Example
Dictionary details
Related idioms
Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.
on the one hand
CEFR B1used to introduce the first of two contrasting points or sides of an argument
Neutral
at a loss for words
CEFR B2unable to express yourself because an emotional or confusing moment leaves you speechless
Neutral
take the wind out of someone's sails
CEFR B2to suddenly weaken a person's confidence, excitement, or determination
Neutral
touch a nerve
CEFR B2to provoke a strong reaction by raising a sensitive or painful subject
Neutral
perish the thought
CEFR C1used as an emphatic rejection of an idea considered intolerable
Neutral
bad news
CEFR A2an unpleasant piece of information; (informal) a person or thing likely to cause trouble
Informal
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.