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Idioms & Expressions

Explore English idioms and fixed expressions by level and topic, and learn their meaning with an example sentence.

20 expressions found

a double-edged sword

Something that has both positive and negative effects at the same time.

B2 Academic Phrase Academic Idioms
hit the nail on the head

To describe exactly what is causing a problem or situation.

C1 Academic Phrase Academic Idioms
think outside the box

To think creatively, in a way that is different from usual approaches.

B2 Academic Phrase Academic Idioms
the tip of the iceberg

Only a small, visible part of a much larger problem.

C1 Academic Phrase Academic Idioms
a drop in the ocean

An amount that is far too small to make a real difference.

C1 Academic Phrase Academic Idioms
the bigger picture

The overall situation, rather than just one small part of it.

B2 Academic Phrase Academic Idioms
a gray area

A situation that is not clearly defined and is open to interpretation.

C1 Academic Phrase Academic Idioms
a turning point

A moment when a significant change begins to happen.

B2 Academic Phrase Academic Idioms
a wake-up call

An event that makes people realize a serious problem needs attention.

B2 Academic Phrase Academic Idioms
a chain reaction

A series of events in which each one causes the next.

C1 Academic Phrase Academic Idioms
a vicious cycle

A repeating negative situation in which each problem causes another.

C1 Academic Phrase Academic Idioms
a vicious circle

A repeating negative situation where problems continuously reinforce each other.

C1 Academic Phrase Academic Idioms
a slippery slope

A course of action likely to lead to a worse, harder-to-stop situation.

C1 Academic Phrase Academic Idioms
a mixed blessing

Something that has both advantages and disadvantages.

C1 Academic Phrase Academic Idioms
a win-win situation

A situation in which everyone involved benefits.

B2 Academic Phrase Academic Idioms
a lose-lose situation

A situation in which every option leads to a negative outcome.

C1 Academic Phrase Academic Idioms
make ends meet

To have just enough money to cover basic living expenses.

B2 Academic Phrase Academic Idioms
a ripple effect

A situation in which one event causes a series of other effects.

C1 Academic Phrase Academic Idioms
a knock-on effect

A secondary effect that follows as a result of a first event.

C1 Academic Phrase Academic Idioms
for better or worse

Used to say that something has both good and bad consequences.

B2 Academic Phrase Academic Idioms

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