Idioms beginning with S

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sail close to the wind

Meaning: To engage in actions that are risky or verge on being illegal or improper.

Example: The journalist sailed close to the wind by publishing classified information but avoided legal action. Read more ➺


spill the tea

Meaning: To share gossip or reveal personal information, especially of a sensitive nature.

Example: After the meeting, Sarah couldn't wait to spill the tea about the manager's unexpected resignation. Read more ➺


stew in one’s own juice

Meaning: To suffer the consequences of one's actions without assistance.

Example: After realizing his mistake, he had to stew in his own juice without expecting any help. Read more ➺


see red

Meaning: To become very angry.

Example: When he saw the damage to his car, he saw red and started yelling. Read more ➺


Sputnik moment

Meaning: A critical event that serves as a wake-up call, prompting urgent action.

Example: The breakthrough in AI development by another country was a Sputnik moment, urging the government to invest heavily in research. Read more ➺


stepping stones

Meaning: Something that helps achieve a goal or reach a higher position in life or career.

Example: His first job was just a set of stepping stones toward becoming a CEO. Read more ➺


sharp practice

Meaning: A way of behaving in business that is dishonest but not illegal.

Example: The contractor's sharp practice left the homeowners with unexpected costs. Read more ➺


sleeper cell

Meaning: A covert group of operatives, such as terrorists or spies, who remain inactive within a community until they receive orders to carry out missions.

Example: The authorities uncovered a sleeper cell planning to disrupt the upcoming summit. Read more ➺


settle up

Meaning: Conclude financial dealings by ensuring all parties have received their due payments.

Example: After dinner, we all agreed to settle up the bill before leaving the restaurant. Read more ➺


smart cookie

Meaning: a person who is clever, intelligent, or sharp in thinking and problem-solving.

Example: Jane is a smart cookie; she solved the puzzle in minutes. Read more ➺


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