Idioms and Phrases

The idiom 'in the twinkling of an eye' means something happens very quickly or immediately.

It is said when you ​move from a ​bad or ​difficult ​situation to a one that is ​worse.

In business slang, a 'shark' refers to an astute, often aggressive or predatory, business person.

The term 'blue blood' refers to someone of noble or aristocratic descent.

To be 'chicken hearted' means to be cowardly or lacking in courage.

To 'eat humble pie' is an idiom meaning to apologize and accept humiliation after being proven wrong.

The idiom 'to make an ass of oneself' means to behave in a foolish or stupid manner.

A turncoat is a person who deserts one party or cause in order to join an opposing one. This is synonymous with someone who changes their opinion or allegiance.

A feather in one's cap is an idiom referring to an achievement or accomplishment that one can be proud of. It signifies a notable success.

A wild goose chase is an idiom for a foolish or hopeless search for something that is unattainable or non-existent. It is a fruitless endeavor.

By hook or by crook means by any means necessary, whether fair or foul. It implies achieving a goal regardless of the methods used.

To have something at one's fingertips means to have information or knowledge readily available and to know it thoroughly.

A thorn in one's side is a person or thing that is a constant source of annoyance or trouble. It is synonymous with a nuisance.

The proverb 'birds of a feather flock together' means that people with similar characters, interests, or backgrounds tend to associate with one another.

It refers to something that two or more ​people ​argue about ​strongly over a ​long ​period of ​time.

To hold one's tongue is an idiom meaning to refrain from speaking or to remain silent.

With one's tail between one's legs describes someone who is acting in a defeated, submissive, or spiritless manner, usually after a failure.

Red tape means due to regulations and policies there is delay in getting the work done.

To crow over someone means to express great pride or triumph over them, often in an annoying or boastful way.

To go to the dogs is an idiom meaning to deteriorate, decline, or fall into a state of ruin.

A snake in the grass is a treacherous or deceitful person who hides their true intentions.

Correct Answer: to support someone

Hitting below the belt refers to acting in an unfair or unsportsmanlike manner, violating the rules of fair play.

The backbone of something is its most important part or the foundation that supports it, similar to a mainstay.