grit one’s teeth
Meaning: to act bravely and courageously in a challenging situation.
Example: Tom gritted his teeth, overcame his fear of heights, and climbed the ladder. Read more ➺
Circumstances
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comes to the crunch
Meaning: in a critical moment or crucial time, or in a tight corner.
Example: I’m ready to resign due to this if it comes to the crunch. Read more ➺
in a pinch
Meaning: being in a situation where the preferred or ideal choice is unavailable.
Example: This diet will do in a pinch. It is better than going hungry. Read more ➺
no feeling is final
Meaning: no situation is permanent.
Example: Even though you performed poorly last semester, charm up. No feeling is final. Read more ➺
nail biter
Meaning: a situation like a close contest, which induces anxiety or tension.
Example: Friday's nail-biter of a win over the Houston Texans was an excruciating contest. Read more ➺
the other side of the coin
Meaning: the opposite aspect, contrasting arguments.
Example: You should consider the other side of the coin when a wife leaves her husband and not just blame her for walking out on him. Read more ➺
hit the panic button
Meaning: prepare for disaster
Example: Dad's fishing pole dove into the lake without warning, and he hit the panic button before jumping up with the reel-spinning like crazy in his hand. Read more ➺
wide berth
Meaning: avoid (a person, place, or circumstance)
Example: When walking through the yard, make sure you leave a wide berth for the dog, or he may bite you. Read more ➺
bury head in the sand
Meaning: hide from the truth
Example: Finals begin in a week and if I continue to bury my head in the sand, I'll be taking this class again next semester. Read more ➺
hit or miss
Meaning: something is arranged in a haphazard fashion
Example: "Have you tried the new bar on the corner? We've been three times and it's a bit hit and miss." Read more ➺
