All Idioms

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a burnt child dreads the fire

Meaning: everyone avoids repeating a hurting experience again in life

Example: After his first accident, Sam is quite careful in driving now because a burnt child dreads a fire. Read more ➺


blowing smoke

Meaning: to intentionally misinform or deceive

Example: I know your motives behind this act; don't try to blow smoke in my eyes. Read more ➺


heart goes out to

Meaning: to feel sympathy for someone when they are distressed

Example: Following the aftermath of the hurricane, my heart goes out to all the residents of New Orleans. Read more ➺


high time

Meaning: to refer to something that is already overdue but must be started immediately

Example: After months of being unemployed, it's high time Paul starts a business of his own rather than keep waiting for paid employment. Read more ➺


treasure trove

Meaning: a priceless or valuable discovery

Example: After his mother's death, David found a treasure trove when he found her collection of music records. Read more ➺


finishing touch

Meaning: something that is added to ensure that something else is made complete

Example: Mike was sure he would ace the auditions as he put finishing touches on his performance. Read more ➺


necessary evil

Meaning: something unpleasant that must be done in order to achieve a goal or objective

Example: Mike saw his going to work for his father as a necessary evil if he was ever to own his own company someday Read more ➺


shades of grey

Meaning: refers to a situation where things are not really clear

Example: Tina's story to the police on how she got mugged was different shades of grey as it was not consistent. Read more ➺


means to an end

Meaning: a necessary action carried out just to achieve a goal

Example: Her working as a public defender was not due to her passion for the job but solely as a means to an end. Read more ➺


line in the sand

Meaning: a boundary beyond which one cannot proceed without consequences

Example: His resolve to either get a paid internship or drop out of school was his line in the sand. Read more ➺


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