All Idioms

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barking dogs seldom bite

Meaning: to threaten someone, but not take action or follow through with threats

Example: "I haven't finished my maths homework. You know what Mr Peterson is like, he'll shout so loud they will hear him in the next town.""Yes, but barking dogs seldom bite. It's just his way." Read more ➺


nail in the coffin

Meaning: an action/event that will help bring about the death, end, or failure of something or someone

Example: She was late for the fourth day in a row. It will be another nail in her coffin when the boss hears about it. Read more ➺


break the ice

Meaning: to do or say something that makes people feel more comfortable, especially at the start of a meeting or party

Example: Jone suggested playing a party game to break the ice. Read more ➺


more than meets the eye

Meaning: not as simple as it looks

Example: I had done some research, but there's more to the subject than meets the eye. Read more ➺


in the red

Meaning: more money going out than coming in

Example: If your bank account goes in the red, the bank will charge you for every transaction. Read more ➺


white elephant

Meaning: an expensive item with no use or purpose

Example: Everyone thought the Olympic stadiums would be a white elephant after the closing ceremony. Read more ➺


in hand

Meaning: under control

Example: Don't worry about a thing; I've got it all in hand. I did it all online. Read more ➺


straight shooter

Meaning: someone who speaks the truth

Example: I really like Ken. He's a straight shooter, that's for sure. Read more ➺


crack the whip

Meaning: make someone work harder by asserting power or authority

Example: We'd better get some work done, or he'll crack the whip when he gets back from his tea break. Read more ➺


heads will roll

Meaning: people will be fired or forced to resign

Example: Heads are going to roll when the boss finds out about the missing stock. Read more ➺


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