Idioms beginning with T

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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 accept a challenge

Example: When it comes to the rights of animals, we are always willing to throw down the gauntlet. Read more ➺


take heart

Meaning: To feel encouraged or hopeful after worry or disappointment.

Example: After hearing the good news, Sarah finally take heart and stopped worrying about the results. Read more ➺


tick off

Meaning: To make someone annoyed or angry.

Example: The repeated delays in the project really tick off the clients and make them lose confidence. Read more ➺


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