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.

Idioms Informal Neutral Formal

25 idioms

CEFR B2 (3)

in (the) light of Formal · CEFR B2

considering or because of (new information or circumstances)

in no uncertain terms Formal · CEFR B2

in a completely clear and direct way that leaves no room for doubt

with a view to Formal · CEFR B2

with the intention of achieving a particular result

CEFR C1 (22)

above one's station Formal · CEFR C1

behaving as if you belong to a higher social class or rank than you do

beyond the pale Formal · CEFR C1

Completely unacceptable by ordinary moral or social standards.

bread and circuses Formal · CEFR C1

basic comforts and entertainment offered to distract the public from serious problems

by the same token Formal · CEFR C1

for the same or a closely related reason

cold comfort Formal · CEFR C1

Consolation that offers little real relief in a painful or difficult situation.

come in from the cold Formal · CEFR C1

to regain safety or acceptance after living in secrecy, isolation, or exclusion

economical with the truth Formal · CEFR C1

deliberately omitting important facts in order to give a misleading impression

err on the side of Formal · CEFR C1

choose the safer course when uncertainty makes either option imperfect

fall foul of Formal · CEFR C1

to get into trouble with someone or break a rule or law

first among equals Formal · CEFR C1

a member of a formally equal group who holds the leading or most prominent role

fly in the face of Formal · CEFR C1

to oppose or be the opposite of what is expected, accepted, or sensible

in the final analysis Formal · CEFR C1

after weighing all the relevant facts; ultimately

not to put too fine a point on it Formal · CEFR C1

used before saying something directly and bluntly

put someone in mind of Formal · CEFR C1

to remind someone of a particular person, place, or experience

raison d'être Formal · CEFR C1

the most important reason for something or someone's existence

ride roughshod over Formal · CEFR C1

to impose your will harshly while ignoring other people's rights or feelings

short shrift Formal · CEFR C1

very little attention or consideration, usually given dismissively

the die is cast Formal · CEFR C1

an irreversible decision has fixed the course of what happens next

the proof of the pudding is in the eating Formal · CEFR C1

You can only judge something's value by trying or experiencing it.

throw down the gauntlet Formal · CEFR C1

to challenge an opponent openly and defiantly

to all intents and purposes Formal · CEFR C1

in every way that matters in practice; effectively

writ large Formal · CEFR C1

displayed unmistakably in a broader or more general form