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Fixed expressions

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.

under a cloud

CEFR B2

subject to suspicion or disgrace that damages one's reputation

Neutral

under fire

CEFR B2

being strongly criticized or attacked

Neutral

unknown quantity

CEFR B2

a person or factor whose nature, ability, or effect cannot yet be predicted

Neutral

up against it

CEFR B2

Facing severe difficulties, pressure, or obstacles.

Neutral

up and running

CEFR B2

fully operating and ready for use

Neutral

up in arms

CEFR B2

angry and protesting, ready to fight

Neutral

up to scratch

CEFR B2

good enough to satisfy the expected level of quality

Neutral

uphill battle

CEFR B2

a struggle that requires enormous effort against strong opposition

Neutral

vicious circle

CEFR B2

a loop of cause and effect in which each problem makes the next one worse

Neutral

walk of life

CEFR B2

a person's occupation, social position, or general way of living

Neutral

war chest

CEFR B2

money kept in reserve for a future fight, expansion, or acquisition

Neutral

war room

CEFR B2

a dedicated room, channel, or meeting where a team works intensively to solve a critical problem

Neutral

warts and all

CEFR B2

Shown or accepted honestly and completely, including every flaw and imperfection.

Neutral

water under the bridge

CEFR B2

past events that no longer matter

Neutral

wear your heart on your sleeve

CEFR B2

To show your feelings openly rather than hiding them.

Neutral

weather the storm

CEFR B2

survive a difficult period without suffering lasting damage

Neutral

when all is said and done

CEFR B2

ultimately, after everything has been discussed and considered

Neutral

when push comes to shove

CEFR B2

when mounting pressure makes decisive action unavoidable

Neutral

when the chips are down

CEFR B2

at a moment of crisis when pressure forces an important choice

Neutral

wipe the slate clean

CEFR B2

to forgive or forget past problems so a fresh start is possible

Neutral

with a vengeance

CEFR B2

with unexpectedly great force, energy, or intensity

Neutral

with bated breath

CEFR B2

while waiting with intense eagerness or anxiety for something to happen

Neutral

within living memory

CEFR B2

recent enough to be remembered personally by people who are still alive

Neutral

work wonders

CEFR B2

have an unusually strong and beneficial effect

Neutral

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