IDIOM: RUN-OF-THE-MILL – this idiom is used to mean that something is very ordinary, normal or common-place. Example: I wasn’t very impressed by their wedding. The whole celebration was very run-of-the-mill. I doubt I will remember it at all in a few years. If you are using run–of–the–mill in your writing, be sure to remember to punctuate it properly! … Read More
IDIOM – DOWN TO THE WIRE
Meaning – to be resolved, finalised at the final moment In Context – We are so late on this project, it’s going to come down to the wire. Origin – This expression has its origins in horse racing. A wire was placed across the finish line. The horse that hit the wire first won the race. If two horses are … Read More
IDIOM – TO BE ON THE FENCE
Meaning – to remain neutral in an argument or in a decision In Context – The two of you can fight it out between yourselves. I am not going to take sides in your argument. I’m on the fence here. Note – You can also say, ‘to sit on the fence’. There is no change in meaning.
IDIOM – COMPARING APPLES TO ORANGES
Meaning – a false analogy, contrasting two things which cannot be compared against each other In Context – You cannot compare ballet to jazz dance, it’s like trying to compare apples to oranges. Origin – While the origin of this idiom is unclear, it can be found in different variations in many other languages. The most common version is comparing apples … Read More