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 or, including its inflections. Clear word filter
now or never
CEFR B1A moment when immediate action is necessary because the opportunity will not return.
take it or leave it
CEFR B1accept an offer exactly as presented or reject it entirely
all or nothing
CEFR B2requiring complete success or acceptance, with no partial alternative
come hell or high water
CEFR B2whatever difficulties or obstacles arise
make or break
CEFR B2to be the single decisive factor between success and failure
shape up or ship out
CEFR B2improve your behavior or performance or else leave
sink or swim
CEFR B2succeed or fail through your own efforts without help
by hook or by crook
CEFR C1by whatever method is necessary, whether fair or unfair
chicken-and-egg problem
CEFR C1a situation in which two things each depend on the other, so neither can get started
Matching variant: chicken or egg problem
default alive
CEFR C1describing a startup whose normal growth will make it profitable without needing more funding
Matching variant: default alive or default dead
fish or cut bait
CEFR C1choose between taking useful action and stepping aside
put up or shut up
CEFR C1prove a claim through action or stop making it