“Back against the wall”

“Feel the pinch”

To experience financial difficulty.

“Foot the bill”

To pay for something.

“Give the green light”

To approve or allow something to begin.

“A slap on the wrist”

A very mild punishment.

“Go the distance”

To continue until the end.

“Get off the hook”

To avoid punishment or responsibility.

“Hold the fort”

To take care of things while someone is away.

“Hit a wall”

To reach a point where no further progress seems possible.