Idioms
English fixed expressions — phrases whose meaning isn't obvious from the individual words. Each entry shows the meaning, an example sentence, and its register.
119 idioms
smooth sailing
Neutral · CEFR B1
easy, uninterrupted progress without problems
stay the course
Neutral · CEFR B1
to continue with a plan despite difficulties or doubt
take it or leave it
Neutral · CEFR B1
accept an offer exactly as presented or reject it entirely
take someone's word for it
Neutral · CEFR B1
to believe what someone says without asking for evidence
tell it like it is
Neutral · CEFR B1
to describe a situation frankly, without softening or hiding the truth
test the waters
Neutral · CEFR B1
to try something cautiously before committing fully to it
the best of both worlds
Neutral · CEFR B1
A situation in which you enjoy the advantages of two different things at the same time.
the early bird catches the worm
Neutral · CEFR B1
Those who act promptly have the best chance of success.
the good life
Neutral · CEFR B1
a comfortable, enjoyable way of living, often with few worries
the high point
Neutral · CEFR B1
the best or most enjoyable part of an event or period
the icing on the cake
Neutral · CEFR B1
An extra good thing that makes a good situation even better.
the rest is history
Neutral · CEFR B1
later events are already familiar or easily assumed, so they need no further telling
the whole story
Neutral · CEFR B1
all the facts about a situation, including ones not yet known
the writing on the wall
Neutral · CEFR B1
clear and unmistakable signs that failure or disaster is coming
think twice
Neutral · CEFR B1
to reconsider an action carefully before doing it
tighten your belt
Neutral · CEFR B1
To spend less money because you have less than before.
time will tell
Neutral · CEFR B1
the result will become clear only in the future
trial and error
Neutral · CEFR B1
trying different methods until you find one that works
under lock and key
Neutral · CEFR B1
kept securely locked away so that access or escape is prevented
up to speed
Neutral · CEFR B1
fully informed about a current situation or topic and ready to proceed
wake-up call
Neutral · CEFR B1
an event that forces you to realize a problem you were ignoring
with open arms
Neutral · CEFR B1
with an enthusiastic and affectionate welcome
word of mouth
Neutral · CEFR B1
recommendations spread informally from person to person