Circumstances Idioms

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par for the course

Meaning: as expected under the circumstances.

Example: Finding traffic on the way to work is par for the course in this city. Read more ➺


out of the woods

Meaning: no longer in danger or difficulty.

Example: After months of uncertainty, the company is finally out of the woods and back on track. Read more ➺


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 ➺


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 ➺


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