Idioms beginning with P
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Meaning: A quick, unfair criticism aimed at an easy target.
Example: The columnist took a pot shot at the mayor's decision without offering any alternative plan. Read more ➺
Meaning: To strongly affect someone emotionally, especially by causing sympathy, sadness, or compassion.
Example: The film's emotional ending was meant to pull your heartstrings and leave the audience in tears. Read more ➺
Meaning: Money earned regularly with little or no ongoing effort after the initial setup.
Example: She built passive income through online courses that kept selling after launch. Read more ➺
Meaning: To contribute equally so others are not forced to compensate for you.
Example: The team will succeed only if you pull your weight. Read more ➺
Meaning: To secretly use influence, power, or personal connections to get something done for yourself or someone else.
Example: When the job list was full, her uncle pull strings to get her an interview. Read more ➺
Meaning: To put yourself in a situation where you have no good choices left.
Example: After promising to deliver the project early, she painted herself into a corner and had to work all weekend. Read more ➺
Meaning: A neutral facial expression that hides feelings or thoughts.
Example: She heard the verdict but kept a poker face, so no one knew what she really felt. Read more ➺
Meaning: To show off in a flashy or fancy way.
Example: At the wedding, he really put on the dog with his new tuxedo and gold watch. Read more ➺
Meaning: Something or someone that appears dangerous or powerful but is actually weak and ineffective.
Example: The dictator's military seemed formidable, but in battle it was only a paper tiger. Read more ➺
Meaning: To find faults in someone, often unfairly or with petty criticism.
Example: The manager loved to pick holes in someone's coat, pointing out mistakes instead of giving encouragement. Read more ➺
