Important Idioms

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zero in

Meaning: To focus all attention on one specific thing.

Example: We need to zero in on the main issue first before discussing smaller problems. Read more ➺


now the monkey jumps into the water

Meaning: Now comes the most important or decisive moment.

Example: After months of preparation, the team launched the software, and now the monkey jumps into the water—everyone waited to see if it would work. Read more ➺


nitty-gritty

Meaning: The most important basic details of something.

Example: After a quick overview, the teacher explained the nitty-gritty of the topic so students could understand the key details. Read more ➺


drop the bomb

Meaning: To suddenly reveal shocking or very important news.

Example: During the staff meeting, the manager drop the bomb by announcing that the company would relocate to another state. Read more ➺


glove box

Meaning: A small storage compartment built into a car’s dashboard for keeping documents and small items.

Example: During the traffic stop, Michael opened the glove box to show the officer his vehicle registration. Read more ➺


hustle and bustle

Meaning: Busy and noisy activity in a place full of people.

Example: After moving to Chicago, Daniel needed time to adjust to the hustle and bustle of city life. Read more ➺


mover and shaker

Meaning: A powerful or influential person who can make important things happen.

Example: She is a mover and shaker in the tech industry, shaping major trends and investments. Read more ➺


lay waste

Meaning: To completely destroy or ruin something—especially plans, systems, careers, or reputations.

Example: The corruption scandal lay waste to his long and carefully built political career. Read more ➺


leading question

Meaning: A question that suggests or pushes the respondent toward a specific answer.

Example: The lawyer asked a leading question that practically told the witness what to say. Read more ➺


drop the ball

Meaning: To make a mistake or fail to do something you were responsible for.

Example: The manager dropped the ball when he forgot to send the report on time. Read more ➺


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