Numbers Idioms

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measure twice, cut once

Meaning: Plan carefully before you act so you avoid mistakes.

Example: Before approving the project budget, the manager reminded everyone to measure twice, cut once so no details were overlooked. Read more ➺


two bit

Meaning: A cheap, low-quality, or worthless person or thing.

Example: The two-bit crooks thought they could fool everyone, but the police caught them within minutes. 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 ➺


two left feet

Meaning: Being clumsy, especially when dancing.

Example: I have two left feet, so I always avoid dancing at weddings. Read more ➺


give or take

Meaning: Approximately; an estimate that allows for slight variation.

Example: The trip will take five hours, give or take. Read more ➺


pull a fast one

Meaning: Carry out a clever trick or deception to fool someone.

Example: The salesman tried to pull a fast one by charging me for an extra feature I didn't want. Read more ➺


third rail

Meaning: Controversial subject in politics or society that is too risky to address.

Example: Talking about gun control can be the third rail of political debate. Read more ➺


first fiddle

Meaning: Lead – to have the main or dominant role in a group or activity.

Example: As captain, she plays first fiddle in every game strategy. Read more ➺


in one fell swoop

Meaning: Describes something happening all at once or in a single, sudden action.

Example: The company laid off half its staff in one fell swoop to cut costs. Read more ➺


put two and two together

Meaning: Infer something by logically connecting clues or facts.

Example: When she didn’t answer his calls all weekend, he put two and two together. Read more ➺


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