All Idioms

Page 32 of 242

hold water

Meaning: To be valid, logical, or convincing; an argument or idea that stands up to scrutiny.

Example: The lawyer argued that the accusation simply did hold water, convincing the jury of its validity. Read more ➺


rein in

Meaning: To control, limit, or direct something from going too far.

Example: The government needs to rein in the rising cost of living. Read more ➺


take five

Meaning: To take a short rest or quick break, usually about five minutes.

Example: The coach told the players to take five after an intense practice session. Read more ➺


lose nerve

Meaning: To become too scared or afraid to do something difficult or risky.

Example: You lost your nerve at the last minute and didn’t go through with the presentation. Read more ➺


back down

Meaning: To withdraw from a position, claim, or argument; to yield or surrender.

Example: Sarah backed down when she saw her facts were wrong. Read more ➺


show white feather

Meaning: To show cowardice or be easily frightened in a difficult situation.

Example: The politician showed white feather by avoiding tough questions during the debate. Read more ➺


cut the cheese

Meaning: To fart or pass gas in a humorous or informal way.

Example: During the office meeting, John cut the cheese by accident, and everyone pretended not to notice the smell. Read more ➺


mince matters

Meaning: To speak delicately or cautiously, often softening the truth.

Example: The diplomat chose to mince matters rather than criticize the policy outright. Read more ➺


kick up a row

Meaning: To make a loud disturbance or cause a commotion.

Example: The customers kick up a row when the restaurant serves cold food, shouting and demanding to see the manager. Read more ➺


swing by

Meaning: To make a short visit to a place, usually on the way to somewhere else.

Example: I asked him to swing by the supermarket on his way home to grab some snacks. Read more ➺


Share
Share