English idiom

do the trick

Register · Informal CEFR B1

Post

Figurative meaning

to achieve the desired result or solve a problem

Why this phrase?

A successful solution is likened to a trick that produces the intended effect.

Example

“A little oil should do the trick and stop the hinge from squeaking.”

Dictionary details

Tags

Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.

save the day

to prevent failure or disaster through a timely action

a piece of cake

Something that is very easy to do.

so far so good

used to say that things have gone well up to now

alive and kicking

still healthy, active, or functioning despite age or difficulty

hit the jackpot

To gain a remarkably favorable result, usually unexpectedly or through luck.

hit the mark

to produce exactly the intended effect or be correct

Source methodology

Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.

External links

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