All Idioms

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not my circus; not my monkeys

Meaning: Expressing that a situation; problem; or responsibility is not one's own to deal with.

Example: The neighbors are having a loud party; but I'm just going to stay inside. It's not my circus; not my monkeys. Read more ➺


I feel you

Meaning: Understand someone's feelings or perspective on a matter; to empathize with their situation.

Example: I've been so stressed with work lately. I feel you; I've been pulling all-nighters too. Read more ➺


over time

Meaning: Gradually during a period; something develops or changes slowly over a duration.

Example: Over time, your skills improve if you practise consistently. Read more ➺


school of thought

Meaning: A particular way of thinking that a group of people share about a subject or issue.

Example: Many economists belong to one school of thought that supports free-market policies. Read more ➺


neither fish nor fowl

Meaning: Something that is difficult to classify and doesn't fit into a clear group.

Example: The new company's business model is neither fish nor fowl, making it hard to classify. Read more ➺


cold fish

Meaning: Someone who seems unfriendly and who does not share their feelings.

Example: She's a real cold fish; she never offers a word of praise or comfort. Read more ➺


stalking horse

Meaning: A decoy or cover used to hide someone's true purpose or plan.

Example: The proposed reform was just a stalking horse for deeper policy changes. Read more ➺


ping someone

Meaning: Send a quick digital message to get someone's attention or request a reply.

Example: I'll ping you when the meeting starts. Read more ➺


don’t judge a book by its cover

Meaning: Outward looks don't reveal true character or quality.

Example: The café looks old, but don't judge a book by its cover; it serves the best coffee in town. Read more ➺


don’t burn your bridges

Meaning: Avoid cutting off every possible way of returning to a situation, leaving no chance to go back.

Example: When leaving your job, don’t burn your bridges; you may want to work there again someday. Read more ➺


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