Animal Idioms

Page 10 of 12

man’s best friend

Meaning: It refers to animals that are of use to human beings, mostly used to address dogs.

Example: When his dog died he cried for many days in the memory of his only best friend. Read more ➺


hold your horses

Meaning: to wait

Example: Hold your horses! We have not won yet, so don't start celebrating. Read more ➺


flog a dead horse

Meaning: waste energy on something that has no chance of succeeding.

Example: He keeps trying to get his manuscripts published, but I think he is flogging a dead horse. Read more ➺


smell a rat

Meaning: Suspect something is wrong or dishonest.

Example: I smell a rat—he’s being too nice all of a sudden. Read more ➺


let sleeping dogs lie

Meaning: Avoid bringing up old problems or sensitive issues that could cause trouble if reopened.

Example: After years of peace between the families, he chose to let sleeping dogs lie rather than mention the old disagreement. Read more ➺


viper in bosom

Meaning: a person who deceives you after receiving help from you

Example: I got my friend a good position in my company and all he did is convinced my manager to get him the designation I had in the project. He was no more than a viper in my bosom. Read more ➺


monkey business

Meaning: silly act

Example: I want to sleep. Stop disturbing me by your monkey business. Read more ➺


go to the dogs

Meaning: something is getting worse than usual.

Example: Have you recently seen their car? It has truly gone to the dogs. Read more ➺


dog tired

Meaning: very tired

Example: Now, I am dog-tired after three days of the journey. Read more ➺


throw to the wolves

Meaning: allow somebody else to be criticized or attacked, often in order to protect one.

Example: Don't try to throw my brother to the wolves. I'll tell you the facts about the entire issue. Read more ➺


Share
Share