Important Idioms

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put the screws on

Meaning: Apply strong pressure on someone to act.

Example: The boss put the screws on the team to meet the deadline. Read more ➺


at first glance

Meaning: A quick or superficial assessment based on first observation.

Example: At first glance, the fabric appeared high-quality, but flaws were revealed later. Read more ➺


keep abreast

Meaning: Stay up-to-date with the latest information or developments.

Example: As a journalist, it's crucial to keep abreast of current events and political developments. Read more ➺


a brick in the wall

Meaning: An insignificant part of a larger whole, often with the connotation of being an easily replaceable component.

Example: In a massive corporation like that, each employee feels like a brick in the wall, easily replaced if they leave. Read more ➺


hung the moon

Meaning: To be perfect and flawless in every way; to be highly esteemed and admired.

Example: The way he talks about his girlfriend, you'd think she hung the moon, but she's really just an average person. Read more ➺


under the counter

Meaning: It refers to anything sold or done illicitly, secretly, or unofficially.

Example: The pharmacist was caught selling painkillers under the counter. Read more ➺


why and wherefore

Meaning: Reason or purpose behind something.

Example: She demanded to know the why and wherefore of his sudden resignation. Read more ➺


iron fist

Meaning: Exercising strict or harsh control over others, especially through force or authority.

Example: The dictator ruled the country with an iron fist, silencing all dissent. Read more ➺


give me a break

Meaning: Used to express disbelief or annoyance at something that seems unreasonable, unfair, or ridiculous.

Example: Give me a break, you expect me to finish all this work by noon? Read more ➺


odds and sods

Meaning: Miscellaneous items that are not part of a complete set.

Example: I packed up the big stuff, but there are still odds and sods left in the kitchen. Read more ➺


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