Idioms beginning with S

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shrinking violet

Meaning: typically refers to a person who is shy, timid, or reserved in social situations.

Example: Avril is such a shrinking violet at parties; she always sticks to the sidelines and rarely speaks up. Read more ➺


sick as a dog

Meaning: refers to extreme physical illness or discomfort.

Example: After eating that questionable seafood, he spent the entire night vomiting and feeling as sick as a dog. Read more ➺


safe and sound

Meaning: unharmed or uninjured.

Example: After the storm passed, we found our house still standing and our family safe and sound. Read more ➺


shot in the arm

Meaning: a sudden and encouraging effect on something.

Example: The speech was an absolute shot in the arm for the crew members aboard the ship. Read more ➺


split up

Meaning: end of a relationship, marriage, or partnership.

Example: The couple split up after months of conflicts and arguments. Read more ➺


slam dunk

Meaning: accomplish something with great ease or efficiency.

Example: The new software made data entry a slam-dunk. Read more ➺


sweet tooth

Meaning: a greatĀ fondnessĀ for sweet-tasting foods.

Example: My niece has a sweet tooth, as she continually begs me to make her something sugary. Read more ➺


man of straw

Meaning: a person who is disregarded as lacking character or morality.

Example: He's just a man of straw, easily manipulated by powerful people. Read more ➺


safe bet

Meaning: something that will undoubtedly happen.

Example: I knew her passing the exams was a safe bet because she has been a hardworking student. Read more ➺


scared to death

Meaning: to be extremely afraid or frightened.

Example: A shadow appeared in the doorway and scared me to death. Read more ➺


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