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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.

Idioms containing one, including its inflections. Clear word filter

a fair share

CEFR B1

a reasonable portion or a substantial amount of something, especially work or difficulties

Neutral

Matching variant: one's fair share

bury one's head in the sand

CEFR B1

to ignore an unpleasant reality hoping it will go away

Neutral

kill two birds with one stone

CEFR B1

To accomplish two tasks with a single effort or action.

Neutral

make up one's mind

CEFR B1

to reach a decision, especially for oneself rather than following others

Neutral

on the one hand

CEFR B1

used to introduce the first of two contrasting points or sides of an argument

Neutral

one and the same

CEFR B1

exactly the same person or thing, despite appearing to have two identities

Neutral

at the back of one's mind

CEFR B2

a thought or worry that you are vaguely aware of but not focusing on

Neutral

back to square one

CEFR B2

to return to the beginning of a task after an attempt has failed

Neutral

cast one's mind back

CEFR B2

to think about something that happened in the past

Neutral

cover all bases

CEFR B2

to consider and prepare for every important part, possibility, or problem so nothing is missed

Neutral

Matching variant: cover one's bases

dear to one's heart

CEFR B2

very important to someone and loved deeply

Neutral

don't put all your eggs in one basket

CEFR B2

Don't risk everything on a single plan or possibility.

Neutral

get one's message across

CEFR B2

to make people understand what you mean or want to say

Neutral

in one's sights

CEFR B2

chosen as a target or goal that you intend to achieve or pursue

Neutral

on one's hands

CEFR B2

as one's responsibility or problem to deal with

Neutral

one of those things

CEFR B2

an odd or unfortunate situation accepted as unavoidable and not worth further explanation

Neutral

out of one's hands

CEFR B2

no longer one's responsibility or under one's control

Neutral

the apple of one's eye

CEFR B2

a person or thing that someone loves and treasures above all others

Neutral

throw up one's hands

CEFR B2

to show that you give up or feel helpless about something

Neutral

not to mince one's words

CEFR C1

to speak directly and honestly, even if it is unpleasant

Neutral

put one's head above the parapet

CEFR C1

to risk criticism by stating an opinion publicly

Neutral

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