Idioms beginning with T

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time puts everything in its place

Meaning: time is persistent; as it passes eventually, everything goes back to its original state or place

Example: After my breakup with Judy, I couldn't understand why things had to end so tragically, but I now understand time puts everything in its place in my new relationship. Read more ➺


take it up/down a notch

Meaning: apply more effort to achieve a goal

Example: The team got through to the quarter-finals. Now they need to take it up a notch to get to the semis. Read more ➺


to the nines

Meaning: to perfection

Example: The masked ball was excellent. You should have seen the costumes. Everyone was dressed to the nines. Read more ➺


tide over

Meaning: temporary help (often financial)

Example: When I was at university, my mother always sent me food parcels to tide me over until my next grant cheque came. Read more ➺


turn aside

Meaning: refuse entry to somewhere

Example: His job application was turned aside when they saw his criminal record. Read more ➺


two peas in a pod

Meaning: practically identical in appearance

Example: Those boys could be twins, they are like two peas in a pod. Read more ➺


turn against

Meaning: To become hostile or opposed to someone, often after a period of support or friendship.

Example: The citizens started to turn against the government after a series of broken promises. Read more ➺


topsy-turvy

Meaning: with the top at the bottom

Example: Everything has been topsy-turvy since we moved in. I can't find anything until I unpack properly. Read more ➺


the smell of an oily rag

Meaning: a slim or frugal amount  

Example: When we were students, we didn't have much money and we got by on the smell of an oily rag most days. Read more ➺


throw down the gauntlet

Meaning: To challenge someone openly and boldly.

Example: During the heated meeting, the union leader threw down the gauntlet and demanded immediate reforms. Read more ➺


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