English idioms, proverbs, and expressions are an important part of everyday English. They come up all the time in both written and spoken English. Because idioms don’t always make sense literally, you’ll need to familiarize yourself with the meaning and usage of each idiom. That may seem like a lot of work, but learning idioms is fun, especially when you compare English idioms to the idioms in your own language.
Idioms beginning with A with Meaning and Example
Here’s a list of “Idioms beginning with A” in English:
A blessing in disguise
Meaning: Something that seems bad or unlucky at first but results in something good later.
Example: “Losing that job was a blessing in disguise because it pushed me to start my own business.”
A dime a dozen
Meaning: Very common, with little value due to its abundance.
Example: “Those souvenirs are a dime a dozen at every tourist shop.”
A piece of cake
Meaning: Something very easy to do.
Example: “The exam was a piece of cake; I finished it in half an hour.”
A taste of your own medicine
Meaning: Experiencing the same negative treatment that one has given to others.
Example: “He finally got a taste of his own medicine when his friends ignored him.”
A penny for your thoughts
Meaning: A way to ask someone what they are thinking about.
Example: “You’ve been quiet all day. A penny for your thoughts?”
Add fuel to the fire
Meaning: To make a bad situation worse.
Example: “Bringing up her past mistakes just added fuel to the fire.”
Against the clock
Meaning: Rushed and with a deadline.
Example: “We worked against the clock to finish the project before the meeting.”
All ears
Meaning: Listening eagerly or attentively.
Example: “When she mentioned the surprise, we were all ears.”
All in the same boat
Meaning: In the same situation, facing the same challenges.
Example: “During the power outage, we were all in the same boat without electricity.”
An arm and a leg
Meaning: Very expensive or costly.
Example: “That designer bag costs an arm and a leg; I can’t afford it.”
An axe to grind
Meaning: Having a personal motive or reason for doing something.
Example: “He criticized the new policy because he has an axe to grind with the management.”
Apple of my eye
Meaning: Someone or something cherished above all others.
Example: “My granddaughter is the apple of my eye; I adore her.”
At the drop of a hat
Meaning: Immediately or without any hesitation.
Example: “She would travel around the world at the drop of a hat if she could.”
Around the clock
Meaning: Continuously, without stopping.
Example: “The emergency services work around the clock to help people in need.”
As easy as pie
Meaning: Very easy to do.
Example: “After the training, using the new software was as easy as pie.”
At the eleventh hour
Meaning: At the last possible moment.
Example: “They made changes to the presentation at the eleventh hour.”
At your wit’s end
Meaning: Extremely frustrated and not knowing what to do next.
Example: “After hours of trying to fix the computer, I was at my wit’s end.”
Ace in the hole
Meaning: A hidden advantage or resource kept in reserve until needed.
Example: “She kept her best employee as an ace in the hole for the crucial project.”
Achilles’ heel
Meaning: A person’s vulnerable point or weakness.
Example: “His Achilles’ heel is his temper; it often gets him into trouble.”
All bark and no bite
Meaning: Someone who talks tough but doesn’t act accordingly.
Example: “The dog sounds fierce, but it’s all bark and no bite.”
All hell broke loose
Meaning: Chaos or trouble erupted suddenly.
Example: “When the storm hit, all hell broke loose in the neighborhood.”
All thumbs
Meaning: Lacking skill or being clumsy, especially with one’s hands.
Example: “I’m all thumbs when it comes to knitting; I always drop stitches.”
An apple a day keeps the doctor away
Meaning: Eating healthy foods prevents illness.
Example: “She believes in the saying ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away’ and eats one every morning.”
Ants in your pants
Meaning: Unable to sit still or feeling restless.
Example: “He had ants in his pants waiting for the concert to start.”
Apple doesn’t fall far from the tree
Meaning: Children often resemble their parents in behavior or character.
Example: “He’s stubborn like his father; the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.”
As blind as a bat
Meaning: Unable to see well.
Example: “Without my glasses, I’m as blind as a bat.”
As busy as a bee
Meaning: Very busy or industrious.
Example: “She’s as busy as a bee preparing for the conference.”
As clear as mud
Meaning: Something unclear or confusing.
Example: “Her instructions were as clear as mud; I had no idea what she meant.”
As cool as a cucumber
Meaning: Very calm and composed, especially under pressure.
Example: “During the crisis, he remained as cool as a cucumber and solved the problem.”
As good as gold
Meaning: Very well-behaved or obedient.
Example: “The children were as good as gold during the school trip.”
As light as a feather
Meaning: Very light in weight.
Example: “The package was as light as a feather when I picked it up.”
As old as the hills
Meaning: Very old or ancient.
Example: “That story is as old as the hills; everyone knows it.”
As plain as day
Meaning: Very clear or obvious.
Example: “Her intentions were as plain as day; she wanted to impress the boss.”
As snug as a bug in a rug
Meaning: Very comfortable and cozy.
Example: “With the fire on, I felt as snug as a bug in a rug.”
As strong as an ox
Meaning: Very physically strong.
Example: “After years of working on the farm, he was as strong as an ox.”
As the crow flies
Meaning: In a straight line, without any detours.
Example: “The nearest town is ten miles away as the crow flies.”
At cross purposes
Meaning: Misunderstanding or working towards different goals.
Example: “They were arguing at cross purposes because they were discussing different issues.”
At death’s door
Meaning: Very close to death or extremely ill.
Example: “After the accident, he was at death’s door, but he managed to survive.”
At loggerheads
Meaning: In strong disagreement or conflict.
Example: “The two departments were at loggerheads over the budget allocation.”
At loose ends
Meaning: Unsure of what to do next or idle.
Example: “With no plans for the weekend, she felt at loose ends.”
At sixes and sevens
Meaning: In a state of confusion or disorder.
Example: “After the move, the furniture was all at sixes and sevens.”
At the end of your rope
Meaning: Having exhausted all options or resources.
Example: “After hours of searching, she was at the end of her rope.”
At the top of your lungs
Meaning: Shouting loudly.
Example: “He called for help at the top of his lungs.”
Augur well
Meaning: To indicate a positive or favorable outcome in the future.
Example: “The increase in sales augurs well for the company’s profitability.”
Average Joe
Meaning: A typical or ordinary person.
Example: “He’s just an average Joe, but he works hard.”
Avoid like the plague
Meaning: To stay away from someone or something completely.
Example: “I avoid discussing politics with him like the plague; it always ends in an argument.”
A-OK
Meaning: In perfect or excellent condition.
Example: “The project is proceeding A-OK; there are no issues.”
A tough nut to crack
Meaning: Something difficult to understand or accomplish.
Example: “That math problem is a tough nut to crack; it’s been challenging everyone.”
A bitter pill to swallow
Meaning: Something difficult to accept or endure.
Example: “Losing the championship was a bitter pill to swallow for the team.”
A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush
Meaning: It’s better to have something that is certain than take a risk to get more.
Example: “I decided to keep my current job instead of going for a new one; a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.”
A clean bill of health
Meaning: To be declared healthy after a medical check-up.
Example: “After the tests, the doctor gave him a clean bill of health.”
A far cry from
Meaning: Very different from something.
Example: “His current job is a far cry from his dream of being an astronaut.”
A feather in one’s cap
Meaning: An achievement to be proud of.
Example: “Winning the championship was a feather in his cap.”
A flash in the pan
Meaning: Something that is impressive or successful for a brief time only.
Example: “His sudden fame turned out to be a flash in the pan; he was forgotten quickly.”
A fool and his money are soon parted
Meaning: Foolish people spend money carelessly and lose it quickly.
Example: “He bought another expensive gadget he didn’t need; a fool and his money are soon parted.”
A drop in the bucket
Meaning: A small and insignificant amount in comparison to what is needed.
Example: “The donations we received were just a drop in the bucket compared to the total cost.”
A house of cards
Meaning: A fragile situation that is likely to collapse.
Example: “Their relationship was like a house of cards, built on lies.”
A leopard can’t change its spots
Meaning: People cannot change their innate nature.
Example: “I know he promised to be more punctual, but a leopard can’t change its spots.”
A little bird told me
Meaning: To hear something from a secret or unknown source.
Example: “How did you know about the surprise party? A little bird told me.”
A little knowledge is a dangerous thing
Meaning: Knowing a little about something can make one overconfident and prone to mistakes.
Example: “He tried to fix the car himself based on a YouTube video, but a little knowledge is a dangerous thing.”
A lost cause
Meaning: Something hopeless or impossible to achieve.
Example: “Trying to convince him to change his mind was a lost cause.”
A man of his word
Meaning: Someone who keeps their promises or commitments.
Example: “He said he would be here by noon, and he’s always a man of his word.”
A penny saved is a penny earned
Meaning: Saving money is just as important as earning it.
Example: “I always save a portion of my salary; a penny saved is a penny earned.”
A picture is worth a thousand words
Meaning: A visual image can convey a complex idea more effectively than words.
Example: “The photograph of the disaster was heartbreaking; a picture is worth a thousand words.”
A rolling stone gathers no moss
Meaning: Those who keep moving or changing jobs don’t accumulate wealth or responsibilities.
Example: “He’s never stayed in one job long enough to get a promotion; a rolling stone gathers no moss.”
A shot in the dark
Meaning: An attempt to guess or try something without knowing all the facts.
Example: “His suggestion was just a shot in the dark, but surprisingly, it worked.”
A sight for sore eyes
Meaning: Something or someone that is a welcome and comforting sight.
Example: “After a long day, seeing her smile was a sight for sore eyes.”
A slap on the wrist
Meaning: A mild punishment or warning.
Example: “He got off with a slap on the wrist for arriving late.”
A smart cookie
Meaning: Someone who is clever or intelligent.
Example: “She figured out the solution quickly; she’s a smart cookie.”
A stitch in time saves nine
Meaning: Fixing a small problem early prevents it from becoming a bigger problem later.
Example: “Replacing the old pipes now will save money in the long run; a stitch in time saves nine.”
A taste of one’s own medicine
Meaning: Experiencing something negative that one has previously inflicted on others.
Example: “After teasing his sister, he got a taste of his own medicine when she teased him back.”
A toss-up
Meaning: A situation where the outcome is uncertain or equally likely.
Example: “The game is a toss-up; either team could win.”
A wolf in sheep’s clothing
Meaning: Someone who appears harmless but is actually dangerous.
Example: “She seemed friendly, but she turned out to be a wolf in sheep’s clothing.”
A written law
Meaning: Something that is universally true or accepted.
Example: “It’s a written law that breakfast is the most important meal of the day.”
Absence makes the heart grow fonder
Meaning: Being apart from someone makes you appreciate them more.
Example: “She realized how much she missed her family; absence makes the heart grow fonder.”
Actions speak louder than words
Meaning: What someone does is more important than what they say they will do.
Example: “Instead of promising to help, show me; actions speak louder than words.”
Add insult to injury
Meaning: To make a bad situation worse by saying or doing something else unpleasant.
Example: “After losing the game, he added insult to injury by mocking his opponent.”
After one’s own heart
Meaning: Having the same likes or values as oneself.
Example: “She loves gardening and reading; she’s a woman after my own heart.”
Against the grain
Meaning: Contrary to what is usual, expected, or preferred.
Example: “His decision to quit his job went against the grain of his family’s expectations.”
Agree to disagree
Meaning: To accept that people have different opinions and stop arguing about it.
Example: “They didn’t see eye to eye on the issue, so they agreed to disagree.”
Air your dirty laundry
Meaning: To discuss private or embarrassing matters in public.
Example: “I wish they wouldn’t air their dirty laundry in front of everyone.”
Albatross around your neck
Meaning: A burdensome or troublesome responsibility that one cannot easily get rid of.
Example: “The old car became an albatross around his neck; it constantly needed repairs.”
All bets are off
Meaning: All previous agreements or expectations are no longer valid.
Example: “With the sudden change in weather, all bets are off for the outdoor event.”
All in a day’s work
Meaning: Something that is typical or expected in one’s job.
Example: “Dealing with difficult customers is all in a day’s work for customer service.”
All in good time
Meaning: Things will happen when the time is right or appropriate.
Example: “You’ll find the right person; all in good time.”
All is fair in love and war
Meaning: In romantic relationships and conflicts, any behavior is acceptable to achieve one’s goals.
Example: “She’s willing to do anything to win his heart; after all, all is fair in love and war.”
All systems go
Meaning: Ready to proceed or start.
Example: “The launch was successful; all systems go for the space mission.”
All that glitters is not gold
Meaning: Something attractive or promising may not be valuable or trustworthy.
Example: “The new restaurant looks fancy, but all that glitters is not gold; the food quality is poor.”
All the rage
Meaning: Something very fashionable or popular at the moment.
Example: “Those sneakers are all the rage among teenagers right now.”
All’s well that ends well
Meaning: A satisfactory outcome justifies any previous difficulty or problem.
Example: “Despite the challenges, the event was a success; all’s well that ends well.”
All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy
Meaning: Without time for leisure or recreation, a person becomes boring.
Example: “Take a break from studying; all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.”
Along for the ride
Meaning: Participating in something without actively contributing or taking responsibility.
Example: “She didn’t know much about the project but was happy to come along for the ride.”
Always a bridesmaid, never a bride
Meaning: Always in the position of being close to success but never achieving it.
Example: “She’s been nominated for awards many times but hasn’t won yet; always a bridesmaid, never a bride.”
An idle mind is the devil’s workshop
Meaning: When people have nothing to do, they are more likely to get into trouble or mischief.
Example: “During summer break, my parents always remind me that an idle mind is the devil’s workshop.”
Another nail in the coffin
Meaning: Something that brings one closer to failure or ruin.
Example: “The latest financial loss was another nail in the coffin for the struggling business.”
Apple of discord
Meaning: Something that causes disagreement or discord.
Example: “The inheritance became the apple of discord among the family members.”
Armed to the teeth
Meaning: Heavily armed or equipped.
Example: “The soldiers were armed to the teeth for the dangerous mission.”
As luck would have it
Meaning: Used to indicate that something happened purely by chance.
Example: “As luck would have it, we found the last parking spot right in front of the restaurant.”
At a snail’s pace
Meaning: Very slowly.
Example: “The traffic moved at a snail’s pace during rush hour.”
At one’s beck and call
Meaning: Ready and available to do whatever someone wants.
Example: “The assistant was always at the CEO’s beck and call, ready to assist.”
A Bit Much
Meaning: Excessive or overly dramatic.
Example: “Her reaction to the news was a bit much; she screamed and cried for hours.”
A Bite at The Cherry
Meaning: An opportunity to try or succeed at something.
Example: “He missed his chance last time but now wants another bite at the cherry.”
A Busy Bee
Meaning: Someone who is always active and productive.
Example: “She’s a busy bee, always organizing events and volunteering.”
A Cat Has Nine Lives
Meaning: Cats are said to have multiple lives, surviving dangerous situations.
Example: “He’s been in so many accidents, like a cat with nine lives.”
A Cat in Gloves Catches No Mice
Meaning: Being overly cautious can prevent success.
Example: “She needs to take more risks; a cat in gloves catches no mice.”
A Cat Nap
Meaning: A short sleep or nap.
Example: “I took a quick cat nap after lunch to refresh myself.”
A Cold Day In July
Meaning: Something very unlikely to happen.
Example: “Him apologizing would be like a cold day in July; it’s not going to happen.”
A Cold Fish
Meaning: Someone who is emotionally distant or unresponsive.
Example: “He’s nice enough, but he’s a bit of a cold fish.”
A Cut Above
Meaning: Superior in quality or skill.
Example: “Their service is a cut above the rest; they always go the extra mile.”
A Cut Below
Meaning: Inferior in quality or skill.
Example: “The new model is a cut below its predecessor in terms of performance.”
A Day Late And A Dollar Short
Meaning: Too late and insufficient to be effective.
Example: “He finally showed up to help, but it was a day late and a dollar short.”
A Dog in The Manger
Meaning: Someone who prevents others from using something they do not need.
Example: “She’s keeping the equipment locked up, though she never uses it; a real dog in the manger.”
A Few Sandwiches Short Of A Picnic
Meaning: Not very intelligent or mentally unstable.
Example: “He’s nice, but he’s a few sandwiches short of a picnic.”
A Good Deal
Meaning: A considerable amount; a significant quantity or quality.
Example: “He bought the car for a good deal less than its market value.”
A Great Deal
Meaning: A large amount; a substantial quantity or quality.
Example: “She has contributed a great deal to the success of the project.”
A Guinea Pig
Meaning: Someone or something used for an experiment.
Example: “They used plants as guinea pigs for the new fertilizer.”
A Hair’s Breadth
Meaning: A very small margin or distance.
Example: “He missed the target by a hair’s breadth; it was that close.”
A Home Bird
Meaning: Someone who prefers to stay at home rather than go out.
Example: “She’s always been a home bird, rarely going out except for work.”
A Hundred And Ten Percent
Meaning: Putting in more effort than is required.
Example: “She always gives a hundred and ten percent at her job.”
A Lame Duck
Meaning: An ineffective or unsuccessful person in a position of power.
Example: “He became a lame duck president after the scandal.”
A Leg Up
Meaning: Assistance or an advantage.
Example: “His internship gave him a leg up in securing a full-time position.”
A Lemon
Meaning: Something that is defective or unreliable, especially a vehicle.
Example: “The car turned out to be a lemon; it broke down within a week.”
A Life Of Its Own
Meaning: Something that develops independently and grows in influence.
Example: “The campaign took on a life of its own, spreading across social media.”
A Little Bird Told Me
Meaning: To hear something from a secret or unknown source.
Example: “How did you know about the surprise party? A little bird told me.”
A Little from Column A, a Little from Column B
Meaning: Taking aspects or elements from different sources.
Example: “Her cooking style is unique; she uses a little from column A, a little from column B.”
A Lone Wolf
Meaning: Someone who prefers to act independently, without others’ assistance or company.
Example: “He’s always been a lone wolf at work, preferring to complete tasks on his own.”
A Lot on One’s Plate
Meaning: Having many responsibilities or tasks to handle.
Example: “With three projects due next week, she has a lot on her plate right now.”
A Million and One
Meaning: A large, indefinite number.
Example: “There are a million and one things to do before the party tomorrow.”
A Notch Above
Meaning: Superior in quality or rank.
Example: “Their customer service is a notch above the competition; they really go the extra mile.”
A Penny for Your Thoughts
Meaning: Asking someone what they are thinking about.
Example: “You look deep in thought; a penny for your thoughts?”
A Penny Saved is A Penny Earned
Meaning: It’s wise to save money, as saving is equivalent to earning.
Example: “He decided to repair his old car instead of buying a new one; a penny saved is a penny earned.”
A Picture Is Worth a Thousand Words
Meaning: A visual representation can convey complex ideas more effectively than words.
Example: “Her painting of the sunset was breathtaking; truly, a picture is worth a thousand words.”
A Plum Job
Meaning: A desirable or highly attractive job or position.
Example: “She landed a plum job at the prestigious law firm in the city.”
A Rare Bird
Meaning: Someone or something unusual or exceptional.
Example: “He’s a rare bird in the world of finance; his ideas are truly innovative.”
A Scaredy-Cat
Meaning: Someone who is easily frightened or timid.
Example: “Don’t be such a scaredy-cat; it’s just a small spider!”
A Second Bite At The Cherry
Meaning: A second chance to do something or to succeed.
Example: “After failing the first interview, she got a second bite at the cherry when another position opened up.”
A Sight for Sore Eyes
Meaning: Something or someone that is pleasant to see, especially after a period of absence or difficulty.
Example: “After weeks of rain, the sunshine was a sight for sore eyes.”
A Sitting Duck
Meaning: Someone or something vulnerable and easy to attack or criticize.
Example: “Without backup, the soldier was a sitting duck for enemy snipers.”
A Snowball’s Chance in Hell
Meaning: Having no chance at all.
Example: “With his lack of experience, he had a snowball’s chance in hell of getting the job.”
A Stitch in Time Saves Nine
Meaning: Taking timely action can prevent larger problems in the future.
Example: “Repairing the roof now will save us from more extensive damage later; a stitch in time saves nine.”
A Stone’s Throw
Meaning: A short distance away.
Example: “Their house is just a stone’s throw from the beach.”
A Storm in a Teacup
Meaning: Making a big fuss over a small matter.
Example: “Their argument was just a storm in a teacup; it wasn’t worth all the drama.”
A Tall Order
Meaning: Something difficult to achieve or demanding.
Example: “Running a marathon with no prior training is a tall order.”
A Week Is A Long Time In _____
Meaning: Events change rapidly, especially in a fast-paced environment.
Example: “In politics, a week is a long time; anything can happen.”
About Time
Meaning: Something that should have happened sooner.
Example: “You finally got here! About time!”
About To
Meaning: On the brink of doing something.
Example: “I was about to leave when you called.”
Above And Beyond
Meaning: Going further or doing more than is expected.
Example: “She always goes above and beyond to help her colleagues.”
Above Board
Meaning: Open and honest, without deceit or hidden agendas.
Example: “Their business dealings are above board; there’s nothing shady about them.”
Above The Law
Meaning: Exempt from the rules or regulations that apply to everyone else.
Example: “He acted as if he were above the law, ignoring the speed limit.”
Above The Salt
Meaning: Of high status or importance.
Example: “Sitting above the salt at the dinner table indicated one’s social standing.”
Above Water
Meaning: Out of financial difficulty; not in debt.
Example: “They struggled for years, but now they’re finally above water.”
Accident Of Birth
Meaning: Something acquired by chance or without effort, typically wealth or social status.
Example: “Being born into a wealthy family was just an accident of birth.”
Accident Waiting To Happen
Meaning: A situation or action that is dangerous and likely to result in harm.
Example: “Leaving that ladder there is an accident waiting to happen.”
According To Hoyle
Meaning: According to the rules or guidelines.
Example: “He played the game exactly according to Hoyle.”
Ace In The Hole
Meaning: A hidden or secret advantage.
Example: “She kept her best idea as her ace in the hole for the meeting.”
Ace Up One’s Sleeve
Meaning: A secret advantage or resource kept hidden until needed.
Example: “He always has an ace up his sleeve for difficult negotiations.”
Acid Test
Meaning: A rigorous or crucial test to determine the truth or quality of something.
Example: “The presentation was the acid test for his leadership skills.”
Acknowledge The Corn
Meaning: To admit the truth; to acknowledge one’s mistake or misdeed.
Example: “He finally acknowledged the corn and apologized for his behavior.”
Acquired Taste
Meaning: Something that is not immediately liked but becomes more enjoyable over time.
Example: “Caviar is an acquired taste; not everyone enjoys it at first.”
Across The Board
Meaning: Applying to everyone or everything.
Example: “The company gave a pay raise across the board to all employees.”
Across The Pond
Meaning: Refers to the Atlantic Ocean, used to indicate something from or related to the UK when in the US, and vice versa.
Example: “My cousin lives across the pond in London.”
Act High and Mighty
Meaning: Behave arrogantly or as if one is superior to others.
Example: “Ever since he got promoted, he’s been acting high and mighty.”
Act Of Congress
Meaning: Something overly complicated or difficult to accomplish.
Example: “Getting approval for this project feels like an act of Congress.”
Act One’s Age
Meaning: Behave in a manner appropriate to one’s maturity.
Example: “You’re forty; it’s time to start acting your age.”
Actions Speak Louder Than Words
Meaning: What someone actually does is more important than what they say they will do.
Example: “She keeps promising to help, but actions speak louder than words.”
Achilles’ Heel
Meaning: A vulnerable point or weakness.
Example: “His pride was his Achilles’ heel; it often got him into trouble.”
Add Fuel To The Fire
Meaning: To make a bad situation worse; to provoke or intensify conflict or anger.
Example: “Bringing up their past mistakes only adds fuel to the fire.”
Add Insult To Injury
Meaning: To make a bad situation worse by doing something additional to upset someone.
Example: “Not only did he lose the game, but his rival’s mocking remarks added insult to injury.”
After One’s Own Heart
Meaning: Someone who shares the same beliefs or attitudes.
Example: “He’s a musician after my own heart; we both love jazz.”
After The Fact
Meaning: Occurring or done after something has already happened.
Example: “Installing a security system after the break-in was after the fact.”
After The Lord Mayor’s Show (UK)
Meaning: A letdown after a big event or achievement.
Example: “The team’s performance the week after winning the championship was like after the Lord Mayor’s show.”
Against The Clock
Meaning: Rushed or under time pressure to complete something.
Example: “They worked against the clock to finish the project before the deadline.”
Against The Run Of Play
Meaning: Unexpectedly or contrary to the expected flow of events, especially in sports.
Example: “They scored a goal against the run of play in the final minutes of the match.”
Age Before Beauty
Meaning: Polite way to allow someone older to go first.
Example: “Ladies first? No, age before beauty.”
Agree To Disagree
Meaning: To mutually accept that there is a difference of opinion and move on.
Example: “We debated for hours but finally agreed to disagree on politics.”
Agreement In Principle
Meaning: A tentative agreement on the basic terms of a deal or arrangement.
Example: “We reached an agreement in principle to start negotiations next week.”
Aha Moment
Meaning: A moment of sudden realization, understanding, or insight.
Example: “When she finally understood the problem, she had an ‘aha’ moment.”
Ahead Of One’s Time
Meaning: Innovative or possessing ideas or practices that are unusually advanced.
Example: “His design for the building was ahead of its time in terms of sustainability.”
Ahead Of The Curve
Meaning: Ahead of the current trend or development.
Example: “The company’s research team is always ahead of the curve in technology.”
Ahead Of The Game
Meaning: In a position of advantage or preparedness.
Example: “By anticipating market trends, they stayed ahead of the game.”
Air Rage
Meaning: Unruly or aggressive behavior by airplane passengers.
Example: “The flight was delayed due to air rage from a disruptive passenger.”
Airy Fairy
Meaning: Impractical, unrealistic, or overly idealistic.
Example: “Her airy fairy ideas about saving the world didn’t convince the board.”
Albatross Around One’s Neck
Meaning: A burdensome or persistent problem or responsibility.
Example: “The company’s debt became an albatross around the CEO’s neck.”
Alive and Kicking
Meaning: Active and in good health, especially after a period of illness or difficulty.
Example: “Despite the rumors, the company is alive and kicking.”
All Along
Meaning: From the beginning; always known or suspected.
Example: “He knew all along that his friend would come through for him.”
All And Sundry
Meaning: Everyone, without exception.
Example: “The invitation was open to all and sundry who wanted to attend.”
All Bark And No Bite
Meaning: Full of threatening talk but unwilling to act or carry out threats.
Example: “The dog looks fierce, but it’s all bark and no bite.”
All Bets Are Off
Meaning: Circumstances have changed so that previous expectations or rules no longer apply.
Example: “With the new management, all bets are off regarding our project timelines.”
All Dressed Up And Nowhere To Go
Meaning: Ready for action or a special event but without the opportunity to participate.
Example: “She was all dressed up and nowhere to go after the party was canceled.”
All Ears
Meaning: Fully attentive and listening eagerly.
Example: “When it comes to gossip, she’s all ears.”
All Eyes And Ears
Meaning: Very attentive and observant.
Example: “During the presentation, everyone was all eyes and ears.”
All Eyes Are On
Meaning: Everyone is watching or paying attention to someone or something.
Example: “All eyes are on the defending champion as he prepares for the final match.”
All Fur Coat And No Knickers
Meaning: Superficially impressive or stylish but lacking substance or quality underneath.
Example: “Their marketing campaign was all fur coat and no knickers; it didn’t increase sales.”
All Hands on Deck
Meaning: Everyone is needed to help or contribute; urgent action is required.
Example: “It’s the final push before the deadline, so it’s all hands on deck.”
All Hat And No Cattle
Meaning: All show and no substance; someone who talks big but cannot back it up.
Example: “He’s all hat and no cattle when it comes to business ideas.”
All Hell Breaks Loose
Meaning: A chaotic or tumultuous situation ensues.
Example: “When the news broke, all hell broke loose in the stock market.”
All In A Day’s Work (Excl.)
Meaning: Something that is expected as part of one’s job or normal activities.
Example: “Dealing with difficult customers is all in a day’s work for customer service.”
All In Good Time
Meaning: Patience will be rewarded; things will happen when the time is right.
Example: “You’ll get your promotion all in good time, just keep working hard.”
All in One Piece
Meaning: Without damage or harm; intact.
Example: “Despite the accident, everyone arrived home all in one piece.”
All It’s Cracked Up To Be
Meaning: As good or impressive as expected.
Example: “I finally visited Paris, and it was every bit as beautiful as it’s cracked up to be.”
All Mouth And No Trousers
Meaning: Someone who talks boastfully or aggressively but fails to back up their words with action.
Example: “He’s all mouth and no trousers when it comes to his promises.”
All Over But The Shouting
Meaning: Nearly finished; only minor details remain.
Example: “The negotiations are all over but the shouting; we just need to sign the contract.”
All Over Hell’S Half Acre
Meaning: Spread out over a wide area; everywhere.
Example: “We searched all over hell’s half acre for the lost keys, but couldn’t find them.”
All Over The Board
Meaning: Varied or inconsistent; covering a wide range.
Example: “Her grades were all over the board this semester.”
All Over The Map
Meaning: Disorganized or scattered; lacking a clear direction.
Example: “His speech was all over the map, jumping from topic to topic.”
All Over The Place
Meaning: Everywhere; in various locations or situations.
Example: “Her thoughts were all over the place after receiving the surprising news.”
All Rights Reserved
Meaning: A legal notice asserting the exclusive rights of the copyright holder.
Example: “The book’s cover included the statement ‘All rights reserved’.”
All Roads Lead to Rome
Meaning: There are many different ways to achieve the same goal.
Example: “We can approach the problem from different angles; all roads lead to Rome.”
All Set
Meaning: Ready; prepared for something to happen.
Example: “Are you ready to leave? Yes, I’m all set to go.”
All Sizzle And No Steak
Meaning: Promising or impressive at first appearance but ultimately lacking substance or content.
Example: “The new marketing campaign was all sizzle and no steak; it didn’t increase sales.”
All Talk and No Trousers
Meaning: Similar to “All mouth and no trousers”; someone who talks boastfully but fails to act effectively.
Example: “He’s all talk and no trousers when it comes to his plans for the business.”
All Told
Meaning: Considering everything; in total.
Example: “All told, the project cost more than anticipated.”
All That Jazz
Meaning: Similar things or activities; et cetera.
Example: “We need to buy groceries, cleaning supplies, and all that jazz before the weekend.”
All The Marbles
Meaning: Everything; the highest stakes or the final outcome.
Example: “The championship game is for all the marbles; whoever wins takes home the trophy.”
All The Rage
Meaning: Extremely popular or fashionable at the moment.
Example: “Vintage clothing is all the rage among young adults this year.”
All the Rage
Meaning: Extremely popular or fashionable.
Example: “That hairstyle was all the rage last summer.”
All The Same
Meaning: Nevertheless; in spite of.
Example: “I told him not to go, but he did it all the same.”
All The Tea In China
Meaning: An extremely large amount of something valuable or desirable.
Example: “He wouldn’t sell that old car for all the tea in China; it’s sentimental to him.”
All Things Being Equal
Meaning: Assuming no special circumstances or advantages.
Example: “All things being equal, we should finish the project by next week.”
All Things Considered
Meaning: Taking everything into account.
Example: “All things considered, it was a successful year for the company.”
All Thumbs
Meaning: Clumsy or awkward, especially with one’s hands.
Example: “When it comes to technology, I’m all thumbs.”
All Very Well
Meaning: Acceptable or understood in theory but not necessarily practical or realistic.
Example: “It’s all very well to plan a trip, but do we have enough money?”
All Wet
Meaning: Completely wrong; mistaken.
Example: “His theory about the economy was all wet; it didn’t make any sense.”
Along The Lines Of
Meaning: Similar to; in a manner or style resembling something.
Example: “We need a plan along the lines of what we discussed last week.”
Amateur Hour
Meaning: A situation or event characterized by incompetence or lack of professionalism.
Example: “The performance was a disaster; it felt like amateur hour.”
Amber Gambler
Meaning: Someone who hesitates at amber traffic lights.
Example: “He’s such an amber gambler; he always slows down when the light turns yellow.”
Amber Nectar
Meaning: Beer (slang).
Example: “After a long day, he enjoyed relaxing with a pint of amber nectar.”
American Dream (The)
Meaning: The ideal that every citizen should have an equal opportunity to achieve success and prosperity through hard work, determination, and initiative.
Example: “His journey from rags to riches embodies the American Dream.”
An Apple a Day Keeps the Doctor Away
Meaning: Eating healthy foods will help maintain good health.
Example: “She believed in the old saying that an apple a day keeps the doctor away.”
An Axe
Meaning: To have a grudge against someone.
Example: “He’s got an axe to grind with the management after being passed over for promotion.”
An Early Bird
Meaning: Someone who wakes up early or arrives before others.
Example: “She’s always been an early bird; she’s at the gym every morning before sunrise.”
An Eye for an Eye
Meaning: The principle of retaliating with equal force or punishment.
Example: “In some cultures, justice is based on an eye for an eye.”
An Offer One Can’t Refuse
Meaning: An offer or proposal that is so advantageous or compelling that it would be difficult to reject.
Example: “The mafia boss made him an offer he couldn’t refuse.”
Ancient History
Meaning: Something that is no longer important or relevant because it happened a long time ago.
Example: “Their argument from last year is ancient history now; they’ve moved on.”
And Counting
Meaning: Continuing to increase or accumulate.
Example: “She’s won four championships and counting.”
And Change
Meaning: Additional amount or time beyond a specified figure or duration.
Example: “He’s been working here for ten years and change.”
And His Mother
Meaning: Used humorously to emphasize someone’s relationship or association with another person.
Example: “He’s a chef, his brother is a musician, and his mother teaches yoga.”
And So Forth
Meaning: Used to indicate that a list continues similarly.
Example: “He likes sports, music, reading, and so forth.”
And So On
Meaning: Similar to “and so forth”; used to indicate that a list continues similarly.
Example: “They discussed politics, economics, literature, and so on.”
And The Like
Meaning: And other similar things; et cetera.
Example: “They discussed music, art, film, and the like.”
And Then Some
Meaning: Even more than what has been mentioned.
Example: “She put in long hours at work, and then some, to finish the project on time.”
Another Nail In One’s Coffin
Meaning: Another event or action that contributes to one’s downfall or failure.
Example: “Missing the deadline was another nail in his coffin with the client.”
Answer Back
Meaning: To respond rudely or defiantly to someone in authority.
Example: “She was sent to the principal’s office for answering back to the teacher.”
Ants In Your Pants
Meaning: Unable to sit still or feeling restless.
Example: “He had ants in his pants waiting for the concert to start.”
Any Port in a Storm
Meaning: In a difficult situation, any solution or assistance is welcome, even if it is not ideal.
Example: “She accepted the job offer even though it wasn’t her dream job; any port in a storm.”
Any Tom, Dick or Harry
Meaning: Anyone; used to refer to ordinary or unknown people.
Example: “They invited any Tom, Dick, or Harry to the event.”
Angel’s Advocate
Meaning: Someone who takes a position opposite to others’ opinions or beliefs to stimulate debate or discussion.
Example: “She played devil’s advocate in the meeting, arguing for a different approach.”
Angle For
Meaning: To seek something indirectly; to try to obtain something in a sly or indirect manner.
Example: “He’s always angling for a promotion by volunteering for extra projects.”
Apple of One’s Eye
Meaning: Someone or something that is cherished above all others.
Example: “His daughter is the apple of his eye; he adores her.”
Apple of Someone’s Eye
Meaning: The same as “Apple of One’s Eye” – someone cherished above all others.
Example: “She was the apple of her grandmother’s eye.”
Apples and Oranges
Meaning: Comparing two things that are fundamentally different and cannot be compared directly.
Example: “Comparing her singing to his painting is like comparing apples and oranges.”
Arm Candy
Meaning: A physically attractive person who accompanies someone, often for display.
Example: “She always takes him to parties as her arm candy.”
Armed to the Teeth
Meaning: Heavily armed; carrying many weapons or tools.
Example: “The soldiers were armed to the teeth for the mission.”
Around the Clock
Meaning: Continuously; throughout the entire day or night without stopping.
Example: “They worked around the clock to finish the project on time.”
As American as Apple Pie
Meaning: Typically American; embodying traditional American values or culture.
Example: “Baseball and apple pie are considered as American as apple pie.”
As Far as I Can Throw (someone)
Meaning: Not to trust someone at all; to not have much confidence in someone’s reliability.
Example: “I wouldn’t trust him as far as I can throw him.”
As Fit as A Fiddle
Meaning: In good health and physical condition.
Example: “After his recovery, he felt as fit as a fiddle.”
As Pale as A Ghost
Meaning: Extremely pale, usually due to fear, illness, or shock.
Example: “She turned as pale as a ghost when she saw the accident.”
As Pale as Death
Meaning: Very pale; lacking color due to fear, shock, or illness.
Example: “After hearing the news, his face went as pale as death.”
As Poor as a Church Mouse
Meaning: Very poor; having little or no money.
Example: “They were as poor as church mice, struggling to make ends meet.”
As Red as A Cherry
Meaning: Bright red in color.
Example: “Her cheeks were as red as cherries after running in the cold.”
Asleep at the Wheel (Switch)
Meaning: Not paying attention or being negligent in one’s responsibilities.
Example: “The manager was accused of being asleep at the wheel when the company faced financial troubles.”
At Death’s Door
Meaning: Very ill or close to death.
Example: “After the accident, he was at death’s door for several days.”
At Each Other’s Throats
Meaning: In a state of intense conflict or arguing.
Example: “The siblings were constantly at each other’s throats over who should clean the house.”
At Loggerheads
Meaning: In a state of disagreement or stalemate; unable to agree or compromise.
Example: “The negotiating parties were at loggerheads over the terms of the contract.”
At Sixes and Sevens
Meaning: In a state of confusion or disorder.
Example: “After the move, everything was at sixes and sevens in the new house.”
At the Drop of a Hat
Meaning: Immediately; without any hesitation or delay.
Example: “She would travel anywhere at the drop of a hat if given the chance.”
At the Eleventh Hour
Meaning: At the last possible moment; just before it is too late.
Example: “They finally finished the presentation at the eleventh hour.”
At the End of One’s Rope (Tether)
Meaning: Feeling exhausted, frustrated, or out of options.
Example: “After weeks of searching for a job, she was at the end of her rope.”
At the End of the Day
Meaning: Ultimately; when everything is considered.
Example: “At the end of the day, we all want what’s best for the company.”
