Idioms beginning with P

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pony up

Meaning: To pay money that is owed or required, especially when one is reluctant to do so.

Example: After a long argument, he finally ponied up the cash for the group dinner. Read more ➺


packed like sardines

Meaning: Describes a situation where individuals are positioned extremely close together, leaving little to no space for movement.

Example: During rush hour, commuters were packed like sardines on the subway. Read more ➺


pay through the nose

Meaning: Paying an excessive or exorbitant amount for something.

Example: They had to pay through the nose for last-minute concert tickets. Read more ➺


perfect storm

Meaning: A critical or disastrous situation arising from the powerful convergence of multiple factors.

Example: The economic downturn, coupled with rising unemployment and inflation, created a perfect storm for the nation's financial crisis. Read more ➺


play fast and loose

Meaning: Reckless or irresponsible manner: Engaging in actions without regard for consequences or the welfare of others.

Example: The CEO was criticized for playing fast and loose with company funds, leading to financial instability. Read more ➺


Parthian shot

Meaning: A sharp, telling remark or gesture made in departing.

Example: As he exited the meeting, he delivered a Parthian shot about the project's unrealistic timeline. Read more ➺


Pandora’s box

Meaning: An action or decision that leads to unforeseen and uncontrollable problems.

Example: Opening that old case file could be like opening Pandora's box, revealing more issues than we anticipate. Read more ➺


pull someone up

Meaning: addressing someone's behavior or performance to correct it.

Example: The coach pulled the player up for missing practice and emphasized the importance of commitment. Read more ➺


pecking order

Meaning: a hierarchy of status seen among a group of people or animals.

Example: In the corporate world, understanding the pecking order is crucial for navigating office politics. Read more ➺


pull someone’s leg

Meaning: to tease or joke with someone, often by trying to make them believe something that is not true.

Example: I didn't believe him when he said he saw a UFO; I knew he was just pulling my leg. Read more ➺


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