To Step Up (one's) Game (used as a verb)
First Example: Tina: Did you hear? I just got the project. Alec: Really? I thought my proposal was a lock. Tina: They liked mine better. Looks like you need to step up your game if you’re gonna compete with me. Alec: Don’t get too cocky. You won one proposal, your first. Tina: The first of […]
In Over one's Head
Example 1:I want to graduate early, so I registered for 2 extra classes this semester. I thought I could handle it, but I’m starting to think I am in over my head. With all the homework, reading assignments, and classes to attend, I’m not sleeping well and I’m feeling overwhelmed. The deadline to drop classes is next week. I’ll […]
A No-Brainer
Example 1: Bill: Do you have plans for vacation, Mike?Mike: Nope. I can’t decide what I want to do. My roommates want to go to Las Vegas, but my parents want to take me on a cruise through Mexico.Bill: Mike! That’s a no-brainer! You can go to Vegas anytime! The cruise to Mexico is something […]
Be On The Fence
Context #1 Jim: Have you decided who you’re going to vote for? Chris: I still don’t know. I’m kind of on the fence right now. Both candidates are qualified and seem great for the job. Context #2 Carol: Have you and your husband found a new apartment yet? Shelly: Well, we’re still on the fence […]
A Stone’s Throw
Example: Stephane: I’m looking for the emergency clinic. Someone told me it was pretty near. Sean: It’s a stone’s throw away. You see that building fifty feet away? Stephane: The pink one? Sean: That’s the one. Just next door. Stephane: Wow, no kidding! It really is close. Meaning: “A stone’s throw” means a very short distance; […]
To fall into your lap
Example 1: Tom and Elizabeth are brother and sister. Tom has been looking for a job for about a month. Elizabeth: How’s your job hunt going, Tom? Tom: I finally have a job Elizabeth: Really? Tom: Yes! I’m going to be working as a Coder for Google.com Elizabeth: Oh wow!! That’s so exciting! Congratulations Tom: […]
To Go Down in Flames
Example 1: Hey, Marty! What are you doing for your birthday? I think I am going to have a party at Fabulous 5. Wait! They went out of business! What?! Are you sure? They closed down?! Yeah. Apparently there were leaks in the restrooms, holes in the walls, the chairs and tables were old and […]
For the Birds
Context #1 – Roommates watching TV at home Vanessa: This new TV show was supposed to be so good, but it’s really boring and confusing. I have no idea what’s going on. Brad: Yes, this show is definitely for the birds. Why don’t we change the channel? Vanessa: I agree. Even reruns of old shows […]
To Chicken Out
Context #1 – Tim: Have you heard about the new ride and Magic Mountain called the Death Drop? John: Yeah, I heard it’s super scary. Have you been on it? Tim: Well, we went there this weekend and I was going to go on it with my friends, but I chickened out at the last […]
Hole in the wall
Context #1 Sam: Last night we found this really awesome restaurant for authentic southern BBQ! Tony: Really? Where is it? Sam: It’s a tiny little hole in the wall right on the corner of Main St. and First. The food is cheap and delicious! Context #2 Jenny: So, how was your trip to San Diego? […]
Let the chips fall where they may
Example 1: Dad: Hey Johnny, it’s almost 3 o’clock. Your guests should be arriving soon. Johnny: Dad, I’m not popular. I bet no one will come. I invited everyone in my class to the party, but I bet we’ll be here alone. Dad: Well son, I think you’re a great kid and it was nice that […]
To bug someone
Meaning: To annoy or bother someone Context #1 – Two students are talking after class Jackie:You know that girl in the red shirt who sits in back of the class? Pippy: Hmmm…let me think. Oh, yes! The really tall girl. Jackie: Yes, that one! She bugs me so much! Pippy: Really? Why? Jackie: She just taps her pen […]
