Idioms beginning with B

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butter up

Meaning: to flatter someone so as to get something in return from them

Example: Mary's nice compliments about her not so nice boss made it clear that she was just trying to butter him up. Read more ➺


buck up

Meaning: to summon the courage to do something

Example: After losing the first place position to Martha, everyone heard Mary's mother tell her to buck up. Read more ➺


bun in the oven

Meaning: to be pregnant

Example: After trying for a baby for several years, Mark was happy when his wife told him she had a bun in the oven. Read more ➺


bring home the bacon

Meaning: Earn the money needed to live and support oneself or one's family.

Example: He worked two jobs to bring home the bacon for his family. Read more ➺


beck and call

Meaning: being completely available to someone when needed

Example: No matter what time of day it is, she is always at his beck and call. Read more ➺


bon appetit

Meaning: enjoy your meal/food

Example: I want to thank you all for coming to my dinner party, and I'd like to wish you all bon appetit! Read more ➺


back against the wall

Meaning: to be in a tough situation with limited options

Example: The company has its back against the wall and if the employees do not help out now, it will be bankrupt soon. Read more ➺


button your lip

Meaning: to stop speaking

Example: "His continuous talking makes me wish he could button his lip." Read more ➺


break the mould

Meaning: to do something different from what is expected

Example: His method of teaching physics breaks the mould. Read more ➺


blow your own trumpet

Meaning: to say things that makes your own self or kin look good

Example: The crew tried to blow their own trumpet but the manager did not buy their story. Read more ➺


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