IDIOMS AND

PHRASES
COMPULSORY ENGLISH
An arm and a leg
Meaning: A lot of money.
Example: It’s the best cruise in the world, but it will
cost you an arm and a leg.

At the drop of a hat

Meaning: Immediately; without any hesitation
Example: Ellie was always ready to go shopping at the
drop of a hat.
Back to the drawing board
Meaning: When an attempt fails and it's time to start all over.
Example: Since you failed in exam, you have to go back to the
drawing board

Ball is in your court

Meaning: It is up to you to make the next decision or step
Example: I have given enough suggestions; now the
ball's in your court
Cut corners
Meaning: When something is done badly to save money.
Example: She is too lazy that she keep cutting corners

Devil's Advocate
Meaning: To present a counter argument for the sake of
argument
Example: He is never satisfied without being devil’s advocate

Don't count your chickens before the eggs have hatched

Meaning: "Don't make plans for something that might not
happen".
Barking up the wrong tree
Meaning: Looking in the wrong place. Accusing the wrong
person.
Example: The police were barking up the wrong tree

Beat around the bush

Meaning: Avoiding the main topic. Not speaking directly about
the issue.
Example: The Prime Minister was beating around the bush in the
interview.
Bite off more than you can chew
Meaning: To take on a task that is beyond one’s capacity.
Example: To show off his ability, he always bites off more than he can
chew.

Cross that bridge when you come to it

Meaning: Deal with a problem if and when it becomes necessary, not
before.
Example: Do not stress out for exam now, Cross the bridge only when
you come to it.