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 no, including its inflections. Clear word filter
long time no see
CEFR B1a friendly greeting to someone you have not seen for a long time
no free lunch
CEFR B1everything has a cost; you cannot get something for nothing
up to no good
CEFR B1engaged in behavior that is mischievous, dishonest, or otherwise wrong
all talk and no action
CEFR B2full of promises or discussion without doing the things promised
in no uncertain terms
CEFR B2in a completely clear and direct way that leaves no room for doubt
leave no stone unturned
CEFR B2to try every possible way to achieve or find something
money is no object
CEFR B2cost does not limit what someone is willing or able to buy
no holds barred
CEFR B2With no limits or restrictions on how a contest, argument, or conflict is conducted.
no man's land
CEFR B2an uncontrolled, disputed, or undefined area where occupying or intervening is unwise
no smoke without fire
CEFR B2rumors or accusations usually contain at least some truth
no sooner said than done
CEFR B2a request or suggestion was carried out immediately
no strings attached
CEFR B2given freely, with nothing expected in return and no concealed restrictions
no two ways about it
CEFR B2the situation is certain, with no reasonable alternative or different interpretation