Idioms and Phrases Explained

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to Lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson
Download our mobile app to listen on the go
Get App

Questions and Answers

What does it mean to 'read between the lines'?

  • To take everything someone says literally
  • To understand someone's true feelings or intentions (correct)
  • To ignore the emotional context of a conversation
  • To criticize someone's choice of words

What is implied by 'through thick and thin'?

  • Offering help when it is convenient
  • Staying with someone despite challenges (correct)
  • Avoiding relationships due to difficulties
  • Supporting someone only during good times

What does the phrase 'go back to square one' mean?

  • To skip ahead in planning a project
  • To start a new project without experience
  • To finish a project successfully
  • To return to the initial stage of a project after a failure (correct)

What consequence is implied by 'shoot oneself in the foot'?

<p>Creating problems for oneself through poor decisions (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does 'right off the bat' refer to?

<p>An action taken immediately or at the beginning (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean if something is 'in the bag'?

<p>It is guaranteed to be obtained or achieved (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does 'hot air' refer to in conversation?

<p>Empty promises with no real substance (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean to 'follow in someone's footsteps'?

<p>To emulate or adopt someone's actions or values (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean to 'pick someone's brain'?

<p>To ask someone for their thoughts or knowledge on a topic (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'the devil's in the details' imply?

<p>Complexities may arise in seemingly simple matters (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean to 'take a backseat'?

<p>To retreat from responsibilities (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When someone describes a situation as 'up for grabs,' what does it mean?

<p>Something is available and ready to be claimed (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does 'put something on ice' refer to?

<p>To postpone or delay something (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'bite off more than you can chew' signify?

<p>To exceed your capabilities in taking on tasks (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean to 'throw caution to the wind'?

<p>To disregard risks when making a decision (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'cross to bear' imply?

<p>A challenge or burden one must accept (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic does the adjective 'adaptable' reflect?

<p>Able to adjust to new conditions (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean to be 'adept' at something?

<p>To be highly skilled or proficient (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'adventurous' imply?

<p>Eager to try new or different things (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean to be 'assertive'?

<p>To express thoughts and feelings confidently (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'affectionate' mean?

<p>To display feelings of liking or love (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does being 'ambitious' refer to?

<p>Desiring success and achievement (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does being authentic mean?

<p>Being real and true to oneself (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes someone who is considered approachable?

<p>Friendly and easy to talk to (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean to be broad-minded?

<p>Being willing to understand different opinions (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How would you describe someone who is candid?

<p>Honest and straightforward (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic describes someone who is cheerful?

<p>Happy and positive (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean to be determined?

<p>Having a strong desire to achieve a goal (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a trait of a dynamic individual?

<p>Full of energy and diverse ideas (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean to be compassionate?

<p>Sympathetic and willing to help others (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can being competitive be often perceived?

<p>Enjoying rivalry and striving to win (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which quality best describes being curious?

<p>Interested in learning and exploring (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated by the term 'constructive' criticism?

<p>Advice meant to improve performance (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean for someone to be clever?

<p>Displaying quick intelligence and originality (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best defines a reliable person?

<p>Dependable and trustworthy (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which term best describes someone who is chill?

<p>Relaxed and not easily agitated (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic best describes someone who enjoys being around other people and has high energy in social situations?

<p>Extroverted (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'versatile' refer to in the context of an actor?

<p>An actor who can perform in many different genres (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which term describes someone who forgives easily and does not hold grudges?

<p>Forgiving (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean if someone is described as imaginative?

<p>They think creatively and generate original ideas. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which word describes a work environment filled with energy and excitement?

<p>Vibrant (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic refers to someone who is full of energy and vitality?

<p>Lively (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does 'witty' imply when describing a person?

<p>They are humorous in a clever way (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What trait is indicated by a person who is honest and sincere in their communication?

<p>Frank (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic describes someone as 'youthful'?

<p>Exhibiting energy and enthusiasm typical of young people (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'zealous' indicate about a person's attitude?

<p>Enthusiastic and eager (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A successful negotiation often requires what type of personality trait?

<p>Fearless (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean if someone is characterized as gregarious?

<p>They enjoy being with other people. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by the term 'futility'?

<p>The quality of being ineffective or pointless (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which term would best describe an individual who is very willing and eager to learn?

<p>Keen (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does 'carnage' refer to in this context?

<p>Destruction or slaughter (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does 'ameliorate' mean?

<p>To improve a condition (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the meaning of being intuitive in decision-making?

<p>Understanding based on emotions rather than facts. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which term refers to someone who is skilled at using tools and repairing things?

<p>Handy (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'built upon sand' suggest about a political campaign?

<p>It lacks a solid base or preparation (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What quality does a person have when they act with a low estimate of their own worth?

<p>Humble (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which term means to express disapproval of someone's actions or motives?

<p>Deprecate (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which term best describes someone who produces good results throughout their career?

<p>Fruitful (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean if a person's actions are described as laudable?

<p>They are worthy of praise. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A person who is described as jubilant is feeling what?

<p>Great happiness (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean to describe someone as meticulous?

<p>They show great care and precision in their work. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How would you characterize a person who is considered nimble?

<p>They can move quickly and are agile in their thinking. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does being proactive involve?

<p>Taking initiative to create change rather than just reacting. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term persistent imply about a person's character?

<p>They continue working toward goals despite difficulties. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean if someone is described as tech-savvy?

<p>They are skilled and knowledgeable about technology. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic does a person have if they are described as supportive?

<p>They provide encouragement and approval to others. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How is someone described as straightforward likely to communicate?

<p>They present their thoughts honestly and openly. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean if a person is deemed tenacious?

<p>They are unwilling to accept defeat. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does a reverent crowd typically display?

<p>Respect and admiration. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What quality is associated with someone who is known to be pensive?

<p>They are often absorbed in serious thought. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How is someone described as open-minded likely to respond to new ideas?

<p>They readily accept ideas differing from their own. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is implied by describing a performance as riveting?

<p>It captured attention and was extremely interesting. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean to be renowned?

<p>To be famous for a specific skill or achievement. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What quality does a self-reliant person exhibit?

<p>They trust in their own skills and abilities. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Read between the lines

To understand someone's true feelings or intentions based on their words or actions, even if they aren't explicitly stated.

Through thick and thin

To support someone through difficult times, even when there are challenges.

Go back to square one

To start a project or plan again from the very beginning due to failure.

From scratch

To start something completely from scratch, without any existing resources or help.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Shoot oneself in the foot

To do something that could harm or negatively affect yourself.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Right off the bat

To start immediately, without any delay or preparation.

Signup and view all the flashcards

In the bag

To be certain or guaranteed to achieve or obtain something.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Hot air

Something that sounds impressive but lacks substance or practical value.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Authentic

Being open and honest about your feelings and opinions without worrying about judgment.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Approachable

Easy to approach and talk to.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Balanced

Considering all sides of an issue fairly.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Bright

Being bright, intelligent, or quick to learn.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Broad-minded

Accepting different opinions, behaviors, and lifestyles.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Candid

Being honest and truthful, even if it's difficult.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Cheerful

Happy and positive.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Chill

Relaxed, calm, and unworried.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Clever

Smart, intelligent, and quick-witted.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Communicative

Willing to talk with others and share information.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Compassionate

Showing empathy and concern for others, especially in difficult times.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Competitive

Enjoying competition and striving to win.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Charismatic

Having a charming and persuasive personality that influences others.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Considerate

Showing respect and consideration for others.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Constructive

Helpful and constructive advice that aims to improve performance.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Emotional

To express strong feelings and emotions.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Energetic

Having a lot of energy.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Enthusiastic

Having a strong interest in a subject and being eager to be involved.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Extroverted

Someone who enjoys being with other people and is energetic around them.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Flexible

To be able to change or be changed based on the situation.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Forgiving

Someone who forgives easily.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Fruitful

Something that produces good results.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Frank

Someone who is honest and sincere.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Fun-loving

Someone who enjoys having fun and not being too serious.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Gregarious

Someone who likes being with other people.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Genuine

Someone who is real and exactly what they appear to be.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Honorable

Someone who is honest and fair.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Humble

Someone who is modest and doesn't show off their accomplishments.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Handy

Someone who is skilled with using their hands, especially with tools.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Imaginative

Someone who can easily think of new, creative, original ideas.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Follow in someone's footsteps

To follow in someone's footsteps means to take on the same career or path as someone else, especially a family member or mentor.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Call a spade a spade

To call a spade a spade means to be direct and honest, even if it's unpleasant or impolite.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Be in the same boat

To be in the same boat means to be in the same difficult situation as someone else.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Pick someone's brain

To pick someone's brain means to ask someone who is knowledgeable about a subject for information, advice, or their opinion.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Bounce an idea off someone

To bounce an idea off someone means to share an idea with someone to get their feedback or suggestions.

Signup and view all the flashcards

The devil's in the details

The devil's in the details means that a seemingly simple situation may have complex details that could cause problems.

Signup and view all the flashcards

The pot calling the kettle black

The pot calling the kettle black means that someone shouldn't criticize someone else for a fault that they also have.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Take a backseat

To take a backseat means to choose to have less responsibility or involvement in a situation.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Something is up for grabs

Something is up for grabs means it's available and ready to be taken or won.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Put something on ice

To put something on ice means to delay something or to reserve it for future use.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Bite off more than you can chew

To bite off more than you can chew means to take on more responsibility, work, or tasks than you can handle.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Throw caution to the wind

To throw caution to the wind means to do something without worrying about the risks or consequences.

Signup and view all the flashcards

A cross to bear

A cross to bear is a difficult or unpleasant situation that you must accept and deal with.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Keep an eye on

To keep an eye on something or someone means to watch or take care of something or someone.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Mature

Acting in a way that makes you seem older than you are due to emotional maturity.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Meticulous

Paying close attention to details and being very careful.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Marvelous

Extremely good or impressive.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Open minded

Willing to consider ideas or opinions different from your own.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Optimistic

Hopeful and believing in good outcomes.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Out of this world

Something that is extraordinary and exceptional.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Outgoing

Friendly, energetic, and enjoys being with other people.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Pensive

Thinking deeply and quietly, often in a serious way.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Proactive

Taking action to change something proactively, rather than simply reacting to it.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Perceptive

Good at noticing details and information that others might miss.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Persistent

Continuing to work towards a goal despite difficulties or challenges.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Punctual

Arriving or doing something at the scheduled time, not being late.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Qualified

Having the necessary skills, knowledge, or ability to do something specific.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Riveting

Extremely interesting and engaging.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Versatile

Able to change easily from one activity to another or use one thing in many different ways.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Vibrant

Energetic, exciting, and full of enthusiasm.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Witty

Funny in an intelligent way.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Youthful

Having qualities that are typical of young people.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Zealous

Enthusiastic and eager.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Nullify

To cancel or make something null and void.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Deluge

A flood or an overwhelming amount of something.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Futility

The feeling of something being useless or pointless.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Carnage

Slaughter or a massive destruction.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Built upon sand

To have a poor base or not sufficient preparation.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Study Notes

Idioms and Phrases with Explanations and Examples

  • Read between the lines: Understanding someone's true feelings or intentions based on what they say or write. Example: She said she's happy, but reading between the lines reveals she's upset.

  • Through thick and thin: Supporting someone or staying with them through problems or difficulties. Example: A true friend will be there through thick and thin.

  • Go back to square one: Starting a plan over from the beginning because a previous attempt failed. Example: The board didn't approve our plan, so we have to go back to square one.

  • From scratch: Starting something completely new, with nothing to begin with. Example: My family started this business from scratch.

  • Shoot oneself in the foot: Saying or doing something that could cause problems. Example: I shot myself in the foot when I agreed to stay late tonight.

  • Right off the bat: Immediately at the very beginning. Example: You can't expect to feel confident speaking right off the bat.

  • In the bag: Certain to be achieved or obtained. Example: Jane has the promotion in the bag.

  • Hot air: Something insincere that won't have practical results. Example: The advertisement claimed I would lose 20 lbs in 20 days, but it was hot air.

  • Follow in someone's footsteps: Doing the same thing as someone else previously did; often a family member, friend, or mentor. Example: She followed in her father's footsteps and became an engineer.

  • Call a spade a spade: Telling the truth about something, even if it's unpleasant. Example: Let's call a spade a spade. This company discriminates against women.

  • In the same boat: Being in the same difficult situation as someone else. Example: We both lost money in the stock market. We're in the same boat.

  • Pick someone's brain: Asking someone for their opinion or to share their knowledge about a subject. Example: I'd love to buy you coffee and pick your brain sometime

  • Bounce an idea off someone: Sharing an idea to get feedback. Example: Can I bounce a few ideas off you before the meeting today?

  • The devil's in the details: Something seems simple but the details are complicated and could cause problems. Example: The contract is only one page, but the devil's in the details.

  • The pot calling the kettle black: Criticizing someone for a fault that you also have. Example: Jack is always late and gets mad at me for being late, but he's always late.

  • Take a backseat: Choosing not to have responsibility in an activity. Example: My team is organizing a conference, but I'm taking a backseat.

  • Up for grabs: Available and ready to be won or taken. Example: Is Sue's office up for grabs?

  • Put something on ice: Delaying something or reserving it for future use. Example: Let's put the conference on ice until the summer.

  • Bite off more than you can chew: Trying to do something too difficult. Example: We took on three projects this month. I think we bit off more than we can chew.

  • Throw caution to the wind: Doing something without worrying about the risks. Example: I threw caution to the wind and quit my job.

  • One's cross to bear: An unpleasant or painful situation that one has to deal with. Example: Losing our company's biggest client was my cross to bear.

  • Keep an eye on something/someone: Watching or taking care of something/someone. Example: Will you keep an eye on the project while I'm at the conference?

List of Adjectives (A-Z)

  • Adaptable: Willing and able to change to suit different conditions.
  • Adept: Skilled at something.
  • Adventurous: Willing to try new or different things.
  • Affectionate: Showing feelings of liking or love.
  • Ambitious: Having a strong desire for success.
  • Artistic: Able to create or enjoy art.
  • Assertive: Confident in expressing one's opinions.
  • Attentive: Helpful and caring towards others.
  • Authentic: Real and true; not pretending.
  • Approachable: Friendly and easy to talk to.
  • Balanced: Considering all sides or opinions equally.
  • Bright: Smart, intelligent, learns quickly.
  • Broad-minded: Willing to accept different behaviors, opinions, and lifestyles.
  • Candid: Honest and truthful.
  • Cheerful: Happy and positive.
  • Chill: Relaxed, not worried or anxious.
  • Clever: Smart, intelligent, learns quickly.
  • Communicative: Willing to talk to others and share information.
  • Compassionate: Sympathetic to others, wanting to help those in need.
  • Competitive: Wants to win and enjoys competition.
  • Charismatic: Well-liked, well-admired, able to easily influence others.
  • Considerate: Caring about and respecting others.
  • Constructive: Helpful and meant to improve performance.
  • Coy: Intentionally not revealing complete information.
  • Courageous: Able to control fear in challenging situations.
  • Creative: Producing or using unique or original ideas.
  • Curious: Interested in learning about the world around them.
  • Dependable: Deserving of trust and confidence.
  • Determined: Wants something badly and is unwilling to give up.
  • Direct: Communicates honestly and straightforwardly.
  • Dynamic: Has many ideas, energetic and forceful.
  • Easygoing: Relaxed and doesn't get easily upset.
  • Eclectic: Consisting of many different types or styles.
  • Emotional: Expressing strong feelings.
  • Energetic: Full of energy.
  • Enthusiastic: Interested in and eager for something.
  • Extroverted: Enjoys being with other people.
  • Exuberant: Energetic and happy to be alive.
  • Fearless: Free from fear.
  • Flexible: Able to change or be changed based on the situation.
  • Forgiving: Forgives easily.
  • Fruitful: Producing good results.
  • Frank: Honest and sincere.
  • Fun-loving: Enjoys having fun.
  • Gregarious: Likes being with other people.
  • Genuine: Real and exactly as they appear.
  • Honorable: Honest and fair.
  • Humble: Modest and shows low self-worth.
  • Handy: Skilled with hands; good at fixing things.
  • Imaginative: Able to think of new ideas.
  • Inquisitive: Wants to know about many things.
  • Impeccable: Perfect, flawless.
  • Intuitive: Understanding things through feelings rather than facts.
  • Ingenious: Very intelligent or skillful.
  • Inviting: Makes you feel welcome.
  • Jubilant: Feeling and expressing great happiness.
  • Keen: Willing and eager.
  • Kind-hearted: Enjoys helping others.
  • Lively: Full of energy and enthusiasm.
  • Logical: Reasonable based on good judgment.
  • Loyal: Providing support in any situation.
  • Laudable: Deserving of praise.
  • Mature: Acts in a well-developed emotional way.
  • Meticulous: Very careful with close attention to detail.
  • Marvelous: Very good.
  • Nimble: Quick and exact in movements or thoughts.
  • Open-minded: Willing to consider different ideas.
  • Optimistic: Hopeful.
  • Out of this world: Extraordinary, superb.
  • Outgoing: Friendly and energetic; enjoys being with others.
  • Pensive: Thinking seriously; quiet.
  • Proactive: Takes action to change things.
  • Perceptive: Good at noticing details.
  • Persistent: Continues doing something determinedly.
  • Punctual: Arrives or does things at the scheduled time; not late.
  • Qualified: Has the skill, knowledge, or ability to do something.
  • Riveting: Extremely interesting.
  • Renowned: Famous for something specific.
  • Ravishing: Extremely beautiful.
  • Reverent: Showing great respect or admiration.
  • Self-reliant: Relies on one's own skills and abilities.
  • Sensible: Having and using good judgment.
  • Savvy: Having practical knowledge and skills.
  • Supportive: Giving encouragement and approval.
  • Sincere: Honest.
  • Straightforward: Honest; not hiding opinions.
  • Sage: Wise (often used for older people).
  • Steadfast: Staying the same for a long time; not changing.
  • Tenacious: Unwilling to accept defeat; persistent.
  • Thrilling: Very exciting.
  • Tender: Gentle, loving, or kind.
  • Tactful: Careful not to upset others.
  • Upbeat: Positive with future hope.
  • Unrelenting: Extremely determined and never weakening.
  • Versatile: Able to change easily from one activity to another; can be used in many ways.
  • Vibrant: Energetic, exciting, and full of enthusiasm.
  • Witty: Funny in an intelligent way.
  • Youthful: Having qualities typical of young people.
  • Zealous: Enthusiastic and eager.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Quiz Team

More Like This

Use Quizgecko on...
Browser
Browser