Important Idioms

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throw shade

Meaning: subtly express contempt or disdain for someone, often through indirect comments or gestures.

Example: During the meeting, she threw shade at his proposal by smirking whenever he spoke. Read more ➺


risk it for the biscuit

Meaning: To take a risk in hopes of obtaining a reward.

Example: He decided to risk it for the biscuit by investing in the startup. Read more ➺


move the needle

Meaning: To cause a noticeable or measurable change in a situation or condition.

Example: The new marketing strategy helped move the needle on our quarterly sales figures. Read more ➺


like riding a bike

Meaning: Describes a skill that, once learned, is never forgotten, even after a long period without practice.

Example: After years away from the piano, she found playing again was like riding a bike. Read more ➺


make a difference

Meaning: To have an impact or effect on a situation, typically leading to improvement.

Example: Her donation to the charity will make a difference in the lives of many children. Read more ➺


rock bottom

Meaning: The lowest possible point of a situation or condition, often referring to despair or hardship.

Example: After losing his job and house, John realized he had hit rock bottom. Read more ➺


the good, the bad and the ugly

Meaning: Idiomatic Expression: The phrase has evolved into an idiom describing a comprehensive overview of a situation, encompassing its positive, negative, and unattractive aspects.

Example: In his presentation, he covered the good, the bad and the ugly of the new policy. Read more ➺


turn of phrase

Meaning: A distinct or unique way of expressing something – This refers to a particular style or manner of wording a thought, often reflecting a person’s linguistic creativity or eloquence.

Example: The author's turn of phrase made even simple topics sound poetic. Read more ➺


Parthian shot

Meaning: A sharp, telling remark or gesture made in departing.

Example: As he exited the meeting, he delivered a Parthian shot about the project's unrealistic timeline. Read more ➺


beside the mark

Meaning: Refers to something that is inaccurate or incorrect in relation to a particular topic or objective.

Example: His criticism of her outfit was completely beside the mark in a discussion about her professional skills. Read more ➺


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