Meaning – a person who is made to take the responsibility or blame for something they didn’t do In Context – The managing director was fired after the scandal. He became the company’s scapegoat. Origin – This idiom has its roots in Judaism. In the Old Testament of the Bible, a goat was cast out into the desert during the … Read More
IDIOM – TO HAVE A LOT ON YOUR PLATE
Meaning – to have a lot of work to do or things to deal with. This idiom is also often used to express burdens or responsibilities. In Context – Anthea has to complete her dissertation in 2 weeks and she’s also looking after her mother who broke her leg. She has a lot on her plate right now.
IDIOM – HARD NUT TO CRACK
Meaning – a difficult problem to solve, a difficult person to persuade. In this idiom, hard is often replaced by a synonym such as tough or difficult. In Context – (1) I’m not sure if Chris we’ll agree to this move, he’s a hard nut to crack. (2) Resolving the political crisis in Syria is hard nut to crack. (3) … Read More
IDIOM – HOLD YOUR HORSES
Meaning – be patient, to wait a moment before taking action In Context – Hold your horses, I haven’t finished explaining yet. Origin – originally used to restrain cavalry (army on horses) from attacking on battlefield Idioms with a similar or synonymous meaning – hang on, hold your water (not very common)
IDIOM – TIE THE KNOT
Meaning – to get married In Context – (1) After being engaged for years, Claude and Marie have finally decided to tie the knot next year. (2) Although John and Mary have lived together for the last 20 years, they have never tied the knot. Origin – This idiom refers to an ancient Celtic tradition called handfasting. Couples were once … Read More
IDIOM – KNOW THE ROPES
Meaning – to know how something works, to be familiar with a procedure, to understand how a system operates, to have experience in a particular area In Context – Colin will be responsible for the new intern until he knows the ropes. Origin – A nautical term, this expression originally meant that a sailor only had basic experience (i.e. they … Read More