Animal Idioms

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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 ➺


poke the bear

Meaning: to intentionally provoke or instigate a confrontation with someone who is known to be easily angered or irritated.

Example: Criticizing the boss's decisions is a sure way to poke the bear at work. Read more ➺


let the cat out of the bag

Meaning: to reveal a secret by mistake.

Example: I wanted to keep my job offer a secret, but my little brother overheard and let the cat out of the bag. Read more ➺


beat a dead horse

Meaning: spend time and effort on things that are hopeless and unchangeable.

Example: Tom still has hope that his wife will come back to him, but he is actually beating a dead horse. Read more ➺


greenhorn

Meaning: a new or inexperienced person.

Example: My dad is a greenhorn when it comes to computers. Read more ➺


charley horse

Meaning: a cramp or stiffness in the leg or arm.

Example: We had to stop midway and call for help because of a charley horse in my foot. Read more ➺


dog days of summer

Meaning: used to describe hot, sultry days.

Example: Lemonade is a classic drink to keep yourself cool during the dog days of summer. Read more ➺


barrel of monkeys

Meaning: something very funny, diverting, and amusing.

Example: The traffic jam was a total barrel of monkeys. Read more ➺


copycat

Meaning: one who imitates or copies another's actions, appearance, or ideas.

Example: The startup accused the competitor of being a copycat, claiming they stole their business model and product ideas. Read more ➺


bell the cat

Meaning: do a dangerous job.

Example: Someone has to bell the cat and organize the office fundraiser, but so far, no one has volunteered. Read more ➺


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