.

give someone an even break The idiom "give someone an even break" means to treat someone fairly and give them a fair opportunity or chance. It can refer to providing equal or balanced conditions, opportunities, or advantages to someone in a situation.

use someone or something as an excuse The idiom "use someone or something as an excuse" means to cite or refer to someone or something as a reason or rationale for one's own actions, behavior, or decisions. It involves assigning blame or shifting responsibility onto someone or something else in order to avoid accountability or consequences.

an open book The idiom "an open book" means that someone's thoughts, feelings, or intentions are easily understood or known by others. It suggests that the person is transparent, honest, and doesn't hide anything.

not an earthly The idiom "not an earthly" refers to something that is highly unlikely or impossible to happen or exist in reality. It implies that the mentioned thing or situation is completely out of the realm of possibility or feasibility.

listen with half an ear The idiom "listen with half an ear" means to pay only partial or minimal attention to something being said or communicated. It implies that one is not fully engaged or focused on the information being transmitted and is only giving it a small portion of their attention.

pay an arm and a leg The idiom "pay an arm and a leg" means to pay a very high price for something, often used to convey the idea of something being excessively expensive. It suggests that the cost is so high that it feels as if one is giving away a significant part of their body (an arm and a leg) in exchange for it.

bat an eyelash The idiom "bat an eyelash" means to show a subtle or minimal reaction to something surprising or shocking. It refers to the reflex action of blinking one's eyes, where a person's facial expression momentarily changes, though often only subtly, in response to a surprising or unexpected event.

on an irregular basis The idiom "on an irregular basis" refers to doing something occasionally or infrequently, without a regular or consistent schedule. It suggests that the occurrence or frequency of an activity is inconsistent, unpredictable, or not following a predetermined pattern.

an article of faith The idiom "an article of faith" refers to a belief or principle that is accepted without question or doubt, typically within a particular religion or system of beliefs. It represents a conviction that is deeply ingrained and often held as essential or fundamental.

kill (someone or an animal) off The idiom "kill (someone or an animal) off" means to cause the death or elimination of someone or something, typically in a deliberate or intentional manner. It can also refer to the process of eradicating or exterminating a species or group. In a non-literal sense, it can indicate the suppression or elimination of an idea, belief, or concept.

make an ass of The idiom "make an ass of" means to behave in a foolish or embarrassing manner, typically by making mistakes or poor decisions that reflect poorly on oneself. It implies that someone is acting or speaking in a way that reveals their lack of intelligence, judgment, or awareness, leading others to form a negative opinion of them.

an embarrassment of riches The idiom "an embarrassment of riches" refers to a situation where there is an overabundance or excessive amount of something, often causing difficulty in making a choice. It implies that having too many options or possessions can lead to confusion or feelings of being overwhelmed.

common as an old shoe The idiom "common as an old shoe" means something or someone that is extremely familiar, ordinary, or widely known to the point of being unremarkable. It suggests a lack of uniqueness or novelty, likening the subject to an item like an old shoe that is well-worn and frequently encountered.

be as slippery as an eel The idiom "be as slippery as an eel" means to be elusive, evasive, or difficult to catch or pin down. It implies that someone or something is cunning or hard to hold onto, just like a slippery eel.

satiate (sm or an animal) with sth The idiom "satiate (someone or an animal) with something" means to completely satisfy or fulfill a person's or an animal's hunger or desire for a particular thing or experience. It implies providing an abundance or excess of that thing to the point of full satisfaction.

make an honest woman (out) of (someone) The idiom "make an honest woman (out) of (someone)" typically refers to a person getting married in order to legitimize or legalize a relationship, especially when the woman involved is already pregnant or seen as being morally compromised. In this context, "make an honest woman (out) of (someone)" means to marry someone in order to remove any perceived stigma or disapproval surrounding their relationship.

cut an interesting etc. figure The idiom "cut an interesting figure" means to present oneself in a visually impressive or notable way. It refers to someone who stands out from the crowd due to their unique appearance, style, or overall presence. This expression highlights the ability of the individual to catch attention and leave a lasting impression.

drive (someone) to an early grave The idiom "drive (someone) to an early grave" refers to causing extreme stress, worry, or anguish that significantly impacts someone's health and ultimately leads to their premature death. It implies that the actions or behaviors of another person or a situation are so distressing to someone that they are literally being pushed to their grave earlier than they would have otherwise.

drown sm (or an animal) out The idiom "drown sm (or an animal) out" means to make someone or something unable to be heard or noticed by speaking or making noise louder. It is typically used in a situation where one person or thing's sound or voice is overwhelmed or effectively silenced by another person or thing.

at an unearthly/ungodly hour The idiom "at an unearthly/ungodly hour" refers to doing or happening something extremely early in the morning or at a time that is considered excessively inconvenient or unreasonable by most people. It implies an unusual, inappropriate, or inconvenient timing.

lull (sm or an animal) to sleep The idiom "lull (someone or an animal) to sleep" means to soothe or calm someone or an animal, typically by gentle sounds, rhythmic movements, or repetitive actions until they fall into a deep and peaceful sleep. It implies creating a tranquil and restful atmosphere to induce sleep.

you can't put an old head on young shoulders The idiom "you can't put an old head on young shoulders" means that it is impossible for a young person to possess the wisdom, experience, or maturity of an older person. It signifies that age brings knowledge and insight, which cannot be acquired instantly by the youth.

a Roland for an Oliver The idiom "a Roland for an Oliver" refers to a situation where one person or party seeks revenge or retaliation against another person or party. It suggests a tit-for-tat exchange, where one takes an action against the other as a response to a similar action taken against them.

get into an argument (with sm) (about sm or sth) The idiom "get into an argument (with someone) (about something or something)" means to engage in a heated or contentious discussion or disagreement with someone over a particular topic, issue, or matter. It implies that both parties have opposing views or conflicting opinions that lead to a confrontational exchange of opinions or ideas.

have an accident The idiom "have an accident" means to experience an event or situation that results in unintended harm or damage, typically to oneself or others. It refers to an unexpected and often unfortunate incident, usually involving an unintentional act or a mishap.

can talk the legs off an iron pot The idiom "can talk the legs off an iron pot" is used to describe someone who is exceptionally talkative or persuasive. It implies that the person is capable of talking for an extended period of time, often engaging others in conversation so effectively that they could convince even an inanimate object (like an iron pot) to move or respond.

administer something to someone (or an animal) The idiom "administer something to someone (or an animal)" means to give or apply something, such as medication or a treatment, to a person or an animal. It refers to the act of providing or delivering the prescribed or necessary substance to the intended recipient.

an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure The idiom "an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure" means that it is easier, more effective, and less costly to take preventative measures to avoid problems than to address and fix them after they have occurred. It emphasizes the importance of proactive actions to avoid or minimize potential negative consequences.

put an end to sth The idiom "put an end to something" means to bring something to a conclusion or to stop or eliminate something completely. It implies taking decisive action or making a final effort to bring an activity, situation, or problem to an end.

confine someone or an animal to something The idiom "confine someone or an animal to something" means to restrict or limit someone's or an animal's movement or freedom within a specific area or place. It implies keeping someone or something contained within certain boundaries, often for the sake of safety, control, or confinement purposes.

an armchair critic, traveller, etc. The idiom "an armchair critic, traveler, etc." refers to someone who engages in criticizing, traveling, or any activity without actually participating in it or having real experience or firsthand knowledge about it. It denotes someone who offers opinions or judgments from the comfort of their armchair or without direct involvement, often lacking practical understanding of the subject matter.

take an axe to The idiom "take an axe to" refers to the act of forcefully eliminating or destroying something. It implies a vigorous or drastic action to completely remove or eradicate something.

not bat an eyelash The idiom "not bat an eyelash" means to remain calm and unaffected in a situation that might typically warrant surprise, shock, or concern. It refers to showing no visible or emotional reaction to something unexpected or extraordinary.

lend an ear to sb/sth The idiom "lend an ear to sb/sth" means to listen attentively to someone or something. It implies giving someone your full attention, being open to hearing their thoughts or concerns, and offering support or understanding. It suggests being willing to listen without judgment or interruption, providing a sense of comfort or an outlet for expression.

an act of war The idiom "an act of war" refers to an action or event undertaken by one country against another, which is considered a deliberate, provocative, or aggressive act. It implies a significant escalation of tension between nations, often leading to armed conflict or war.

an eye for an eye (and a tooth for a tooth) The idiom "an eye for an eye (and a tooth for a tooth)" is a principle or a concept found in many cultures and legal systems, known as the principle of retaliation or retaliation in kind. It refers to the idea that punishment for a wrongdoing should match the severity of the offense committed. In simpler terms, it suggests that a person who has been wronged should seek retribution or justice by inflicting a similar harm on the person who wronged them.

hold out an olive branch To "hold out an olive branch" means to make a gesture of peace, reconciliation, or goodwill towards someone, usually after a period of conflict or disagreement, in an attempt to resolve the differences and restore harmony in a relationship. The idiom is derived from an ancient practice in which an olive branch was offered as a symbol of peace.

it's an ill wind that blows no good The idiom "it's an ill wind that blows no good" means that even in a negative or unfortunate situation, there can still be beneficial or positive outcomes. Sometimes, what may initially seem bad can turn out to have some advantages or bring unexpected opportunities.

shell an amount of money out To shell an amount of money out means to spend or pay a significant or considerable sum of money. It is often used to suggest that the expenditure is reluctantly or unwillingly made.

hold out (or offer) an olive branch The idiom "hold out (or offer) an olive branch" means to make a gesture of peace or reconciliation, usually after a disagreement or conflict. It symbolizes a willingness to settle differences and restore harmony between individuals or groups.

have half an ear on (someone or something) The idiom "have half an ear on (someone or something)" means to partially pay attention to someone or something while primarily focusing on another task or situation. It implies being somewhat attentive but not fully engaged or actively participating in the conversation or activity.

curl up with (someone or an animal) The idiom "curl up with (someone or an animal)" means to physically lie or sit in a comfortable position next to someone or an animal, often in a cozy manner. It implies finding comfort, relaxation, and a sense of security by being close to them.

an old bag The idiom "an old bag" typically refers to a derogatory term used to describe a woman who is considered unattractive, unfashionable, or unpleasant. It emphasizes a negative judgment or perception of someone's appearance or character.

cut an interesting/ridiculous/unusual etc. figure The idiom "cut an interesting/ridiculous/unusual etc. figure" means to attract attention or stand out due to one's appearance, behavior, or overall demeanor. It implies that someone's appearance or actions are noticeable and distinct in a way that may be intriguing, absurd, or uncommon.

an awkward customer The idiom "an awkward customer" refers to a person who is difficult to deal with, manage, or handle due to their challenging behavior, demands, or peculiarities. It is often used to describe someone who presents challenges or complications in a particular situation or when interacting with others.

with an eye to The idiom "with an eye to" means to consider or have something in mind with a particular purpose or objective in view. It suggests having a specific intention or being mindful of a future goal while taking action or making a decision.

an armchair something The idiom "an armchair something" typically refers to someone who offers opinions or advice on a particular subject without actually having any practical experience or involvement in it. It suggests a person who merely theorizes or speculates about a topic from the comfort of their armchair, without having firsthand knowledge or genuine expertise.

keep an ear out for The idiom "keep an ear out for" means to pay attention or listen attentively for something specific, usually for a particular sound or piece of information, in order to be prepared for it or to be able to respond appropriately.

do yourself/somebody an injustice The idiom "do yourself/somebody an injustice" means to underestimate or undervalue oneself or someone else. It suggests that the person is not fully recognizing their own abilities, talents, or worth, leading to a negative impact on their own or someone else's reputation or potential success.

have half an eye on (someone or something) The idiom "have half an eye on (someone or something)" means to have partial or intermittent attention or awareness towards someone or something. It implies that one is only partially paying attention or keeping an eye on something while being preoccupied or engaged with other activities or thoughts.

give an account (of sm or sth) (to sm) The idiom "give an account (of sm or sth) (to sm)" means to provide an explanation, description, or report about someone or something to another person. It often refers to recounting specific details or providing information regarding a particular event or situation.

make an exception (for someone) The idiom "make an exception (for someone)" means to deviate from a rule or established practice for a specific individual or situation, granting them special privileges or leniency that would not be afforded to others in the same circumstances.

an old chestnut The idiom "an old chestnut" refers to a stale or overused joke, story, or idea that has become wearisome and predictable due to repetitive use. It typically implies that the subject matter is no longer fresh or interesting.

deaf as an adder (or a post) The idiom "deaf as an adder (or a post)" means someone who is completely oblivious or unwilling to listen to or acknowledge what others are saying. It implies a stubbornness or total disregard for the opinions, advice, or pleas of others. The comparison to adders (venomous snakes) or a post (an inanimate object) emphasizes the complete lack of responsiveness or hearing in the person being referred to.

It would take an act of Congress to do something. The idiom "It would take an act of Congress to do something" refers to a situation where accomplishing a task or achieving a particular outcome would require a lot of effort, bureaucracy, or a complex, time-consuming process. It implies that the task at hand is difficult, involving numerous steps or actions, and often involves governmental or official procedures.

do (oneself or someone) an injustice The idiom "do (oneself or someone) an injustice" means to unfairly underestimate or undervalue oneself or someone else, usually by not acknowledging their true worth or abilities. It implies not giving proper credit or recognition to someone's talents, skills, or achievements, thus diminishing their value or potential.

gun someone (or an animal) down The idiom "gun someone (or an animal) down" means to shoot or kill someone or something intentionally and often with a firearm, typically in a sudden and violent manner.

lead (sm or an animal) to sth The idiom "lead (sm or an animal) to sth" typically means to guide or direct someone or an animal towards a particular location or situation. It often refers to physically leading someone or something in a specific direction, often with the intention of helping them or making them reach a specific goal or destination.

fortify (someone or an animal) (against something) (with something) The idiom "fortify (someone or an animal) (against something) (with something)" means to strengthen or protect someone or an animal against a specific threat or danger by providing them with necessary tools, skills, or resources.

comfortable as an old shoe, as The idiom "comfortable as an old shoe, as" implies feeling at ease and content in a familiar and comfortable situation or environment, much like wearing a well-worn and cozy old shoe that fits perfectly. It suggests a sense of relaxation, security, and contentment.

hound someone or an animal down The idiom "hound someone or an animal down" means to persistently or relentlessly pursue someone or an animal until they are found or caught. It implies continuously searching or chasing after someone or something until they are located or captured.

have an eye for something To have an eye for something means to have a natural ability or talent for recognizing, appreciating, or evaluating a specific thing or characteristic. It refers to being able to perceive and understand certain qualities or details of something, often in a keen or perceptive manner. This can apply to various fields such as art, fashion, design, photography, or any domain that requires a discerning eye for aesthetics or quality.

an Englishman's home is his castle The phrase "an Englishman's home is his castle" refers to the notion that, in English culture, a person's home represents their personal domain or refuge, where they have ultimate control and authority. It suggests that individuals have the right to privacy and security within their own homes. This phrase emphasizes the importance of personal space and the idea that one's home should be a sanctuary.

make an honest buck The idiom "make an honest buck" means to earn money or make a living through fair and ethical means, without cheating or engaging in dishonest practices. It implies earning a living through hard work, integrity, and sincerity.

raise your eyebrows (or an eyebrow) The idiom "raise your eyebrows" (or "raise an eyebrow") means to display surprise, disbelief, or skepticism through an upward movement of your eyebrows. It signifies the expression of doubt or questioning due to something unexpected or unusual.

keep an eye on someone or something The idiom "keep an eye on someone or something" means to watch or monitor someone or something closely and attentively, typically to ensure their safety, well-being, or to prevent any negative outcomes or occurrences. It involves being vigilant and observant, paying close attention in order to maintain control, supervise, or protect someone or something.

an admirable Crichton The idiom "an admirable Crichton" refers to someone who is highly skilled and capable in various areas or tasks. It alludes to the character Crichton from J.M. Barrie's play "The Admirable Crichton" (1902), who is a butler but demonstrates exceptional adaptability and resourcefulness when he and his employers become stranded on a deserted island. Thus, the idiom is used to describe individuals who possess admirable competence and versatility in different aspects of life.

bat an eyelid The idiom "bat an eyelid" means to show no surprise or shock, to remain calm and unaffected in a situation that would typically elicit a strong reaction from others. It implies a lack of emotional response or indifference to an unusual or unexpected event.

an about-face The idiom "an about-face" refers to a complete change in opinion, direction, or behavior. It often involves a reversal of a previous decision or stance.

celebrate for an accomplishment To "celebrate for an accomplishment" means to commemorate or honor a successful achievement or milestone. It typically involves expressing joy, happiness, or pride in recognition of someone's or something's notable accomplishment. Celebration may take the form of parties, gatherings, ceremonies, or any other festive activities to acknowledge and appreciate the achievement.

an old flame The idiom "an old flame" refers to a person with whom one had a romantic relationship in the past. It typically implies that the relationship has ended and the person is no longer a current or active romantic partner.

have an ace in the hole The idiom "have an ace in the hole" means to have a secret advantage or resource that can be used strategically when needed, often kept hidden until a critical moment.

take (someone) for an idiot The idiom "take (someone) for an idiot" means to think or assume that someone is foolish, gullible, or easily deceived. It implies belittling or underestimating someone's intelligence.

come to an understanding The idiom "come to an understanding" refers to the act of reaching an agreement or consensus with someone, typically after a period of discussion or negotiation. It entails finding common ground and resolving any differences or conflicts between parties.

an uphill task The idiom "an uphill task" refers to a difficult or challenging undertaking that requires great effort, perseverance, and determination to overcome. It implies that the task is comparable to climbing up a steep hill, which denotes the obstacles, resistance, and uphill struggle one may face in accomplishing it.

make an honest woman of sm The idiom "make an honest woman of someone" typically refers to a man marrying a woman with whom he has been involved romantically or intimately, implying that the act of marriage makes their relationship socially and morally acceptable.

create an uproar The idiom "create an uproar" refers to causing a loud, chaotic, and highly disruptive commotion or disturbance. It implies the act of provoking widespread uproar, typically involving a large group of people reacting with intense emotions such as anger, protest, or outrage.

It's an ill wind that blows nobody good The idiom "It's an ill wind that blows nobody good" means that even in a negative or unfortunate situation, there is often some advantage or benefit for someone. It suggests that while something negative may happen to one person, it can bring favorable outcomes or opportunities for others.

put an end to (oneself) The idiom "put an end to oneself" refers to taking one's own life or committing suicide. It implies the act of intentionally ending one's own existence.

you canâ€™t make an omelette without breaking a few eggs The idiom "you can't make an omelette without breaking a few eggs" means that in order to achieve something positive or significant, some negative or undesirable aspects or consequences may be unavoidable. It emphasizes that progress often involves sacrifices or difficulties along the way.

have an ax(e) to grind The idiom "have an ax(e) to grind" means to have a hidden agenda or a personal motive behind one's actions or opinions. It refers to someone having a vested interest in a particular matter, often involving personal gain or revenge.

shake like an aspen leaf The idiom "shake like an aspen leaf" means to tremble or quiver uncontrollably, usually due to fear, nervousness, or coldness. It refers to the distinctive movement of the leaves on an aspen tree, which are known for their constant, fluttering motion even in the slightest breeze.

it's an old story The idiom "it's an old story" refers to something that is well-known, familiar, or overly repetitive. It suggests that the situation or information being discussed is not new or surprising and has been heard of or experienced before.

(the/an/one's) artistic style The artistic style refers to the distinct and unique way in which an artist expresses their creativity and executes their artistic work, characterized by their choice of techniques, mediums, subject matter, or overall aesthetic. It encompasses the patterns, elements, and qualities that set an artist's work apart and make it recognizable and distinct.

match for (sm, sth, or an animal) The idiom "match for (someone, something, or an animal)" refers to someone or something that is equal in strength, ability, or comparable qualities to the person, thing, or animal being referred to. It suggests that the person or thing in question can hold their own and is capable of competing with or facing the other person, thing, or animal on an equal level.

put an end to (something) The idiom "put an end to (something)" means to stop or bring to a conclusion a particular activity, situation, or event. It implies the act of terminating or ending something that has been ongoing or problematic.

without blinking an eye The idiom "without blinking an eye" means to do or say something without showing any hesitation, surprise, or emotion. It implies that the person is unaffected or unbothered by the situation or statement.

within an inch of The idiom "within an inch of" means very close to achieving or experiencing something, usually used to express a near miss or narrowly avoiding a certain outcome.

It's an ill bird that fouls its own nest. The idiom "It's an ill bird that fouls its own nest" is an expression used to convey the idea that it is foolish or self-destructive for someone to act in a way that harms themselves or their own interests. It suggests that it is unwise for an individual to cause trouble or damage within their own community, family, or close circle of relationships.

an end in itself The idiom "an end in itself" refers to something that has value or significance in and of itself, without any other purpose or aim. It means that the particular thing or activity is seen as its own justification, rather than being a means to achieve something else.

an offer one can't refuse The idiom "an offer one can't refuse" is typically used to describe a proposition or proposal that is extremely enticing or advantageous, making it nearly impossible for the recipient to decline or reject. The offer is often so appealing that there is immense pressure to accept it without hesitation. This phrase is derived from the famous line spoken by the character Vito Corleone in the movie "The Godfather" (1972), who states, "I'm gonna make him an offer he can't refuse" to emphasize the irresistible nature of the proposition being presented.

make an ass The idiom "make an ass" refers to behaving foolishly or making a fool of oneself. It implies acting in a way that is embarrassing, silly, or lacking in common sense.

an end run The idiom "an end run" refers to a tactic or strategy employed to circumvent or bypass traditional methods, rules, or obstacles in order to achieve a specific goal or outcome. It often involves finding an alternative route or approach when faced with opposition or resistance.

frighten (someone or an animal) into doing something The idiom "frighten (someone or an animal) into doing something" means to use fear or intimidation tactics to compel or force someone or an animal to perform a certain action or behavior. It implies that the individual or animal is coerced or motivated by fear rather than voluntary choice or willingness.

weep for (sm or an animal) The idiom "weep for (someone or an animal)" means to feel great sympathy or sadness for someone or something. It implies that the situation is distressing or deserving of deep sorrow.

lend an ear to sm or sth The idiom "lend an ear to someone or something" means to listen attentively or sympathetically to someone or something. It implies giving one's full attention and being receptive to what another person has to say or express.

bounce an idea off (of) (someone) The idiom "bounce an idea off (of) (someone)" means to share an idea with someone in order to get their feedback, opinion, or input. It involves discussing or presenting an idea to another person to gauge their reaction or gain different perspectives before making a decision or taking further action.

give an inch and they'll take a mile The idiom "give an inch and they'll take a mile" means that if you grant someone a small concession or favor, they will exploit it or take advantage of it to a much greater extent than you initially intended or expected. It implies that a person will not be satisfied with a small gain or achievement, but instead will push for much more.

get into an argument (with someone) (about someone or something) The idiom "get into an argument (with someone) (about someone or something)" means to engage in a heated or intense verbal disagreement or debate with someone regarding a particular person or topic. It implies a clash of opinions, often resulting in a strained or hostile interaction between those involved.

exercise (sm or an animal) in The idiom "exercise (someone or an animal) in" means to engage in physical activity or perform a set of physical movements in order to improve one's health, fitness, or overall well-being. It involves participating in regular or planned exercises to maintain or enhance physical strength, stamina, flexibility, or agility. It can also refer to the act of directing or training an animal to perform physical activities for its well-being or to develop specific skills.

hold sm or sth up as an example The idiom "hold someone or something up as an example" means to use someone or something as a representation or model for others to follow or emulate. It generally refers to showcasing a person or thing as a positive example to inspire or set a standard for others to aspire to.

within an ace of The idiom "within an ace of" means being exceedingly close to something or being on the verge of accomplishing or experiencing it. It indicates a very narrow or close call, suggesting that the outcome was almost achieved or avoided by the narrowest of margins.

come within an inch of sm or sth The idiom "come within an inch of someone or something" means to come extremely close to achieving or experiencing something, typically referring to a narrowly missed opportunity or narrowly avoided disaster.

means to an end The definition of the idiom "means to an end" is a method or action used to achieve a desired result or goal, often involving the acceptance or usage of something unpleasant or undesirable as a necessary step. It implies that the focus is primarily on achieving the desired outcome, regardless of any moral, ethical, or negative implications associated with the means employed.

ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, an The idiom "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" means that it is better to prevent a problem or take precautionary measures beforehand, rather than trying to fix or solve it later. It emphasizes the importance of being proactive and taking preventative actions to avoid potential trouble or difficulties.

not bat an eye The phrase "not bat an eye" means to remain calm, composed, or unaffected in a situation that would typically elicit surprise, shock, or concern. It implies someone displaying no visible reaction or emotion.

put in an appearance (at something) To "put in an appearance (at something)" means to attend or be present at an event or gathering, often for a short period of time and without active participation. It implies showing up briefly to fulfill a social obligation, rather than fully engaging in the event or activity.

withhold sth from (sm or an animal) To "withhold something from someone or an animal" means to deliberately hold back or refuse to give something to them, typically due to a specific reason or purpose. It implies the intentional act of keeping something from someone or denying them access to it.

walk away with (sm or an animal) The idiom "walk away with (someone or an animal)" means to easily achieve victory, success, or possession of someone or something. It implies that the person or animal in question is easily won over or controlled.

have an even chance The idiom "have an even chance" means to have an equal or balanced probability of success or failure in a given situation. It refers to a situation where the outcome is uncertain and both possibilities are equally likely.

beat (one) to within an inch of (one's) life The idiom "beat (one) to within an inch of (one's) life" means to physically assault someone severely or violently, causing great harm, injury, or a near-death experience. It is often used to emphasize the extreme brutality of an attack or the intensity of a beating.

get an eyeball on someone/something The idiom "get an eyeball on someone/something" means to physically observe or see someone or something in person. It implies the act of visually inspecting or assessing a particular person or object firsthand.

a bad quarter of an hour The idiom "a bad quarter of an hour" refers to a short but particularly difficult or unpleasant period of time. It implies a brief but intense experience of discomfort, anxiety, embarrassment, or other negative emotions.

give sb an earful The idiom "give someone an earful" means to express anger, frustration, or a lengthy complaint to someone, typically by speaking forcefully and extensively. It implies sharing one's opinions or grievances in a forceful or relentless manner.

board (sm or an animal) out The idiom "board (someone or an animal) out" typically refers to the act of providing accommodation and care for someone or an animal at someone else's place for a fee. It is commonly used in the context of temporarily housing or accommodating pets or individuals in exchange for an agreed payment or charge.

segregate (sm, sth, or an animal) into sth The idiomatic phrase "segregate (someone, something, or an animal) into something" means to separate or divide a person, object, or animal into distinct or separate groups or categories based on certain characteristics, traits, or criteria. It implies creating separate or isolated entities or categories within a larger whole.

an eye for the main chance The idiom "an eye for the main chance" refers to someone who is always focused on seizing the best opportunities or looking out for their own advancement or benefit, often at the expense of others. This person is constantly on the lookout for the most advantageous chances and is willing to use their skills, resources, or influence to secure the most favorable outcome for themselves.

an iron hand The idiom "an iron hand" refers to a style of leadership or control that is strict, firm, and uncompromising. It suggests a person or authority figure who exercises strong and unyielding control over a situation or a group of people.

smoke (sm, sth, or an animal) out of sth The idiom "smoke (sm, sth, or an animal) out of sth" means to force someone, something, or an animal out of a hiding place by using smoke as a means of getting them to reveal their location. It can also be used figuratively to describe the act of discovering the truth or exposing someone's hidden intentions or actions.

an iron hand/fist in a velvet glove The idiom "an iron hand/fist in a velvet glove" refers to someone who appears gentle or kind on the surface, but underneath is uncompromising, harsh, or strict. It implies that the person may use soft words or a gentle demeanor to mask their forceful or authoritarian nature.

have an ear for sth The idiom "have an ear for something" means to have a natural talent or ability to perceive and appreciate sounds, music, or language. It suggests that a person has good auditory perception and can discern sounds or interpret musical notes or language nuances with ease.

have an open mind To have an open mind means to be receptive to new ideas, opinions, perspectives or experiences without being quick to judge or dismiss them. It involves being willing to consider different viewpoints and be flexible in one's thinking.

administer sth to sm (or an animal) The idiom "administer sth to sm (or an animal)" means to give or apply something, such as medication, treatment, or a remedy, to a person or animal. It typically refers to the act of providing something necessary or beneficial for the well-being or health improvement of the individual or animal.

take an amount of money for sth The idiom "take an amount of money for sth" means to receive or accept a particular sum of money in exchange for something. It implies the act of selling or charging an amount for a product, service, or any valuable item.

within an ace of something/of doing something The idiom "within an ace of something" or "within an ace of doing something" means being extremely close to achieving or accomplishing something, having just a slight or minimal distance to go before reaching the desired outcome.

cast an eye on something The idiom "cast an eye on something" means to look at or observe something briefly or casually, usually with interest or curiosity. It implies directing one's attention towards something, often with a sense of appraisal or consideration.

not budge an inch The idiom "not budge an inch" means to refuse to change one's position, opinion, or behavior, regardless of any pressure, persuasion, or argument presented. It indicates extreme stubbornness and resoluteness in maintaining one's stance.

lead (someone or an animal) to something The idiom "lead (someone or an animal) to something" means to guide or direct someone or an animal towards a particular destination, goal, or outcome. It often refers to providing assistance, guidance, or influence to help someone or an animal reach a desired objective.

sit for an exam The idiom "sit for an exam" refers to the act of taking or writing an examination or test in an academic or educational setting. It implies the process of being formally evaluated or assessed on one's knowledge, skills, or understanding of a particular subject or topic.

start out at an amount of money The idiom "start out at an amount of money" refers to the initial or beginning value of a sum of money, typically indicating the starting point of a financial transaction, investment, or professional endeavor. It implies the specific monetary value from which one begins or commences a particular task or action.

An army marches on its stomach. The idiom "An army marches on its stomach" means that the success and effectiveness of an army is greatly dependent on providing sufficient food and nourishment for its soldiers. Without proper nourishment, soldiers will not have the strength or energy to perform their duties effectively. This expression highlights the significance of logistics and supply chain management in maintaining a strong and functional military force.

form an opinion The idiom "form an opinion" means to develop a belief or judgment about something or someone based on one's own observations, knowledge, or experiences. It refers to the act of mentally synthesizing information and arriving at a personal view or perspective.

jerk something away (from someone, something, or an animal) The idiom "jerk something away (from someone, something, or an animal)" means to make a sudden and forceful movement to take or snatch something away from a person, object, or animal abruptly and with a jarring motion. It implies a quick and often aggressive action to remove or seize something forcefully.

give an arm and a leg for The idiom "give an arm and a leg for" is used to convey a willingness to sacrifice a great deal or pay an exorbitant amount for something, symbolizing the extreme value or desire one has for it.

not have an earthly chance The idiom "not have an earthly chance" means that someone or something has no possibility or likelihood of success or victory in a given situation. It emphasizes the lack of any feasible or realistic opportunity.

reach an accord (with someone) The idiom "reach an accord (with someone)" means to come to a mutual agreement or understanding with someone, typically after a period of negotiation or discussion. It implies reaching a compromise or finding a resolution that satisfies all parties involved.

keep (someone or an animal) in line The idiom "keep (someone or an animal) in line" refers to the act of maintaining control or discipline over someone or an animal. It means to ensure that they behave according to the established rules or expectations, preventing them from misbehaving or causing trouble.

an old/a wise head on young shoulders The idiom "an old/a wise head on young shoulders" refers to a person who possesses wisdom, maturity, or knowledge beyond their years. It suggests that despite their young age, they display wisdom and make practical decisions, demonstrating a level of understanding usually associated with older individuals.

keep an eye out for The idiom "keep an eye out for" means to be watchful and vigilant in order to notice or find something or someone that is expected or desired. It often suggests being attentive and on the lookout for a particular person, object, opportunity, or situation.

an ocean of something The idiom "an ocean of something" is used to describe a vast or immense amount of a particular thing. It signifies a large quantity or extent that is beyond normal or expected limits. It implies abundance, magnitude, or overwhelming presence of the mentioned thing.

hold out an olive branch (to someone) The idiom "hold out an olive branch (to someone)" means to make a peace gesture or attempt to reconcile with someone after a conflict or disagreement. It refers to extending an offer of peace, kindness, or reconciliation to mend a strained relationship or restore harmony between individuals or groups.

an iron fist in a velvet glove The idiom "an iron fist in a velvet glove" refers to a person or situation that appears gentle, kind, or benign on the surface, but actually possesses great strength, authority, or power underneath. It signifies someone who uses tact, subtlety, or a soft approach to maintain control or assert dominance.

it's an ill wind (that blows nobody any good) The idiom "it's an ill wind (that blows nobody any good)" means that even in difficult or unfortunate situations, there may still be some potential benefits or advantages for someone. It emphasizes the idea that something negative can have a positive outcome for someone else.

make an impression The idiom "make an impression" means to have a lasting impact or effect on someone or something. It refers to leaving a strong, memorable impression that influences the perception or opinion of someone or creates a lasting memory.

make an honest woman of somebody The idiom "make an honest woman of somebody" refers to the act of marrying a woman, especially when she has become pregnant or is living with a partner outside of marriage, in order to establish a legally recognized and socially accepted relationship. This phrase is often used humorously or ironically to imply that the person is finally doing the right thing or fulfilling their societal responsibilities.

keep (sm or an animal) in line The idiom "keep (someone or an animal) in line" means to ensure that someone or an animal behaves properly or obediently, often by maintaining discipline, control, or supervision over them. It refers to the act of managing or controlling someone's actions, behavior, or conduct to prevent them from misbehaving or deviating from the expected standards.

an eager beaver The idiom "an eager beaver" refers to a person who is enthusiastic, diligent, and eager to work or get involved in a task or activity. It describes someone who is proactive, motivated, and willing to go above and beyond what is expected of them.

have an argument (with someone) The idiom "have an argument (with someone)" refers to a situation where individuals engage in a verbal or sometimes heated disagreement or debate. It implies that there is a disagreement or conflict of opinions or ideas between the parties involved.

an open letter An open letter is a piece of writing, typically published and addressed to a specific person, organization, or group, that is meant to be read by a wide audience. It is usually a public declaration expressing the views, opinions, or concerns of the writer. The term "open" signifies that the letter is not intended to be private, but rather accessible and open for anyone to read or respond to.

an Englishmanâ€™s home is his castle The idiom "an Englishmanâ€™s home is his castle" implies that one's home is a place of sanctuary, privacy, and autonomy, where they have absolute control and authority. It signifies the importance of personal property rights and the notion that within their own dwelling, individuals have the right to make their own rules and decisions.

eye to the main chance, have an To "have an eye to the main chance" means to be constantly on the lookout for opportunities to succeed or gain personal advantage, often by putting self-interest above all else. It implies being shrewd, opportunistic, and focused on maximizing one's own benefits or profits.

split an infinitive The idiom "split an infinitive" refers to the act of inserting a word or phrase between the particle "to" and the base form of a verb in its infinitive form. This typically occurs when an adverb or other words are placed between "to" and the verb. For example, "to boldly go" instead of "to go boldly" is considered as splitting the infinitive. Splitting infinitives is often debated because of traditional grammar rules, which state that infinitives should not be divided.

an ace in the hole, at an ace up your sleeve The idiom "an ace in the hole" or "an ace up your sleeve" refers to having a secret or hidden advantage or resource that can be used to gain an advantage or save a situation, especially in a difficult or crucial moment. It originates from the game of poker, where an ace card held in one's sleeve or concealed from other players can be used as a powerful card to guarantee a win.

frighten (sm or an animal) into doing sth The idiom "frighten (someone or an animal) into doing something" means to use fear or intimidation to compel or persuade someone or an animal to take a desired action or behave in a certain way. It implies that the fear created is the motivating factor behind the action or behavior.

an Indian giver The idiom "an Indian giver" refers to a person who gives a gift or does a favor but later takes it back or expects something in return. This term originated from a stereotype of Native American tribes where some believed that they would give gifts with the expectation of receiving something of equal or greater value in return. It is considered derogatory and perpetuates harmful stereotypes about Native American culture.

an even break The idiom "an even break" means to have a fair and equal opportunity or chance to succeed or overcome a difficult situation. It refers to a situation where no one has an advantage or disadvantage, and everyone is on a level playing field.

an honest broker "An honest broker" is an idiom that refers to someone who is fair, impartial, and unbiased in dealing with conflicting parties or situations. It typically describes a person or entity that provides mediation, assistance, or advice without taking sides, ensuring that all parties involved are treated fairly and that a balanced resolution is reached. An honest broker acts as a neutral party, offering trust, transparency, and objectivity in their approach.

lash into (sm or an animal) The idiom "lash into (someone or an animal)" means to attack or criticize someone or something vigorously and aggressively. It implies a forceful and fierce verbal or physical assault towards the target.

put an end to it all The idiom "put an end to it all" means to bring something to a conclusion or to terminate it completely. It refers to stopping or finishing something in a decisive and final manner.

an endangered species The idiom "an endangered species" refers to something or someone that is at risk of becoming extinct, disappearing, or no longer being in existence. It can be used metaphorically to describe something that is very rare, scarce, or on the verge of being lost or forgotten.

have an argument (with sm) The idiom "have an argument (with sm)" means to engage in a disagreement or verbal conflict with someone. It refers to the act of discussing opposing viewpoints or expressing disagreement with another person, often resulting in an exchange of intense, heated, or emotional words.

an atmosphere that you could cut with a knife The idiom "an atmosphere that you could cut with a knife" refers to a situation or environment that is highly tense, uncomfortable, or filled with strong emotions. It implies that the atmosphere is so thick and palpable that it feels as if one could physically cut through it with a knife.

place someone in an awkward position The idiom "place someone in an awkward position" means to put someone in a situation where they feel uncomfortable, embarrassed, or conflicted due to the circumstances or expectations involved. It can refer to making someone feel uneasy or uncertain about how to respond or act in a given situation, often involving social or professional interactions.

take sm for an idiot and take sm for a fool The idiom "take someone for an idiot" or "take someone for a fool" means to treat or consider someone as stupid or gullible, underestimating their intelligence or insight. It implies that the person being fooled or underestimated is not as naive or ignorant as they might appear and should not be underestimated.

saddle an animal up The idiom "saddle an animal up" means to put a saddle on an animal, typically referring to horses. It implies the action of preparing an animal for riding by fitting a saddle onto its back and securing it with straps.

have/keep an open mind The idiom "have/keep an open mind" means to be receptive and willing to consider different ideas, opinions, or suggestions without immediately dismissing them. It involves being open to new information, experiences, or perspectives, and not being limited by preconceived notions or biases.

have a soft spot for or an animal To have a soft spot for an animal means to have a deep affection, fondness, or sentimental attachment towards animals in general or towards a specific type of animal.

be at an end The idiom "be at an end" means that something has reached its conclusion or has come to an end. It implies that there are no further actions, events, or opportunities related to a particular situation or circumstance.

make an exception The idiom "make an exception" means to deviate from a usual rule or policy, allowing an individual or situation to be treated differently.

an iron man The idiom "an iron man" typically refers to a person who exhibits exceptional strength, endurance, or resilience, both physically and mentally. It describes someone who is remarkably tough, resilient, and determined, often overcoming challenging situations or adversities with unwavering resolve.

confine (sm or an animal) within sth The idiom "confine (someone or an animal) within something" means to restrict or limit someone or something within a specific area or space, usually for the purpose of containment or control. It implies keeping someone or something within certain boundaries or physical barriers.

lam into (someone or an animal) To "lam into someone or an animal" means to attack or assault them physically, often with great force or aggression. This idiom implies taking sudden and vigorous action against the person or animal in question. It can be used figuratively to describe verbally attacking or criticizing someone with intensity as well.

get an earful The idiom "get an earful" means to receive a lengthy or forceful confrontation or rebuke from someone, usually involving a lot of criticism or complaints. It implies that the person speaking is expressing their thoughts and opinions in an intense or overwhelming manner.

There's many a good tune played on an old fiddle The idiom "There's many a good tune played on an old fiddle" means that even though something or someone may be old or less prominent, they can still possess great value, wisdom, or capability. It emphasizes the idea that appearances can be deceiving and that underestimating something or someone based solely on their age or outward appearance is a mistake. The idiom encourages recognizing the hidden potential and merit in people or things that may be overlooked or undervalued.

make an end of (something) The idiom "make an end of (something)" means to put a complete stop or finish to a particular task, activity, or situation. It implies bringing about a conclusive conclusion or resolution.

declare an (or your) interest The idiom "declare an (or your) interest" means to openly acknowledge or disclose a personal or financial involvement or stake in a particular matter or situation, typically to prevent any potential conflicts of interest or bias. It is a way of being transparent about one's connections or affiliations in order to maintain fairness and avoid any potential accusations of impropriety.

keep an eye out for (someone or something) The idiom "keep an eye out for (someone or something)" means to remain observant and vigilant in order to notice or find a particular person or thing. It suggests being watchful and attentive, with the intention of looking out for and being aware of situations or individuals that might require attention or action.

fatten (someone or an animal) up (with something) The idiom "fatten (someone or an animal) up (with something)" means to make someone or an animal gain weight or become plump by feeding them a particular food or substance. This can be done to improve their health, appearance, or prepare them for an event or purpose.

knock sm back (an amount of money) The idiom "knock sm back (an amount of money)" means to reduce or decrease the expected or requested payment or cost. It implies negotiating or bargaining for a lower price.

drown someone (or an animal) out The idiom "drown someone (or an animal) out" refers to a situation where someone or something is overpowered or overwhelmed by noise or a loud sound. It implies that the noise is so intense that it cuts off or covers up the ability to hear or be heard.

an enfant terrible The idiom "an enfant terrible" refers to a young person, often a child or a young artist or performer, who is very talented, but also behaves in an unconventional, controversial, or disruptive manner that challenges social norms or expectations. They often exhibit a rebellious or provocative attitude, causing either admiration or frustration among others.

It would take an act of Congress to do The idiom "It would take an act of Congress to do" implies that accomplishing a particular task or change seems nearly impossible or requires an extraordinary effort because it would require a significant level of bureaucratic or legislative action to achieve. It suggests that the process would be complex, time-consuming, and require a substantial amount of negotiation or consensus-building, similar to the process of passing a law through the United States Congress.

can't boil an egg The idiom "can't boil an egg" refers to someone who lacks even the most basic cooking skills or abilities. It suggests that the person is inept or incompetent in the kitchen, unable to perform even the simplest cooking tasks like boiling an egg.

You cannot teach an old dog new tricks. The idiom "You cannot teach an old dog new tricks" means that it is difficult to teach or change someone who is set in their ways or resistant to learning new things, especially as they get older. It is often used to emphasize that older individuals are less open to change or less receptive to new ideas compared to younger ones.

make an exception (for sm) The idiom "make an exception (for someone)" means to willingly deviate from a rule or policy in order to accommodate or grant a special favor or privilege to a specific individual. It indicates allowing someone to do something that is usually not allowed or exempting them from a usual restriction.

start sm out at an amount of money The idiom "start someone out at an amount of money" means to begin or initiate someone's salary or payment at a specific sum of money. It implies the initial amount a person receives when they first start a job or project.

get an eyeful The idiom "get an eyeful" means to see something in its entirety or to see something shocking or surprising. It can also refer to someone looking at someone or something in a lewd or lustful manner.

reach an accord (with sm) The idiom "reach an accord (with sm)" means to come to a mutual agreement or understanding with someone, typically after a period of negotiation or discussion. It implies finding a compromise or consensus on a particular matter or issue.

help someone (or an animal) out (of something) The idiom "help someone (or an animal) out (of something)" means to assist or rescue someone or an animal from a difficult or challenging situation. It implies providing support or aid to free them from a problem, predicament, or dangerous circumstance.

get into an argument The idiom "get into an argument" means to become involved in a verbal disagreement or dispute with someone. It refers to the act of entering a situation where conflicting opinions or ideas clash, leading to a confrontation or heated exchange of words.

not bat an eyelid The idiom "not bat an eyelid" means to remain outwardly calm or unaffected by a surprising, shocking, or unusual event or circumstance. It suggests that someone shows no visible reaction, signifying their ability to stay composed or unbothered in such situations.

an/(one's) old flame The idiom "an/(one's) old flame" refers to a person with whom someone has had a romantic relationship or a significant romantic connection in the past, but that relationship has ended and they are no longer together. The term "old flame" typically implies nostalgia or a sentimental attachment to that person from the past.

keep sth on an even keel The idiom "keep something on an even keel" means to maintain balance or stability in a situation or relationship. It refers to keeping things steady and avoiding any extremes or disruptions.

give (one) an earful The idiom "give (one) an earful" means to express one's anger, frustration, or dissatisfaction to someone in a passionate or lengthy manner. It is often used when someone confronts another person with a comprehensive, forceful, or intense verbal complaint or criticism. It implies the act of delivering a strong and strongly-worded message to convey one's emotions or grievances.

have an eye for someone or something To have an eye for someone or something means to possess a keen ability to recognize or appreciate their qualities, skills, or potential. It suggests being discerning, perceptive, or having a sharp eye for detail when it comes to evaluating something or someone. It often implies having good taste, judgement, or an intuitive understanding of what is valuable or desirable.

keep an/ ear to the ground The idiom "keep an ear to the ground" means to stay attentive and aware of any information or news about a particular situation or topic. It suggests being alert, observant, and in touch with what is happening around you, often in order to gain an advantage or stay informed.

have an argument The idiom "have an argument" refers to a verbal dispute or disagreement between two or more individuals. It implies that there is a difference of opinion or conflicting views, resulting in a heated or intense conversation.

the opening of an envelope The idiom "the opening of an envelope" is used to describe someone's proclivity or inclination to attend or participate in events or gatherings, even when they are not invited or necessary to be present. It suggests that the person is constantly seeking opportunities or attention, regardless of the importance or relevance of the situation.

starve (sm or an animal) out of sm place The idiom "starve (someone or an animal) out of (some place)" means to intentionally deprive or limit someone's access to resources, such as food or shelter, in order to force them to leave a certain location. It suggests using the tactic of withholding necessary provisions or support, with the goal of making the person or animal so uncomfortable or desperate that they have no choice but to relocate.

eye for an eye (and a tooth for a tooth). The idiom "eye for an eye (and a tooth for a tooth)" is a biblical phrase originating from the Old Testament that implies seeking revenge or justice that is proportional to the harm suffered. It suggests that any harm inflicted upon someone should be met with an equivalent retaliation in order to achieve fairness or balance.

keep something on an even keel The idiom "keep something on an even keel" means to keep a situation or something stable, steady, or balanced. It refers to maintaining consistency, equilibrium, or calmness in order to avoid fluctuations or disruptions. It often relates to maintaining control or stability in various aspects of life or situations.

board (someone or an animal) out The idiom "board (someone or an animal) out" refers to the act of providing temporary accommodation and care for someone or an animal by allowing them to live in someone else's house in exchange for payment. It is similar to being rented a room or being placed in a boarding house.

keep an eye out for (something or someone) The idiom "keep an eye out for (something or someone)" means to watch or be alert for the appearance or arrival of a specific thing or person. It implies being vigilant, observant, and attentive in order to notice or spot something or someone of interest.

declare an interest The idiom "declare an interest" means to openly disclose one's personal stake, bias, or involvement in a particular matter, especially when it may influence one's judgment or decision-making. It is often used in formal settings, such as business, politics, or legal proceedings, to maintain transparency and ensure ethical conduct.

hound or an animal down To "hound or animal down" is an idiom that means the act of relentlessly pursuing, searching, or tracking something or someone until they are found or captured. It implies a determined and persistent effort to locate and confront the target, much like how a hound dog would tirelessly pursue its prey.

come within an inch of doing something The definition of the idiom "come within an inch of doing something" means to come very close to accomplishing or achieving something, but falling just short of it. It implies that the person or situation narrowly missed the desired outcome or narrowly avoided a negative outcome.

throw an amount of light on To "throw an amount of light on" means to provide some information or clarification about a topic or situation. It refers to shedding light or illuminating something, allowing for a better understanding or insight into it.

be as strong as an ox The idiom "be as strong as an ox" means to possess great physical strength and power. This phrase is often used to describe someone who is exceptionally strong or sturdy.

an honest mistake The idiom "an honest mistake" is used to describe a genuine error or oversight that is made unintentionally, without any harmful or deceitful intentions. It implies that the person responsible for the mistake had no motive to deceive or cause harm, and that it was purely accidental.

not move an inch The idiom "not move an inch" means to refuse to change one's position, opinion, or stance. It implies being stubborn or steadfast in one's conviction or decision, showing no willingness to compromise or adapt.

draw an inference The idiom "draw an inference" means to reach a conclusion or make a judgment based on evidence or information that is available. It involves using logical reasoning or inference to come to a deduction or interpretation.

live in an/(one's) ivory tower The idiom "live in an/(one's) ivory tower" is used to describe someone who is isolated or removed from the practical aspects of everyday life, often due to their privileged or sheltered circumstances. It implies that the person has a limited understanding or awareness of the challenges and experiences faced by ordinary people. It can also suggest a sense of detachment, aloofness, or disconnection from reality.

an elephant never forgets The idiom "an elephant never forgets" means that elephants are believed to have excellent memories and are capable of remembering things for a long period of time. It is often used figuratively to describe someone with a remarkable memory or the ability to remember information or past events with exceptional accuracy.

raise (an) objection (to sm or sth) The idiom "raise an objection (to someone or something)" means to express disagreement, opposition, or disapproval towards someone or something. It refers to the act of pointing out a disagreement or concern about a particular person, action, or idea in a formal or assertive manner. This objection is often stated in order to influence a decision or outcome, or to initiate a discussion or debate about the matter at hand.

leave an impression (on sm) The idiom "leave an impression (on someone)" means to have a lasting impact or influence on someone. It refers to creating a memorable experience or affecting someone in a way that they are likely to remember or think about it afterwards.

take someone for an idiot and take someone for a fool The idioms "take someone for an idiot" and "take someone for a fool" generally mean to underestimate someone's intelligence or credibility by assuming that they are gullible, easily deceived, or unintelligent. It implies treating someone as if they lack common sense or the ability to discern the truth or deceit.

make an ass of yourself The idiom "make an ass of yourself" means to behave in a foolish, embarrassing, or ridiculous manner that makes others lose respect for you or perceive you as ridiculous. It refers to an action or behavior that leads to personal embarrassment or public humiliation. The phrase is derived from the image of an ass (a donkey), which is often associated with foolishness or stupidity.

be an easy touch The idiom "be an easy touch" refers to someone who is easily persuaded or influenced, particularly when it comes to giving money or favors. It implies that the person is generous and readily gives in to requests or demands.

all good things come to an end The idiom "all good things come to an end" means that enjoyable or positive experiences eventually have to finish or cease. It implies that nothing pleasant or fulfilling can last forever.

talk like an apothecary The idiom "talk like an apothecary" refers to speaking in a complex or overly technical manner, similar to how apothecaries (ancient pharmacists) used to communicate using specialized terminology and language specific to their profession. It implies using jargon or intricate expressions that may be difficult for others to understand, potentially creating confusion or misunderstanding.

(have) an old head on young shoulders The idiom "(have) an old head on young shoulders" refers to someone who possesses a level of maturity, wisdom, or maturity beyond their age. It implies that the person is wise, sensible, and experienced, while still being relatively young or having limited life experience.

an open secret The idiom "an open secret" refers to a situation or fact that is widely known or understood by many people, despite not being openly discussed or acknowledged. It implies that even though the information is not officially or publicly confirmed, it is generally accepted as true or widely acknowledged by a community or a group of people.

reach an accord The idiom "reach an accord" refers to the act of coming to an agreement or reaching a consensus with someone or a group after a period of negotiation or discussion. It implies the resolution of differences or disputes through compromise and mutual understanding.

throw (sm or an animal) off (of) sth The idiom "throw (someone or an animal) off (of) something" means to physically remove or dislodge a person or an animal from a particular place or object. It often implies forcefully or abruptly getting rid of someone or something.

in an undertone The idiom "in an undertone" refers to speaking quietly or confidentially, usually with a low voice that is difficult for others around to hear. It implies a sense of secrecy or discretion in communication.

an ugly duckling The idiom "an ugly duckling" refers to a person or thing that initially appears unattractive, unpromising, or lacking in value but has the potential to develop into something beautiful, successful, or impressive. It stems from the story "The Ugly Duckling" by Hans Christian Andersen, in which a young duck is ridiculed and ostracized for being different until it grows into a beautiful swan.

like turkeys voting for (an early) Christmas The idiom "like turkeys voting for (an early) Christmas" refers to a situation where someone willingly supports or participates in an action or decision that will ultimately lead to their own downfall or negative consequences. It suggests a foolish or self-destructive act, as turkeys are traditionally consumed during the Christmas season.

There's no fool like an old fool The idiom "There's no fool like an old fool" means that older individuals who make foolish or naive decisions or engage in foolish behavior are particularly foolish or deserving of ridicule because their age should grant them wisdom and experience to avoid such actions or choices.

come within an inch of sth The idiom "come within an inch of sth" means to come very close to achieving or experiencing something, often narrowly missing it. It implies a near miss or near success in a particular situation or outcome.

make an example of someone The idiom "make an example of someone" means to punish or discipline someone publicly and harshly in order to serve as a warning or deterrent to others who might engage in similar behavior. This phrase is often used when someone is punished more severely than usual to demonstrate the consequences of their actions.

you can't make an omelet without breaking (a few) eggs The idiom "you can't make an omelet without breaking (a few) eggs" is used to express that in order to achieve a positive outcome or create something successful, it's often necessary to endure some negative consequences or hardships along the way. Just like breaking eggs is an essential step in making an omelet, encountering difficulties or making sacrifices may be unavoidable in certain situations.

curl up with (sm or an animal) The idiom "curl up with (someone or an animal)" means to find comfort, relaxation, or solace by snuggling or cuddling with someone or an animal. It usually implies a cozy and contented state, often associated with relaxation or seeking emotional support.

make an exhibition of yourself The idiom "make an exhibition of yourself" means to behave in a way that is embarrassing, showy, or attention-seeking, often drawing negative attention or ridicule to oneself. It implies behaving in a manner that is overly dramatic, impolite, or inappropriate for the given situation.

an auspicious occasion The idiom "an auspicious occasion" refers to a significant event or occurrence that is believed to bring good fortune, success, or positive outcomes in the future. It indicates that the situation is marked by favorable circumstances, often associated with a sense of optimism and anticipation.

an/somebody's Achilles' heel The idiom "someone's Achilles' heel" refers to a person's one vulnerable or weak point, which can lead to their downfall or failure. It originates from Greek mythology, specifically the story of Achilles, a Greek hero of the Trojan War. According to the legend, Achilles was invulnerable except for his heel, which was his only weak spot. Thus, his heel became synonymous with vulnerability or a crucial weakness that can be exploited.

have an itching palm The idiom "have an itching palm" refers to a person who is particularly eager or greedy for money or bribes. It implies that the person has an uncontrollable desire for money and is willing to do unethical or dishonest things to obtain it.

an arm and a leg The idiom "an arm and a leg" is used to describe something that is extremely expensive or costs a significant amount of money. The phrase implies that the price being paid is so high that it feels as though one is giving up a part of their body, namely an arm and a leg, in order to afford it.

cost/pay an arm and a leg The idiom "cost/pay an arm and a leg" means that something is extremely expensive or requires a significant sacrifice or effort to obtain or achieve. It emphasizes the high cost or great value of something, often implying that it is not worth the price being asked.

come within an ace of sth/doing sth The idiom "come within an ace of something/doing something" means to come extremely close to achieving or accomplishing something, but ultimately falling just short of it. It implies being on the brink of success or victory, but narrowly missing the desired outcome.

not take no for an answer When someone does not take no for an answer, it means that they persistently refuse to accept or be discouraged by a rejection, and continue to pursue their goal or request.

drown (sm or an animal) in sth The idiom "drown (someone or an animal) in something" means to overwhelm or inundate someone or something with an excessive amount of something (usually non-literal). It implies that the amount or quantity of the given thing is so overwhelming that it is suffocating or drowning the person or animal involved. This idiom is often used figuratively to express an excessive or overwhelming amount of something.

in the wink of an eye The idiom "in the wink of an eye" means to happen or occur very quickly or instantly, typically referring to a situation or event that happens without any delay or pause. It suggests that something happens so rapidly that it is comparable to the brief moment it takes for an eye to complete a single blink.

take an eye for an eye "Take an eye for an eye" is an idiom that originates from the principle of retributive justice, also known as the law of retaliation. It means to seek revenge or retaliate by inflicting proportional harm or punishment on someone who has caused harm or wronged you, usually in the same manner. The idiom emphasizes the concept of reciprocating harm in response to wrongdoing, suggesting that justice should entail equal retribution or punishment.

an Achilles heel The idiom "an Achilles heel" refers to a person's vulnerability or weakness, typically a specific and crucial area where they are susceptible to failure or exploitation. It originates from Greek mythology, where Achilles was a warrior whose only weakness was his heel, leading to his downfall in battle.

cost an arm and a leg/a small fortune The idiom "cost an arm and a leg" or "cost a small fortune" is used to describe something that is very expensive or costs a significant amount of money. It implies that the price of the item or service is excessively high, to the extent that it feels like sacrificing a body part (arm and a leg) or a considerable amount of wealth.

give (one) an inch and (one) will take a mile The idiom "give (one) an inch and (one) will take a mile" means that if someone is allowed to have or do a small or moderate amount of something, they will inevitably try to have or do much more. It implies that a person will exploit any leniency or concession given to them to their advantage and push the boundaries further.

take an amount of money for The idiom "take an amount of money for" means to receive or accept a specific sum of money in exchange for something, typically goods, services, or as payment for an owed debt.

Give an inch and he'll take a mile The idiom "Give an inch and he'll take a mile" means that if you offer someone a small amount of opportunity or leniency, they will exploit it and try to take advantage of the situation by demanding or getting much more than originally intended or agreed upon. It suggests that the person is overly greedy or opportunistic.

an old bat The idiom "an old bat" is typically used to describe an older woman who is seen as eccentric, irritable, or difficult to deal with. It implies that the woman is past her prime and may have peculiar or disagreeable behavior.

keep an act up The idiom "keep an act up" refers to the act of maintaining or continuing a particular behavior, performance, or facade, especially if it is insincere or deceptive. It often implies that the individual is pretending or putting on a show to deceive others or project a false image.

blanch with (an emotion) The idiom "blanch with (an emotion)" refers to someone's face turning pale or losing color due to experiencing a strong and overwhelming emotion, such as fear, shock, or surprise. It implies a sudden and visible reaction to a specific feeling that causes one's complexion to become noticeably white or pale.

won't budge an inch The idiom "won't budge an inch" means to refuse to change one's position or opinion, and to resist any attempts to make someone move or reconsider. It implies stubbornness and an unwavering stance.

an Indian summer The idiom "an Indian summer" refers to a period of unseasonably warm and pleasant weather that occurs in late autumn, typically after the first frost. It is characterized by clear skies, mild temperatures, and a sense of respite from the cooler temperatures of early autumn. The term is derived from the Native American belief that such warm spells were attributed to a gift from the spirits or gods.

that's an idea The idiom "that's an idea" is an expression used to acknowledge and show interest in a suggestion or proposal. It indicates that the speaker considers the suggestion to be clever, innovative, or potentially beneficial.

make an entrance The idiom "make an entrance" refers to entering a place or situation in a noticeable, impressive, or dramatic way. It often implies capturing attention, creating an impact, or commanding a presence upon arrival.

suffer an attack The idiom "suffer an attack" refers to experiencing or being the victim of an assault or a sudden episode of negative circumstances or events. It can either be a physical attack, such as a physical altercation or a health issue, or a metaphorical attack, such as criticism, setbacks, or difficult situations.

(as) comfortable as an old shoe The idiom "(as) comfortable as an old shoe" refers to feeling at ease, relaxed, and content in a familiar or well-known situation or environment. It implies a feeling of comfort, like wearing a pair of old shoes that have molded to the shape of one's feet over time and offer a sense of familiarity and ease.

have an edge on The idiom "have an edge on" means to have a slight advantage over someone or something, typically in terms of skills, knowledge, experience, or resources. It implies having a competitive or superior position that gives an increased likelihood of success or achieving a desired outcome.

put at an amount The idiom "put at an amount" means to estimate or allocate a specific quantity or value for something. It refers to assigning or fixing a particular numerical value or measurement to an item, situation, or circumstance.

watch sb/sth with an eagle eye The idiom "watch sb/sth with an eagle eye" means to observe or monitor someone or something very closely and attentively, often with great vigilance or scrutiny. It suggests intense and focused observation, similar to the way an eagle keenly watches its prey from a great distance.

an axe hanging over something The idiom "an axe hanging over something" refers to a situation where a potential danger or threat is imminent or impending, creating a sense of imminent doom or uncertainty. It implies that a negative or drastic event is likely to happen soon, similar to an axe hanging by a thread and ready to fall.

watch (someone or something) with an eagle eye The idiom "watch (someone or something) with an eagle eye" means to observe someone or something very closely and attentively, paying attention to small details. It implies a high level of vigilance and scrutiny, similar to the way an eagle would keep a close eye on its prey.

drown (someone or an animal) in something The idiom "drown (someone or an animal) in something" means to overwhelm or burden someone or an animal with an excessive amount of something, typically in a figurative sense. It suggests being inundated or suffocated by an overwhelming quantity or intensity of a particular thing, such as work, information, responsibilities, emotions, or material possessions.

train (sm or an animal) for sth The idiom "train (someone or an animal) for something" refers to the process of teaching, instructing, or preparing a person or animal to acquire certain skills or behaviors needed for a specific task, job, or event. It involves guiding and conditioning their abilities and actions in order to achieve a desired outcome or level of proficiency.

hound sm or an animal down The idiom "hound someone (or an animal) down" means to relentlessly pursue or chase someone (or an animal) in order to find or catch them, often with the intention of holding them accountable for something or obtaining information. It implies a persistent and determined effort to locate or capture the person or animal being pursued.

give (one) an even break The idiom "give (one) an even break" means to provide someone with a fair and equal opportunity or chance to succeed or accomplish something without any disadvantage or advantage. It implies treating someone fairly and impartially in a situation where there could potentially be bias or unfairness.

confuse someone or an animal with something The definition of the idiom "confuse someone or an animal with something" means to cause a state of perplexity or bewilderment in someone or an animal by presenting information or situations that are difficult to understand or contradicting. It implies the act of causing mental or cognitive disorientation or perplexity.

keep your/an eye out for sb/sth The idiom "keep your/an eye out for sb/sth" means to be watchful or vigilant for someone or something. It implies remaining alert and attentive in order to notice or spot the person or thing.

coerce (sm or an animal) into sth The idiom "coerce (someone or an animal) into something" means to use force, threats, manipulation, or pressure to make someone or an animal engage in a particular action or behavior against their will. It implies exerting control or influence to compel someone or an animal to do something they might not want to do.

lend an ear (to one) The idiomatic expression "lend an ear (to one)" means to attentively listen to someone, typically when they need to discuss their problems or feelings. It conveys the idea of providing support or being willing to offer a sympathetic ear to someone who needs to talk or share their thoughts.

a means to an end The idiom "a means to an end" is used to describe something that is done or used to achieve a particular goal or result, even if it is not enjoyable or desirable in itself. It refers to using a certain action or method as a way to reach a desired outcome, regardless of any other considerations.

give sm an inch and they'll take a mile The idiom "give someone an inch and they'll take a mile" means that if you allow someone to have a small advantage or concession, they will often try to take much more than what was initially given or expected. It implies that people tend to exploit any opportunity or leniency to their maximum advantage.

put in an appearance (at sth) The idiom "put in an appearance (at sth)" means to attend or show up at a social event or gathering, typically for a brief period of time. It implies that the person making the appearance may not stay for the entire event and may only be present briefly.

terrify or an animal out of The idiom "terrify or an animal out of" means to frighten or scare an animal so much that it flees or runs away in fear. This expression is often used to explain the intense fear inflicted upon an animal that causes it to take immediate action and hastily escape from a particular situation or location.

an earful The idiom "an earful" refers to receiving a lot of information, often in the form of a complaint, criticism, or gossip, all at once or in an excessive manner. It implies being on the receiving end of a lengthy and detailed conversation that one may not necessarily want or enjoy.

pull (sm or an animal) through (sth) The idiom "pull (someone or an animal) through (something)" refers to helping and supporting someone or an animal in overcoming a difficult or challenging situation, often when they are at the point of giving up or when their chances of success seem slim. It can also imply providing the necessary resources, guidance, or assistance to ensure that a person or an animal survives or recovers from a critical condition or crisis.

have an effect on The idiom "have an effect on" means to cause a change or influence something or someone. It implies that a certain action, event, or condition impacts or alters a situation or the behavior, emotions, or outcome of someone or something.

drive someone (or an animal) out The idiom "drive someone (or an animal) out" means to force someone or an animal to leave a particular place, usually by creating an uncomfortable or unbearable situation.

have half an ear on The idiom "have half an ear on" means to be partially attentive or to pay partial attention to something while focusing on something else. It implies that someone is not fully engaged or actively listening, but is giving only a small amount of attention to the situation or conversation.

a lonely little petunia in an onion patch The idiom "a lonely little petunia in an onion patch" refers to a person or thing that stands out or feels out of place in a particular situation or environment. It conveys a sense of isolation or being different from one's surroundings, emphasizing one's unique position.

within an inch of one's life The idiom "within an inch of one's life" means to harm or beat someone severely, coming very close to causing serious injury or death. It implies extreme intensity or violence in an attack, often used figuratively rather than literally.

an accident/a disaster waiting to happen The idiom "an accident/a disaster waiting to happen" refers to a situation or event that has a high potential for going wrong, resulting in a catastrophe or harmful outcome. It typically implies that the circumstances are dangerous, unstable, or poorly managed, suggesting that it is only a matter of time before something disastrous occurs.

give an account The idiom "give an account" means to provide a detailed explanation or description of a particular event, situation, or occurrence. It involves giving a comprehensive report or narrative that typically includes all relevant details and information pertaining to the subject matter.

an apple a day keeps the doctor away The idiom "an apple a day keeps the doctor away" means that regularly eating healthy food or maintaining a good diet can help prevent illness or the need to seek medical attention.

use as an excuse The idiom "use as an excuse" means to employ a reason or justification, often weak or insincere, to avoid responsibility, blame, or consequences for one's actions or behavior. It implies utilizing an explanation as a way to divert attention or shift the blame away from oneself.

take aim (at sm, sth, or an animal) The idiom "take aim (at someone, something, or an animal)" means to prepare and carefully direct one's attention, criticism, or effort towards a specific target. It can be used in the literal sense, referring to aiming a weapon or object at a target, or in a figurative sense, indicating a focused and deliberate approach towards addressing or confronting a particular issue, individual, or situation.

be an artist, professional, etc. to your fingertips The idiom "be an artist, professional, etc. to your fingertips" means to be highly skilled or proficient in a particular field, activity, or profession. It implies that someone possesses an extensive knowledge, expertise, and mastery of the subject, possessing exceptional skills down to their fingertips, exhibiting a high level of competence and proficiency in their respective domain.

have an affair (with sm) The idiom "have an affair (with someone)" refers to engaging in a romantic or sexual relationship with someone other than one's spouse or partner, typically conducted secretly or discreetly. It implies involvement in a forbidden or extramarital relationship.

able to make an event The idiom "able to make an event" typically means being available or capable of attending or participating in a particular event.

terrify sm or an animal out of sth The idiom "terrify someone or an animal out of something" means to cause extreme fear or fright in someone or an animal to the point where they abandon or give up on a particular thing or activity.

an uphill job The idiom "an uphill job" refers to a task or job that is challenging, difficult, or requires great effort to accomplish. It implies that the task will be demanding and may involve obstacles or resistance along the way, making it similar to the difficulty of ascending a steep uphill terrain.

make an appointment (with sm) The idiom "make an appointment (with someone)" refers to the act of scheduling a specific time, date, and location to meet or consult with someone. It usually implies a formal arrangement to meet for a purpose or to discuss something specific.

confine (someone or an animal) within something The idiom "confine (someone or an animal) within something" means to restrict or limit someone's or an animal's movement or freedom by enclosing them within a specific space or area. It implies confining a person or animal within a physical boundary or enclosure, preventing them from going beyond it.

have an axe to grind To have an axe to grind means to have a particular personal reason or motive for being involved or interested in something, often with a hidden agenda or ulterior motive. It indicates having a specific issue or grievance that drives one's actions or opinions.

have an appetite for The idiom "have an appetite for" means to have a strong desire or inclination towards something, whether it be food, knowledge, experiences, or any other aspect of life. It implies a voracious or eager enthusiasm for pursuing and indulging in certain activities or interests.

maroon someone on an island The idiom "maroon someone on an island" refers to the act of intentionally abandoning or isolating someone in a remote or inaccessible place, often with no means of escape or assistance. It conveys a sense of helplessness, isolation, and being stranded without any support or resources.

with an eye for/on/to the main chance The idiom "with an eye for/on/to the main chance" means being vigilant and alert to opportunities for personal gain, advancement, or success. It refers to someone who is focused on capitalizing on advantageous situations and is constantly seeking opportunities to benefit from circumstances.

have/keep an open mind (about/on something) "Having/keeping an open mind (about/on something)" means being receptive to new ideas, opinions, or experiences, and being willing to consider different perspectives without judgment or prejudice. It involves being flexible and open to change, rather than being closed-minded or rigid in one's thinking.

success has many fathers, failure is an orphan The idiom "success has many fathers, failure is an orphan" means that when something is successful, people are eager to claim credit or associate themselves with it. However, when something fails, nobody wants to take responsibility or be associated with it.

rule with an iron fist The idiom "rule with an iron fist" means to govern or exert control over others in a harsh, authoritarian, and dictatorial manner. It describes a leader or ruler who dominates and enforces their power strictly and ruthlessly, without consideration for the opinions or rights of others.

have an eye to The idiom "have an eye to" means to pay attention to or be aware of, particularly with regards to future possibilities or potential outcomes. It can also imply being mindful of one's own or others' interests or agendas.

dig (oneself) an early grave The idiom "dig (oneself) an early grave" means to engage in activities or behaviors that are harmful or self-destructive, ultimately leading to serious consequences or even death. It implies that someone is making choices or decisions that undermine their own well-being or future prospects.

put on an act The idiom "put on an act" means to pretend or act in a way that is not genuine in order to deceive, manipulate, or create a desired impression on others. It refers to the act of feigning a particular behavior or emotion that does not truly reflect one's thoughts, feelings, or intentions.

satisfy (sm or an animal) with sth The idiom "satisfy (someone or an animal) with something" generally means to meet or fulfill the needs, desires, or requirements of someone or an animal with a particular thing or action. It implies providing them with what they want or need in order to feel content or pleased.

hit someone (or an animal) on something The idiom "hit someone (or an animal) on something" typically means to strike or collide with someone or an animal unintentionally or accidentally.

an/(one's) ivory tower The idiom "an/(one's) ivory tower" is used to describe someone who is isolated or detached from the practical concerns and realities of everyday life. It refers to a state of being sheltered or aloof, often associated with academics, intellectuals, or individuals who are out of touch with the world's problems or ordinary people's experiences.

an open marriage An open marriage is an arrangement in which both partners in a marital relationship agree to allow each other freedom to engage in sexual relationships with other people.

an open-and-shut case The idiom "an open-and-shut case" refers to a situation or legal matter that is straightforward, clearly evident, and easy to decide or solve. It implies that there is overwhelming evidence or proof, leaving no room for doubt or debate.

score an own goal The idiom "score an own goal" refers to inadvertently and unintentionally doing something that harms oneself or one's own interests, often due to a mistake, miscalculation, or lack of awareness. It originates from the sport of football (soccer) when a player accidentally puts the ball into their own team's goal, resulting in a point for the opposing team. The idiom is commonly used metaphorically to depict self-sabotage or unintentionally working against one's own intentions or objectives.

give an arm and a leg (for something) The idiom "give an arm and a leg (for something)" is used to express the extreme willingness or desire to sacrifice something valuable or significant in order to obtain or achieve something else. It conveys a sense of being prepared to pay a high price or make a great sacrifice for a desired outcome or possession.

You cannot make an omelet without breaking eggs. The idiom "You cannot make an omelet without breaking eggs" means that in order to achieve something positive or desirable, it is inevitable to undergo some negative or unpleasant consequences. It emphasizes the notion that progress or success often requires sacrifices, hardships, or difficulties.

keep an open mind To keep an open mind means to be receptive to new ideas, opinions, or perspectives. It implies being unbiased, non-judgmental, and willing to consider different viewpoints without immediately dismissing them.

beat sb to within an inch of their life The idiom "beat someone to within an inch of their life" means to severely or brutally assault someone, causing extensive physical harm and leaving them extremely injured or close to death.

have an affair (with someone) The idiom "have an affair (with someone)" refers to engaging in a romantic or sexual relationship with someone, typically while being in a committed relationship with someone else. It denotes a secretive and often illicit relationship involving infidelity.

An eye for an eye The idiom "an eye for an eye" means seeking revenge or retaliation, where one person's wrongdoing is met with a comparable punishment or harm inflicted upon them. It is often used to describe a concept of justice that seeks proportional retribution for an offense committed.

get an in with The idiom "get an in with" means to establish a connection or relationship with someone in order to gain favor, influence, or advantage. It suggests finding a way to become familiar or well-regarded by someone, often with the intention of benefiting from that association.

itch for, have an To have an "itch for" something means to have a strong desire, yearning, or urge to do or have something. It typically implies a strong restlessness or longing for a particular thing or experience.

an easy/a soft touch The idiom "an easy/a soft touch" refers to a person who is easily persuaded, manipulated, or taken advantage of, especially in terms of lending money, helping others, or granting favors without hesitation or resistance. It implies that such a person is easily convinced or exploited due to their kind, generous, or sympathetic nature.

make an exhibition of (oneself) The idiom "make an exhibition of oneself" is used to describe someone who embarrasses or humiliates themselves in front of others by behaving in a foolish, attention-seeking, or inappropriate manner. Essentially, it refers to someone who draws excessive or negative attention to themselves, often resulting in public embarrassment.

within an ace of doing something The idiom "within an ace of doing something" is used to describe being extremely close or on the verge of achieving or accomplishing something. It conveys the idea of being just one step away from success or completion.

listen (to someone or something) with half an ear The idiom "listen (to someone or something) with half an ear" means to listen inattentively or with only partial attention. It implies that the listener is not fully engaged or interested in what is being said and may not be grasping the complete meaning or importance of the information being conveyed.

send (someone) to an early grave The idiom "send (someone) to an early grave" refers to causing someone's premature death or bringing about their demise as a result of one's actions or behavior. It implies that the person's actions have a significant negative impact on someone else's well-being, leading to dire consequences such as death.

be an apology for sth The idiom "be an apology for sth" refers to something or someone being of such poor quality, appearance, or performance that they are considered a poor representation or a disappointment in comparison to what is expected or desired.

have an appetite for sth The idiom "have an appetite for something" means to have a strong desire or craving for something, usually referring to a non-literal desire or interest in a particular activity, subject, or experience.

bat an eye or eyelash or eyelid The idiom "bat an eye," or its variations "bat an eyelash" or "bat an eyelid," means to show no surprise, reaction, or concern when faced with a surprising, shocking, or unexpected event or situation. It implies remaining calm, composed, or unaffected by something that might typically evoke a strong response from others.

acclimate sm (or an animal) to sth The idiom "acclimate someone (or an animal) to something" means the process of gradually adapting or getting accustomed to a new environment, situation, or conditions. It involves familiarizing oneself or a living being with a different climate, culture, routine, or any other change in surroundings.

not give an inch The idiom "not give an inch" means to refuse to make any compromises or concessions on a particular issue or stance. It refers to being unwilling to yield or give in, staying firm and stubborn in one's position.

have/give somebody a rough/an easy ride The idiom "have/give somebody a rough/an easy ride" means to make someone's experience difficult or challenging (rough ride) or effortless and trouble-free (easy ride). It implies the degree of difficulty or ease one encounters while dealing with a situation, often in relation to criticism, opposition, or obstacles faced.

reach an understanding with sm To "reach an understanding with someone" means to come to a mutual agreement or to establish a shared perception or comprehension of a particular topic or situation. It signifies finding common ground or resolving differences through effective communication and negotiation.

an elephant in the room The idiom "an elephant in the room" refers to an obvious or important issue, problem, or topic that everyone is aware of but deliberately avoids discussing or acknowledging. It implies a situation where there is an uncomfortable or sensitive subject that everyone is aware of, but chooses to ignore or avoid addressing.

shell out (an amount of money) The idiom "shell out (an amount of money)" means to pay or spend a considerable amount of money on something, often reluctantly or unwillingly. It suggests the act of handing over money, similar to emptying one's pockets or shell.

bring someone (or an animal) back to life The idiom "bring someone (or an animal) back to life" means to revive or restore someone or something to a state of vitality or consciousness, especially after a traumatic or life-threatening event. It is often used figuratively to describe situations where someone or something is rejuvenated or revitalized after experiencing a decline or setback.

have an itch for something The idiom "have an itch for something" means to have a strong desire or craving for something specific. It suggests an intense longing or a persistent need for something.

have an eye on/for/to the main chance The idiom "have an eye on/for/to the main chance" means to have a keen awareness or outlook on potential opportunities for personal gain or advancement. It refers to being attentive to the most advantageous or profitable opportunity in a given situation.

a soft/an easy touch The idiom "a soft/an easy touch" refers to a person who is easily persuaded, generous, or lenient, especially when it comes to lending money or granting favors. They are typically known for being sympathetic, understanding, or compassionate, making it easy for others to take advantage of them.

an Uncle Tom The idiom "an Uncle Tom" refers to a person, particularly someone who belongs to a marginalized group, who is perceived as betraying their own group's interests or values in order to appease or gain favor with those in power or the dominant group. It can also imply subservience or unwavering loyalty to authority figures, even at the expense of one's own group's progress or rights. The term originates from the character Uncle Tom in Harriet Beecher Stowe's novel "Uncle Tom's Cabin," which portrays a slave who is excessively loyal to his white master.

raise an eyebrow To "raise an eyebrow" means to react in surprise, disbelief, or skepticism about something. It is often used to describe the action of lifting one's eyebrow upward as a physical manifestation of doubt or intrigue. This idiom suggests a subtle expression of surprise or suspicion.

an eagle eye The idiom "an eagle eye" refers to someone who has exceptional visual acuity or keen observation skills. It means being able to notice even the smallest details or spot things that are not easily noticeable by others.

have an impact on The idiom "have an impact on" means to influence or affect someone or something in a significant or meaningful way. It implies that there is a noticeable and lasting effect resulting from a certain action, event, or circumstance.

cock an ear/eye at something/somebody The idiom "cock an ear/eye at something/somebody" means to listen or pay attention to something or someone, often with curiosity or interest. It implies being attentive and alert to capture or understand specific information.

fatten (sm or an animal) up (with sth) The idiom "fatten (someone or an animal) up (with something)" means to provide a person or animal with a large quantity of food to make them gain weight and become healthier. It implies the act of feeding someone or something excessively in order to increase their body weight.

an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, at prevention is better than cure The idiom "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" is often used interchangeably with "prevention is better than cure" and it means that it is much easier and more effective to prevent problems from occurring in the first place, rather than trying to fix them after they have happened. Taking preventative measures or precautions is more beneficial and efficient than dealing with the consequences or trying to find a solution later on.

(thereâ€™s) no fool like an old fool The idiom "(there's) no fool like an old fool" refers to the tendency of older individuals to make foolish, naive, or unwise decisions or engage in inappropriate behavior that someone of their age and experience should know better about. It implies that the older someone gets, the more susceptible they may become to being deceived or making foolish choices.

cost an arm and a leg The idiom "cost an arm and a leg" means that something is very expensive or excessively priced. It implies that the cost is so high that it feels like losing a part of one's body, emphasizing the extent of the expense.

lend an ear (or your ears) The idiom "lend an ear (or your ears)" means to listen attentively and sympathetically to someone, particularly when they need to share their thoughts, concerns, or problems.

an Aladdin's lamp To have or possess "an Aladdin's lamp" means to have access to a magical or extraordinary power or resource that can fulfill all desires or wishes. It refers to the story of Aladdin, a character in "Arabian Nights" who obtains a magical lamp capable of granting him any wish. Therefore, the idiom suggests having the ability to obtain or achieve anything one desires, as if by magic.

cast/run an eye/your eyes over something The idiom "cast/run an eye/your eyes over something" means to quickly and casually glance or look at something, usually to get a general impression or to assess its overall condition or quality. It implies a brief and cursory observation rather than a detailed examination.

feed sth to (sm or an animal) The idiom "feed something to someone or an animal" means to provide or give someone or an animal a particular type of food or nourishment. It can be used both literally and figuratively. When used literally, it refers to physically supplying sustenance to someone or an animal. When used figuratively, it means to provide someone with certain information, ideas, or opinions.

exercise (someone or an animal) in The definition for the idiom "exercise (someone or an animal) in" means to engage in physical activity or provide physical stimulation to improve someone's or an animal's health, strength, or fitness.

give someone an inch and they'll take a mile The idiom "give someone an inch and they'll take a mile" means that if you give someone a small amount of freedom or opportunity, they will likely try to take advantage of it and go beyond the limits or boundaries originally set. It suggests that once someone is granted a small concession, they will try to maximize their advantages without considering the initial agreement or understanding.

get an amount of money for The idiom "get an amount of money for" typically means to receive or earn a specific sum of money in exchange for a particular item, service, or work performed. It implies the act of successfully acquiring a certain monetary value for the mentioned action or object.

there is an exception to every rule The idiom "there is an exception to every rule" means that even though a general rule or principle may exist, there will always be situations or circumstances where the rule does not apply or is not true. In other words, there will always be some cases that deviate from the normal or expected outcome.

at an impasse The idiom "at an impasse" refers to a situation in which progress or a resolution seems impossible, usually due to a disagreement or a deadlock between parties involved. It suggests a state of complete standstill or inability to move forward.

with an eye towards The idiom "with an eye towards" means having a consideration or focus on something. It implies a deliberate awareness or intentional attention given to a particular aspect or goal. It suggests that someone is thinking about or planning for a specific objective, while taking into account relevant factors or considerations.

(as) strong as an ox The idiom "(as) strong as an ox" means to possess exceptional physical strength, typically used to describe a person who is extremely robust and powerful.

use sm or sth as an excuse The idiom "use someone or something as an excuse" refers to the act of employing a person or thing as a justification or reason for one's own actions, behaviors, or shortcomings. It implies that an individual is blaming or diverting attention to someone or something else to avoid taking responsibility or facing consequences.

get one's bowels in an uproar The idiom "get one's bowels in an uproar" refers to becoming extremely upset, anxious, or agitated about something. It implies a strong emotional reaction, often accompanied by physical discomfort akin to gastrointestinal distress.

maroon on an island The idiom "maroon on an island" refers to a situation where someone is intentionally or unintentionally left alone or stranded in a difficult or isolating circumstance. It can depict a feeling of abandonment, helplessness, or being stuck without any means of escape or assistance. The term originates from the historical practice of marooning, which involved deserting someone on a deserted island as a form of punishment or isolation.

have an effect on someone or something To have an effect on someone or something means to influence or impact them in some way. It refers to the ability to produce a change or make a difference in the behavior, emotions, or condition of someone or something.

murmur at (sm or an animal) The idiom "murmur at (someone or an animal)" typically means to speak or make sounds in a soft, indistinct, or low voice. It often suggests expressing complaints, disapproval, or discontent in a quiet or subdued manner.

come within an ace of sth The idiom "come within an ace of something" means to come very close or narrowly miss achieving or experiencing something. It indicates being on the brink or verge of accomplishing or encountering a specific outcome or event.

drive (oneself) to an early grave The idiom "drive (oneself) to an early grave" means to work extremely hard or push oneself to the point of exhaustion, stress, or burnout, which can ultimately lead to ill health or an early death. It suggests that the actions or lifestyle choices of an individual are so demanding or self-destructive that they are detrimental to their well-being or longevity.

give an account (of someone or something) (to someone) The idiom "give an account (of someone or something) (to someone)" means to provide a detailed explanation, description, or narration of someone or something to another person. It involves recounting the facts, events, or characteristics of a person or thing, usually in a formal or structured manner, to someone who is seeking information or clarification.

be an apology for The idiom "be an apology for" typically means that something or someone is a poor or inadequate representation of what is expected or desired. It implies that the thing or person being referred to falls short in terms of quality, value, or suitability.

hazard an opinion The idiom "hazard an opinion" means to express or offer an opinion or viewpoint, especially when it involves an element of risk or uncertainty. It implies that the speaker is aware that their opinion might not be well-received or could lead to disagreement or controversy.

confuse or an animal with The idiom "confuse or an animal with" means to mistakenly or inaccurately identify one thing or person as another, typically due to a lack of knowledge or understanding. It implies a sense of confusion or misunderstanding, similar to mistaking one species of animal for another.

an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth The idiom "an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth" means seeking or enacting revenge or retribution in a way that is proportional to the harm or offense suffered. It implies that the punishment or retaliation should be equal to the damage caused. It is often used to express the concept of justice or the idea of getting even.

An empty sack cannot stand upright. The idiom "An empty sack cannot stand upright" means that without proper content or substance, a person lacks the qualities or abilities needed to succeed or be respected. It emphasizes the importance of knowledge, experience, and depth in order to be stable and reliable.

put in an appearance The idiom "put in an appearance" means to attend or show up briefly at an event or gathering, typically for a short amount of time or to fulfill a social obligation, without staying for the entirety of the event.

jerk sth away (from sm, sth, or an animal) The idiom "jerk something away (from someone, something, or an animal)" refers to forcefully or abruptly pulling or moving something away from its current position or from someone's grasp. It implies a quick and often unexpected action, typically involving a sudden forceful movement.

live off smell of an oily rag The idiom "live off the smell of an oily rag" typically refers to living a thrifty or frugal lifestyle, often with limited resources or income. It suggests that a person or group is able to survive with very little, making the most of what they have, and being content with the bare essentials.

reach an understanding with The idiom "reach an understanding with" means to come to a mutual agreement or a shared comprehension with someone, typically achieved after a period of discussion, negotiation, or communication. It implies that both parties involved have reached a point of agreement or resolution on a particular matter or issue.

make an example of somebody To "make an example of somebody" means to punish or reprimand someone publicly or severely in order to serve as a warning or deterrent to others who may consider doing something similar. It involves using someone's punishment as a way to teach others a lesson and discourage them from engaging in similar behavior.

not a glimmer (of an idea) The idiom "not a glimmer (of an idea)" means to have no understanding or clue about a particular subject or problem. It implies a complete lack of knowledge or awareness regarding a certain matter.

have an ear for (something) The idiom "have an ear for (something)" refers to a person's ability to understand, appreciate, or distinguish sounds, tunes, or the nuances of a particular field. It implies having a natural talent or instinct for recognizing and comprehending auditory elements, such as music, languages, accents, or any form of sound-based expression.

be an open secret The idiom "be an open secret" refers to a situation or information that is widely known or understood by many people, even though it is not officially acknowledged or publicly discussed. It implies that the information is not actually a secret, as many people are aware of it, but it is still not openly acknowledged or admitted.

turn an honest penny The idiom "turn an honest penny" means to earn money through honest and hard work. It implies making a decent income or managing to earn a living in an ethical manner.

have an early night To "have an early night" means to go to bed or retire for the night earlier than usual. It implies that one is choosing to sleep or rest earlier than they typically would, often as a way to prioritize rest and relaxation.

not stand (or have) an earthly The idiom "not stand (or have) an earthly" means to have no chance or possibility of success or attainment. It implies a situation or goal that is impossible or highly improbable to achieve.

an all-rounder The idiom "an all-rounder" refers to someone who is skilled or competent in a wide variety of areas or activities. It describes a person who is versatile and adaptable, capable of handling various tasks or roles effectively.

an all-out effort The idiom "an all-out effort" refers to a complete and maximum exertion of one's physical and mental abilities towards achieving a particular goal or objective. It implies giving one's absolute best, leaving no effort spared in the pursuit of success.

have an easy ride The idiom "have an easy ride" means to experience a situation or process that is effortless, smooth, or without difficulty. It refers to a scenario where someone encounters little or no obstacles, challenges, or hardships in completing a task or achieving a goal.

an iron fist in the velvet glove The idiom "an iron fist in a velvet glove" refers to someone who appears gentle, kind, or soft-spoken on the outside, but is actually authoritative, forceful, or strict on the inside. It describes someone who exercises power, control, or dominance, but presents themselves in a subtle or tactful manner.

ill wind that blows no one any good, it's an "Ill wind that blows no one any good" is an idiom used to emphasize that even in difficult or unfortunate situations, there is usually something positive or beneficial that can come out of it. It suggests that every situation or event, no matter how negative or unfavorable, can still have some advantages or opportunities for someone.

have an ace/a trick up your sleeve The idiom "have an ace/trick up your sleeve" means to have a hidden advantage or secret plan that can be used to gain an advantage or achieve success in a situation, especially when facing challenges or competition. It refers to having a hidden resource or strategy that can be used strategically at the right moment.

send sm (out) on an errand The idiom "send someone (out) on an errand" refers to instructing or asking someone to go somewhere or do something specific, often for the purpose of achieving or obtaining something. It implies giving someone a task or mission to accomplish, typically outside of their usual responsibilities.

make an honest living The idiom "make an honest living" refers to earning money or supporting oneself through legal and ethical means, usually through hard work, integrity, and following societal norms.

you canâ€™t make an omelette without breaking eggs The idiom "you can't make an omelette without breaking eggs" implies that in order to achieve a desired outcome or make progress, one must be willing to accept and endure some negative or unpleasant consequences along the way. It suggests that in certain situations, sacrifices or hardships are inevitable in order to achieve success or reach a desired goal.

live on the smell of an oily rag The idiom "live on the smell of an oily rag" is used to describe a situation where someone lives very frugally or manages to survive with very little money or resources. It implies living on bare minimum essentials or surviving with extremely limited financial means.

settle an account The idiom "settle an account" means to pay off a debt or to resolve a financial obligation between two parties. It can also refer to resolving a disagreement or conflict between individuals or parties.

put sth at an amount The idiom "put something at an amount" means to estimate or calculate the value or cost of something to be a certain amount. It is often used when speculating or giving a rough approximate figure.

make an honest woman (out) of sb The idiom "make an honest woman (out) of someone" means to marry or commit to a long-term and legally recognized relationship with a woman, often implying that the person being referred to was previously involved in a relationship that was deemed morally or socially unacceptable. It suggests that by getting married, the person's actions are being legitimized, making their partner an honest and respectable woman.

within an ace of (doing) sth The idiom "within an ace of (doing) sth" means to be very close to accomplishing or achieving something, usually with a narrow margin of success or failure. It signifies being just one step away from the desired outcome, with little room for error.

within an inch of something/of doing something The idiom "within an inch of something/of doing something" means very close to achieving or completing something. It implies being on the verge of reaching a desired outcome or accomplishment, often suggesting intense effort or a narrow margin.

take an interest in sm or sth The idiom "take an interest in something or someone" means to show curiosity, concern, or passion about a particular subject, activity, or individual. It implies an active involvement in learning about or supporting something or someone.

an uphill battle The idiom "an uphill battle" refers to a difficult or challenging struggle or task. It suggests that something is challenging or requires great effort and determination to achieve success, much like climbing up a steep hill.

hold someone or something up as an example The idiom "hold someone or something up as an example" means to present or showcase someone or something as a model or illustration, typically of desired behavior, qualities, or achievements. It involves highlighting someone or something in order to encourage others to emulate or learn from their positive attributes or actions.

take for an idiot and take for a fool The idiom "take for an idiot" or "take for a fool" means to treat someone as if they are unintelligent or naive, underestimating their intelligence or ability to understand a situation. It highlights the act of misleading or manipulating someone by assuming they are easily deceived or gullible.

an itching palm The idiom "an itching palm" refers to a person who is greedy or desiring financial gain, often suggesting that they are easily tempted by bribes or dishonest opportunities to earn money.

an attack of The idiom "an attack of" refers to a sudden and often intense episode or outburst of a particular emotion, condition, or symptom that affects someone physically or mentally. It implies a temporary and somewhat unpredictable occurrence of something negative or unpleasant.

be on an upward/downward trajectory The idiom "be on an upward/downward trajectory" refers to the path or direction of progress or development that something or someone is currently taking. If something is on an upward trajectory, it means it is steadily or continuously improving, growing, or achieving success. On the contrary, if something is on a downward trajectory, it means it is declining, deteriorating, or experiencing a decrease in progress or success.

call someone (or an animal) off someone or something The idiom "call someone (or an animal) off someone or something" means to instruct or order someone to stop attacking or pursuing someone or something else. It is often used to describe the act of commanding a person or an animal to cease an attack or aggressive behavior directed towards another person, animal, or object.

put sm in an awkward position The idiom "put someone in an awkward position" means to place or place oneself in a situation that is uncomfortable, embarrassing, difficult, or potentially compromising for that person. It suggests that the person is being forced to handle a situation that creates discomfort, whether socially, professionally, or personally.

fortify (sm or an animal) (against sth) (with sth) The idiom "fortify (someone or an animal) (against something) (with something)" means to strengthen or protect someone or something against a particular threat or danger using a specific means or resource. It conveys the idea of making someone or something more resistant or prepared to face potential challenges or difficulties.

run an errand The idiom "run an errand" means to perform a small task or chore, usually outside of one's regular routine or daily responsibilities, typically involving buying or delivering something or completing a simple errand for someone else.

have an easy time of it The idiom "have an easy time of it" means to experience a situation or task without much difficulty or effort. It implies that one can navigate through a particular situation with minimal struggle or challenges.

Better be an old man's darling than a young man's slave The idiom "Better be an old man's darling than a young man's slave" means that it is preferable to have the affection and care of an older person who treats you well, rather than being under the control or subjugation of a younger person. It emphasizes the importance of being cherished and valued by someone, regardless of their age, rather than being taken advantage of or mistreated by a younger person.

keep/have an/your ear to the ground The idiom "keep/have an/your ear to the ground" means to stay alert and knowledgeable about what is happening in a particular situation or within a certain group of people. It implies being observant, listening carefully to rumors or information, and being aware of the current events or trends in order to understand the current state of affairs. It is often used to suggest someone is keeping themselves well-informed and connected.

an apology for something The idiom "an apology for something" refers to something or someone that is considered to be a poor or inadequate representation or example of that thing or person. It implies that the thing or person is subpar or not up to expected standards.

pin someone or something beneath (someone, something or an animal) The idiom "pin someone or something beneath (someone, something, or an animal)" means to physically trap or immobilize someone or something under the weight or pressure of a person, object, or creature, making it difficult or impossible for them to move or escape.

it's all fun and games until someone loses an eye The idiom "it's all fun and games until someone loses an eye" is a cautionary expression that means people should not take a situation or activity lightly as it may have serious consequences. In essence, it warns against engaging in foolish or dangerous behavior without considering the potential harm that could arise.

Genius is an infinite capacity for taking pains. The idiom "Genius is an infinite capacity for taking pains" means that true brilliance or exceptional talent is often the result of tireless effort, diligence, and attention to detail. It suggests that those who achieve greatness in their fields are willing to put in the necessary work, striving for perfection and not settling for mediocrity.

an allout effort The idiom "an all-out effort" refers to a complete and maximum exertion of one's energy, resources, or abilities towards achieving a particular goal or objective. It implies giving one's absolute best, making use of all available means, and leaving no effort spared in pursuit of success or accomplishment.

Give sm an inch and he'll take a mile. The idiom "Give someone an inch and he'll take a mile" means that if you give someone a small opportunity or advantage, they will try to take full advantage of it and possibly exploit it to their benefit. It suggests that the person will push the limits and go beyond what is initially offered or allowed.

have an ax to grind The idiom "have an ax to grind" means to have a selfish or ulterior motive or a personal agenda. It refers to someone who has a hidden reason or a personal grievance behind their actions or words.

come within an ace of The idiom "come within an ace of" means to come extremely close to achieving or experiencing something, to be on the verge of it, but narrowly miss or avoid it.

pin sm or sth beneath (sm, sth or an animal) The idiom "pin (someone or something) beneath (something or an animal)" typically means to trap or hold someone or something beneath a heavy object, a weighty animal, or a forceful pressure that restricts movement or causes discomfort and potential harm.

make an appointment The idiom "make an appointment" refers to the act of scheduling a specific time and date to meet or visit someone, typically for a professional or personal purpose. It implies setting up a formal arrangement or agreement, often with the intent of ensuring both parties are available and ready to engage in a planned meeting or interaction.

make an impression on sm The idiom "make an impression on someone" means to leave a lasting or memorable effect on someone through one's words, actions, or behavior. It refers to the ability to create a strong and memorable impact that will be remembered by the person.

at an ungodly hour The idiom "at an ungodly hour" refers to doing something or being awake at a time that is considered extremely early or inconvenient, often outside the normal or customary hours of activity. It suggests that the hour in question is so early that it goes against the natural order or societal expectations.

have the constitution of an ox The idiom "have the constitution of an ox" is used to describe someone who has exceptional physical or mental strength, stamina, or resilience. It implies that the individual is tough, able to withstand hardships or challenges without succumbing to fatigue, illness, or pressure. It suggests that the person possesses an especially robust and durable nature or character, similar to the constitution or stamina of an ox, known for its endurance and strength.

an unknown quantity The idiom "an unknown quantity" refers to someone or something that is unclear, unpredictable, or unfamiliar, making it difficult to determine or understand their true nature, abilities, or potential. It is typically used to describe a person, situation, or concept that is not well-known or whose outcomes or actions are uncertain or mysterious.

give (someone) an easy ride The idiom "give (someone) an easy ride" means to treat someone leniently, without being strict or demanding. It implies that the person is not being held accountable for their actions or is not facing any challenges or difficulties.

poison (sm or an animal) with sth The idiomatic expression "poison (someone or an animal) with something" means to deliberately cause harm or distress by giving them a substance that is toxic or harmful. It is often used metaphorically to describe someone or something negatively influencing or damaging another person or situation.

hold out an/the olive branch The idiom "hold out an olive branch" or "hold out the olive branch" means to make a gesture of peace or reconciliation. It refers to extending an offer or presenting an opportunity to resolve a conflict or mend a broken relationship. Similar to the act of offering an olive branch as a symbol of peace, this idiom signifies a willingness to resolve differences and create harmony.

an apology for The idiom "an apology for" is used to describe something or someone that is considered to be a poor or inadequate version or representation of something else. It implies that the thing or person being referred to falls short of expected or desired standards, often implying disappointment or dissatisfaction.

have an alcohol problem The idiom "have an alcohol problem" refers to a situation where an individual is displaying signs of excessive or problematic drinking, indicating that they are struggling with alcohol addiction or misuse. It implies that the person is unable to control their consumption of alcohol, which can lead to negative consequences in their personal, social, or professional life.

in the blink of an eye The idiom "in the blink of an eye" means something happens extremely quickly or suddenly, almost instantaneously, like the duration of time it takes to blink. It suggests that the event or action occurs so swiftly that it is almost imperceptible.

come to an end The idiom "come to an end" means to reach a conclusion or to finish or cease to exist.

a riddle, wrapped in a mystery, inside an enigma The idiom "a riddle, wrapped in a mystery, inside an enigma" is a phrase used to describe something or someone that is extremely puzzling, complex, or difficult to understand. It implies that the thing or person in question is layered with multiple layers of obscurity, making it nearly impossible to uncover its true nature or meaning. The idiom was famously used by Winston Churchill in 1939 when referring to Russia's actions during the early stages of World War II.

have an eye to/for the main chance The idiom "have an eye to/for the main chance" means to be motivated by self-interest and always looking out for opportunities for personal gain or advancement. It implies being alert and opportunistic, focused on maximizing personal benefits rather than considering ethical or moral considerations.

have an effect on sm or sth The idiom "have an effect on someone or something" means to influence or cause a change in someone or something. It suggests that there is a noticeable impact or consequence as a result of a particular action, event, or situation.

lash into (someone or an animal) The idiom "lash into (someone or an animal)" means to fiercely attack, criticize, or berate someone or an animal verbally or physically. It signifies a strong, aggressive, and often unrestrained outburst of anger or judgement directed towards the person or creature in question.

push at an open door The idiom "push at an open door" means to work on or pursue something that is already likely to be successful or easily achieved. It refers to a situation where someone puts forth effort or tries to convince someone about something that they are already open to or receptive towards. The idiom implies that the person's efforts are unnecessary or redundant as the desired outcome is already imminent.

have an eye for sm or sth The idiom "have an eye for someone or something" means to possess an exceptional ability or talent to notice or appreciate the qualities, details, or potential of someone or something. It suggests having a keen sense of observation, discernment, or aesthetic judgment. This idiom is often used to describe individuals who possess a natural knack or a sharp instinct for recognizing and valuing certain attributes or characteristics.

have an affair The idiom "have an affair" typically refers to engaging in a secret or illicit romantic or sexual relationship, usually while one or both parties involved are already in committed relationships.

hold (someone, something, or an animal) back (from someone or something) The idiom "hold (someone, something, or an animal) back (from someone or something)" is used to describe the act of restraining, preventing, or hindering someone, something, or an animal from progressing, advancing, or achieving a desired outcome or goal. It can imply physical or emotional restraint, as well as the act of impeding progress or growth.

not stand an earthly The idiom "not stand an earthly" means to have no chance or possibility of success or survival. It implies a complete lack of possibility or hope in a given situation.

coax (sm or an animal) out of sth The idiom "coax (someone or an animal) out of something" means to persuade or encourage someone or an animal to leave a particular place or to give up something they possess or are attached to. It implies using gentle and patient methods to convince or tempt someone or an animal to move away or release something.

do somebody/yourself an injury The idiom "do somebody/yourself an injury" means to cause harm or injury to someone, or to oneself, due to one's own actions or behavior. It suggests reckless or careless behavior that could lead to physical harm or emotional damage.

an minence grise The idiom "an Ã©minence grise" refers to a person who has great influence and power behind the scenes, often operating in a secretive or advisory capacity. This term is typically used to describe someone who wields significant power and control over decision-making processes, despite not holding an official or visible position of authority.

not bat an eye/eyelash/eyelid The idiom "not bat an eye/eyelash/eyelid" means to remain calm, composed, and unaffected by a surprising or shocking situation. It implies that the person shows no outward reaction or display of emotion, maintaining a stoic or unperturbed demeanor.

celebrate someone for an accomplishment The idiom "celebrate someone for an accomplishment" means to acknowledge and show appreciation for someone's achievement or success, often through festive activities, praise, or recognition. It involves honoring and commending the individual for their hard work, dedication, and positive outcome in a particular endeavor.

make an appearance The idiom "make an appearance" means to attend or be present at an event, gathering, or public occasion for a short period of time. It can also refer to showing up or being seen in a particular place or situation.

drive/send sb to an early grave The idiom "drive/send somebody to an early grave" refers to causing extreme stress, anxiety, or pressure that hastens or contributes to the premature death of someone. It suggests that the actions or behavior of a person or situation is so burdensome that it significantly affects the health and well-being of an individual, potentially shortening their lifespan.

at an unearthly hour The idiom "at an unearthly hour" refers to a time that is extremely early, usually occurring during the night or early morning, often considered unusual or inconvenient for most people.

hold up as an example The idiom "hold up as an example" means to present or showcase someone or something as a model or reference point to emulate. It implies that the person or thing being held up as an example possesses admirable qualities, achievements, or behavior that others should strive to imitate or learn from.

an odd/a queer fish The idiom "an odd/a queer fish" refers to someone who is strange, peculiar, or unconventional in their behavior or interests. It is often used to describe individuals who are eccentric, unusual, or have unique idiosyncrasies that set them apart from others.

get an even break The idiom "get an even break" means to be given a fair opportunity or chance, without any bias or unfair advantage. It implies having an equal and just treatment in a particular situation or endeavor, allowing for a fair assessment or outcome.

an empty nester An empty nester refers to a situation where parents or guardians no longer have any children living with them in their home. It typically occurs when their children have grown up, moved out, and become independent, leaving their parents with an empty nest. The idiom is often associated with a mix of emotions, including a sense of freedom, loss, and the need to adapt to a new phase of life.

throw an amount of light on sm or sth The idiom "throw an amount of light on someone or something" means to provide information or clarity on a particular subject or situation. It implies shedding light on something that was previously unclear or misunderstood, helping others to gain a better understanding or insight.

with an eye to sth The idiom "with an eye to sth" means being attentive or having a specific purpose or goal in mind. It refers to being focused on or considering something, often with the intention of achieving or gaining from it.

comfortable as an old shoe The idiom "comfortable as an old shoe" means feeling relaxed, at ease, and familiar in a particular situation or with a certain person. It implies a sense of comfort and security comparable to wearing a well-worn, dependable pair of shoes that fit perfectly.

kill time, an hour, etc. The idiom "kill time" means to engage in activities or do something to pass the time when waiting for something specific or when one has extra time. "Kill an hour" or "kill a few hours" refers to finding ways to occupy oneself or fill the time for the duration of one or more hours.

dope sm (or an animal) up The idiom "dope (someone or an animal) up" generally means to administer drugs or medications, often in excessive amounts, to sedate or calm someone or an animal. It can also refer to giving excessive or unnecessary medication to enhance performance.

drive someone (or an animal) away "Drive someone (or an animal) away" is an idiom that means to cause someone or something to leave or go away, often by using force, intimidation, or creating an unpleasant or hostile environment. It implies the act of making someone or something leave a particular place or situation by making it undesirable or uncomfortable for them.

worry an animal out of sth The idiom "worry an animal out of something" refers to the act of scaring or disturbing an animal in such a way that it is forced to leave or abandon its current position or possession. It suggests that by causing distress or excessive concern, one can prompt an animal to retreat or give up something it holds onto.

(you canâ€™t) teach an old dog new tricks The idiom "(you can't) teach an old dog new tricks" means that it is difficult or nearly impossible to change someone's behavior, habits, or way of thinking, especially when they are set in their ways or have been doing things a certain way for a long time. It implies that older people or long-established practices are resistant to change.

no fool like an old fool The idiom "no fool like an old fool" means that older, experienced individuals are expected to have gained wisdom and knowledge, and therefore should not make foolish or naive decisions. However, it highlights the tendency of some older people to act foolishly or make unwise choices despite their supposed wisdom or experience.

draw against an amount of money The idiom "draw against an amount of money" refers to the act of borrowing or taking out funds from a pre-arranged or allotted sum, typically offered as a form of credit or allowance. It means to access or use a portion of the available money, with the understanding that it will eventually need to be repaid or deducted from one's account.

have an eye for To have an eye for something means to possess a talent or ability to recognize, appreciate, or choose things of a particular kind or quality. It implies having a natural or developed skill for identifying and appreciating certain qualities or characteristics in something.

put someone in an awkward position The idiomatic expression "put someone in an awkward position" refers to placing someone in a difficult, uncomfortable, or embarrassing situation where they are faced with a challenging dilemma or tasked with making a compromising decision. It typically implies that the person is caught between conflicting interests or expectations, causing discomfort or unease.

an act of faith The idiom "an act of faith" refers to an action that requires trust and belief in something or someone, often without concrete evidence or assurance of the outcome. It implies taking a leap of faith or making a decision based on trust rather than certainty.

deaf as an adder The idiom "deaf as an adder" is typically used to describe someone who is completely oblivious to or intentionally ignores what others are saying. It implies that the person is stubbornly resistant to listening or paying attention. In this context, "adder" refers to a venomous snake known for being deaf to external sounds.

keep an eye peeled (for something or someone) The idiom "keep an eye peeled (for something or someone)" means to be very vigilant and observant in order to watch out for or look for something or someone. It implies that one should stay alert and continuously scan the surroundings in order to notice any potential signs or sightings.

out an amount of money The idiom "out an amount of money" refers to spending or paying a specific sum of money for a particular purpose or item. It implies that the money is being used or disbursed in a transaction or exchange.

the law is an ass The idiom "the law is an ass" is used to express the notion that the legal system or its application is flawed, unjust, or absurd. It suggests that the law sometimes fails to achieve fair or logical outcomes, often emphasizing situations where the legal rulings or interpretations appear to be nonsensical or disproportionate.

come within an inch of The idiom "come within an inch of" means being extremely close to achieving or experiencing something, but narrowly missing or narrowly escaping it.

go on for an age The idiom "go on for an age" typically means that something is continuing or lasting for a very long time. It implies that the duration of an event or situation seems never-ending or excessively prolonged.

cry (something) out (to someone or an animal) The idiom "cry (something) out (to someone or an animal)" means to express or communicate a strong feeling, opinion, or request loudly or passionately to someone or an animal. It implies that the person or animal being addressed deserves the emotional release or intense expression and is able to understand or receive it.

confine sm or an animal to sth The idiom "confine someone or an animal to something" means to keep someone or an animal within the boundaries or limits of a specific place or area. It implies restricting their movement or activities to that particular space.

frighten someone (or an animal) into something The idiom "frighten someone (or an animal) into something" means to intentionally scare or intimidate someone or an animal in order to make them do a particular action or behave in a certain way. The goal is to use fear as a means of coercion or persuasion.

kill (sm or an animal) off The idiom "kill (someone or an animal) off" typically means to cause the death or extinction of someone or an animal or to eliminate them completely. It can also metaphorically refer to the eradication or destruction of an idea, concept, or group.

place sm in an awkward position The idiom "place someone in an awkward position" means to put someone in a difficult or uncomfortable situation that they find hard to navigate or resolve. It can refer to situations where a person is caught between conflicting interests, forced to make a difficult decision, or faced with a dilemma that may result in embarrassment, discomfort, or inconvenience.

have pity on sm (or an animal) The idiom "have pity on someone (or an animal)" means to feel compassion or sympathy towards someone who is suffering or in a difficult situation, and to act kindly or help them in some way.

keep an eye on sb/sth The idiom "keep an eye on someone/something" means to watch or monitor someone or something closely. It implies being vigilant, observant, or attentive to ensure the person or thing remains in sight or under surveillance.

maroon sm on an island The idiom "maroon someone on an island" means to deliberately leave someone stranded or isolated in a difficult or hopeless situation, with little or no chance of rescue or escape. It refers to the idea of leaving someone helpless and abandoned, just as a person would be if left alone on a deserted island.

an Achilles' heel The idiom "an Achilles' heel" refers to a specific weakness or vulnerability of a person, organization, or system that can potentially lead to their downfall or failure. It originates from the Greek mythology of Achilles, a legendary warrior who was invulnerable except for his heel, which remained unprotected, leading to his eventual demise. In contemporary usage, it describes a flaw or a weak point that, despite an individual's or entity's overall strengths, can be exploited and result in significant consequences.

in a twinkling (or the twinkling of an eye) The idiom "in a twinkling (or the twinkling of an eye)" means to happen or occur very quickly, almost instantaneously. It refers to something happening in a fraction of a second, without any delay or delay.

labor under an assumption The idiom "labor under an assumption" means to persistently hold or operate based on a belief or supposition that may not be accurate or true. It refers to a situation where someone continues to work or act under false pretenses or assumptions without questioning their validity.

an easy touch The idiom "an easy touch" refers to a person who is easily persuaded, convinced, or taken advantage of, especially when it comes to lending money or helping others. It describes someone who is generous, kind-hearted, and lacks the ability to say no, making them vulnerable to manipulation.

It would take an act of Congress to do sth. The expression "It would take an act of Congress to do something" is an idiom used to emphasize that a particular task or action is complex, difficult, or unlikely to occur without significant effort or intervention. It implies that accomplishing the mentioned task would require a great deal of bureaucratic procedures or legislative action, similar to the lengthy process involved in passing a law through the United States Congress.

keep on an even keel To "keep on an even keel" means to maintain a steady or balanced state, most commonly used to describe keeping one's emotions, attitude, or situation stable and in control. It refers to avoiding extreme highs or lows and staying composed and steady.

the tip of an iceberg The idiom "the tip of an iceberg" refers to a situation where only a small, visible portion or manifestation of a problem, issue, or situation is apparent, while the majority or more significant part remains hidden or unseen. It implies that the visible part is just a small fraction of what lies beneath the surface, indicating that there is much more to be discovered or understood.

put one's hands on (sm, sth, or an animal) The idiom "put one's hands on (someone, something, or an animal)" means to locate or find someone or something, often when they have been missing or difficult to find. It emphasizes the act of physically touching or coming into contact with the person, thing, or animal in question.

won't take no for an answer The idiom "won't take no for an answer" means that someone is persistent and determined to achieve their goal, even if they are repeatedly told "no" or face resistance. They refuse to accept a negative response and continue to pursue what they want.

an acquired taste The idiom "an acquired taste" refers to something, such as food or an activity, that may not be initially appealing or enjoyable to someone, but becomes more enjoyable or appreciated over time as they develop a liking or appreciation for it through repeated exposure or experience.

chain someone (or an animal) up The idiom "chain someone (or an animal) up" refers to the act of securing or restraining someone or an animal by using chains or ropes. It implies restricting their freedom of movement or confining them to a specific area.

on an empty stomach The idiom "on an empty stomach" refers to doing something, usually eating, without having consumed any food beforehand.

an earth mother An earth mother is an idiom used to describe a woman who is nurturing, caring, and closely connected to nature. It refers to someone who embodies the qualities of a nurturing mother figure and has a deep respect for the environment. This term is often associated with women who are devoted to their families, prioritize their children's well-being, and have a strong sense of environmental consciousness.

no man is an island The idiom "no man is an island" refers to the idea that no individual is entirely self-sufficient or independent. It emphasizes that human beings are inherently interconnected and dependent on one another for various aspects of life, such as emotional support, cooperation, and communication. It suggests that individuals cannot thrive or navigate the complexities of life in isolation, highlighting the importance of relationships and community.

go suck an egg The idiom "go suck an egg" is an impolite and derogatory expression used to dismiss or belittle someone. It is a way of telling someone to go away, stop bothering you, or to express disdain or disgust towards them.

rule with a rod of iron/with an iron hand The idiom "rule with a rod of iron" or "rule with an iron hand" means to exercise strict and authoritative control or governance over a situation, organization, or group of people. It implies that the person in power is unwavering, inflexible, and severe in their methods of maintaining order and enforcing their authority.

lam into (sm or an animal) The idiom "lam into" means to attack or criticize someone or something vigorously and aggressively. It is often used when someone speaks or acts forcefully against another person or an animal.

no fool like an old fool, there's The idiom "no fool like an old fool" means that someone who is old or experienced but still behaves foolishly is even more foolish than a typical fool or a young fool. It suggests that foolishness in older people is particularly embarrassing or regrettable because they should have gained wisdom from their age or experiences.

an own goal The idiom "an own goal" refers to a situation where someone unintentionally does something that harms their own interests or goals. It originates from the sport of soccer (football), where an own goal occurs when a player inadvertently scores a goal against their own team. In a broader context, "an own goal" describes an action or decision that backfires or has negative consequences for the person or group responsible.

celebrate sm for an accomplishment The idiom "celebrate someone for an accomplishment" means to acknowledge and honor someone for their achievement, usually by expressing joy, admiration, and praise towards their success. It involves recognizing their hard work, skills, and dedication, and commemorating their achievement through various means such as parties, events, awards, or simply offering congratulations and support.

have one eye/half an eye on something The idiom "have one eye/half an eye on something" means to be keeping an intermittent or partial attention on something while simultaneously doing or focusing on something else. It suggests that one is keeping an eye on a situation or monitoring something, even if they are not fully engaged or giving their complete attention to it.

have an appetite for something The idiom "have an appetite for something" refers to having a strong desire, interest, or inclination towards something. It often conveys a metaphorical sense of craving, whether it be for food, knowledge, success, experiences, or other tangible or intangible desires.

make an impression on The idiom "make an impression on" refers to the act of leaving a lasting impact or influencing someone or something in a significant way. It means to leave a strong and memorable mark, typically through one's actions, words, or behavior.

cost a bomb/the earth/a packet, at cost an arm and a leg/a small fortune The idiom "cost a bomb" or "cost the earth" implies that something is very expensive or prices are exorbitant. It suggests that the cost is significantly high and might place a burden on one's finances. Similarly, the phrase "cost a packet" means that something is expensive and requires a substantial amount of money to purchase. On the other hand, the phrase "cost an arm and a leg" or "cost a small fortune" also signifies that something is very expensive but usually emphasizes the idea of the cost being extremely high, to the point of it being perceived as a significant sacrifice or loss to obtain or afford it. These phrases convey the notion that the price is exceptionally steep, often beyond what is reasonable or expected.

an old hand The idiom "an old hand" refers to someone who is experienced, skilled, or knowledgeable in a particular activity, area, or task due to having done it for a long time.

make an honest woman of someone The idiom "make an honest woman of someone" is typically used to describe the act of getting married to a woman, thereby granting her a respectable and socially accepted status. It implies that previously, the woman was engaged in an illicit or frowned-upon relationship, such as cohabitation or an extramarital affair. By making an honest woman of her, the person is committing to a legitimate relationship or marriage, removing any perception of impropriety.

a riddle wrapped in an enigma The idiom "a riddle wrapped in an enigma" is a phrase used to describe something or someone that is very mysterious, complex, or difficult to understand. It suggests that there are multiple layers of intricacy and uncertainty surrounding the subject, much like a puzzle or a mysterious situation that is hard to solve or unravel.

put (sm or an animal) out of sth The idiom "put (someone or an animal) out of something" means to cause someone or an animal to leave or exit a particular place or situation. It often implies a sense of inconvenience, disturbance, or even eviction.

on an average The idiom "on an average" is often used to indicate a general or typical situation or condition, based on a calculation or estimation. It refers to the average or typical outcome or measurement of something.

harness someone (or an animal) to something The idiom "harness someone (or an animal) to something" means to attach, control, or utilize someone or an animal to accomplish a specific task, goal, or purpose. It is often used figuratively to convey the idea of utilizing someone's skills, abilities, or resources effectively.

lie alongside (of sm or an animal) The idiom "lie alongside (of someone or an animal)" means to be in close proximity or adjacency to someone or something. It implies that two entities are situated next to each other, typically without any significant overlap or interaction.

be an artist/patriot/professional/etc. to your fingertips The idiom "be an artist/patriot/professional/etc. to your fingertips" means to possess an exceptional level of skill, dedication, or expertise in a specific field or role. It implies that the person is fully immersed in their chosen pursuit, displaying a deep understanding, proficiency, and commitment. It suggests being highly accomplished and knowledgeable in every aspect and detail relevant to the job or field, from the tips of one's fingers, implying mastery and thoroughness.

Give sb an inch and they'll take a mile. The idiom "Give sb an inch and they'll take a mile" means that if you allow someone to have a small advantage or concession, they will try to take full advantage of it and push for more than what was initially agreed upon or offered. It refers to the tendency of some individuals to exploit any leniency or opportunity given to them and go beyond the original limits.

keep up an act To "keep up an act" means to maintain a pretense or facade, often in order to deceive others or hide one's true intentions or feelings. It involves pretending to be something or someone you are not, or displaying a false attitude or behavior consistently over time. This idiom implies the effort required to sustain the act, ensuring that others continue to believe the false portrayal.

take an interest in The idiom "take an interest in" means to show curiosity, concern, or enthusiasm towards a particular subject, activity, or person. It involves actively engaging with or being involved in something, demonstrating a genuine desire to learn or understand more about it.

place in an awkward position The idiom "place in an awkward position" means to put someone in a difficult, uncomfortable, or embarrassing situation where they must navigate through a challenging or compromising scenario. It can refer to situations where one has conflicting loyalties, moral dilemmas, or facing a tough choice with potential negative consequences.

put an amount of time in on The idiom "put an amount of time in on" means to invest or dedicate a specified period of time and effort to accomplish a task or achieve a goal. It implies working diligently, consistently, and persistently towards a particular objective.

reach an impasse The idiom "reach an impasse" refers to a situation where progress or resolution becomes impossible or cannot be reached due to a deadlock or disagreement between two or more parties. It implies a point in a negotiation, discussion, or conflict where neither side can find a way to make further advancement.

float an air biscuit The idiom "float an air biscuit" is a humorous and euphemistic way to describe the act of passing gas or flatulence.

keep an ear out (for someone or something) The idiom "keep an ear out (for someone or something)" means to listen carefully or pay attention in order to be alert or aware of someone or something's presence or arrival. It implies being vigilant and attentive in order to notice any sign or indication related to the person or thing being referred to.

harness an animal up The idiom "harness an animal up" refers to the act of securing or attaching a harness to an animal, usually for the purpose of using it to pull or carry something. It implies the process of preparing an animal for work, such as attaching straps, reins, or other equipment that allows the animal to be controlled. This idiom is often used metaphorically to mean organizing or utilizing resources or capabilities to achieve a specific goal or purpose.

produce an attack The idiom "produce an attack" does not have a specific definition or meaning. It may be a variation or a misinterpretation of another idiom or phrase. However, with the given phrase, one could infer that it means to cause or provoke an aggressive or hostile response from someone or something. The word "produce" implies the action of generating or triggering, and "attack" refers to a forceful or vehement act of aggression.

keep an ear out (for something or someone) The idiom "keep an ear out (for something or someone)" means to stay alert and attentive, actively listening or watching for a specific thing or person. It denotes being vigilant or attentive in order to notice or perceive something important. It implies being watchful or on the lookout for certain information or occurrences.

within an ace of something The idiom "within an ace of something" means being extremely close to achieving or experiencing a certain outcome, almost reaching one's goal or target, or narrowly avoiding a certain situation. It typically implies that something was very nearly accomplished or attained, often emphasizing the narrow margin or proximity to success or failure.

an old head on young shoulders The idiom "an old head on young shoulders" refers to a person who possesses a high level of wisdom, maturity, or intelligence beyond their years. It describes someone who exhibits the mental or emotional characteristics of someone much older than themselves.

come to an untimely end The idiom "come to an untimely end" refers to a situation where someone or something meets an unfortunate or premature demise or failure. It suggests that the ending is unexpected or occurs before its anticipated or natural time.

an open question The idiom "an open question" refers to a question or issue that does not have a definite answer or resolution. It suggests that there are multiple possible answers or interpretations, and it remains uncertain or undecided. It can also imply that further discussion, analysis, or investigation is needed to arrive at a conclusion.

lend an ear to The idiom "lend an ear to" means to attentively listen to someone, to give them your full attention, and to be receptive to what they have to say.

by an eyelash The idiom "by an eyelash" refers to a situation where a person narrowly avoids something, especially a negative outcome or a failure, by a very small margin or a very close call. It implies that the outcome could have easily gone the other way if there had been the slightest difference or delay.

an old maid The idiom "an old maid" refers to a woman who has not married and is considered past the typical age for marriage, usually implying a sense of spinsterhood or being unmarried and unlikely to ever marry.

give somebody an inch The idiom "give somebody an inch" means to grant someone a small concession or permission which they then take advantage of or exploit beyond what was originally intended or agreed upon. It implies that if you give someone a small amount of freedom or leniency, they will likely try to take much more.

have an impact on sm or sth The idiom "have an impact on someone or something" means to have a significant or noticeable effect or influence on a person, situation, or thing. It implies that there is a result or consequence resulting from an action or event.

cock an ear/eye at somebody/something The idiom "cock an ear/eye at somebody/something" means to listen or pay attention closely to someone or something, usually implying curiosity or interest. It suggests directing one's attention towards a particular person or thing to gain more information or understanding.

drive sm (or an animal) away The idiom "drive someone away" or "drive an animal away" means to force someone or something to leave or go away. It can also refer to repelling or discouraging someone from being present or continuing with a certain course of action.

starve (sm or an animal) into sth The idiom "starve (someone or an animal) into something" refers to forcing a person or animal to do something or achieve a particular outcome through deprivation or a scarcity of resources. However, it is important to note that the literal act of starvation is not implied in this idiom. Instead, it suggests creating conditions where someone or something is left with no other option but to take a specific action.

have an impact on someone or something The idiom "have an impact on someone or something" refers to the effect or influence that a person, event, or action has on another person or thing. It signifies the ability to create a noticeable, significant, or lasting change or impression.

come within an inch of doing The idiom "come within an inch of doing" refers to a situation where someone almost accomplishes a particular task or achieves a desired outcome but fails or falls short at the very last moment. It indicates coming extremely close to success but narrowly missing it.

give someone an earful The idiom "give someone an earful" refers to angrily or vehemently speaking to someone, often in order to express dissatisfaction, criticism, or complaints. It implies that the person speaking has a lot to say and intends to convey their thoughts or grievances with great intensity or force. It can also suggest that the person being spoken to will receive a long and potentially unpleasant barrage of words.

on a full (or an empty) stomach The idiom "on a full (or an empty) stomach" refers to the condition of one's digestive system, specifically whether it is filled with food (full stomach) or devoid of food (empty stomach). It is often used to describe the state of someone's appetite or to highlight how eating or not eating affects a person's physical well-being or mood.

have an ace up oneâ€™s sleeve The idiom "have an ace up oneâ€™s sleeve" means to have a secret plan or advantage that can be used to gain an advantage or achieve success, especially in a competitive situation. It refers to the practice of keeping a hidden ace card in one's sleeve during a card game, which is then revealed at a crucial moment to surprise or outwit opponents.

the tip of an (or the) iceberg The idiom "the tip of an (or the) iceberg" refers to a situation where the visible or known aspects are just a small, insignificant part of a larger and more complex issue or problem. It implies that what is evident or apparent is only a superficial or surface-level representation, with a much larger or more significant matter lying beneath the surface.

have an eye for/on the main chance The idiom "have an eye for/on the main chance" means to be keenly aware of and cleverly pursue opportunities for personal gain or advancement. It describes someone who possesses a sharp ability to spot advantageous situations and takes full advantage of them.

in the twinkling of an eye The idiom "in the twinkling of an eye" means something happens very quickly or instantaneously, indicating a rapid speed or immediate occurrence.

watch with an eagle eye The idiom "watch with an eagle eye" means to observe something or someone very carefully and attentively, paying close attention to every detail. It implies being highly vigilant and alert, similar to how an eagle would closely observe its surroundings with its keen eyesight.

in an ivory tower The expression "in an ivory tower" refers to someone who is detached from the realities of the world and spends their time in an environment disconnected from everyday life. It typically portrays a person, often an academic or intellectual, who is isolated and out of touch with practical matters or the concerns of ordinary people.

an ace up your sleeve The idiom "an ace up your sleeve" means to have a secret or hidden advantage or resource that can be used to gain an advantage or achieve success, especially in a challenging or crucial situation. It originates from the practice of cheating in card games, where a player keeps an ace (the most valuable card) hidden in their sleeve to use it at a strategic moment and increase their chances of winning. Figuratively, having an ace up your sleeve suggests that you have an unexpected or undisclosed advantage.

keep (someone, something, or an animal) back (from someone or something) The idiom "keep (someone, something, or an animal) back (from someone or something)" means to prevent or restrain someone, something, or an animal from approaching or reaching someone or something else. It implies holding back or controlling the movement or access of the subject in order to maintain distance or avoid interference.

an/somebody's eagle eye The idiom "an/somebody's eagle eye" refers to someone's exceptional ability to notice and observe even the tiniest details or flaws that others might easily miss. It implies that the person has sharp vision, keen perception, and a careful attention to detail, akin to the powerful eyesight of an eagle.

(someone) could sell an icebox to an Eskimo The idiom "(someone) could sell an icebox to an Eskimo" refers to a person who has exceptional persuasive or selling skills. It suggests that the individual is capable of convincing someone to purchase or acquire something they already possess, demonstrating their ability to influence others convincingly, even when it seems unnecessary or unreasonable.

secure sth against (sm, sth, or an animal) The idiom "secure something against (someone, something, or an animal)" means to take measures or precautions to ensure that the mentioned person, thing, or animal cannot gain access to or harm the specified object or place. It implies the act of protecting or fortifying something from potential threats, damage, or unauthorized entry.

frighten (sm or an animal) to death The idiom "frighten (someone or an animal) to death" means to scare or startle someone or an animal in such an extreme manner that it causes them intense fear or panic, possibly leading to severe consequences such as physical harm, psychological trauma, or even death.

come within an inch of (something) The idiom "come within an inch of (something)" means to come extremely close to achieving or experiencing something, but narrowly missing out on it. It implies being just a hair's breadth away from a particular outcome or result.

have an ear for The idiom "have an ear for" means to possess a natural ability or talent for music or sound, allowing someone to be able to discern and appreciate the nuances, melody, rhythm, and harmony in music. It indicates a heightened sensitivity and perception in the auditory sense and is often used to describe someone with a good sense of musicality and an innate understanding of sound.

have an eye for the main chance The idiom "have an eye for the main chance" refers to someone who possesses a keen ability to spot lucrative or advantageous opportunities in any given situation. It implies that the individual is particularly astute in identifying and pursuing opportunities that could lead to personal benefit or success.

lie alongside (of someone or an animal) The idiom "lie alongside (of someone or an animal)" means to be in close proximity to someone or an animal, usually while resting or sleeping. It suggests the act of lying down next to someone or an animal, sharing a physical space without any specific interaction.

smell (sm, sth, or an animal) out The idiom "smell (sm, sth, or an animal) out" means to detect or discover something or someone by using one's sense of smell, often figuratively referring to uncovering hidden or secret information or uncovering someone's true nature or intentions.

to within an inch of your life The idiom "to within an inch of your life" means to beat or assault someone so severely that they come close to death or serious injury. It implies an extremely violent or merciless attack on someone, often involving excessive force or brutality.

an act of God The idiom "an act of God" refers to a naturally occurring event or phenomenon that causes damage, destruction, or disruption to human life, property, or activities. It commonly denotes events that are beyond human control or influence, such as earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, and other natural disasters.

come out at an amount The idiom "come out at an amount" refers to the final or resulting value or quantity that something reaches after a process or calculation. It means to have an outcome or result in a specific numerical value or figure.

be pushing at an open door The idiom "be pushing at an open door" means that someone is attempting to persuade or convince someone else of something that they already agree or are receptive to. In this situation, there is little resistance or opposition, and the outcome is likely to be successful since the other person is already inclined to support or accept the idea or proposal being presented.

you've got to crack a few eggs to make an omelette The idiom "you've got to crack a few eggs to make an omelette" means that in order to achieve something desirable or solve a problem, some difficulties or sacrifices must be endured or actions taken. It emphasizes that progress or success often requires acceptance of temporary setbacks, sacrifices, or discomforts.

acclimate someone (or an animal) to something The idiom "acclimate someone (or an animal) to something" means to help or assist someone, or an animal, in getting used to or adapting to a new environment, condition, or situation. It involves gradually adjusting or familiarizing someone or something with their surroundings, often to minimize discomfort or stress.

have (got) an/(one's) eye on (something) The idiom "have (got) an/(one's) eye on (something)" means to be closely watching or monitoring something with interest or desire. It typically implies a strong interest or intention to attain or possess the object of attention.

keep an eye on sm or sth The idiom "keep an eye on someone or something" means to monitor or watch someone or something closely, usually to ensure their safety, well-being, or progress. It implies being attentive, observant, and vigilant in order to stay informed or prevent any problems.

leave an impression (on someone) The idiom "leave an impression (on someone)" refers to making a strong or memorable impact on someone's mind or emotions. When someone leaves an impression on another person, their actions, words, or presence create a lasting effect that is not easily forgotten.

draw someone (or an animal) The idiom "draw someone (or an animal)" typically refers to the action of attracting someone's attention or interest, enticing them to come closer or become involved in a particular situation or activity. It can also imply the creation of a picture or representation of a person or animal on paper using various art techniques. The idiom can be used metaphorically or literally, depending on the context.

get an amount of money for sth The idiom "get an amount of money for something" means to receive a specific sum of money as payment or compensation for something, such as goods, services, or work performed. It implies that a financial transaction or exchange has taken place where the person has obtained a certain amount of money in return for something they provided or offered.

on an even keel The idiom "on an even keel" means to have stability in emotions, situations, or relationships. It is used to describe a state of balance, calmness, or stability, where things are going smoothly and without any major fluctuations or disturbances.

vaccinate (sm or an animal) with sth To "vaccinate (someone or an animal) with something" means to administer a vaccine or medicine to protect them against a specific disease or condition. It involves injecting the appropriate vaccine or medicine into the body, usually through a shot or injection, to stimulate the immune system and build immunity against a particular illness. This preventive measure helps to safeguard the individual or animal from contracting the disease or reduce its severity if infected.

an honest buck The idiom "an honest buck" refers to earning money in a fair and ethical manner. It suggests that the money earned is obtained by engaging in legitimate work or business while maintaining integrity and avoiding any dishonest or unethical practices.

make an honest woman of sb The idiom "make an honest woman of sb" typically means to marry or commit to a long-term relationship with a woman, particularly in the context of previous doubts about her honesty or reputation. It implies that by marrying or committing to her, one is publicly affirming her trustworthiness and establishing her as a respectable and reputable person.

an open invitation The idiom "an open invitation" refers to an explicit or implicit offer or permission for someone to join, participate, or engage in something without any restrictions or limitations. It suggests that the opportunity is readily available and accessible to anyone interested or willing to take advantage of it.

an arrow in the quiver The idiom "an arrow in the quiver" refers to having a resource or option available for future use or as a backup plan. It signifies being prepared and ready with a valuable tool that can be utilized when needed.

live on an amount of money The idiom "live on an amount of money" refers to the ability to sustain oneself financially with a specific sum or income. It implies managing one's expenses within a limited budget.

an ambulance chaser The idiom "an ambulance chaser" refers to a lawyer or attorney who actively seeks out personal injury cases or clients, often by following ambulance dispatches in order to approach potential clients immediately after an accident or injury occurs. This term is typically used in a derogatory manner to convey the idea of a lawyer who is seen as unscrupulous or unethical, as they are considered to be exploiting the misfortune of others for personal gain.

an armchair critic The idiom "an armchair critic" refers to a person who offers opinions, criticisms, or judgments on various subjects or issues, especially those beyond their expertise or without firsthand experience, from the comfort and safety of their own home or without actively participating or getting involved in a particular activity or situation. It implies that the person is prone to sharing their views without actively engaging or contributing to the actual work or effort required to address or solve a problem.

teach an old dog new tricks The idiom "teach an old dog new tricks" means that it is often challenging or difficult to get someone who is set in their ways to change their habits, learn new skills, or accept new ideas. It implies that older individuals may be resistant to change or less adaptable compared to younger individuals.

to an extent The idiom "to an extent" means partially or to a certain degree. It suggests that something is true or valid but only up to a certain limit or extent. It indicates that there are limitations or conditions that restricts the full applicability of a statement or action.

slip up on (sm, sth, or an animal) The idiom "slip up on (someone/something/ an animal)" means to approach or come upon someone, something, or an animal quietly and unexpectedly, often catching them off guard.

an iron fist/hand in a velvet glove The idiom "an iron fist/hand in a velvet glove" refers to a person or regime that appears gentle or lenient on the surface but exercises strong, ruthless, or oppressive control behind the scenes. It signifies someone who is authoritative and firm while maintaining a deceptive outward appearance of kindness or gentleness.

get at (someone or an animal) The idiom "get at (someone or an animal)" refers to the act of criticizing, nagging, or provoking someone or an animal in order to make them feel irritated, frustrated, or annoyed. It involves making repeated remarks or actions to provoke a negative reaction from the person or animal targeted.

educated guess, an "An educated guess" is an idiom used to describe a guess or estimate made by someone based on their knowledge, experience, or reasoning. It implies that the guess is not a random or uninformed assumption, but rather an inference or judgment made using available information and logical deduction.

take aim (at someone, something, or an animal) The idiom "take aim (at someone, something, or an animal)" means to direct one's focus, attention, or efforts towards a specific target or objective. It typically refers to the act of preparing to attack, criticize, or confront someone or something.

bounce an idea off someone The idiom "bounce an idea off someone" means to share or discuss a thought, proposal, or concept with someone in order to gain their perspective, feedback, or opinion on it. It involves seeking someone's input or advice on an idea or decision.

be an open book The idiom "be an open book" means to be transparent or not have anything to hide. It refers to someone who readily discloses information about themselves, allowing others to know them completely and easily navigate their thoughts and feelings.

not trust somebody an inch The idiom "not trust somebody an inch" means to have a complete lack of trust or confidence in someone, not relying on them even to the smallest degree. It implies a complete skepticism towards the person's reliability, sincerity, or credibility.

an itchy trigger finger The idiom "an itchy trigger finger" refers to someone who is overly eager, impulsive, or quick to react aggressively, particularly in situations that require restraint or patience. It suggests that the person is ready to pull the trigger of a weapon at any given moment, often with little provocation or hesitation.

an object lesson An object lesson is an event, situation, or experience that provides a clear and practical example or illustration of a particular principle, lesson, or moral. It involves using tangible or observable things to demonstrate a specific point, often making it more memorable or impactful.

make an impression on sb The idiom "make an impression on somebody" means to leave a lasting impact or influence on someone, often resulting in them remembering or being affected by the encounter or experience.

vaccinate (sm or an animal) against sth The idiom "vaccinate (someone or an animal) against something" means to administer a vaccine to provide protection or immunity against a specific disease or illness. It involves injecting a substance into the body to stimulate the production of antibodies, which can subsequently fight off the targeted infection or disease. This helps in preventing the individual or animal from falling ill or reducing the severity of their symptoms if they come into contact with the particular disease in the future.

frighten (someone or an animal) to death The idiom "frighten (someone or an animal) to death" means to cause extreme fear or terror to someone or an animal, to the point where it may have a profound negative impact on their well-being or even cause their death. It signifies a level of fear that is overwhelming and potentially fatal.

have half an eye on The definition of the idiom "have half an eye on" means to be only partially paying attention or to be somewhat aware of something while simultaneously focused on another task or situation.

an ego trip The idiom "an ego trip" is used to describe a situation where someone excessively focuses on themselves, their own importance, or self-image, often displaying arrogant or self-centered behavior. It refers to a self-indulgent pursuit or display of one's own ego or self-worth.

put an end to The idiom "put an end to" means to stop, terminate, or bring something to a close or conclusion. It implies the act of bringing something to an end or preventing it from continuing further.

leave something for (someone or an animal) The idiom "leave something for (someone or an animal)" means to intentionally save or reserve something for another person or creature, ensuring that they will have something left for their use or benefit. It can also imply refraining from using or taking all of something in order to allow others to have a share or opportunity.

whisk (sm or an animal) off The idiom "whisk (someone or an animal) off" means to quickly or forcefully remove or take someone or something away from a place or situation. It implies a swift and sudden action, often with a sense of urgency or excitement.

have an eye for sth The idiom "have an eye for sth" means to possess a natural ability or skill in recognizing and appreciating a particular thing, such as art, beauty, fashion, design, or any other specific field. People who have an eye for something are able to perceive and understand its qualities, often demonstrating a keen sense of taste or aesthetic judgment.

make an exhibition of The idiom "make an exhibition of" means to draw attention or attract notice by behaving in a showy, embarrassing, or foolish manner in public. It refers to someone who acts flamboyantly, excessively, or displays behavior that is considered inappropriate for the given situation or context.

nurse sm (or an animal) along To "nurse someone (or an animal) along" means to provide care and support, usually in a patient and attentive manner, with the intention of helping them recover or progress gradually. It implies tenderly or gently assisting someone or something, and often refers to physical or emotional healing.

coerce (someone or an animal) into something The idiom "coerce (someone or an animal) into something" means to forcefully persuade or pressure someone or an animal to do something against their will or inclination. It involves using threats, manipulation, or force to make someone comply with a certain action or behavior.

come to an impasse The idiom "come to an impasse" means to reach a point of deadlock or stalemate in a discussion, negotiation, or situation where further progress or agreement seems impossible. It indicates a situation where no resolution or compromise can be reached, creating a standstill.

have an even chance (of doing something) The idiom "have an even chance (of doing something)" means to have an equal or fair probability or possibility of achieving or doing something. It suggests that the likelihood of success or failure is balanced, with no clear advantage or disadvantage.

in the space of a minute, an hour, a morning, etc. The idiom "in the space of a minute, an hour, a morning, etc." refers to a situation where something happens or changes very quickly or unexpectedly within a short period of time. It emphasizes the rapidity or suddenness of an event, highlighting how much can occur or transform in a seemingly brief timeframe.

make an impression on someone The idiom "make an impression on someone" means to leave a lasting impact or influence on someone's opinion, memory, or perception, often through one's behavior, appearance, or actions. It implies that the person has made themselves memorable or noteworthy to the individual, causing them to remember or think highly of them.

within an inch of your/its life The idiom "within an inch of your/its life" refers to an action or situation where something is done with such intensity, force, or severity that it brings someone or something to the verge of death or complete destruction. It emphasizes the notion of extreme measures being taken or a strong impact being applied.

an/that old chestnut The idiom "an/that old chestnut" refers to a repeated story, joke, or idea that has become clichÃ©d or tiresome due to its overuse or predictability. It is often used to express annoyance or boredom when someone brings up a familiar or stale topic.

an accident waiting to happen The idiom "an accident waiting to happen" refers to a situation or event that is very likely to turn into an accident or disaster in the near future due to being inherently dangerous, risky, or poorly planned. It suggests that the circumstances are highly precarious and have the potential to lead to negative consequences or harm.

be an actor, cook, etc. in the making The idiom "be an actor, cook, etc. in the making" means that someone has the potential or qualities to become a successful actor, cook, or any other specified profession, even though they are not currently at that level. It implies that they are in the process of developing their skills and talents and have the potential to excel in that particular field.

you can't make an omelette without breaking eggs The idiom "you can't make an omelette without breaking eggs" means that in order to achieve something good or valuable, sacrifices or negative consequences are inevitable. It suggests that progress or success often comes at the cost of making difficult choices or causing temporary disruptions.

put an amount of time in on sth The idiom "put an amount of time in on something" generally means to dedicate or invest a certain period of time and effort into working on or engaging with a specific task, project, or activity. It implies a commitment to spending a substantial and determined amount of time for the purpose of achieving a particular goal or desired outcome.

leave an impression To "leave an impression" means to create a lasting impact or memory on someone or something. It refers to the ability to make oneself or something memorable and significant in the minds of others.

give someone an inch The idiom "give someone an inch" means to allow or grant someone a small amount of leeway or freedom, typically in terms of granting them some lenience or flexibility in a situation. It implies that if someone is given a small amount of tolerance or room to maneuver, they are likely to take advantage or ask for more.

without batting an eye The idiom "without batting an eye" means to remain calm, composed, or unaffected by a surprising or alarming situation. It refers to someone's ability to maintain a steady expression or lack of emotional reaction in response to something unexpected or shocking.

frighten sm (or an animal) into sth The idiom "frighten someone (or an animal) into something" means to induce or compel someone (or an animal) to do something due to fear or intimidation. It suggests that the person or animal is so scared that they are motivated to take a particular action.

eye for an eye The idiom "eye for an eye" refers to a principle or concept of justice in which a punishment or retaliation is equal to the harm or wrongdoing inflicted. It implies seeking revenge or retribution that is proportional to the original offense, emphasizing a sense of fairness and balance. The phrase is often used to express the idea that someone should suffer the same harm or consequences as they inflicted upon another.

put (sm or an animal) to sleep The idiom "put (someone or an animal) to sleep" means to euthanize or to end the life of someone or an animal in a painless manner, typically through the administration of drugs. This phrase is commonly used when referring to the act of humane mercy killing, usually to alleviate suffering, incurable illness, or old age.

do (oneself or someone) an injury To "do oneself or someone an injury" is an idiom that refers to intentionally or unintentionally causing harm or producing negative consequences for oneself or others due to one's actions or behavior. It implies engaging in actions that are detrimental, self-destructive, or harmful in some way.

do an about-face The idiom "do an about-face" means to completely change one's opinion, attitude, or course of action. It is often used to describe a sudden and complete reversal or turnaround in someone's behavior or stance on a particular matter.

have an ear to the ground The idiom "have an ear to the ground" means to be attentive and aware of the latest trends, updates, or gossip regarding a particular situation, topic, or group of people. It suggests being well-informed and staying in touch with what is happening in a specific context.

make an issue of/out of something To "make an issue of/out of something" means to give something unnecessary emphasis or attention, often by turning it into a problem or conflict. It refers to exaggerating or excessively focusing on a particular matter, often causing unnecessary drama, argument, or disagreement.

get something (for an amount of money) The idiom "get something (for an amount of money)" refers to acquiring or purchasing something by paying a specific price or amount of money. It implies that a transaction or exchange of money has taken place for the acquisition of a particular item or service.

in an age of years

an amber gambler

worry an animal out of

rope or an animal up

mate with an animal

hatch an animal out

force or an animal from

Don't get your bowels in an uproar!

bring (one's) arse to an anchor

bring (one's) ass to an anchor

dig (someone) an early grave

Donâ€™t get your bowels in an uproar!

eye to, with an

get bowels in an uproar

get oneâ€™s bowels in an uproar

hang an arse

have an ox on the tongue

like an owl in an ivy bush

take no for an answer, not

the/an answer to (one's) prayers The idiom "the/an answer to (one's) prayers" refers to something that is seen as a welcome solution or outcome to a difficult situation, often considered to be the result of divine intervention or luck. It is something that is longed for or hoped for, and when it finally arrives, it is seen as a response to one's fervent pleas or wishes.

strike a pose/an attitude To deliberately adopt a particular posture, stance, or expression in order to convey a certain image or attitude to others.

exchange no more than (an amount of) words To exchange no more than (an amount of) words means to communicate briefly or concisely without engaging in further conversation or discussion.

everything an' all The phrase "everything an' all" is often used in informal English to mean "all of it", "all of them", or "everything included". It is used to emphasize that something includes everything or all aspects of a situation.

keep (an amount of) plates spinning To keep (an amount of) plates spinning is to manage multiple tasks or responsibilities simultaneously, often in a hectic or chaotic way. The idiom originates from the image of a performer spinning multiple plates on top of poles, requiring constant attention and effort to prevent them from crashing to the ground.

*slippery as an eel If someone is described as "slippery as an eel," it means they are difficult to catch or pin down, often in terms of avoiding responsibility or manipulation.

keep (an amount of) balls in the air To keep multiple tasks or responsibilities going simultaneously; to manage or juggle several different things at once.

be (on) the right side of (an age) To be at a desirable age or point in one's life, or to be younger or older than a specific age.

be (on) the wrong side of (an age) To be older than the desired or expected age.

put down (an animal) To euthanize or kill an animal, usually because it is old, sick, or injured.

have a rough/an easy ride To have a rough/an easy ride means to experience difficulty or ease while going through a particular situation or task. It can refer to facing challenges or obstacles (rough ride) or encountering little resistance or difficulty (easy ride).

square your/an account To settle or pay off a debt or obligation.

a witchâ€™s/an evil brew The idiom "a witchâ€™s/an evil brew" refers to a mixture or combination of things that are perceived as harmful, dangerous, or sinister. It can also denote a concoction or plan that is likely to have negative or malevolent consequences.

knock someone back (an amount of money) To cause someone to be surprised or shocked by the amount of money being requested or charged.

put an end to yourself The idiom "put an end to yourself" means to stop what one is doing or saying, to cease one's own behavior or actions. It can also be used in a more literal sense to refer to committing suicide.

throw an eye on (something) To glance at or quickly view something.

give somebody a rough/an easy ride To give somebody a rough/an easy ride means to make things difficult/easy for that person, either intentionally or through circumstances beyond their control. It can refer to the challenges or obstacles someone faces in a particular situation.

carry (an amount of) weight To have influence, importance, or authority; to be taken seriously or be considered significant.

in the space of (an amount of time) The idiom "in the space of (an amount of time)" means within the duration of that specific period of time. It indicates the length or time frame in which something occurred or was achieved.

somehow or (an)other The definition of the idiom "somehow or (an)other" is in some way, by some means, or using any available method.

have (an amount of) plates spinning To have multiple tasks, responsibilities, or projects that one is trying to manage or keep in motion simultaneously.

wrangle for an ass's shadow The idiom "wrangle for an ass's shadow" means to engage in a pointless or absurd argument or dispute over something insignificant or trivial. It suggests wasting time and energy on something that has little value or importance.

declare an/(one's) interest To voluntarily disclose a personal or financial stake in a situation or decision to ensure transparency and avoid any conflicts of interest.

settle a score/an account To settle a score/an account means to seek revenge or retribution for a past wrong or injustice. It can also refer to resolving a dispute or conflict between individuals or parties.

trade off the orchard for an apple The idiom "trade off the orchard for an apple" means to exchange something valuable or significant for something much less valuable or advantageous. It implies making a hasty decision or giving up something of greater importance for immediate gratification.

settle a score/an account (with somebody) To settle a score/an account (with somebody) means to take revenge or retaliate against someone for a past wrong or perceived injustice. It can also refer to resolving a disagreement or conflict with someone in order to bring closure or resolution to the situation.

kill (an amount of time) To engage in activities or tasks in order to pass time while waiting for something else to happen; to occupy oneself during a period of time when one has nothing else to do.

How Do You Spell AN?

AN Meaning and Definition

Top Common Misspellings for AN *

Other Common Misspellings for AN

Etymology of AN

Idioms with the word AN

Similar spelling words for AN

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