“A race against time”
A situation where one must act quickly before time runs out.
General
Open idiom pageLoading page…
Search this index of English idioms. Each idiom has its own page with meaning, examples, and related expressions.
“A race against time”
A situation where one must act quickly before time runs out.
“Get in on the act”
To join an activity that others are doing successfully.
“All bets are off”
The situation has changed so much that predictions no longer apply.
“Don’t hold your breath”
Do not expect something to happen soon.
“Back to the drawing board”
To start planning again because the first idea failed.
“A close shave”
A situation where danger or failure was narrowly avoided.
Idiom of the Day
“Miss the boat”
To miss an opportunity.
A highlighted idiom from our collection. Browse the full index above for more.
Open idiom pageReinforce idiom meaning with context-based quiz practice and short daily game sessions.
Idioms are fixed expressions where the meaning is different from the literal words.
They make speech sound natural and help you understand native-level communication.
Study idioms in context, repeat example sentences aloud, and review them regularly.
Start with high-frequency idioms from daily conversation and workplace English.
“Heart of gold”
A very kind and generous nature.
“Brush up on something”
To improve knowledge or skill by reviewing it.
“Bottom line”
The most important point or final result.
“Start from scratch”
To begin again from the very beginning.
“A numbers game”
A situation where success depends on trying many times.
“In short supply”
Not enough available.
“At full tilt”
As fast or strongly as possible.
“A long way off”
Far in the future or far from being ready.
“Get a foot in the door”
To get a small opportunity that may lead to bigger opportunities.
“Down and out”
Without money, work, or hope.
“At arm’s length”
At a safe distance, emotionally or physically.
“In a pickle”
In a difficult or troublesome situation.
“Rule of thumb”
A simple practical rule based on experience.
“By a hair”
By a very small amount.
“Bring out the best in”
To help someone show their best qualities.
“On a shoestring”
With very little money.
“Good call”
A good decision.
“Not my cup of tea”
Not something one likes or enjoys.