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.
Idioms containing by, including its inflections. Clear word filter
by and large
CEFR B2generally; on the whole
by the book
CEFR B2strictly following the rules or official procedures
fall by the wayside
CEFR B2be abandoned, neglected, or fail before completion
hang by a thread
CEFR B2to remain so precarious that collapse or failure could happen at any moment
take the bull by the horns
CEFR B2To deal with a difficult situation directly and bravely.
too clever by half
CEFR B2clever in a self-defeating way, so one's crafty plan causes trouble instead of success
by hook or by crook
CEFR C1by whatever method is necessary, whether fair or unfair
cheek by jowl
CEFR C1Very close together physically or closely associated.