English Idioms: A Universe of Wonder: English Idioms: The Finest Figurative Language
An idiomatic phrase that denotes someone is unusually silent or speechless, frequently when they are expected to talk or respond to a question, is "Cat got your tongue?" Usually, it's used in a humorous or jesting manner.
Example: After repeated attempts to gain an answer from Tom, his friend finally said, "What's the matter, cat got your tongue?"
Bite the bullet: to endure a painful or difficult situation with courage and determination Example: After losing his job, John had to bite the bullet and sell his car to make ends meet.
Break a leg: a way to wish someone good luck, especially before a performance or presentation Example: "Break a leg!" said Sally to her friend before she went on stage to perform in the school play.
Chew the fat: to chat or gossip with someone in a relaxed, leisurely way Example: Mary and Susan decided to meet up for coffee and chew the fat about their recent vacations.
Cut the mustard: to perform well or meet expectations Example: Jack was unsure if he could handle the new job, but he ended up cutting the mustard and impressing his boss.
Hit the nail on the head: to correctly identify or describe the main point or issue Example: The detective hit the nail on the head when he realized that the motive for the crime was jealousy.
Let the cat out of the bag: to reveal a secret or confidential information Example: Sam accidentally let the cat out of the bag when he told his sister about her surprise birthday party.
Pull someone's leg: to tease or joke with someone in a playful way Example: "I can't believe you won the lottery!" said Tom, pulling his friend's leg.
See eye to eye: to agree or have the same opinion as someone else Example: Sarah and her sister finally saw eye to eye about where to go for their family vacation.
Steal someone's thunder: to take credit for someone else's work or achievement Example: Robert was upset when his coworker stole his thunder and presented his idea as her own.
Take a rain check: to decline an invitation or offer, but suggest doing it at a later time Example: "I can't make it to dinner tonight, but can I take a rain check and we'll plan another time?" said Alex to his friend.
