Game Idioms

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hot potato

Meaning: refers to a controversial or sensitive topic that people avoid discussing.

Example: The topic of religious beliefs can often be a hot potato, with individuals having sensitive feelings. Read more ➺


throw in the towel

Meaning: to give up a struggle

Example: After hours of struggling with the complex math problem, Jane decided to throw in the towel. Read more ➺


back the wrong horse

Meaning: make an inappropriate and wrong decision.

Example: My dad is an expert stock trader and has rarely backed the wrong horse. Read more ➺


bring to the table

Meaning: making a valuable contribution to a group, company, or individual.

Example: I wish to bring to the table the issue of the current tax regime and how it affects our businesses. Read more ➺


one on one

Meaning: describing an instance of direct interaction, conflict, or correspondence between two parties.

Example: We had a one-on-one meeting to discuss the details of the project. Read more ➺


ducks and drakes

Meaning: to carelessly misuse one's wealth

Example: He lost his job for playing ducks and drakes with the funds of a corporation. Read more ➺


when the chips are down

Meaning: when a situation is urgent or desperate.

Example: When the chips are down, you know who your real friends are. Read more ➺


hold all the aces

Meaning: be in a winning position.

Example: Agriculture-wise, the Green Revolution holds all the aces. Read more ➺


step up your game

Meaning: to enhance performance, quality, skills, or talents.

Example: Matthew said to Sarah, "Step up your game," to which she replied, "I already have by memorizing every act in Shakespeare's The Tempest this week." Read more ➺


a whole new ball game

Meaning: a significant change in circumstances.

Example: For most young adults, moving out is a whole new ball game. Read more ➺


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