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.
408 idioms
up against it
Neutral · CEFR B2
Facing severe difficulties, pressure, or obstacles.
up and running
Neutral · CEFR B2
fully operating and ready for use
up in arms
Neutral · CEFR B2
angry and protesting, ready to fight
up to scratch
Neutral · CEFR B2
good enough to satisfy the expected level of quality
uphill battle
Neutral · CEFR B2
a struggle that requires enormous effort against strong opposition
vicious circle
Neutral · CEFR B2
a loop of cause and effect in which each problem makes the next one worse
walk of life
Neutral · CEFR B2
a person's occupation, social position, or general way of living
war chest
Neutral · CEFR B2
money kept in reserve for a future fight, expansion, or acquisition
war room
Neutral · CEFR B2
a dedicated room, channel, or meeting where a team works intensively to solve a critical problem
warts and all
Neutral · CEFR B2
Shown or accepted honestly and completely, including every flaw and imperfection.
water under the bridge
Neutral · CEFR B2
past events that no longer matter
wear your heart on your sleeve
Neutral · CEFR B2
To show your feelings openly rather than hiding them.
weather the storm
Neutral · CEFR B2
survive a difficult period without suffering lasting damage
what goes around comes around
Neutral · CEFR B2
good or bad actions return to their author
when all is said and done
Neutral · CEFR B2
ultimately, after everything has been discussed and considered
when in rome, do as the romans do
Neutral · CEFR B2
Follow the local customs when you are in an unfamiliar place.
when push comes to shove
Neutral · CEFR B2
when mounting pressure makes decisive action unavoidable
when the chips are down
Neutral · CEFR B2
at a moment of crisis when pressure forces an important choice
wipe the slate clean
Neutral · CEFR B2
to forgive or forget past problems so a fresh start is possible
with a vengeance
Neutral · CEFR B2
with unexpectedly great force, energy, or intensity
with bated breath
Neutral · CEFR B2
while waiting with intense eagerness or anxiety for something to happen
within living memory
Neutral · CEFR B2
recent enough to be remembered personally by people who are still alive
work wonders
Neutral · CEFR B2
have an unusually strong and beneficial effect
you reap what you sow
Neutral · CEFR B2
your actions determine your results