Enemy Idioms

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cold war

Meaning: A state of intense rivalry or hostility between people, groups, or nations that stops short of open violence.

Example: After their argument, the couple lived in a quiet cold war, refusing to speak to each other for days. Read more ➺


snake in the grass

Meaning: A person who appears harmless but is secretly dishonest or unfaithful.

Example: Emily trusted Jake, but he turned out to be a snake in the grass, spreading rumors behind her back. Read more ➺


divide and conquer (or rule)

Meaning: gain an advantage over others by creating divisions.

Example: The plan today is to divide and conquer to complete our coursework. Read more ➺


cloak and dagger

Meaning: an activity or process that involves spying, secrecy, or mystery.

Example: He didn't want anyone to know what he was doing, so he kept his plans cloaked and daggered from the public. Read more ➺


bad blood

Meaning: to have ill feelings towards someone

Example: The villagers say the arson attack may have been the result of bad blood between the two families. Read more ➺


Dutch uncle

Meaning: criticize, scold or lecture someone

Example: I thought he would approve of my choices, but he ranted on like a Dutch uncle for a whole hour. Read more ➺


keep your friends close and your enemies closer

Meaning: to keep a keen eye on enemies beyond what one might have on their friends

Example: As a politician you must keep your friends close and your enemies closer. Read more ➺


lie low

Meaning: To keep quiet and avoid attention, especially to escape danger or trouble.

Example: After the scandal, the politician decided to lie low until things calmed down. Read more ➺


build bridges

Meaning: to foster good relationships

Example: A non-governmental organization is engaged in building bridges between different communal groups in the city. Read more ➺


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