Idioms beginning with S

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so long

Meaning: A friendly or casual way to say goodbye, often suggesting separation for some time.

Example: He packed his bag, shook hands with his colleagues, and said so long as he left the office for the last time. Read more ➺


stay the course

Meaning: To continue with a plan or effort without giving up, even when facing difficulty or opposition.

Example: She chose to stay the course during the startup's rough first year, trusting the long-term vision. Read more ➺


straight face

Meaning: A calm, serious expression that shows no emotion, especially when humor or surprise would normally appear.

Example: He told the ridiculous story with a straight face, leaving everyone unsure whether he was serious. Read more ➺


scared stiff

Meaning: So afraid that you cannot move.

Example: She was scared stiff when she heard someone knocking at her window late at night. Read more ➺


straw that broke the camel’s back

Meaning: The final small problem or event that makes a situation unbearable.

Example: After endless delays and mistakes, the missed payment was the straw that broke the camel's back, and the workers went on strike. Read more ➺


split hairs

Meaning: To argue about very small or unimportant differences.

Example: The lawyer told them not to split hairs over a ten-minute delay, since the facts of the case were clear. Read more ➺


shape up or ship out

Meaning: Strong warning: improve your behavior or performance, or leave.

Example: After missing several deadlines, the boss told the employee: shape up or ship out. Read more ➺


set the pace

Meaning: To establish the standard, speed, or level that others follow.

Example: The new company has set the pace for innovation in the tech industry. Read more ➺


step out of line

Meaning: To misbehave or act in a way that breaks rules or norms.

Example: The teacher warned that anyone who step out of line would be sent to the principal’s office. Read more ➺


square off

Meaning: To prepare for a fight, argument, or confrontation.

Example: The two rivals began to square off as the crowd gathered around them. Read more ➺


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