IDIOM GREENER PASTURES

This idiomatic expression is used to refer to a change that is for the better. It can be used to refer to a job, a country or even a romantic partnership. Below, you will find some examples of this idiom used in context. Example: 1. Their incomes fell by 14% last year, and almost 6,000 people left the country for … Read More

IDIOM: ALL IS FAIR IN LOVE AND WAR

All is fair in love and war Meaning: Everything can be justified between people who love each other and times of war. History of the phrase: This phrase, which is now a very common saying, dates to 1578. It first appears in John LyLy’s, ‘Eupheus: The Anatomy of Wit‘. Synonymous Expression:  Do whatever it takes! The opposite of all’s fair in … Read More

IDIOM: RUN-OF-THE-MILL

  IDIOM: RUN-OF-THE-MILL – this idiom is used to mean that something is very ordinary, normal or common-place. Example: I wasn’t very impressed by their wedding.  The whole celebration was very run-of-the-mill.  I doubt I will remember it at all in a few years. If you are using run–of–the–mill in your writing, be sure to remember to punctuate it properly! … Read More

IDIOM – TO BE BROKE

Meaning – to be out of money, not having any cash.  Use this idiom when you want to express that someone can’t afford to pay for something. In Context  – I can’t go to the concert.  I‘m broke. Origin – ‘to be broke’ is an idiom which uses an old form / meaning of the verb.  The verb ‘to break’ … Read More

IDIOM – RULE OF THUMB

Meaning –  the general rule or guideline, a measurement or method based on experience rather than a scientific calculation In Context  –  The rule of thumb at the office is that whoever finishes the coffee has to make the next pot. Origin – It is often thought that this idiom derives from the ancient common law which allowed a man … Read More

IDIOM – TO HAVE AN AXE TO GRIND

Meaning   –   This idiom has 2 meanings: (1) to want to have an argument or discussion about something, (2) to have a personal agenda or hidden motive for doing something In Context  – (1)  I’ve got an axe to grind with you!   That report you filed was full of errors.  (2)  I hope John won’t talk about the Pope … Read More

IDIOM – EXCUSE MY FRENCH

Meaning – this idiom is used to excuse a person for swearing or using bad language.  Variations include pardon my French, excuse my French. Origin – The origin of the expression is unclear.  However, there are a number of similar expressions (in French as well as in English) which deflect the blame for the use of a culturally unacceptable habit.  … Read More

IDIOM – OFF THE RECORD

Meaning – something which is said in an unofficial capacity or which is not to be repeated .  This idiom is often used when the speaker prefers to remain anonymous (doesn’t want to be known). In Context  – Journalists often find people to speak off the record for their articles. Origin –  This phrase is first attributed to Roosevelt in … Read More

IDIOM – TO GENERATE BUZZ

Meaning – to draw positive attention and interest in something, to create interest in a product or service In Context  –  The new Google glasses are generating a lot of buzz on the internet. Idioms with a synonymous meaning – to cause a stir.  The new Google glasses are causing quite a stir on the internet. Idioms with a antonymous … Read More