“Against the clock”

“Add fuel to the fire”

To make a bad situation worse.

“Take the bull by the horns”

To face a problem directly.

“Back against the wall”

In a very difficult situation with no easy options.

“Bite the bullet”

To face a difficult or unpleasant situation bravely.

“Up in the air”

Not decided yet; uncertain.

“Break the ice”

To do or say something that makes people feel more comfortable in a new or awkward situation.

“Throw in the towel”

To give up.

“Beat around the bush”

To avoid saying something directly.