Idioms & Phrases

The lion's share refers to the largest or best part of something. Option B is the correct definition.

Out of the question means something is impossible or not worth considering. Option C is the correct definition.

To welcome someone with open arms means to receive them warmly or enthusiastically. Option A is the correct definition.

Up to the mark means meeting the required standard or quality. Option B is the correct definition.

To have an axe to grind means to have a private or selfish motive for doing something. Option C is the correct definition.

To beat a retreat means to withdraw or retire, especially from a difficult or dangerous situation. Option A is the correct definition.

At the eleventh hour means at the latest possible moment or just in time. Option B is the correct definition.

To call a spade a spade means to speak plainly and directly, even if the subject is unpleasant. Option D is the correct definition.

In the arms of Morpheus is a literary idiom meaning to be sound asleep, as Morpheus is the god of dreams. Option A is the correct definition.

Crocodile tears refers to insincere or fake displays of sorrow. Option C is the correct definition.

To be born with a silver spoon means to be born into a wealthy or privileged family. It implies that the person has had access to luxury and resources from birth.

To blow hot and cold means to be inconsistent, often by supporting and opposing something at different times. It reflects a fickle or indecisive attitude.

A fool's paradise refers to a state of happiness or contentment based on false or unrealistic expectations. It describes someone who is blissfully unaware of impending trouble.

To bid fair means to show promise or to seem likely to result in something positive. It is often used to describe a situation that looks favorable.

A gala day is a day of celebration, festivity, or special public entertainment. It is a joyous occasion.

Making hay while the sun shines means taking advantage of a favorable opportunity while it lasts. It is a proverb about seizing the moment.

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

To beat about the bush means to avoid getting to the point of a topic. It involves talking around an issue rather than addressing it directly.

A hard nut to crack refers to a problem that is very difficult to solve or a person who is difficult to understand. It implies significant effort is required.

To blow one's own trumpet means to boast or brag about one's own achievements. It is the act of self-promotion.

A turncoat is someone who deserts one party or cause to join an opposing one. It is a term for a traitor or someone who changes sides for personal gain.

A man of straw refers to a person who has no substance, influence, or strength of character. It is often used to describe someone who is easily manipulated or lacks authority.

To pull the wool over someone's eyes means to deceive or trick them. It involves hiding the truth to prevent someone from seeing what is really happening.

A white elephant is a possession that is useless or troublesome, especially one that is expensive to maintain. It is a burden rather than an asset.

To be on the horns of a dilemma means to be faced with a choice between two equally undesirable alternatives. It is a difficult situation where no good outcome is apparent.