All Idioms

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hold the key

Meaning: To have the essential power or control necessary to achieve a particular outcome or success.

Example: Her groundbreaking research could hold the key to curing the disease. Read more ➺


scapegoat

Meaning: A person unfairly blamed for mistakes or problems caused by others.

Example: After the project failed, the manager made Tom the scapegoat to save his own reputation. Read more ➺


ready to roll

Meaning: Indicates being fully prepared to begin an activity or journey without delay.

Example: After checking our gear and packing up the truck, we were ready to roll by sunrise. Read more ➺


make like a tree and leave

Meaning: "Make like a banana and split."​

Example: He was getting on everyone's nerves, so I told him to make like a tree and leave. Read more ➺


nice guys finish last

Meaning: Kind and considerate people often lose out in competitive situations to those who are more aggressive.

Example: He treated her with respect, but nice guys finish last when charm wins over honesty. Read more ➺


look before you leap

Meaning: Always think carefully before taking action, especially when the consequences are uncertain or risky.

Example: It's wise to look before you leap, especially when making big life decisions like marriage. Read more ➺


turn away

Meaning: To deny access, help, or participation to someone.

Example: The security guard turned away the visitors who arrived after closing time. Read more ➺


fly too close to the sun

Meaning: Indicates becoming excessively ambitious or greedy, leading to one's downfall.

Example: Despite repeated warnings, Alex flew too close to the sun by investing all his savings in risky stocks. Read more ➺


hue and cry

Meaning: A public clamor or outburst of protest against an issue or action.

Example: The government's new policy sparked a hue and cry from the public, demanding its immediate withdrawal. Read more ➺


shooting fish in a barrel

Meaning: Describes a task that is exceedingly simple to accomplish, often implying an unfair advantage due to the lack of challenge.

Example: Winning the debate against an unprepared opponent was like shooting fish in a barrel. Read more ➺


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