每日一词 and OZ's common expressions

NEWGAY

turn in ：上床睡觉
I am tired, so Id better to turn in.

bail out

To bail out is to jump out of a dangerous situation, such as a sinking ship or a plane about to crash.
The second engine has failed - we'll have to bail out!

pay bail so that someone can be released from jail pending their trial
I had to go down to the court and bail out my son.

help smeone out of a difficult situation
I keep bailing them out financially.

remove water from inside a boat with a container
The boat had a leak so I had to keep bailing out.

[ 本帖最后由 NEWGAY 于 14-8-2008 23:32 编辑 ]

衣冠禽兽

NEWGAY

when native english speakers don't link the words we'd expect them to, this may mean they are angry or upset about something.
this is when 'dictionary english' us used. hwoever, this is unusual and it is not what happens in ordinary speech.
take it away
pick it up
come inside
come over here
give it to me
take it outside
bring it here.


people could be confused if we speak slowly and don't link words that should be linked. they may also think that we are angry and upset.

NEWGAY

chuckle to = laugh at

gaze  = look in a relax way

meant = generated created made

do a few groceries buy provisions for the house, especially food

chubbycat

hit the sack

nizi

NEWGAY

RDO = roster day off;  used in workplacement
eg:全職員工，每一週固定會有兩天的休假（Roster Day Off），通常星期二或是星期四，兩天中有一天是我的休假日。
workaholic = describe; somebody work too hard to ignore the family, the life ...

[ 本帖最后由 NEWGAY 于 31-7-2008 20:52 编辑 ]

NEWGAY

老师问我们administration 的动词怎么拼，不差字典居然没有知道的
administer   v.
eg: administer the country

administrate 也是verb，但当时没想起来
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NEWGAY

Peer group pressure

It is important for kids to feel that they fit in with their peers (other kids in your group or school or neighbourhood). But sometimes you may find yourself doing something because others are doing it, and which makes you feel uncomfortable or not safe. You always have the right to say no to something that you don't feel right about. Sometimes it is hard to say no to your friends - perhaps you need to learn how to keep out of situations that could lead to trouble.

recognise bad peer pressure.

If someone is asking you to do something that is good and won't lead to trouble for someone, they will not say things like..... "Everyone does it" "No one will know" "You're chicken" "Who's going to find out?" "Don't be a wuss" "Go on I dare you"

NEWGAY

set fire / put out the fire 放火 / 灭火

evacuate  : remove people from dangerous place to safe place  工作场所安全相关的资料中经常见到这个词

NEWGAY

a beauty
The expression a beauty is slang for something that is highly valued.Our new car is a beauty.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Now the fridge is a beauty. It runs on gas, used to be kerosene.

a bit rough
Something that is a bit rough is unfair.The penalty decision was a bit rough.

a blast
Something that is a blast is a lot of fun.Flying in a plane is a blast.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:So that was incredibly exciting, especially coming from Alice Springs which is quite remote, to go there and be immersed in this kind of incredibly kind of cutting edge and really exciting field, yeah, that was really a blast.

a dip
a swimI enjoy a dip on a hot day.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Just came out with the boys for a bit of a dip.

a far cry from
very different from somethingThis new car is a far cry from my old bicycle.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:For pets and owners alike, sledding is a far cry from the traditional run through the local park or walk around the block

a go
To give something a go means to give it a chance, or a try.I'll give that new face cream a go.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:At a public meeting he managed to convince about a dozen people from the town of 300 to give his idea a go.

a hell of a lot
a large amountI've got a hell of a lot of work to do.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:They're just like the full-sized locomotives but in miniature. You have to steam them up, you have to shovel coal while you're driving along. You have to make sure the water level is still the same so in many senses it's just the same as driving a big one, and a hell of a lot lighter.

a helping hand / a hand
help; assistanceThe charity offers a helping hand to the homeless.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:And then - I remember the date - on the January 20, 1955, Dad wanted a hand in the shop so he said, "Come down for a few years and help me in our general store," but it's turned out 51 years later, I'm still here.

a must
something that must be experiencedThis new film is a must.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Fishermen crave it and for tourists a taste is a must -- and that taste is catching on.

a picture of health
If someone is a picture of health they look very healthy.You're a picture of health today.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:10 years on, Glenys is a picture of health but her world was rocked three years ago with another call from Jo.

a steal
a bargainThese shoes are a steal at five dollars.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:About 60 locals have put what they could into buying the building - a steal at $33,000.

a storm brewing
big problems coming in the futureThere is a storm brewing in the office.

about to
To be about to do something is to be going to do it very soon or in the near future.I'm about to go to bed.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Along with his partner, musician Wendy Rule, Llewellyn Griffiths is now about to embark on a worldwide selling trip.

Achilles heel
A hidden weakness or fault is called an Achilles heel.We have to find the opposition's Achilles heel.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The Achilles heel of growing in Australia is the cost of production.

across the board
over the whole range of thingsPrices have fallen across the board.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Trades areas, I think the whole raft of trades, you can start at the construction trades, electrical trades, across the board.

act like a sheep
To act like a sheep is to follow without thinking.She always acts like a sheep and buys the latest fashion.

add another string to your bow
To add another string to your bow is to have another thing you can do if what you are already doing fails.You can't go through life with just one skill. You need to add another string to your bow.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The Walcha district has been renowned for its sheep, its cattle, its timber, and having some of the lowest temperatures in New South Wales. Today, it is adding another string to its bow with its art.

ad-hoc
not planned; happening when necessaryWe have meetings here on an ad hoc basis.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:We do things often in a very ad hoc way. We need to do that better.

against all the odds
in spite of huge difficulties; even though it looked impossibleAgainst all the odds, she became president.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Against all the odds, he survived.

akin to
similar to; having the same qualitiesCricket is akin to baseball because they are both summer games that used a bat and ball.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The human technology equivalent is something akin to breast cancer screenings, although this horse test is much broader, and can be used as regularly as every fortnight.

all but
almost; just about; nearlyI’ve all but finished writing the report.
This is how the expression is used in one of our storiesaul Schembri, from the Canegrowers Association, says the devastating mix of poor weather, low prices, competition from Brazil and crop disease have pushed many farmers deep into the red and all but out of business.
The expression all but can also be used to mean all except.I answered all but the last two questions on the test.

all clear
The all clear is an indication that a situation is no longer dangerous.The doctor has given me the all clear and I'll be back to work soon.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Until the all clear is given, Tennant Creek residents are being asked to remain vigilant and keep a close eye on potential mozzie breeding areas.

all done up
dressed elaborately for an occasionShe got all done up for the wedding.
This is how the expression is used in one of our storiesove the clothing. I'm not all done up tonight, but I love the 20s Charleston gear.

all in a day's work
not unusual; part of the ordinary rountineDealing with people who are drunk is just all in a day's work to policemen in this area.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But for black tracker Jimmy James, solving famous murders and hunting prison escapees was all in a day's work.

all manner of
all sorts of; all kinds of; many different typesThere are all manner of solutions to this problem.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:So you're saying accounts, client information, emails: all manner of sensitive information can be gotten?

all of a sudden
suddenlyAll of a sudden she decided to go out.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:...one computer, is certainly mind-boggling complexity, but when you then strap together a million - a hundred million them and allow them to connect to each other live, all of a sudden you've created this monstrous system…

all the go
very popular (informal)SMS text messages are all the go.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Adventure tourism is all the go.

all up
adding everything togetherAll up your bill comes to $150.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:In true accountant style, Alan Shadgett has kept all the paperwork, and he says all up it's cost him around $30,000.

all walks of life
all kinds of jobs and backgroundsPeople from all walks of life enjoy watching football.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:...we get all walks of people that come through here.

along those lines
similarI liked the style of their house - perhaps we could build one along those lines.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Hopefully in a few years time the girls can start getting some crowds and start getting some match payments and contracts - something along those lines, but it is improving and we can only hope for it to get better.

amounts to
adds up to; seems to be; isNot feeding your pets amounts to cruel treatment.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Every time one of those children of the parents that I met in some of these locations three decades ago is in difficulty at school, is getting in trouble with the law, this amounts to a breach of the Australian ethic and idea of a fair go.

and that
et cetera; and so on; other things like thatI like driving anything fast - motorbikes, speedboats and that.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Yeah, it's been really rewarding just, like, growing up with them and just being able to experience other cultures and being, yeah, tolerant of these other cultures and customs and that.

anybody's guess
When it's anybody's guess when no-one really knows what the facts are.It's anybody's guess how many kangaroos there are in Australia.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:There could be hand grenades, detonators - anything from bazooka shells to artillery shells - and hopefully they're all kept in a safe and secure state. But 60 years down the track it's anybody's guess.

appear out of thin air
To appear out of thin air is to appear suddenly and unexpectedly as if out of nowhere.She expects money to just appear out of thin air.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:By turning the camera on or off people could be made to vanish or appear out of thin air, and superimposing two scenes made transparent ghosts gradually appear and then fade away.

apple of my eye
The apple of somebody's eye is a person who is loved the most, usually a child.My daughter is the apple of my eye.

apple pie order
If we say that things are in apple pie order, we mean that they are in excellent condition.My health is in apple pie order.

appreciate in value
become more valuable; increase in priceProperty is something that will always appreciate in value.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:She says while they may appear a low cost option, relocatable homes rarely appreciate in value and are more expensive than conventional housing in the long term.

armed with
To be armed with something is to have something that can be used to achieve something.Armed with his improved English, he applied for a university course in Australia.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Armed with camcorders, a stills camera and a microphone, Michael and Drew are out to prove that ghosts exist and can be found all over Tasmania.

as a rule
mostly; often enough for it to appear to be a ruleAs a rule, cars have four wheels, but some British models have only three.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:As a rule, it's generally an older person's sport.

as if
as though; in a way that suggestsHe looked as if he would cause trouble.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:To get blokes to sing - it is very hard - and they think they can't sing but I get them to go something like...DAY-OH... DAY-AY-AY-OH... DAYLIGHT COME AND ME WANNA GO HOME... and so you ask the blokes to sing that and it's as if it's like not a song!

as safe as houses
very safeInvesting in bank shares is as safe as houses.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:He grew up in the area and he says the precious Aldinga Scrub will be as safe as houses.

as such
Here , as such means literally or in the usual sense of the word.There is no hotel as such in the town, but you can find accomodation at the caravan park.
because of what something isI am the main contributor and, as such, I should be paid the most.
in itself; as it isI'm not interested in money as such, but I do like the things it can buy.

as the crow flies
The expression as the crow flies refers to the shortest distance between two points measured in the air above the ground.The top of the next hill is only a kilometre away as the crow flies, but it's twice that distance when you have to walk down into the valley and up the other side.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It was, and is, our greatest river. Our centre of myth and legend, our Mississippi or Amazon. But it drains the world’s flattest and driest continent and weaves like a drunken sailor, taking three miles to travel one mile, as the crow flies.

as well
in addition to; tooThey sell tea as well as coffee.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Well, my father was a world champion and my great uncle was a world champion as well so it's been in my family all my life.

at a crossroads
at a point in time when a decision must be made or when something different is about to happenShe's at a crossroads in her life. She either starts a family or takes the promotion.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:In WA, as in all of Australia's southern states, the wild-caught abalone industry is at a crossroads.

at all
in any wayI'm not at all confused.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:In the last year or so, I've spent several thousand dollars on these seven-inches. It has never gotten me down at all.

at bay
To hold something at bay is to stop it from doing damage.I held the lion at bay with a chair.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:No plant is fireproof, but there are plants which are less flammable and better suited to holding the fire at bay.

at close quarters
close together; within a short distanceI want to move to a position at close quarters to the nest so I can film the birds feeding their babies.
This is how the expression is used in one of our storiesiving at close quarters in work camps along the rail route, fitting into the team is a key part of handling the tough conditions.

at home
To be at home means to feel comfortable and relaxed in a place.He's at home in the water.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:He's usually more at home on a harvester, so for Cameron Tubby, this isn't your average crop.

at its peak
at its best; at the highest pointHer career is at its peak.

at odds with
not in agreement withI'm at odds with my boss about how much I should be paid.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:While the ponies are now a managed herd, conservationists argue that their presence is at odds with the founding principles of national parks.

at once
At once can mean immediately.I want you to do this at once.
Or it can mean at the same time.I can't understand if you all talk at once.

at stake
at risk; in jeopardyThe soldiers put their lives at stake during the battle.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:With all of science, there are large egos involved and scientists have a lot at stake.

at the drop of a hat
immediately; without hesitationHe can recite the whole poem at the drop of a hat.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:And so we devoted last year to building that relationship so that now, at the drop of a hat, so to speak, we can actually relate to her either here or where she lives and on the telephone and, as she gets a little bit older, by computer - by email as well.

at the eleventh hour
at the last minute; very lateWe came up with a solution at the eleventh hour.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Now the action at the moment is piecemeal and at the eleventh hour for loggerhead turtles, it's not good enough.

at the end of the day
finally; when everything is taken into accountAt the end of the day a decision has to be made.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The tracking and the following of paperwork and if the stock are accurately branded and clearly branded at the end of the day we can locate them and identify them by their registered brands and earmarks

at the end of your tether
To be at the end of your tether is have no more patience left.I was really at the end of my tether and lost my temper.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Even if I have a day off with rough weather, I'm sort of a bit toey, but now it's just ridiculous, I'm right at the end of my tether, really.

at the expense of
causing damage or loss to something or somebodyWe could make more clothes for the market, but only at the expense of quality.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But is this trend at the expense of the local traditional shopping strip?

at the forefront
in a leading positionThis new computer game will put us at the forefront of the industry.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:This institution has always been at the forefront of research, and was one of the first biological centres in the world to make all living plant material and herbarium records available via the internet.

at the heart of
At the heart of means at the centre of, the most important part of something.At the heart of the matter is his lack of money.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:At the heart of Steve Johnston's concern is the McArthur River Mine.

at the moment
now; at this time; presentlyAt the moment I'm reading this example.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:We are sort of, I guess, stuck in a bit of a rut at the moment that we're only getting the same type of flower constantly, season after season.

at their feet
needing them; prepared to be generous to them; admiring themThe brilliant young doctors had the medical world at their feet.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:In fact, any young person wanting to be trained in traditional trades has the manufacturing and construction worlds at their feet, according to many employers.

at worst
taking the least hopeful view; the worst thing that can happen isYou might as well buy a lottery ticket - at best you win a million dollars and at worst you've wasted only a few dollars.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Just because of the way he plays, he’s exciting, he’s got some speed, he chases down players in the forward line and puts a lot of forward line pressure on, so the next step for Aussie we think will either be to be AFL drafted or at worst we think he’ll get rookie listed.

NEWGAY

Australia Network - Nexus - English Bites Library - Common Expressions - b

back a winner To back a winner means to bet on a winner, or to support something that does well. To back means to bet money on a horse.We backed a winner by investing in a successful movie. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It might not be Las Vegas but combined with the mining resurgence, locals who've kept their money on Broken Hill now think they’ve backed a winner. back flip When someone changes what they said they they were going to do, we call it a back flip and even use it as a verb.He's back flipped on his promise to stop smoking. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The Optometrists' Association says the government's back flip will do far more harm than good. back of beyond outback; bush; remote countryMy first job was in a tiny community in the back of beyond. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:They may have been living in the back of beyond, but two-way radio and the postal service kept them in touch. back on the menu back on the list of things to eat or doNow that it’s summer, ice-cream is back on the menu. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Here, beef is back on the menu. back then in the pastBack then things were much better. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Just to see how they did it back then and we're almost going back the same way now looking for more natural products instead of the synthetic products that they're putting into creams and potions and lotions. back to business return to normal; go back doing ordinary thingsIt's back to business for school children next week when the holidays finish. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:So we're talking about that in the human sense and the natural sense so we, so kids can see that it's part of the natural process and we have to cope with it, and nature gets back to business pretty quickly. bad press Something that gets bad press has bad things said about it publicly or receives unfavourable media coverage.Michael Jackson has had some bad press. This is how the expression is used in one of our storiesike many introduced species - the cane toad, the rabbit, the European carp -- the Indian or common mynah gets bad press. bark is worse than his bite We say that someone's bark is worse than their bite when someone is not as dangerous or angry as they seem.He threatens to do all sorts of things, but his bark is worse than his bite. battler Battler is an Australian term for someone who is struggling to make a living.He's a battler from the bush. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The ‘Etona’ was built in 1898 for the Anglican Bishop of Adelaide, as a mission boat, bringing religion to the battlers along the Murray. baulk at To baulk at something is to refuse to do something.She baulked at the offer of extra work. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The issue of cost is something many customers baulk at. be sold To be sold is to be convinced by something.I am sold on this new idea of yours. This is how the expression is used in one of our storiesinda Pickett came back and tried out a one-line pitch on fellow saleswoman Jane Walker, something about convenience and coffee. Both were sold. be with somebody in spirit To be with somebody in spirit is to be thinking about them when you can't be with them.I won't be able to make it to the wedding, but I'll be with you in spirit. bear in mind don't forget about; keep in mind; think aboutYou should bear in mind that the traffic will be heavy at the time you want to get to the airport. This is how the expression is used in one of our storiesrobably the first one we will do, bearing in mind the way the traffic is moving, is probably a multi decking to the car park outside. bear/feel the brunt To bear or feel the brunt of something is to suffer the most from it or have to deal with its worst effects.The south of the city will bear the brunt of the approaching storm. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:This study is concentrating on dugongs off the southern Queensland coast, because they're closest to urban developments and will feel the brunt of man-made impacts. beat someone hollow To beat someone hollow is to beat them in a contest easily.The polls say that the government will be beaten hollow in the coming election. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:What's the best thing you like about spending time with your friends here? Winning bridge? Beating them hollow. begs the question Something that begs the question makes you want to ask a particular question.Alll this talk about build a new public transport system begs the question of where the money for it is coming from. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The Government has now funded Relationships Australia to support overseas adopted children. Indeed Relationships Australia beat East Meet West for the tender to do the work. But that begs a deeper question, partly political, partly ideological, but simply put, who knows best what overseas kids go through? behind bars in jailHe'll be behind bars for the rest of his life for committing murder. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:At seven years of age, Maddalin's big question is answered and she's unfazed that her new-found dad is behind bars. behind the wheel When you are behind the wheel of a vehicle, you are driving it.You shouldn't get behind the wheel if you've been drinking. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Most weekends you'll find her under the bonnet or behind the wheel of her high performance Commodore getting ready for her next race. bells and whistles attractive extra featuresThis new car has air conditioning and all the bells and whistles. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It won't have all the latest bells and whistles and you won't be playing the latest computer games on these... bent on determined toShe is bent on finishing her studies this year. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Back in the 1960s and 1970s, surfers bent on discovering new breaks stumbled upon a small farming area perched on the spectacular coastline of the Margaret River region. bet your bottom dollar be certainYou can bet your bottom dollar that it will rain today. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But, while there’s a simple, cheap and dirty solution available, you can bet your bottom dollar we’ll just leave the toxic time-bomb ticking away. better part of most of; the greater part ofI’ve been studying for the better part of five years. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Not only did he promote asthma drugs, he took them himself for the better part of twenty years. better still even better; more than just betterI got a new job and, better still, double the money I used to be paid. beyond the scope outside the range; beyond the area of controlPolitics is really beyond the scope of sports teams. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But any long-term solution to water shortages could lie beyond the scope of government. beyond their means too expensive for themThe cost of that house is beyond their means. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But running the organisation is beyond their means. big guns Big guns are people who are the most successful at what they do in their field.There are a lot of big guns at the writers' festival. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:She knows she is competing against some big guns to get her show on the road. big slice large partA big slice of my time is spent with the children. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:And it all adds up to a big slice of the economy. big smoke the cityI'm leaving the country to try my luck in the big smoke. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But it's just three years ago that its licence to sell fermented and spiritous liquors was transferred by an investor to the big smoke. bigger than Ben Hur We use the expression bigger than Ben Hur to say that something is extravagant or extremely large. Ben Hur was a famously expensive, large-scale movie.If you invite all those people the party will be bigger than Ben Hur. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:In America, horse racing is literally bigger than Ben Hur, contributing more to the US economy than the film industry. bit of a drag Something that is a bit of a drag is boring, tiresome or unpleasant.Learning English can be a bit of a drag. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Good during the winter but summer's a bit of a drag. Makes you earn a beer. bite the bullet do something you don't want to do; do something unpleasant you can't avoidI'm going to have to bite the bullet and pay my debts. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I would definitely encourage them. Really the benefits'd far outweigh any problems we've had out here. And just to bite the bullet and go for it because it's very rewarding. bitten by the bug To be bitten by the bug is to have a sudden strong interest in something.Since going overseas last year he's been bitten by the travelling bug. This is how the expression is used in one of our storiesike hundreds of people over the past decade, Rob Alexandre has been bitten by the wine bug. black market illegal marketDrugs are sold on the black market. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Collectors warn any harsher restrictions may just promote a black market. black sheep A member of the family who is unusual or considered a failure is called the black sheep.He's the black sheep of the family - he left school early and became an actor. blanch at To blanch at something is to find it shocking. To blanch is to become white or go pale. People are supposed to go pale when they are shocked by something.I can watch the surgery. I don't blanch at the sight of blood. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:He says the island has an international profile and something like an eco-lodge or floating hotel would attract up-market, international visitors prepared to pay premium prices ordinary holiday-makers would blanch at. blessing and a curse Something that is a blessing and a curse has good aspects and bad aspects.Living in another country can be a blessing and a curse. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Working from home is a blessing and a curse and I've found the only way to make it work is to a) have hobbies and b) give yourself excuses to regularly get out of the house. blot on the landscape A blot on the landscape is something that spoils the look of a place.Some say that the new wind farm is a blot on the landscape. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It's totally inappropriate. It's going to be a blot on the landscape. blown away To be blown away is to be amazed or impressed.This new computer game will blow them away. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:When I was fishing I used to take friends and people I knew and it used to blow them away, this scenery and that. blue In Australian slang, a blue is a fight or argument. To have a blue with someone means to argue with them.We had a blue about who was doing most of the houswork. This is how the expression is used in one of our storiesid you get into some really good blues with people? bode well If something bodes well it is a good sign.This new project bodes well for the future of the town. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:While all this bodes well for the State, Bernard Salt warns the increased population growth is unlikely to last forever, but he believes its slowing is at least a few years away. body of evidence A body of evidence is a collection of evidence. It's all the things known about a certain subject.The body of evidence about smoking makes it clear that it is definitely not good for your health. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:There's a growing body of evidence that it does have cardiovascular benefits... bone of contention A bone of contention is a matter which causes disagreement or controversy.Class sizes have been a bone of contention among teachers for many years. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:And then there's the hat issue. I think that's a real bone of contention with younger women, because they're very aware that in Queensland you must wear a hat, but not if there's a gale-force wind. booked out completely reservedThere is no room in this hotel - we are booked out. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Because accommodation is so tight, entire hotels were booked out years ago, several tent cities have been built to handle the overflow. born and bred To be born and bred is to born and brought up in the one place.He's Jakarta born and bred. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Author Jeff Duncombe is Campbell Town born and bred. bottom line The bottom line is the most important thing to be worried about or the most important conclusion. This expression comes from the last or bottom line of an account that tells you how much money you have made.The bottom line is that our team has to win this game to stay in the competition. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Bottom line, can it be done? brain drain A brain drain refers to intelligent and well-qualified people leaving a country to work overseas.The country's brain drain will damage the economy in the long term. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The key finding is that there is no brain drain in Australia… brainchild A person’s brainchild is their original idea.English Bites is Barry Mitchell's brainchild. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The Certificate of Entrepreneurship and Enterprise Skills program is the brainchild of psychologist Louise Earnshaw. break down the barriers To break down the barriers means getting rid of the things that block your way and that make it difficult or impossible to do something.We need to break down the barriers of racial prejudice. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:...I think the fact that we've got three Indigenous women in the parliament in the Northern Territory also breaks down the barrier and educates our children in remote Aboriginal communities that political life is not impossible. break new ground To break new ground is to do or discover new things.Our lab is breaking new ground in AIDS research. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Single mum and full-time Child Safety Support Officer Carmel Knox is one of six women breaking new ground. break the ice To break the ice is to make people feel relaxed. We often use this expression to talk about formal meetings or parties.People drink at parties to help break the ice. break wind The expression break wind is a polite way of saying fart.It's best not to break wind during a job interview. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Ah Ma loved her brandy and she had this knack of breaking wind while everyone was watching TV. breaking with tradition doing something new; changing the usual way of doing somethingWe're breaking with tradition and getting married on the beach breath of fresh air A breath of fresh air is something or someone that is new, different and exciting.Our new staff members are a breath of fresh air. breathe down someone's neck pay too much attention to what someone is doingI can't study with people breathing down my neck. breathe easily/freely again You breathe easiky again when a crisis is over and you don't need to worry anymore.I can breathe easily again now that I know exactly where the children are. breathe your last dieLate in the afternoon the president breathed his last. breather A breather is a break or a rest.I'll just take a breather before I finish the job. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:On the Derwent at daybreak, this workhorse of the Southern Ocean takes a breather. breathing space A breathing space is a time to rest.I need a breathing space before I begin a new book. breeze in succeed easilyEveryone expects the American basketball team to breeze in. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:And that's one extra race the NSW Pacific Dragons didn't need to do after breezing into the final. bridges the gap allows two groups to come together; makes it eaiser to move from one thing to anotherThis new proposal should help bridge the gap between the warring parties. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I feel like my jewellery bridges the gap between art and fashion. bright idea A bright idea is a clever idea. To be bright means to be clever or smart. Sometimes we say something is a bright idea, but we mean the opposite.Whose bright idea was it to park their car in my way? In this example, we’re really saying that it was a stupid idea.This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Joanna Gair's bright idea means paper maker Darren Simpson spends a fair bit of his working day sorting through kangaroo poo in search of the best nuggets. bring home the bacon To bring home the bacon is to be successful or to earn the money for a family.I have to go to work to bring home the bacon. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It's like our Logies, our Oscars, our Golden Globes, our Tony Awards. It's the big one, really, and we're here to bring home the bacon, quite frankly. bring out the best Something that brings out the best in someone makes them show their best qualities.A disaster often brings out the best in people. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:A venue like this helps bring out the best in its local music community, but also provides a venue for overseas music. bring someone down a peg or two To bring someone down a peg or two is to make them realise they are not as good or powerful as they think they are.It's time she was brought down a peg or two and stopped ordering people around. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It may not be possible to eradicate this pest, but at least he can be brought down a peg or two. bring us to our senses make us behave sensiblySometimes we need a shock to bring us to our senses. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Will it take an Internet meltdown to bring us to our senses? brush up on improve or revise what you knowPeople use English Bites to brush up on their English. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It's not just for the blokes -- locals like Astrid Skene can also be found brushing up on their power tool know-how. buck stops here/ with you the final responsibility is yoursHe's the coach of the team, so the buck stops with him. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I think it's good when things go well being captain. There's a lot of pressure on you and you have to make the final moves and I guess if things don't work out the buck stops with you, so, there's a fair bit of pressure on buck the system To buck the system is to obstinately resist authority or object strongly to it.How does she manage to buck the system and take so much time off? This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Well, if I am bucking the system, we are bucking the system because the system isn't working for us. buggered Buggered is slang for damaged or broken.This computer is buggered. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But you must have had some injuries over the years. Oh, yeah. Buggered knees and shoulders and that. bumper to bumper Traffic that is only moving very slowly is referred to as bumper to bumper.It's bumper to bumper on South Road this morning. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It's bumper to bumper most nights. burn the candle at both ends To burn the candle at both ends is to work too much doing too many things or always be getting up early and going to bed late.I'm exhausted. I've been burning the candle at both ends lately. business as usual When we say that it’s business as usual, we mean that things continue as normal, often despite some trouble.It's business as usual at the markets, despite the fire there last night. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It was business as usual at Simon Hurwood's Brisbane practice. business end The business end of something is the most important part.The finals are the business end of the football season. buy into If you buy into something you believe it.I don't buy into any of that new age nonsense. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:When I was at school I was told that I wasn't gonna be anything other than a mother at an early age of 16 or something, um, so I should learn how to do food and nutrition and sewing. I didn't buy into it at all. by and large mostly; generallyBy and large the crowd is well behaved. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:By and large in the Sydney area, life was peaceful, but what happened to cause trouble were (sic) convicts stealing artefacts. by any means definitely not; in no way at allWe might be in front , but we haven't won by any means. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:We're not perfect, by any means. by far to a large degree; by a long wayThis is by far the best example. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It's my favourite shark by far. by foot by walkingHe's going to cross Africa by foot. This is how the expression is used in one of our storiesort Davey and Bathurst Harbour in the south-west is accessible only by foot, plane or boat. by the look of it judging from what seems to be; apparentlyWe're going to be late by the look of it. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Some large pieces came down there, by the looks of it. by the same token for the same reason or reasonsA desalination plant will be good in that it will provide drinking water, but by the same token it could ruin the fishing industry by making the sea too salty. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:We're too big to eat and they don't really want to waste their venom on us but, by the same token, if they're provoked they will defend themselves. by the way This expression is used to introduce something you have just thought of.I saw him yesterday, oh, by the way did you know that he's quit his job? This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I think that any form of singing in Australia is elitist in a lot of ways. Mainly because of this audition process and the fact that you have to be really good... and by the way I'm very supportive of that kind of singing.

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Australia Network - Nexus - English Bites Library - Common Expressions - c

call it a day If you call it a day, you decide to stop doing something.I know we haven't finished, but I'm getting too tired to concentrate properly. Let's call it a day. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But now one long-standing partnership is coming to an end. Caller James Reid has decided to call it a day: rounding up dancers and a young family is all a bit much. call the shots To call the shots is to be in control.I'm not the one who calls the shots around here. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Coordinating part of a 40-man track-laying team, the West Australian calls the shots on what to do when things go wrong. cannot hold a candle to Someone or something that cannot hold a candle to someone or something else is not nearly as good as the person or thing they are being compared to.Women play great tennis, but they can't hold a candle to the top male players. cap off complete; provide the final piece that pleasesSome people say a glass of wine caps off the perfect meal. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:And to cap off the living canvas, one hundred and fifty artless critics. capture the imagination Something that captures the imagination is something that makes you very interested or fascinated by something.Digital technology has captured the imagination of a generation. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Tales of terror like those from the Port Arthur convict settlement, captured the imagination of Michael Phillips from an early age. cark it Cark it is slang. It means to die.My goldfish carked it. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:If I were to cark it, they'd have somebody come to the house and say well Mrs Pharo hasn't answered the phone or we don't know where she is, could you check? carry the can To carry the can is to acept the blame or responsibility for something.It's not fair that only teachers are expected to carry the can for the poor performance of the students. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Broomrape is not a problem for us as farmers, it is everyone else's problem but we are the ones carrying the can. cash cow A cash cow is an excellent source of income. It’s something that can be relied on to always makes lots of money.The gambling industry has become a cash cow for governments in Australia. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The Tasmanian Government is looking to these areas as a cash cow and not really taking their responsibilities for management of the areas very seriously. cash in make money from; turn to advantageLet’s cash in on the property boom and sell our house now. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Having had this event thrust on them by the gods, Ceduna is cashing in on its moment in the shade. cat got your tongue To ask someone has the cat got your tongue? is the same as asking 'why don't you say something?'.What's up - has the cat got your tongue? catch on become popularUsing mobile phones has really caught on in the last decade. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Michael Noad has discovered that while the males sing a common tune, any variation that proves a hit with the females will quickly catch on. catch on realise something; notice somethingIt took me a while to catch on. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:According to an Adelaide University study, parents are often slow to catch on when their child is depressed. catch up with meet with people you know and talk to themI must catch up with my old school friends. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:While Rob Gilfillan guides the young kids across the Burleigh Heads sand and then along the scenic route his daughters use the squad to catch up with friends… cat's whiskers The cat's whiskers refers to the best thing, person or idea.He thinks he's the cat's whiskers caught red-handed To be caught red-handed is to be caught in the act of doing something wrong.He was caught red-handed taking money from the till. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:We haven't actually caught anybody red-handed, as it were. We've had reports of vandalism and disturbance to the site, and in each case we followed those up. caught the eye attracted the attentionHer performance caught the eye of the producer. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The research and development of Paul's violins caught the eye of the Shanghai Violin Company, China's biggest producer of violins. caught up in To be caught up in something is to be involved against your will.How did we get caught up in this mess? This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Clive Linnett's concerns are shared by many other farmers, who fear they're caught up in something more than drought. championed by supported and promoted byThe fight to save the environment is championed by many famous people. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:...many Greek and Italian families continued to grow and process fruit for pickling and for oil -- mainly for their own use -- and since the '80s, the oil and pickled olives market has been growing, championed by hobby farmers and food lovers. chances are it's likelyChances are that the government will win the election. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But chances are Dave's no ordinary plesiosaur. change the face change dramatically; make it look very differentThe writings of Karl Marx changed the face of politics. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:If it could be done, then it would be a tremendous breakthrough that would change the face of science. chequered history A chequered history is a varied history - the combination of the good, bad, interesting and unusual things that have happened to something or somebody.This old house has had a chequered history. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But for all its chequered history, it's the stories told by the pictures in the collection that are the most fascinating. child's play very easyDriving an automatic car is child's play. chip in To chip in is to contribute or help.Are you going to chip in to help buy a present for Sue who's retiring next week? This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The Lions Bay Rotary Club in Adelaide, which specialises in reconditioning electric wheelchairs for charity, chipped in when they heard of Danielle's need. chip off the old block Saying that someone is a chip off the old block is to say that they are very like one of their parents.He's gone into politics like his father. He's a chip off the old block. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Martin is literally a chip off the old block and carries on the family tradition not just by chopping, but by manufacturing top quality racing axes. churn out make in rapid successionThis production line churns out a thousand bottles a day. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The horses are in tip-top condition and, back in town, the milliners are working day and night to churn out as many hats as they can in what they call their 2-month money making season. clean up your act The phrase clean up your act means to change and start behaving in a way that other people find acceptable.You need to clean up your act and get a job. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I thought if we get three of four kids that come along and since they come along clean their act up it would be great but the amount of kids and quality of kids that come along, it just blows me away. clocked up To clock up means to reach a particular total.I just clocked up ten thousand kilometres in my car. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:In one case there was a young person who had clocked up 600 SMS text messages in a day. close on nearly; almostThe oldest hen is close on ten years old. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I've been in the Mushroom Shop for about six years and the family's been in the Market for close on 31 years. close up Something that is close up is in a position that is very near to you.You need to see the picture close up to appreciate all of the detail. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It's a very long way to come but through having a facility like this you get to see someone like Roger McGuinn from The Byrds play solo shows, like Jimmy Webb play solo shows, some of the great music writers and it's fantastic to see legends like that really close up. close-knit bound together by close social ties; friendly and intimate; tending to keep togetherOur family is very close-knit. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Stargazers the world over might be saddened by the damage to this historic observatory but the close-knit local community of astronomers is already talking about once again looking towards the heavens from Mount Stromlo. cocked his snoot To cock your snoot is to show your lack of respect for something. Literally, cocking your snoot is making the rude gesture of putting your thumb to your nose and waggling your fingers.He cocked his snoot at authority by not wearing school uniform. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:We liked the way he cocked his snoot at convention. cold fish A cold fish is someone who is unfriendly or shows little emotion.I tried to get to know him better, but he's a cold fish. come about Something that comes about happens.I don't know when my promotion will come about. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I’m a designer and it all came about - I didn’t know what I wanted to do and left working for a big company to, much to my parents’ disgust, to go back and study the arts as a furniture designer/maker, which then ended up leading into doing restaurants, bars, clubs, hotels, cafes, retail shops, everything. come across encounter; findWe were in the park when we came across a huge spider. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I came across a dump, a kampong dump, just 10 minutes from where I was staying and it was literally all glass, and the glass had come from buildings that had been demolished previously. come across as appear to be; give the impression of beingWe want our presenter for the new show to come across as warm and friendly. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:They want you to come across as a real person. come full circle To come full circle is to return to the position from which you started.Fashion has come full circle and my old shoes are trendy again. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:They were one of the first acts I saw down here, and they actually recorded for the record company, so the chap who'd signed them, a guy called Adam, dragged me down to see them at The Basement, brought me in the back and sat and saw them and they were fantastic, and amazingly in some ways the wheel's come full circle because they re-formed just this year and did a couple of amazing shows here... come home to roost Something that comes home to roost is the usually unpleasant consequence of a decision made a long time ago.The decision to save money by not treating the house for termites came home to roost when they discovered the damage the insects had caused only a few years later. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:For professional abalone diver John Lashmar, simply harvesting the strictly regulated sea snail has been his own road to good fortune for almost 30 years, but now an abundance of farmed abalone is changing the world market as never before. It's really come home to roost now. Like, a few years ago, when the product started coming in to the market, people were concerned about it, but I think it's really hit home now. come on side To come on side means to support someone.It took a while, but the bank eventually came on side. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The town's development board also came on side. come out of the closet To come out of the closet means to publicly admit something that has been kept secret.He came out of the closet and admitted he was gay. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Now that he's come out of the closet his passion for classical music has been renewed with a vengeance. come out of the woodwork To come out of the woodwork is to appear suddenly in unexpected numbers.When I won a lot of money, all sorts of old friends came out of the woodwork. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:And when we had the World Cup and Italy won, it was really awesome. A lot of Italians come out of the woodwork. come to grips begin to understand and deal with a problemWe have to come to grips with the problem of unemployment. Another form of this expression is get to grips.I'm going to try to get to grips with English tenses. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It's hard for the whole community to come to grips with it, there's quite a long healing process after anything like this and the best thing of the lot is for people to talk about it. come to light Something that comes to light becomes know or is revealed.He'll be in trouble when his criminal past comes to light. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:There were rumours such that the bridge was moving when workmen were working on it, that concrete were moving, that rivets were popping, that bolts were coming undone. These are the sort of things that have been coming to light, you know, amongst the press particularly as they have been talking to workmen. come to pass happenI'm starting to think that the new bridge will never come to pass. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:That threat hasn't come to pass. come to the crunch To come to the crunch is to reach the critical moment or test that determines an issue.When it came to the crunch in the big game, he wasn't as good a player as we thought. come to the party To come to the party is to do what is expected or wanted, often by making a contribution of money.What we need is a new sponsor to come to the party. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:We want a nice grandchild off him and he'll not come to the party. comes down to is mainly about; can be reduced toHis argument really comes down to one point. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I think there is no limit to what we may be able to do. It really comes down to a surveillance issue within sport; it comes to an ethic issue in sport. comes in handy is useful and neededThe money I got for my tax return will come in handy. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:We’ve just picked up your standard stubby holder, which always comes in handy. You cannot have enough stubby holders. comes into its own Something that comes into its own shows how good or useful it is in a particular situation.A motorbike really comes into its own in a traffic jam. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But research comes into its own when it’s applied, and at the University of Adelaide, they’re putting the finishing touches to a motorbike that runs on biofuel. comfort zone If you are in a comfort zone then you are relaxed and content. You find things are too easy.We should get out of our comfort zone and go camping. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:We include it because we like to get kids out of their comfort zone and for the socialisation process as well. conked out Something that has conked out has broken down or stopped working.The car has conked out again. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I think he just got lucky and probably a kangaroo had conked out down amongst the willows and he grabbed its bone, a shin bone, and used it on the bats. consigned to history Something that is consigned to history is something you can only know about by reading history books or visiting museums. It's something that is not used anymore or something that has been destroyed.Eventually landline telephones will be consigned to history. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:These three historic homes on MacKinnon Parade are about to be consigned to history themselves. cooling-off period A cooling-off period is a period after a sale. During this time, a customer can change their mind, and get out of the contract.There is a cooling-off period when you buy a house. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:There'll be a 3-day cooling-off period. cop this Cop this is a slang term meaning to put up with or suffer.I'm not going to cop this anymore. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Well, I got told I had to get off the green if I didn't put that bowls cloth in a pocket and I thought this is ridiculous, and this is when I first started, and I thought 'Oh god, do I have to cop this?' cotton on begin to understand; realiseHe just won't cotton on to the idea that I don't like him. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But then once I explain the symbology of the image, people start to get it, and children really get it quickly, you know, they cotton on, they go 'Yeah, oh, OK'… A similar expression is catch on cough up (informal) give, usually reluctantlyHe finally coughed up the money he owed me. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The Housing Department coughed up $20,000 for tools and, three years on, it's an undeniable success. count for little are not regarded as important; not worth muchHuman lives count for little in times of war. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But this 57-year-old grandmother has learnt that enthusiasm and life experience count for little if you're over 45 and looking for a job count on depend on; expectI count on my car starting everyone morning. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:At least Ted Davies and those along the Darling River can count on a water supply again. count the cost feel or regret the effects of a bad mistake or disasterI'm still counting the cost of quitting my old job. This is how the expression is used in one of our storieserhaps we don't need to have this invasive species, and doing everything that we can to keep it out now is a far better thing than counting the cost at some later time. crack down To crack down means to act forcefully to stop something.The police are going to crack down on vandalism in the area. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The Government's already announced it's cracking down on so-called fighting dogs. crack of dawn The crack of dawn is sunrise, or very early in the morning.I had to be up at the crack of dawn to catch my plane. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:They're here at the crack of dawn, tilling the soil, growing a lot of herbs and vegetables which you can't buy commercially, and there's a lot of really weird and interesting plants growing here in this garden. crack the code solve the code; find the answerIt took me ages to crack the code. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:If they can crack the code we may end up with more than just everlasting colour. crash hot good; excellentHis work is not really crash hot. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:What do you think of these new bikinis? I think they're really crash hot. cream of the crop the very bestOnly the cream of the crop play in a symphony orchestra. This expression is often shortened to the cream as in this story.We were addressing the larger flow of those persons, not just the cream. creature comforts Creature comforts are the things that make life easier and more comfortable - like having a comfortable place to live, or expensive food or a nice car.I hate camping because I miss my creature comforts. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I would say I wasn't very prepared to start living in a different country away from home, away from all the creature comforts... cropping up appearingNew houses are cropping up everywhere in my suburb. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It was a time when probation stations were cropping up around the State and being hailed as a revolutionary solution to the old system of assignment where convicts were allocated to free settlers. cross your fingers To cross your fingers is to try to stop bad luck and hope that things will go well.We've done all we can, so now we just cross our fingers and hope it will work. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:These scientists say it's a case of nothing ventured, nothing gained and all they can do now is cross their fingers. cross your mind If something crosses your mind, you think about it for a short time.It crossed my mind that he was lying. crying out for If someone is crying out for something they really want it or need it.The outer suburbs are crying out for more public transport. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:With an accredited abattoir up and running, Phil Gee predicts that Australia could export more than 25,000 processed camels a year to markets crying out for the meat. culture shock Culture shock is the unhappiness and unease caused by not understanding a different society with different expectations.I felt some culture shock when I went overseas to study. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I think initially they find the culture shock. Because, well, in English classes back at home, they can only learn so much about the actual culture. cup of tea thing that you likeWorking on the weekends is not my cup of tea. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Being a pilot for the Royal Flying Doctor Service is different to a lot of aviation's jobs. It's not everyone's cup of tea. cut any ice To cut any ice is to impress or influence someoneStreet marches don't cut any ice with this government. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But that doesn't cut any ice with people who have come from country cities here who are not used to walking. cut corners To cut corners is to not do things properly but in the quickest and easiest way.If you cut corners the quality of your work suffers. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Right through the ages, there have been police that have cut corners when they're under pressure. cut price cheapThey're offering cut price fares to Singapore. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But it's not <>cut price in the sense of any corners cut and so there's a lot of emphasis put on making sure that the academic standards are absolutely equivalent. cut short Something that is cut short is ended before it should be.My favourite TV show was cut short by the power blackout. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Because the average age of women joining is 27, there's a fear their careers will be cut short as they have a family. cutting edge new; leading the wayHe's working on some cutting edge research. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Our cutting edge photonics technology is old hat for Mother Nature.

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Australia Network - Nexus - English Bites Library - Common Expressions - d

dance to someone's tune To dance to someone's tune is to do whatever someone tells you to.We'll have to dance to the tune of our new boss. dare say I dare say means I suppose, or it seems likely.I dare say you find this example useful. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I'd be lost, very saddened to have to give up and not show movies. It's been part of my life now for almost a quarter of a century, but I dare say I'd have to live with it. dates back goes back in time toThe feud dates back to an insult someone made twenty years ago This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The construction of the 1,400km line is the realisation of a grand vision that dates back more than 100 years. David and Goliath battle A David and Goliath battle is an uneven contest between someone very small and someone very large and powerful with the possibility that the small contestant might win.This Saturday's game between the teams on the top and bottom of the competition looks like being a David and Goliath battle. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It's shaping up to be a David and Goliath battle and it's being waged from these modest campaign headquarters in Devonport. days are numbered To say that something's days are numbered means that it hasn't got long to live.In some countries the days of smoking in restaurants are numbered. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Visit many suburban shopping strips these days and you'd be forgiven for thinking the days of the corner store are well and truly numbered. dead easy Dead easy is slang. It means very, very easy.Learning English with English Bites is dead easy. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:And while there are ready-made worm farms available, it's dead easy to make your own. dead heat A dead heat is a draw or a tie. It's when contestants get the same result as their opponents.The race ended in a dead heat. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It's going to be a dead heat today, I can guarantee that. dead loss complete failure; uselessThis car is a dead loss - it won't go over 40km per hour. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I'd say it's a dead loss. There's 100 acres here I don't think any of it's going to be much good to us. dead meat in serious troubleYou'll be dead meat if she finds out what you've done. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:And on the other hand, you had Gough Whitlam leading the renaissance of the Labor Party - bringing it back from 20 years of being dead meat. dead of night The dead of night is the quietest, darkest hours of the night .He waited until the dead of night before breaking into the house. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:They come in the dead of night- ghostly forms, bright lights, and now they're getting physical. different kettle of fish A different kettle of fish is something that is completely different from something that has just been mentioned.Novelists are not always good sciptwriters. Writing for the screen is a different kettle of fish. This is how the expression is used in one of our storieso you think you would give the pulp mill a run for its money? I doubt that very much. We are a different kettle of fish in many ways. Our paper is entirely hand made using 2 000-year-old processes... dig deep To dig deep is to give lots of money or make a special effort.You should dig deep for this worthy charity. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It is big corporates digging deep and they are ready to dig deep for young Australians. dire straits To be in dire straits is to be in extreme difficulty or in terrible circumstances.We were in dire straits when I lost my job. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:There are no new drugs on the horizon, as far as we know, so if we don't do something soon, invest money and convince pharmaceutical companies that they have to do more in this area, then we're going to be in dire straits. do a vanishing act If someone does a vanishing act they go away or become difficult to find when there is unpleasant work to do or consequences to face.Whenever it's time to do the dishes he does a vanishing act. do it up To do something up is to renovate it or improve it.We'll have to do up the house before we try to sell it. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Well, I bought it two months ago. Did it all up. Was an auto electrician and I decided to put it in the ute show. do your bit Someone who is doing their bit is making a contribution or doing their share of the work.He's doing his bit for the cause. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But at the very least, they believe they're doing their bit to restore what they see as an imbalance in not only Australian theatre, but in the broader community. do your nut To do your nut is to lose your temper.He did his nut when I told him I'd lost the money. dog eat dog A situation that is dog eat dog is fiercely competititive and unsentimental.It's a dog eat dog world in big business. dog's breakfast Something that is a dog's breakfast is a mess.You look like a dog's breakfast this morning. dog's life When someone says it's a dog's life, they mean that it is a life without much pleasure.It's a dog's life in jail. dolled-up dressed in a showy wayShe was all dolled-up to go out. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I think it's, you know, like I said before, it's a night for us to, you know, get all dolled-up or whatever. donkey work Donkey work is the difficult and boring parts of a job.I'll have to do the donkey work I suppose? down the track in the futureA few years down the track, I'll finish studying and find a job. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:A year down the track, the adoption will be finalised. down to Down to means caused by.This mess is down to you. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Across the board, every type of child care service is really struggling to attract and retain skilled and qualified staff, and it's largely down to the appallingly low wages and poor conditions. drag your feet do something slowly and reluctantlyThe government is dragging its feet over the new reforms. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:...if people drag their feet when it comes to investigating the possibilities that infections are causing these diseases, and if they dismiss them without really having evidence that warrants dismissing them, then many people may die. draw a line in the sand decide at what point you will not accept any moreWe are drawing a line in the sand and not accepting any more road closures. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:And it's in the other direction, along the South Gippsland coast where residents are drawing a line in the sand. draw a long bow Drawing a long bow means to exaggerate or to make something seem bigger or better than it really is.You'd be drawing a long bow to say that you sing like Pavarotti. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:We get some success in that but we'd be drawing a long bow if we said were as successful in that as we'd like. draw me back bringing me back; attracting me backThe quality of food at the market keeps drawing me back. draw the line To draw the line means to refuse to do something.I draw the line at working on the weekend. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But for now, the mill is drawing the line at testing other forms of native animal poo for paper-making qualities. draw to a close Something that is drawing to a close is about to finish.The film is drawing to a close. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:...we can't underestimate how important those opportunities are as people's lives are drawing to a close. dream come true A dream come true means something you’ve waited for or wanted for a long time has finally become real.Being chosen for the part in the film was a dream come true. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:His 500 year old works sell for millions if you can find one. That one could turn up in Adelaide would be a dream come true. dressed to the nines To be dressed to the nines is to be wearing very formal and elegant clothes.We got dressed to the nines for the wedding. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:When Vicki isn't dressed to the nines, she's one of 111 students at the Cunderdin Agricultural College in WA. drive up the wall Being sent or driven up the wall is being driven crazy or being very annoyed.The loud music next door is sending me up the wall. drive you up the wall To drive somebody up the wall is to annoy them or make them angry.The noise from next door is driving me up the wall. driving force A driving force is the main cause of something or the person who makes things happen.He is the driving force behind this project. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The driving force behind the boom is 4-wheel drives. drop in the ocean A drop in the ocean means an insignificant contribution or having the same effect as one drop of water has in the whole ocean.Reducing pollution by taking the train instead of driving is just a drop in the ocean, but at least it's not adding to the problem. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:While Recruitnet admits its recycling effort is just a drop in the ocean, it hopes to inspire both computer producers and consumers to do more to combat the problem. drop out leave; abandon; quit schoolHe dropped out of university in his first year. This is how the expression is used in one of our storiesrincipal Steve Boyle hatched the childcare plan after watching many students become pregnant and drop out of the education system for good. drum up To drum up is to solicit things, especially trade or customersWe need to drum up a lot more support if we are going to win the election. dummy run A dummy run is a trial or an experimental attempt.We need to do a dummy run to make sure that it works. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:We've done a lot of dummy runs to date, so we're fairly comfident we've got it right. dyed in the wool Someone who is dyed in the wool is seriously commited to something and not likely to change.He's a dyed in the wool football fanatic. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Maybe in the short-term, zero tolerance thing will scare off a handful of newcomers to it, but for guys that are dyed in the wool graffiti artists or vandals, they're going to keep doing it irrespective of what the laws are.

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Australia Network - Nexus - English Bites Library - Common Expressions - e

early on in the piece at the beginning of somethingI felt that there was something wrong early on in the piece. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:They came and met us very early on in the piece when they were getting a feel for what they might go for here. earn a crust Earning a crust means making a living or making enough money to survive.You have to do something to earn a crust, even if it's just cleaning. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:A case of necessity moving out here and then having to endure a life of earning a crust, basically. earn their keep To earn your keep is to make enough money or be useful enough to justify your place in society.It's time the children starting earning their keep in this house by doing more chores. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:King Islanders basically earn their keep from cows, either through exports from the abattoir... ..or the production of premium cheese and dairy products. eased into To ease into something is to start doing it in a relaxed way.She eases into the working day by answering her emails and having a cup of coffee. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The first morning was a bit kind of, "Oh, what are we going to be doing? How are we going to do this?" But once we eased into it, it was really natural. echoed by repeated byThis complaint is echoed by many other people in the area. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It's a concern echoed by residents of another Queensland seaside town, Caloundra, on the Sunshine Coast, who claim their beach shacks are also under threat. end of the road If something is the end of the road, it's the last place you can go. There's nowhere else.It's the end of the road for our relationship. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Well, there is nowhere else for them to go, ours is the end of the road. Another form of this expression is the end of the line. enter your mind/head Something that enters your mind or your head is thought of or occurs to youLosing never entered my head for the whole game. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It never entered my mind when I was younger. "Oh, you know, I won't be retiring. I'll be always working." environmentally friendly not damaging to the environment; using energy that won't pollute or run outUsing your own bag to carry groceries instead of using and then throwing away plastic bags is an environmentally friendly thing to do. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But it might soon become famous for something far more important - as the birthplace of a brand new form of environmentally friendly water transport. established in started in; began in; set up in; founded inThe school was established in 1952. ever expanding always growing or increasingHer ever expanding collection of cups is taking up too much space. every now and then occasionallyI go to football games every now and then. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Every now and then we get people coming out of their houses asking us what we're doing going through their bins. experienced first-hand experienced for youself; experienced directlyUntil you have experienced first-hand the power of the sea, you don't really understand how easy it is to be drowned. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Working 10-hour days, with one day off a fortnight, he has experienced first-hand how mateship can make a difference. exposed to the elements out in the bad weatherThe storm destroyed our house and we were exposed to the elements. eye contact To have eye contact is to look directly at another person's eyes while they are looking at your eyes.I thought he was lying because he wouldn't make eye contact. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:In Asia, students tend to not have eye contact or they don't tend to speak so much in class... eyesore An eyesore is something ugly or unpleasant - something that makes your eyes sore when you look at it.The new house is an eyesore. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It would involve a road across the dune, there, and down the escarpment. It would involve a huge breakwall, 130 metres long, across the rocks over there. It would be a dreadful eyesore.

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face falls
If your face falls you suddenly look sad or disappointed.Her face fell when we told her the bad news.

face the music
To face the music is to accept or be confronted with the unpleasant consequences of your actions.The person who robbed us should be arrested and made to face the music in court.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:He decided to take his chances with the crocs instead of facing the music at the police station.

face to face
To be face to face is to be with someone and be able to talk with them.I prefer face to face contact with my teacher.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But in my heart of hearts, the thing that I loved most was my contact with people. Really , right down to face to face contact with people and I felt that through Sing Australia my music can be something that's uplifting for people.

fair bit
A fair bit means a large amount, or a significant amount.I've done a fair bit of work today.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Joanna Gair's bright idea means paper maker Darren Simpson spends a fair bit of his working day sorting through kangaroo poo in search of the best nuggets.

fair dinkum
Fair dinkum is Australian slang. It means to be true or genuine.He's not being fair dinkum.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:We work on four principles and that is: to be respectful with each other; to be safe and legal; to participate and I guess the right not to participate; and to be fair dinkum, to try and tell the truth.

fair enough
Fair enough is used in a couple of ways. We use it for accepting a suggestion."The work will cost $300."
"Fair enough, but can you do it tomorrow?"
And we also use it to say that something is reasonable.It's fair enough for younger people to be paid less than more experienced employees.

fair few
A fair few is quite a lot.I've read a fair few of these examples.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It takes a fair few roo scats to make a piece of paper - about half a handful per sheet.

fair go
A fair go means a reasonable chance, or a fair opportunity.You expect the legal system to give you a fair go.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It's one of the most argued about events in Australian history and, to some people, it symbolises a demand for a fair go.

fair share
A fair share is an adequete, expected or desired amount.I've had my fair share of colds this year.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But don't worry, Andre does get his fair share of vitamin D.

fall by the wayside
To fall by the wayside is to fail or not to be able to continue.A lot of students fall by the wayside in the first few months of a degree.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Companies that don't change their designs, don't change their approach to manufacturing and don't pick up new technologies are falling by the wayside.

fall in love
To fall in love is to decide that you like someone or something very much.When you see her, you'll fall in love immediately.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:And I heard there was an after-party going on at a place called The Basement. So I came down here & took one look, it used to be located next door of course, and I took one look and fell in love with it immediately.

fall prey/victim to
To fall prey to or fall victim to is to be killed or injured by something or somebody.He's the third person to fall victim to the flu from this office.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:In northern waters, dugongs have been drowned in fishing and shark nets and fallen prey to Indigenous hunting.

fall through
A plan or arrangement that falls through can't be completed because something has gone wrong.The sale fell through at the last minute.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:There were a couple of attempts to build a supermarket on the original site. Between council regs, finance and bad luck that one fell through.

fall under
belong in a particular category; be included withPyjamas and underwear fall under lingerie in most department stores.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Speed dating services, internet services and dating agencies in Queensland will all fall under the new laws.

far and wide
over a very large area; many places; everywherePeople have come from far and wide to attend the festival.
This is how the expression is used in one of our storiesjalu's fame has spread far and wide. People from all over the world are welcome to visit and learn the secrets of the yidaki.

far-fetched
unlikely; exaggerated and unbelievableI thought too many things in the movie were far-fetched.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The real prize is effectively taking control of the world's computers by creating a nasty computer bug that would effectively crash most of the Internet. And that's not far-fetched.

fed up
If you're fed up with something, you're annoyed with it. You've had enough. You're not going to do it anymore.I'm fed up with doing the dishes every night.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Fed up with receiving little pay for endless hours of work, she and 15 others in the company decided to stay in Melbourne and apply for residency.

feel blue
To feel blue is to feel sad or depressed.I feel a bit blue today.

feet of clay
The expression feet of clay refers to a weakness in the character of someone famous.It's always disappointing to find that your heroes have feet of clay.

few and far between
not happening often; infrequentWins for the local football team have been few and far between this year.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But these days the stories are few and far between because the bad news about the Murray cod is that it's in decline.

fiddle with
try to fix or manipulate something you don’t fully understand or that might be damagedI’ll fiddle with the TV and see if I can make it work.
This is how the expression is used in one of our storieseople don't want to fiddle with their eyes, they don't want to keep taking a lens in and out.

figure out
understand; work outI can't figure out how to fix it.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:A lot of the work that people like myself are involved in revolves around trying to figure out the health of river systems and things like that.

fill in the gaps
complete the map; find out what isn't knownThey keep sending probes to Mars to fill in the gaps of our knowledge.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It's literally teeming with life but remarkably much of it is unmapped and unknown. Freshwater ecologist John Gooderham wants to fill in the gaps.

find your feet
To find your feet means to become familiar with something, or get used to it.It took a while to find my feet at work, but now I'm as good as anyone.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:By the end of the week the Welsh team was starting to find its feet and a lot of friends around the shearing shed.

fingers crossed
We say fingers crossed when wishing someone good luck or when we are hoping for success.I'm going for an interview today, so it's fingers crossed.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But Paris for fashion, is definitely the place, you know, the place to be seen to make it. So fingers crossed.

first hand
directly; from your own experience or knowledge; from the sourceYou need to experience something first hand to fully understand it.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Veteran actor Charles 'Bud' Tingwell has experienced first hand the changing nature of Australian spoken language.

first in, best dressed
the first person to arrive gets the advantageWhen it comes to getting the best food from a smorgasbord, it’s first in, best dressed.
This expreesssion is used in Gold Mine 27/2/03.At the Leonora Office of Mines Registrar, it's a case of first in, best dressed.

first port of call
the first place you goMy first port of call in a shopping centre is a café.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:This is the first port of call for visitors and it should be the point at which the Townsville residents identify their future.

fish for compliments
To fish for compliments is to encourage people to say nice things about you.Stop asking if your work is up to standard. You're just fishing for compliments.

fit as a mallee bull
To be as fit as a malle bull is to be extremely fit.He should make a good footballer - he's young, strong and as fit as a mallee bull.

flat out
very busy with no time to stopI'm flat out at work today.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The runners are flat out carrying challenge slips to the judges, who scan the official dictionary - a combination of the UK 'Chambers' and the American 'Webster's Dictionary'.

flavour of the month
Something that is especially popular at a particular time or fashionable is called flavour of the month.During the World Cup football is flavour of the month.

flesh and blood
family; directly relatedYour children are your flesh and blood.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:No grandparent resents bringing up their own grandkids. I mean any grandparent that's worth her salt will say "these are my flesh and blood and I'll take them no matter what".

flogging a dead horse
Flogging a dead horse is an expression used to to say that you are wasting your energy trying to do something that clearly can't be done.He's still trying to convince her to come back. Talk about flogging a dead horse.

fly a kite
To fly a kite means to release some information about a plan to see how people react.I think the government is flying a kite by announcing an inquiry into nuclear power.

fly off the hook/handle
lose your temper; get very, very angryHe flies off the handle all the time.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I could fly off the hook within about five seconds. What did you do? I'd usually get up, yell, swear at the teachers and that, push the other students around.

follow in someone's footsteps
To follow in someone's footsteps means to do the same things as somebody else, especially somebody in your family.He's going to follow in his father's footsteps and be a doctor too.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:A former racer himself he was pleased when his son decided to follow in his footsteps.

follow suit
do the same thing; behave in the same wayWhen one company raises the price of fuel, you can expect all of the other companies to follow suit.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:When life turned upside down for Noel Rogers, it's fair to say she followed suit.

foot in both camps
To have a foot in both camps is to be involved with two separate groups who do not normally work together.He has a business and a job at the university, so he has a foot in both camps.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I always wanted to do something that was in the interface between biology and engineering. You could say I had a premature midlife crisis and I didn't want to do just engineering. I've got one foot in both camps, which is sort of fun.

foot the bill
To foot the bill is to pay the bill, usually for a large amount of money.I think vandals should foot the bill for the damage they cause.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The Royal Commission's most controversial recommendation is that the British should come back here and clean it all up. And they should foot the bill of anything up to two-hundred-million dollars.

for a living
If you do something for a living, it’s your job. It’s what you do to earn money.I teach for a living.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I grow bonsai for a living.

for good
permanently; foreverI've finished with studying for good.
This is how the expression is used in one of our storiesrincipal Steve Boyle hatched the childcare plan after watching many students become pregnant and drop out of the education system for good.

for kicks
To do something for kicks is to do it only for the pleasure and excitement of it and not for other reasons.He steals cars just for kicks.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I'd go around dropping the pictures into people's mailboxes and like giving them a surprise in the morning, you know, just for kicks.

for short
as a quicker or shorter way of saying somethingMy name is Reginald, but you can call me Reg for short.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Well, my full name is Vasiliki Victoria de los Angeles, but everyone calls me Vicki for short...

for the record
so that the facts are remembered correctlyJust for the record, I'd like my disagreement noted down in the minutes of this meeting.
This is how the expression isused in one of our stories:And for the record, old Reggie boy took out the sprint and Boulia Cup double, not that you would remember that by this time next year.

for the sake of it
because we enjoy it; because we like doing it; because we have nothing better to doI'm not writing all of this just for the sake of it.

for the time being
now, and for a short time in the futureYou can keep doing that for the time being until we hire someone else who can do it.
Another form of this expression is for the moment.I'm happy here for the moment, but eventually I'd like to move overseas.
This expression is used in Credit Card Scams 11/3/03.For the time being credit card companies and banks around the world are turning to so-called smart cards in an effort to keep at least one step ahead of the scammers.

forked out
paidI forked out more than twenty dollars for lunch.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Some have forked out tens of thousands of dollars to dating agencies in the hope of finding love.

former
was once; used to be
We use former to say that someone used to do something, such as a particular job, in the past.The former president of the United States, Bill Clinton, is doing a lecture tour.
Another form of this expression is ex-The ex-president of the United States, Bill Clinton, is doing a lecture tour.
Yet another way of saying this is erstwhile.Australia has a good relationship with its erstwhile enemy, Japan.
This expression is used in Public Shelters 10/3/05.Former policeman John Nicholas knows just what is meant by sleeping rough.

free rein
To have free rein is to be able to do or say what you want.You don't have free rein to say anything you want in public.

frog in your throat
To have a frog in your throat is not to be able to speak properly because you have a blocked throat.Excuse me (cough), I've got a frog in my throat.

from scratch
From scratch means from the very beginning.We lost everything in the flood and had to start from scatch.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The HSC assessment also includes a group piece, where the students create a play from scratch, which is at least 12 minutes long.

front line
the most important place; where things are happeningThis new research is right on the front line of its field.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:This supermarket is the front line in an international battle for the hearts, minds and stomachs of Japanese consumers.

fronted up
arrived; appeared; attendedI fronted up for work every day this week.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I fronted up for work every day this week. I fronted up and said, "I want to hire an aeroplane for a month, and fly solo around the outback."

full bore
the maximum speed or capacityThe car was going full bore when it crashed.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:At Australia's major bag manufacturer in Melbourne, production is going full bore.

full on
Full on is a slang expression for anything that is carried out to the utmost.Skydiving is a full on experience.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:We never imagined getting here. We joked about it. But, you know, we are here. It's pretty full on; like, big days, big nights.

furphy
a false story; more rumour than fact; something of a lie; something that is not quite trueIt's a bit of a furphy to say that all dogs are vicious.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It's just a bit of a furphy that raw milk makes better cheese.

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Australia Network - Nexus - English Bites Library - Common Expressions - g

gear up prepare; get readyThere is a lot of activity when a city gears up for the Olympic Games. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Right now, Rockhampton is in the grip of bull madness, as the city gears up for the nation's biggest beef expo, which it hosts every three years. genie is out of the bottle To say that the genie is out of the bottle is to say that something unpredictable and dangerous has been set free.The genie is out of the bottle with genetically modified crops. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I don't think Australia can wait another two or three years before we do something about this, because the genie is out of the bottle. get a buzz out of To get a buzz out of something is to get a thrill, or to enjoy something very much.I get a buzz out of driving fast. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I really enjoy and get a buzz out of just seeing the amount of effort put in by so many organisations to get to the stage of releasing these animals into the wild. get a feel for To get a feel for something is to gain an understanding about it.It took a while to get a feel for this new computer program. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Besides viewing species in zoos and museums, Ms Kurczok spends time observing her subjects in the wild to get a feel for their habitat. get a grip on take control ofWe must get a grip on the rising crime rate. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:However, there's plenty of competition for that money - a fact that golf courses are going to have to recognise if they expect to get a grip on the problem. get away from it all To get away from it all is to go on holiday in order to escape from the problems of modern life.I'm going bushwalking to get away from it all. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:To 300,000 visitors every year, Fraser Island is a paradise found. A place to get away from it all and get close to nature - especially to dingoes. get behind To get behind something is to completely support it.You should get behind the appeal to raise money for victims of the disaster. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The whole town has got behind this project and it's now about much more than new parents and their babies. get down to business To get down to business is to start doing something seriously.Ok, enough joking - it's time to get down to business. get in touch with To get in touch with means to contact or communicate with.I must get in touch with my parents. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:You can get in touch with the flying doc any time of the day and night with the emergency button, and they're very good. get into become involved; get interestedI got into computers when I was about ten years old. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:So, my father and uncle played lawn bowls so I got into it at an early age and sort of stuck to it. get into shape To get into shape is to become healthy and fit.I'm going to start excercising and get into shape. get into the spirit To get or enter into the spirit of something is to take part in something with enthusiasm.They get into the spirit of Christmas by decoarating their house. get it understand itI don't get it. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:What we're finding is that people in this community understand that climate change is already affecting them. Really, they get it here. get off lightly To get off lightly is to be lucky and avoid injury, punishment or troubleI think he got off lightly with just a fine. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:So far these guys have got off lightly. Just a broken wrist and a few concussions that's about it. get off the ground start successfullyAll we need to get off the ground is a loan from the bank. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The proponents of space tourism really want to see it get off the ground ... get on like a house on fire To get on like a house on fire is to become friendly very quickly.We got on like a house on fire from the moment we met. get on with it continue even though it is difficultI know that we don’t have enough staff, but we’ll just have to get on with it. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I'm very sorry I can't be emotional about things like this, but, you know, working is working, and if this is the job you do, you get on with it. get on your high horse To get on your high horse is to be irritated because you think that someone has not shown you enough respect.She got on her high horse when he started to criticise her work. get rid of To get rid of something means to dispose of it and be free of it.I want to get rid of all this rubbish. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:We’re not going to suddenly get rid of industry here and we don’t want to. get stuck in To get stuck in is to work hard.Let's get stuck in and get the job finished. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I mean, they just have a willingness to work and they get really stuck in but they're also really good for the community. get the bug become enthused; get involved and excitedOnce you start learning about computers, you get the bug and spend more and more time with them. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Everybody's fascinated and I think, you know, once you start doing it, you get the bug. get the hang of it To get the hang of something is to learn how to use or do something.It takes a while to get the hang of this computer program. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It doesn't worry me what it is, it's just working every day. It's different, doing other things. But, yes, you get the hang of it. get wind of To get wind of something is to hear about something secret.How did she get wind of the new plan? get you down make you depressed; make you sadThe amount to learn in English sometimes gets me down. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It does get you down. You know you should be able to see that and should be able to do that, but you can't -- you know you can't, and it does get frustrating, I tell you, very frustrating at times. gets up your nose Something that gets up your nose annoys you.Working on the weekend gets up my nose. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I don't mind competing against corporate farms if they're genuine tea tree farmers, but, you know, if they're there for a completely different reason, well, then, that gets up my nose a little bit. getting even To get even is to cause someone the same amount of trouble or harm they have caused you.I'm going to get even with him and scratch his car like he scratched mine. get-up-and-go energy and enthusiasmWe want to hire someone with a lot of get-up-and-go. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Being a woman and an artist in the 20th century is hard enough, but being a woman and an artist in the 19th century I think was probably near impossible unless you had a very rich husband and a lot of get-up-and-go. give away reveal; tellDon't give away your secrets. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Exactly what is in our sausage is good lean pork, pork from female pigs, male pigs tend to taste a bit stronger, and cereal binders, but that's about all I can give away at the moment. give it away stop doing somethingI'm sick of playing football. I should give it away. This is how the expression is used in one of our storieso you know why they give it away? give someone a go To give someone a go means to give them a chance, or an opportunity to try something.We should give the young players a go. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I bought her her first car for the road and that was a manual car as well, and she spruced it up, put some big wheels on it and made it look like the boy's car down the road and I thought "Well, yeah, I'll give her a go". give someone a hand To give someone a hand is to help them.Can you give me a hand with my homework? This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:You get pretty tired but at least I'm helping dad and giving him a hand and all that because he's really busy. give someone grief To give somebody grief is to criticise their behaviour.My girlfriend is always giving me grief. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The unconditional love, with the dogs, and you can't get that from a person, they don't talk back, they don't give you any grief if you're late or you're too drunk when you come home, it's all good. give someone the drum To give someone the drum is Australian slang for giving someone some useful information or advice.He gave me the drum on the winning horse before the race. give someone the go ahead To give someone the go ahead is to allow them to proceed or to tell them that something can now happen.I'm not doing any more work on this project until we're given the go ahead. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I have talked to the owner a couple of times and asked if he would like me to move it from his place. I talked to him today and he gave me the go ahead. give something a shot To give something a shot is to give it a try.You have to give something a shot to see if you're any good at it. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:What I'm hearing is certainly that they are giving it their best shot - to continue to work hard every day, to know when to take some time off and have family time. give them a mouthful To give someone a mouthful is to abuse them or swear at them.The car driver gave the cyclist a mouthful. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:You would give them a mouthful just to see if you could get any reaction, but you didn't know any better. give up on To give up on something is to lose faith and trust in itI've given up on him - he'll never be any good. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:She's given up on recruitment agencies, which she says treat her as though her time has past. give up the ghost To give up the ghost means to die or stop working.My old car has finally given up the ghost. To give up the ghost can also mean to stop making an effort or to stop trying.The team got beaten by 10 goals because they gave up the ghost at half time when they were 3 goals down. give way fall down; breakThe were dancing on the table and of course it gave way. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The span toppled after two columns, each 150 feet high, gave way. To give way also means to allow traffic to go first.You must give way to traffic coming from the right. to concede or allow someone to have what they wantIf you give way to your child's temper tantrum, you should expect more tantrums. given a spray To give someone a spray means to tell them off, or to speak angrily to them.The boss gave him a spray for being late again. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Supermarket chains Woolworths and Coles have also been given a spray for importing processed vegetables and in some cases labelling them as "house brands". go ahead proceed; continue; happenOur new program will go ahead next year. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The dam will not go ahead. go astray Something that goes astray goes wrong or goes in the wrong direction.The plan to eat outside went astray when it began to rain. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The official proceedings went astray for a few moments when the New South Wales Premier was upstaged by the leader of a radical right-wing group called the New Guard, who wanted royalty to open the bridge. Go astray also means to become lost.Some important documents have gone astray. go broke go bankrupt; go out of business; go bustIf the price of fuel keeps increasing, we’ll go broke. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Could they make businesses go broke, halt manufacturing, even cause supermarket shelves to empty? go fly a kite To tell someone to go fly a kite is to tell them to go away and stop annoying you.Why don't you just go fly a kite? go for it just do it; do something even though it looks difficultDon't worry about how hard people say it is - just go for it. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I would definitely encourage them. Really the benefits'd far outweigh any problems we've had out here. And just to bite the bullet and go for it because it's very rewarding. go for your life To go for your life is to try as hard as you can or to do something enthusiastically.Get out on to the football pitch and go for your life. Tjhis expression is used in Woodchopping 22/11/02.The axemen start either off a shouted handicap or off scratch for a championship and they simply go for their lives at these standing logs, the first to punch through, as they say, being the winner. go from strength to strength To go from strength to strength is to continue to have success and improve something that is already very good.The team has not lost all season and just keeps going from strength to strength. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:In 1972, Dr Maruff ceased his involvement in the Nerada tea industry sadly, and so in 1985 tea planting started on this estate here. From that point it's just gone from strength to strength. go hand in hand are very closely related or connectedPoverty and lack of education go hand in hand. This expresssion is used in Surf School 12/4/05.Surfboard manufacture and coaching go hand in hand and they get a chance to test their skills in both. go on to To go on to something is to progress.He went on to university and then became a teacher. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:He started off at high school and now he's gone on to university studies. go out of your way To go out of your way is to make a special effort.We're going out of our way to make her feel comfortable staying with us. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:And we're going out of our way to try and demystify that and to give opportunities for young Victorians to have a look to make up their own minds. go places To go places is to succeed or be likely to succeedIf you want to go places, then it helps to learn English. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:In 2005, we introduced more new elements. Segments about sport and leisure. Indigenous stories. History. Craft. Health. And young people going places. go postal To go postal is American slang for behaving in an angry and violent way.This guy in the bar last night went postal and started a fight. The expression go postal apparently originated in the USA in the 1990s, where there was a spate of shootings by disgruntled postal workers. go public say something publicly to everyone instead of privately to friendsI’m going to go public with what I know about the President’s affairs. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But, these days, any critics of Bendigo's old-style strategy don't like to go public. go to any/all lengths To go to all (or any) lengths is to do everything possible.They'd go to any lengths to have children. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It's proof, the owners say, that the role of pets in the family has changed. Definitely more of a child, people will go to all lengths, to actually spend money on their babies, and you know, in winter, some of the fashions that they come in with are like mind blowing. go to hell The expression go to hell is used to tell someone to go away or to stop doing something. It is used in anger and can offend people.He wanted to say sorry , but I just told him to go to hell. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I hope it's a success and whoever carries... moves the resolution, that it's carried by a big majority to bring back the architect that designed the job and tell Hughes to go to hell and mind his own blasted business. go to seed To go to seed is to become so careless about your appearance that you look dirty and untidy.I saw him for the first time in years and he'd really gone to seed. go to the wall To go to the wall or be sent to the wall is to fail as a business.If oil prices keep rising we will go to the wall. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:He's predicting that the closure of the archipelago to aquarium collectors will create a domino effect sending several Western Australian and interstate customers to the wall. gobbled up (informal) eatenShe was gobbled up by a shark. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The instant you get a fish into a freshwater system like that they get gobbled up and they disappear quite quickly. goes Goes is slang for says.She goes " I don't like him." This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:He goes, "Mum, I broke my arm." goes to your head Something that goes to your head makes you proud and smug in a way that other people find annoying.They're making a lot of money, but it's not going to their heads. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But their good fortune isn't going to their heads. going great guns doing very well; succeeding; moving fastThe team have been going great guns since they got a new coach. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:That's how it started. It has been going great guns ever since. going on to be nearly a time, age or numberIt was going on ten o'clock by the time I left work. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I'm Clement Paligaru and I'm from Fiji. I was born there, came to Australia when I was just 16 going on 17. going under the hammer being put up for sale at an auction; going to be soldOur house is going under the hammer next week. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:When the library was told the collection was going under the hammer at Christie's in London a major funding drive was launched in a bid to come up with the money. gold mine Something that makes a lot of money is called a gold mine.Their new business is proving to be a gold mine. gone through the roof increased very quicklyThe share price has gone through the roof. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Sausage sales have actually gone through the roof, right. gone too far To have gone too far means to have done too much or to do something extreme and not socially acceptable.He's gone too far by coming to work drunk. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It makes me feel proud and good, even though my daughter says I've gone too far. good many a lot; very manyThere are a good many expressions in our Common Expressions Library. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Over a good many years she developed her talents in the bush, and three times she went back to London to study art at various art schools, and on her last visit to London in 1911, she was successful in having her first book published. goody-two-shoes A goody-two-shoes is someone who is good all the time in a way that irriates other people.No-one else has done the homework except that goody-two-shoes. got into the spirit took part in an activity with enthusiasmThey danced and got into the spirit of the celebration. got the goods If you've got the goods, you have the talent to do something.If you think you've got the goods, you should try to be an actor. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It means if you are the best in your field and you have got the goods, then you may have a chance to be on the best stage in the opera world. got to me affected me stronglyThe news about the earthquake really got to me. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The thing that really got to me was just all these beautiful old, historic telescopes, every one of them unique, that are just gone. grave concerns Grave concerns are very serious worries.We have grave concerns about the missing girl. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:And there are grave concerns for Darwin's frill-necked lizard population. great strides very good progressComputer technology has taken great strides in the past twenty years. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The award judges were impressed with the great strides many children made over several years, in reading and writing. green light To give the green light is to allow something to go ahead.We need to get the green light before we start building. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:This week, the green light was given and the excavator moved in. groundbreaking Groundbreaking means new, or something that's never been done before.She's doing some groundbreaking research into the causes of diabetes. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:As Douglas Mawson set off on his groundbreaking journey, photographer Frank Hurley was there, recording everything with his stereoscopic camera. guinea pigs people used in scientific experiments; people used to see if something worksWe need a group of people to be guinea pigs to see if our product works. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The two and a half thousand people of the Texas district are guinea pigs for the Queensland Health Department.

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had their day
Something that has had its day is no longer as useful as it once was.Typewriters have had their day.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:These old girls have done really well. They've served Melbourne well but in many respects they've had their day and like anything we have to move on.

hails from
comes fromHe hails from a small village in India.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The pastor who hails from the mid-west of the United States has one of the largest parishes in Australia.

handed down
passed down to children again and againThis old clock has been handed down for three generations.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:We've got a recipe that's been handed down through the five generations in our family.

hands on
Hands on experience is direct experience or something learned by doing and not just being told.This new course is very hands on.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The children are also able to get hands on experience of life on the land.

hang around
To hang around is to loiter or stay in one place.He's always hanging around the bar.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:On the island, signs spell out the dangers of encouraging dogs to hang around camp and picnic sites.

hang on to
keepI don't know why you want to hang on to all these old books.
This is how the expression is used in one of our storieseople here enjoy a place of natural beauty and hang on to a unique culture, fiercely proud of what they have.

hanging from the rafters
If people are hanging from the rafters, the place is very crowded.They were hanging from the rafters at the concert.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:...the chap who'd signed them, a guy called Adam, dragged me down to see them at The Basement, brought me in the back and sat and saw them and they were fantastic, and amazingly in some ways the wheel's come full circle because they re-formed just this year and did a couple of amazing shows here which sold out, people hanging from the rafters to see Dig...

hanging in the balance
Something that is hanging in the balance is in a state of uncertainty. It can go well or it can go badly.My future is hanging in the balance until a decision is made about this project.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:We are pursuing our future as a 17-member company, whilst knowing that it's very precariously hanging in the balance.

hanging in there
Hanging in there means persevering or persisting despite difficulties.It's two goals to nil, but they are still hanging in there and playing good football.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It may be that they’re just hanging in here and that makes the dolphin sanctuary even more important and more critical.

hard evidence
reliable, convincing proof; physical evidenceWe think he is the murderer, but we have no hard evidence.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The first hard evidence that bugs can cause these chronic diseases came from an Australian doctor Barry Marshall.

hard sell
forceful and insistent selling or advertisingThere's a lot of ads for that new soft drink on TV tonight - they're doing the hard sell.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It's chemical giant Monsanto leading the charge in Australia. Doing the hard sell, vowing huge benefits to farmers.

hard to stomach
difficult to acceptI find losing hard to stomach.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:For resident Leonie Lea, what makes the sale particularly hard to stomach is that as a ratepayer, she must pay a council bushland levy.

hard yakka
hard workI don't mind doing a bit of hard yakka.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:...if I do go back home and don't retire here, which is a real, appealing option now and again - to take with me wherever I go a sense of appreciation for the folk who've done the - do you say, hard yakka-, is that the phrase? - who've done the hard work, the hot work.

hauled over the coals
strongly criticised by the bossI was hauled over the coals for arriving late.
This expresssion is used in Pulp Fiction 6/4/05.I was hauled over the coals on one occasion for trying to make the books better than they wanted.

have a cow
To have a cow is slang for getting angry.Mum will have a cow when she finds out.

have a go
try; make an attemptI'm going to have a go at playing tennis.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I have a go at fixing with liquid nails, and glue and what have you.

have a go
attack; be aggressive towardHe was having a go at me , so I punched him.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:If you move near it, see how it's moving away from me and, for an animal that's supposedly aggressive, you'd think it would really be having a go by now, and it's not.

have a mortgage on
To say that you have a mortgage on something means that you own it or have exclusive rights to it.He was in charge for so long that people were saying he had a mortgage on the top job.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:With hospitals and surgeries working overtime, doctors are now admitting they don't have a mortgage on cures.

have an eye for
To have an eye for something means to be good at noticing a particular type of thing.She has an eye for a bargain.
The expression is used in Australiana Auction 5/4/05.With money in his pocket and an eye for the aesthetic, the young Rodney Davidson began to build something truly remarkable.

have bigger fish to fry
To have bigger fish to fry is to have something more important or useful to do.He won't do small jobs because he has bigger fish to fry.

have second thoughts
To have second thoughts is to have doubts or to want to change your mind.I'm having second thoughts about learning English.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But as advertisers spend more on Internet, some are having second thoughts, concerned that they could or have become victims of online fraud.

have somebody for breakfast
To have or eat somebody for breakfast is to tell someone off or severely criticise them.If I catch up with her I'll have her for breakfast

have the edge
To have the edge is to have the advantage.Our team will win because it has the edge.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:JD has the edge over many of his competitors.

have the rug pulled from underneath us
To have the rug pulled from underneath you is to have support, confidence or help taken away suddenly.I had the rug pulled from undeneath my feet when my boyfriend said he was leaving me.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:
have your work cut out
To have your work cut out is to face a very difficult task.You'll have your work cut out to finish by the deadline.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The Queenslanders reckon they'll have their work cut out, taking on the Territorians on home turf.

having a ball
Having a ball is having a very good time.I'm having a ball learning English.

having a field day
To be having a field day is to be having a good time, often at the expense of people's reputations.The critics are having a field day with the latest scandal.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:With emotions running high and huge division in the community over logging of old-growth forest, the conspiracy theorists are having a field day.

head in the sand
To put, hide or bury your head in the sand is to refuse to deal with unpleasant facts by ignoring them.You can't just bury your head in the sand and hope the problem will go away.

head off
To head off is to go away or leave.I'm going to head off at five o'clock.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I mean, what more could you want? A V8, four-speed, shag pile carpet in the back, and your girlfriend, heading off for the weekend.

head-to-head
If you are head-to-head with someone you are competing with them.Next week the team goes head-to-head with their toughest foe.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:John and Jim Fowlie say there's no competition when it comes to their coaching careers. But you could be fooled watching father and son go head-to-head at the driving range.

heaps
Heaps is a slang way of saying many or lots.I've got heaps of work to do.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Feral animals hurt native animals and the environment in heaps of ways.

Hear hear
Hear hear, usually called out at public meetings is an expression of approval and agreement.This government is committed to improving education.
Hear hear!
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I and most Australians want our immigration policy radically reviewed and that of multiculturalism abolished.
Hear hear.

heart and soul
To be the heart and soul of something means to be the central, most important part.The news room is the heart and soul of this TV station.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Bill Griffiths, Vic Pimlott and George Startup are the heart and soul of Tasmania's first community workshed.

heart bleeds
If your heart bleeds for someone, you feel pity for them.My heart bleeds for those people who lost their homes in the fire.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:And it makes my heart bleed when I see these kids that never get to us. That will never know that they would be good learning another language, that they could be an artist, they could be a musician, they could be an architect. Because they've not got the opportunity to find out.

heavy hitter
A heavy hitter is someone powerful and experienced.There are some heavy hitters on his legal team.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:So, you know, there are the heavy hitters who are in it to make big money and they are making big money and there's also the mums and dads who'll take a share in a racehorse from a pure enjoyment point of view of having a winner whether it be at Randwick or it be at Gilgandra.

hell of a lot
A hell of a lot is a very large amount.I do a hell of a lot of work.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:They rely on you from the day they're born till the day they die unfortunately and this industry is seven days a week and you spend a hell of a lot of time with them and I think they reward you if you look after them.

help from above
help from GodOur team are so far behind that we can only win with some help from above.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:One thing is clear, though - the Uniting Church will need a little help from above if it's to win over this community.

here and now
at this momentYiou are reading this here and now.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I tell you right here and now, they could offer 100,000 a tower and I would not take it.

high as a kite
To be as high as a kite is to be intoxicated, especially on illegal drugs.She was as high as a kite last time I saw her.

hit home
affect in the way intended; become completely clear; be fully realisedIt takes a while for the full extent of a major disaster to hit home.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:And the message that water should be treated like liquid gold didn't take long to hit home.

hit rock bottom
reached the lowest point possibleI'm waiting for prices to hit rock bottom before I buy.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It is a seriously bad voluntary industry program that has basically hit rock bottom.

hit the airwaves
To hit the airwaves is to go on the radio to promote and talk about something.Once the book is published, you'll have to hit the airwaves to publicise it.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Slow food ambassador Sophie Herron hit the airwaves in Darwin this week to put the case.

hit the jackpot
To hit the jackpot is to have been very lucky, very successful, or to have found something fantastic.Dan Brown hit the jackpot with his best selling novel 'The Da Vinci Code'.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Certainly, horticulturally, we've reached the jackpot here.

hit the spot
Something that hits the spot does exacrtly what it should and is very satisfactory.That cup of tea really hit the spot.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Well, I think credibility had something to do with it. The CSIRO brand was certainly something that clearly hit the spot for many people - a scientific organisation.

holds the key
Something that holds the key has the clue which will reveal the truth.Our DNA holds the key to our essential character.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:He was eating something that no plesiosaur ought to eat and his head holds the key as to how he did it.

home and hosed
Home and hosed means that someone has finished something successfully or is certain to win.If they score another goal they're home and hosed.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It's all about attitude, and if they've got the right attitude, you're home and hosed with them.

home away from home
A home away from home is a place that has all the comforts of your own home.This hotel is a real home away from home.

hot potato
A hot potato is a difficult situation. It’s a problem that nobody wants to handle because it’s like a real hot potato that will burn you.The issue of sex education in schools is a hot potato.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Rottnest is a political hot potato.

household name
famous; known in every houseMichael Jackson is a household name.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But ask around about Ellis Rowan today and she's not exactly a household name.

hung up on
(informal) preoccupied by; unreasonably focussed on; worried aboutI don’t get too hung up on study.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:In a sense, I mean, I don't get hung up on the whole goal of the seven summits.

hustle and bustle
busy and excited activityI enjoy the hustle and bustle of big cities.

NEWGAY

if you like
We sometimes use the expression if you like when we've made an fairly exaggerated claim.Mine is the Roll Royce, if you like, of computers.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:This is a sort of grand final, if you like, for poultry shows.

ill effects
harmful or unpleasant consequencesHe showed no ill effects from his exposure to the gas.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:While there's no apparent ill effects now, low vitamin D contributes to osteoporosis and hip fracture.

in a nutshell
The expression in a nutshell is used when you are saying something in the shortest possible way.Do you enjoy learning English?
In a nutshell, no.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Well, that's pretty much me in a nutshell, but if you follow me now to the other side of the house, here in studio A you can meet my other half, Andre.

in advance
before something has happenedIf you could know in advance the results of the races, you could win a lot of money.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:If we were able to identify people in advance as being at high risk because they possessed a set of genes, then that might have adverse effects on them in terms of the way others in their social environment treat them.

in all
as a total numberWe have 13 animals in all - 9 chickens, 2 guinea pigs, a rabbit and a frog.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:They started making aeroplanes in the old hangar at Qantas - in fact they made seven aeroplanes in all - and this was from a period of about 1920 through to 1927, 28.

in between
between two statesHe's neither tall nor short. He's in between.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Manipulate the lighting and you can get something in between.

in charge
To be in charge is to have control or command or something.The teacher is in charge of the classroom.
This is how the expression is used in one of our storieseter Whelan is a medical entomologist and in charge of the dengue mosquito eradication project.

in common
To have something in common with someone else is to have the same quality or to be very similar.When we started to talk we discovered that we had a lot in common.
This is how the expression is used in one of our storiesespite the massive population and recent success of western pop, Bobby Cash is literally one in a billion, but he says Indian culture and country music have a lot in common.

in days gone by
in the pastBjorn Borg was good tennis player in days gone by.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:You can't what?
Run.
Oh, well, you could have done in days gone by.

in debt
If you’re in debt to someone, you owe money to them.I'm in debt to the bank.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But I feel bad having to owe it to my mum anyway. I'm still $20 in debt from my last bill.

in droves
A drove is a large group or crowd of something. To come in droves means to come in large numbers.They came in droves to see the fireworks display.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:They're coming in droves to outback SA, injecting millions of tourist dollars into a region that in the past has relied largely on cattle.

in for a surprise
Saying that someone is in for a surprise means that they are going to be surprised.She thinks she might get some flowers for Valentine's, but she's in for a surprise.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The usual Cat Empire fans are certainly in for a surprise this time.

in full swing
at the busiest and liveliest timeWhen we arrived, the party was in full swing.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It's just after dawn at the Sydney flower market and already it's in full swing.

in hindsight
after knowing what has happened; looking back after the eventIn hindsight, we spent too much money.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I think we ended up putting in 6km of fencing and something like 5 or 6 thousand trees, which in hindsight was probably too many, and we just couldn't water them.

in jeopardy
in dangerAlways arriving late puts you in jeopardy of losing your job
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Some products people throw into the bins jam the processing machinery and many items place the health of the workers in jeopardy.

in keeping with
Something that is in keeping with something else is appropriate or in agreement with it.That dress is not in keeping with a formal occasion.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:And I’m the boat builder here and it’s my job to look after these vessels, to keep them in keeping with the time frame of the village - it’s around the 1870s.

in limbo
To be in limbo is to be in a state of uncertainty.I'm in limbo waiting for my next job.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The archives here at the Alexander Library Building in Perth are the cream of the crop. But the vast majority of them are locked in limbo because the State Records Office is at capacity.

in mind
To have something in mind means to be thinking about it or be aware of it.I kept the cost of heating in mind when planning the house.
This is how the expression is used in one of our storiesesigned with recreational use in mind, it's quickly finding commercial applications and on these islands orders are flowing in.

in my heart of hearts
To say in your heart of hearts means that you really believe something and feel that it is right.I didn't want it to be true, but in my heart of hearts I knew the doctor was right and that I would never walk again.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But in my heart of hearts, the thing that I loved most was my contact with people.

in no small part
in large part; to a large extentShe was responsible in no small part for their success.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The animal's survival can be credited in no small part to these two.

in on the ground floor
To be in on the ground floor is to become involved in the beginning, especially in a project that will make money.You should get in on the ground floor and buy shares in this new company.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:...to have a development like this that you can be in on the ground floor that is going to develop into something which will be looked upon in years to come as just such an innovation.

in one fell swoop
in one decisive action; at onceYou can lose weight and improve your health in one felll swoop with our miracle diet.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:We made a selection of eight paintings, a large number of paintings, and 83 drawings, a very large number of drawings, and that in one fell swoop, so called, has given us a very strong, cohesive and wide ranging, varied collection of works and we thought we should put these immediately on show.

in one go
with one actionI killed two flies in one go.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:So it's actually closing the loop and solving two problems in one go.

in return
as a way of paying; in exchangeWhat will you give me in return for this favour?
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:National parks is trying to negotiate a solution where the government takes over the disputed land for protection and gives the farmer other viable land in return.

in safe hands
Something that is in safe hands is being carefully cared for by someone who can be trusted.The future of the company is in safe hands.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Once a home is found for WA's ever expanding collection of records, they'll be in safe hands for hundreds of years.

in strife
in troubleThey're trailing by three goals and are in strife.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:You cruise along at about 90 or 100 and that's it. Any more and you're in strife.

in the back of your mind
Something that is in the back of your mind is something that you are always aware of.The danger of falling is always in the back of my mind when I'm climbing ladders.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Identity is something that is constantly in the back of my mind.

in the black
If you’re in the black, you’re making money, or making a profit.I'm pleased to announce that the company is back in the black.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Higher prices are a turn-off for holiday-makers, but without them, Rottnest may never get back in the black.

in the first place
originally; first of allI should have listened to you in the first place.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:So any 'Made in India' blankets may well have come from here in the first place.

in the grip of
experiencing something unpleasant that is continuingThe country is in the grip of drought.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:And sometimes, looking around here, you'd never guess that Toowoomba is in the grip of its worst drought on record.

in the head
Something that is in the head exists only in the imagination. It's an idea rather than the reality.His sickness is all in the head.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:How do you get Australian consumers to eat camel?
I think it's the camel, let's face it. I mean, he's not an attractive animal in his state, but once he's processeed and so forth, it's good - low cholesterol as I said earlier, 0.6, 21 per cent protein. I think it's all in the head.

in the heart of
in the middle ofI live in the heart of the suburbs.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The guides are the Fund's environmental experts, responsible for the management plan that will protect 17 ecosystems on three and half thousand square kilometres of land in the heart of central Queensland.

in the long run
Something that happens in the long run happens after a long period of time, eventually or in the end.In the long run it's better to buy a house than to rent one.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But ironically, many Tasmanians have to lose at the casino to see their State profit in the long run.

in the making
to be made; to be developedThis website has been many months in the making.
This expression also means developing into something or being made.She's a great singer in the making.
This expression is used in New Wine 3/3/04.This bottle of wine has been more than 100 years in the making.

in the meantime
In the meantime means in the time between two things happening.It's five o'clock and the train leaves at six. What are we going to do in the meantime?
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But scientists believe any form of biological control is at least a decade away. So in the meantime traps are the only form of defence.

in the name of
If something is done in the name of something else, it's done for or on behalf of it.The land must be cleared in the name of progress.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Each year there's a parade down the main street, when schoolchildren, teachers and local businesses transport themselves into a world of make-believe - all in the name of encouraging kids to read.

in the pipeline
Something that is in the pipeline is being developed, but isn't ready.Thre are many new features in the pipeline for English Bites.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:A full-scale clinical trial on meditation and ADHD is now in the pipeline, but even without scientific proof, parents like Kerrie Hammond, who took part in the clinic, are convinced of its merit.

in the red
If the books are in the red, then the accounts show that you are losing money.We have to cut expenses because we are in the red.
This is how the expression is used in one of our storiesast year, the books were again in the red, by $2.5 million.

in the wind
Something that's in the wind is about to happen, but you don't know exactly what or when.The bosses are having a lot of meetings, so something's in the wind.

in their thousands
When talking about numbers of people or things that are coming to a place we sometimes say in their.The birds come to breed on the island in their thousands.

in touch
To be in touch is to communicate with or contact someone.We'll be in touch.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:They may have been living in the back of beyond, but two-way radio and the postal service kept them in touch.

in vogue
fashionable; popularFlared jeans were in vogue in the seventies.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:And it's no wonder the fear of snakes was so strong given the pre-antivenom remedies that were in vogue at the time. The medical profession favoured injections of ammonia and strychnine, cures that were still being used right up until 1915.

in your blood
Something that is in your blood is inherited and part of your nature. Often the expression is used to refer to family traditions.He's be as good a footballer as his father - it's in his blood.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I think once you've got racing in your blood it's pretty hard to get it out…

in your face
Something that in in your face is very annoying and confronting in a way that can't be ignored.The music enjoyed by young people is often a bit in your face.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:They're going to be right in their face. Would you buy them?

inject new blood
employ new people with energy and enthusiasmThe company needs to inject new blood if it is going to continue to be successful.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But while the program has helped inject new blood into some practices, it's not a cure for all of the industry's problems.

into
Into means very interested in.I'm really into learning English.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:And a lot of the kids are really into music, heavily into music.

introduced species
An introduced species is a type of animal or plant brought into a place from somewhere else.The rabbit is an introduced species in Australia.
This is how the expression is used in one of our storiesike many introduced species - the cane toad, the rabbit, the European carp -- the Indian or common mynah gets bad press.

iron out
smooth out; removeI'll have to iron out some differences I'm having with my neighbour.
This is how the expression is used in one of our storiesrobation stations like Rocky Hills were designed to iron out these inequalities, forcing all convicts into government work gangs.

is a bit much
Something that is a bit much is more than you can deal with or unreasonable and exteme.Taking on an extra job at night is a bit much.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But now one long-standing partnership is coming to an end. Caller James Reid has decided to call it a day: rounding up dancers and a young family is all a bit much.

it just/only goes to show
it's an example that demonstrates a general truthI hear that she's not doing well at school - it just goes to show that watching TV all the time ruins your ability to concentrate.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:We have a local who's 74 and he comes out and does a jump every week. So it just goes to show that itcomes down to the personality, not necessarily the age.

hidec

晕,这是每日一次嘛?

NEWGAY

呵呵我是看到我就记下，把这里当笔记了

Anihc

有不少还是很生疏的，平时都没怎么听到，，，

AnaCoppola

原帖由 hidec 于 20-8-2008 00:05 发表

                               
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晕,这是每日一次嘛?

严重怀疑跳跳虎生活在某地外星系，一日好长啊

NEWGAY

jewel in the crown
Something that is the jewel in the crown is the most valuable or precious thing.The Van Gogh painting is the jewel in the crown of the gallery's collection.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I think I came to terms with the fact that this was the jewel in the crown in terms of our coastline.

juggling act
A juggling act or a balancing act is when somone is trying to please a number of different people who want diferent things.Managing my work and home life anf d the demands of small chikdren is quite a juggling act.

jump down someone's throat
To jump down someone's throat is to react to someone and speak very angrily.I couldn't believe it. I only asked him how to fix the computer and he jumped down my throat.

jump on board
To jump on board means to take up a successful activity.We shoud jump on board while there's money to be made.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The man whose expertise helped the brothers start their business couldn't be happier with the results. He wants more farmers to jump on board.

jump the gun
To jump the gun is to do something before you should.They jumped the gun and built the extension before they got council permission.

jumped at it
To jump at something is to eagerly accept it.She'll jump at the chance to go on TV.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:And we found that the team sport market has really jumped at it.

jury is still out
The jury is still out means that people who are making the decision have not yet fully decided if something is good or bad.The jury is still out on the question of whether cannabis directly causes madness.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:...a very substantial body of work has shown that the Omega 3 fats found in fish oils are protective against heart disease and also against inflammatory diseases and certain cancers. But the jury is still out on some other issues...

NEWGAY

Australia Network - Nexus - English Bites Library - Common Expressions - k

kangaroos loose in the top paddock To say that someone has kangaroos loose in the top paddock means that they are crazy.He's been acting strangely. I reckon he's got kangaroos loose in the top paddock. keen on very interested inMy brother is keen on football. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:We don't get many of them but, when we do, we always give them a fair bit of prominence because people living on the river here are very keen on their cod stories and love reading about them keep a close eye on To keep a close eye on something is to watch it carefully.Keep a close eye on the cake or it will burn. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Until the all clear is given, Tennant Creek residents are being asked to remain vigilant and keep a close eye on potential mozzie breeding areas. keep pace with to progress or develop at the same speedMy son isn't keeping pace with his classmates. keep someone on their toes To keep somebody on their toes is to force them to put all their attention and energy into what they’re doing.Having to compete for the new contract will keep everyone on their toes. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It will keep everybody on their toes but competition is good at the end of the day. keep someone posted To keep someone posted is to keep them informed.I'll keep you posted about his movements. keep them in line To keep someone or something in line is to control them and make sure they behave properly.It was hard work keeping the class in line. This is how the expression is used in one of our storieso you need a whip to keep them in line? keep track of To keep track of something is to know where it is or has gone or exactly what it is doing.You should keep track of where you spend your money. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:And it's a big job to keep track of such a large collection. keep up with the Joneses Keeping up with the Joneses is trying to buy the same things that your neighbours or acquaintances have recently bought.She's getting a new roller door just like the neighbour's. I think it's a case of keeping up with the Joneses. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Karen Smith and Harry Rakkas have been neighbours and good friends for years. But every Christmas the two families become rivals - competing to see who can put on the best show. And this year, keeping up with the Joneses - as they say - has seen each family spend a thousand dollars on a single flashing palm tree. keep your feet on the ground To keep your feet on the ground is to have a sensible outlook on life.She needs to keep her feet on the ground and stop dreaming of being an actress. keep your mind on the job concentate on what you are doingYou have to keep you mind on the job when you're driving in heavy traffic. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:You've got to keep your mind on the job otherwise the Dragon has a very big sag in the middle. keeping up moving at the same rateI work hard keeping up with what others are doing. kicked in contributedI kicked in ten dollars toward buying a farewell present for the boss. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:He also loaned his boardroom skills for many years to the National Gallery of Australia when he chaired its council and kicked in half a million dollars to help the controversial purchase of David Hockney's 'Grand Canyon'. kicked off started; beganThe performance kicked off with a burst of fireworks. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Stromlo is where astrophysics in Australia really kicked off. kill the goose that lays the golden egg destroy the thing that is making moneyIf the government bans smoking it will kill the goose that lays the golden egg because they wouldn't get all that sales tax anymore. kill two birds with one stone To kill two birds with one stone is to get two things achieved in one action.I'll kill two birds with one stone by visiting my parents and going to the conference while I'm in Sydney. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:A lot of people used to come out and say, 'Give me the hottest thing I've got.' So I thought okay I'll kill two birds with one stone, and they couldn't eat it, so they came back for their second. So I had two sales instead of one. knee-high to a grasshopper very small and youngI haven't seen my niece since she was knee-high to a grasshopper. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I wasn't one of those women who always wanted children from the time they were knee-high to a grasshopper. knee-jerk reaction A knee-jerk reaction is an immediate response that doesn't take everything into account.It's knee-jerk reaction to say that criminals should be punished more severely. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But some fishermen believe the moratorium was a knee-jerk reaction. knock them off defeat themWe should knock them off this time. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Yes we would like to knock them off, yes, especially on their own ground. knock/hit you for (a) six Something that knocks or hits you for six surprises you very much.I was knocked for six when I found out that he was seeing someone else. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:When the specialist told me there was a problem with my egg reserve, it really knocked me for a six, I think, because I'd grown up in the post-'60s feminist culture, that a woman can have everything. knocked back (informal) refusedI got knocked back for that job. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:A proposed golf course and residential development on the Inverloch side of the estuary has received a negative reception from the State Government and looks like being knocked back. know something inside out To know something inside out is to know it very well.He's read the book so many times he knows it inside out. This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:He knows the local ecology inside out and accepts fire is a natural part of the environment. know your onions To know your onions is to know a lot about a particular subject.When it comes to the road rules, he really knows his onions.

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NEWGAY

labour intensive
Something that is labour intensive requires a lot of work.The traditional methods of growing rice are very labour intensive.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Instead of using the old tally board, which is exceptionally labour intensive…

labour of love
The phrase labour of love refers to difficult work that you do because you enjoy it and not because it will make you money or other rewards.The garden is a labour of love.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It's a labour of love. I just love showing people movies.

laid back
A situation or a person who is laid back is very relaxed and informal.I like the laid back lifestyle of Darwin.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Although I have studied English before, but the type of English that you use is totally different, you know, the clichéd Australian version of g'day, you know, sort of thing, laid back.

land on your feet
To land on your feet is to be lucky in getting a good job or a good place to live.She doesn't try hard, but she always manages to land on her feet.

lapped it up
really enjoyed itThe audience lapped it up.
This expresssion is used in Heavy Metal 24/11/05.But when it came time to rock it didn't matter whether the taste was bourbon or chardonnay, the crowd lapped it up...

last hurrah
A last hurrah is a last effort - it’s the last thing you do when you are leaving a place or a job.This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:And as their one last hurrah they held Acland's biggest ever garage sale, although most would confess it was Acland's only ever garage sale.

last resort
If something is a last resort, it’s the last thing to try. It's something you try when everything else has failed.I've tried to borrow money form all my friends and they've said no. I'm going to try my brother as a last resort.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Recruiting workers from overseas is for many companies a last resort but it seems to be a sign of the times.

late
We use late before someone's name or title to mean recently deceased or dead.The late Ronald Reagan suffered from Alzheimer's disease.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It's a mix of new age music, natural sounds and barking, an album he says was inspired by his late dog Dora.

latest in a long line
the newest in a series that's been continuing for a long timeThis scandal is the latest in a long line of problems that have damaged the government.

lay the groundwork
To lay the groundwork is to prepare or to do something that will later have results.She laid the groundwork for her success many years ago.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It's a holiday but if Anand White likes the place he will also lay the groundwork to find his birth mother.

lay waste to
To lay to waste or lay waste to is to destroy.The retreating army laid waste to the countryside.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:You know, like, you are looking at anything from $25 to $50 a head per camel to shoot and, lay to waste. Well, I mean, that's just unacceptable to anybody. Nobody wants to do that.

lead someone astray
To lead someone astray is to encourage them to behave badly.He was led astray by the older boys.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:They actually get to know the person who's making their food and it's very hard to lead them astray because most of them are fairly discerning about what they put in their mouths.

lead someone on a merry dance
To lead someone on a merry dance is to cause people a lot of trouble.The escaped tiger was missing for days and led the police on a merry dance.

lead someone up the garden path
To lead someone up the garden path is to deceive them.He led me up the garden path with his claim that he wasn't married.

leading the charge
being the first to do something; being the first to take up an opportunityOur lab is leading the charge in stem cell research.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It's chemical giant Monsanto leading the charge in Australia.

leading the way
being the first to do or develop somethingThe new computer company is leading the way with its innovative software.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Experimenting with different scents and essential oils isn't behaviour you'd expect from a marine biologist leading the way in Irukandji research, even if he is French.

leaps and bounds
a lot very quicklyMy understanding of English is improving in leaps and bounds with English Bites.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:And it's really just come ahead in leaps and bounds over the last 10 years.

learn something the hard way
To learn something the hard way is to learn it from an unpleasant experience.I learnt the hard way not to pay for something before delivery.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Whatever the case, we’ve learnt the hard way.

leave no stone unturned
To leave no stone unturned is to try everything possible and investigate all things.We will leave no stone unturned in our search for the bombers.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Karen Gilfillan and husband Rob have left no stone unturned as they guide their daughters towards the world athletic stage.

left unchecked
not dealt with; not stoppedIf this problem is left unchecked we will go out of business.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The Flinders could be dominated by that type of plant if it's left unchecked.

lend a hand
To lend a hand is to help.Could you lend a hand with the dishes?
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The river preachers also lent a hand at teaching children, giving medicine and delivering babies.

let alone
The expression let alone is used after a statement to emphasise that because the first thing is not likely, the next thing is even less likely.She didn't even say sorry, let alone pay for the damage.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:OK, so most dogs don't walk down the street wearing headphones, let alone listening to Cliff Richard, but dogs do have an ear for music.

let go
A garden that has been let go has been allowed to deteriorate and become overgrown.The garden was let go after his wife died.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It's a garden that was established back in about 1890 by an old gentleman called Mr Umperstone who did a magnificent job and it was an attraction back in those days, wonderful attraction but unfortunately after he died, until about 1959, it was let go, became a mess.

let off steam
To let off steam is to release tension by doing something physical or noisy.He lets off steam at the football by shouting for his team.

let sleeping dogs lie
To let sleeping dogs lie is to not tell people something that could cause trouble.I know he has been in jail in the past, but I won't tell anyone about it because it's best to let sleeping dogs lie.

let slip
reveal; tell accidentallyI'm sorry, but I let slip to your mother that you're getting married.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:So a few secret ingredients you just can't let slip?

let someone down
To let someone down is to fail them or diappoint them.I got him a job here and he let me down by always arriving late.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:She's just been such a loyal and trusting friend that she's never et me down, never walked me into a post or a tree yet, so I think that's rather wonderful.

let your hair down
To let your hair down is to relax and enjoy yourself after not being able to for a timeI like to let my hair down on the weekends.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I think it's just something you can do different. You can let your hair down, you can bring out a bit of the kid in you, and just do something different you don't do the rest of the year.

lie of the land
The lie of the land, or, in America, the lay of the land, refers to the phsical characteristics of the land or the way it is formed.Make sure you know the lie of the land before you go walking in the mountains.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Alright, first you need your map, that's the most important. Beauty. That will show you where to go, show you the lie of the land, find your checkpoints.
The expression can also refer to the way a situation is likely to develop.You should make sure you know the lie of the land before you decide which job to choose.

lifeblood
thing that’s most important and keeps you aliveOil is the lifeblood of Brunei's economy.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Without water, we haven't got anything. Our stock perish, our tourist trade breaks down. This is the lifeblood of Tilpa.

lightning pace
very fast speedComputers work at a lightning pace.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It has been quick, but it has to be quick because these technologies are moving at lightning pace; they're moving quicker than the information technologies and the window of opportunity is limited.

lightning rod
A lightning rod refers to something that attracts a lot of interest (usually negative), often diverting attention away from other problems.The scandal has become a lightning rod for groups opposed to the government.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The cattlemen's issue has acted as a lightning rod for country dissatisfaction that's been building up for some time.

like a dog with two tails
To be like a dog with two tails is to be extremely happy.He's bought a new car and he's like a dog with two tails.

like you wouldn't believe
in a way that would surprise youHe can run like you wouldn't believe.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:One of the problems with Cyprus pines was the resistance was created by a high oil content so if you had any bushfires or anything along those lines the poles used to go up like you wouldn't believe.

likely suspect
the person or thing that is probably to blameThe most likely suspect for your problem is a virus.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The most likely suspect is a chemical known as aromatic amines, also found in cigarettes.

lineball
Something that is lineball is uncertain or not yet decided.The election is still lineball the day after the polls closed.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Now, nearly $5 million later, has it been worth it?
I'll tell you in about a year's time. That's when our first cheques really start to flow in. At the moment we're on lineball.

litmus test
an important test; a decisive testThis exam will be a litmus test of your ability.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:What he finds - or doesn't find - provides a litmus for the quality of the water.

live on the sniff of an oily rag
To live on the sniff of an oily rag is to live on very little.When I was a student I used to live on the sniff of an oily rag.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:All her money had been spent on her anthropological research and on the Aboriginal people that she wanted to help. And she really lived on the sniff of an oily rag.

live up to
To live up to what people say about you is to be as good as they say.If they live up to their reputation they should win this game easily.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:We've got a lot to live up to, you've gotta keep the standard up.

lives and breathes
is totally involved inMy brother lives and breathes football.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Surrounded by a sea of sculpture, Stuart Elliot lives and breathes his life's work.

long haul
The long haul is a long period of time.In in it for the long haul.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Above all, being a carbon farmer means being in it for the long haul.

long in the tooth
Someone who is long in the tooth is old.I'm too long in the tooth to go out dancing.

long shot
A long shot is an attempt that you don't expect to succeed.I think it's a long shot, but I'll apply for the job anyway.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:We do recognise that it is a long shot. Cane toads are a very successful invasive species that have been in Australia for a long time. We're just doing the best we can to try and slow or prevent their entry into Western Australia.

long way off
Something that is a long way off is a large distance away in time or space.My hunderdth birthday is a long way off.
This is how the expression is used in one of our storiesark chocolate generally has higher cocoa levels than milk chocolate but milk chocolate is far more popular and, because of high sugar and fat levels, it's still a long way off being prescribed by doctors.

look before you leap
To look before you leap is a saying meaning that you should think carefully before you act.Don't buy the car if you haven't driven it - it's always best to look before you leap.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:We're not advocates for plastic bags, we're simply saying in a colloquial term, "look before you leap".

looked down upon
To be looked down upon is to be considered inferior.Poor people are often looked down upon by the rich.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:In the past women have been looked down upon to a certain extent in parliament as though you know were playing second fiddle to the men.

looked the part
To look the part is to appear real or to look like you're supposed to.He looked the part in his new unifrom.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:We got that kind of tingly feeling that "here is the real thing" and it certainly looked the part and we were quite thrilled to see it.

looking down the barrel
facing disaster; looking at things getting much worseOur team has lost its last five games and is really looking down the barrel when we play the top team this week.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:We're now looking down the barrel of our fourth consecutive season of adversity.

lose your heart
To lose your heart is to fall in love with something or somebody.She lost her heart to the kitten after a few days.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:In 1930 she came here at the age of 46 for the first time, and she really lost her heart to Central Australia, to the people who lived here and to the Aboriginal people who were really struggling with the first impact of colonisation at that time.

lost for words
To be lost for words is to have nothing to say or be so surprised you don't know what to say.I was lost for words when he told me he was getting married.
This is how a variant of this expression is used in one of our stories:He is not often lost for a quick reply except, perhaps, if it actually comes to meeting his birth mother.

lost touch
To lose touch is to no longer have contact with or see somone you have known well.I've lost touch with most of my old school friends.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Raising families and working the land meant that the friends lost touch.

lot of water has run under the bridge
When you say that a lot of water has run or flowed under the bridge, you mean that a lot of time has passed.A lot of water has flowed under the bridge since I was at school.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:A lot of water had run under the bridge since we'd met before.

love them to death
To love someone or something to death is to love them very much.My brother annoys me, but I love him to death.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I've got two older brothers. We're really close as well. I love them to death.

low-key
quiet; without fanfareHer birthday party was very low-key - just a few friends at a restaurant.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It seems like a fairly low-key entrance for a man who heads one of Australasia's largest IT companies, but then that's what today is all about.

lump in my throat
To have a lump in your throat is to feel very emotional and have a tight feeling in your throat.I had a lump in my throat at the end of that movie.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But it's rare for me to watch a performance and not to get a lump in my throat.

NEWGAY

made a real name for itself
To make a name for yourself is to achieve something that makes you famous or well known.You need to make a name for yourself in TV and theatre before you get a role in a big movies.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Holden then went on to produce other iconic models, the first being the Monaro sports coupe in 1968. That ran for ten years and made a real name for itself in the racing world.

made of stone
without emotions or feelingsYou would have to be made of stone not to be moved by this film.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I think you'd have to be pretty much made of stone not to be affected by a lot of the things that happen here and a lot of the things you see and hear, so, yes, I think it's hard to walk away and just leave it all behind.

main drag
The main drag is slang for the main street.He has a bookshop on the main drag.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:And in the main drag, there’s a house made of bottles - a monument to many a hangover.

main game
The main game is the most important thing.Earning money is the main game.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But in the end the visual aids aren't the main game. The main game is schoolwork, and homework!

major upset
very unexpected resultKorea's defeat of Italy in the World Cup was a major upset.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But there was a major upset in the big race...

make a song and dance about something
To make a song and dance about something is to get excited about something that isn't really very important.It's not worth making a song and dance about a trial exam.

make do
To make do is to manage with something that is not as good as is can be.When we played football as children we had to make do with an old plastic ball.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Alice Springs, the built environment reflects isolation, a scarcity of materials, a great ingenuity, a making do. There's a certain poverty in the landscape.

make ends meet
To make ends meet is to earn enough to pay all of your living expenses.If I lose my job I won't be able to make ends meet.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It's fallen below the poverty line for a long, long time, which means many child care workers have had to choose other industries to work in because they just can't make ends meet

make it
be successfulYou have to work hard if you want to make it in this business.
This is how the expression is used in this sense one of our stories:Some stay in Brisbane or move to Brisbane and some stay in Sydney, but everyone's moving to Melbourne because this is where you've got to make it.
To make it also means to succeed in reaching a place.You'll never make it to the top of the mountain.
This is how the expression is used in this sense one of our stories:Cook carried on with the Endeavour across the Indian Ocean to Cape Town at the bottom of South Africa where he had his records copied and sent before him in a merchant ship so that when he finally made it to England he entered the Downs the word had got out already that the Endeavour was almost home and had successfully circumnavigated the world

make matters worse
To make matters worse is to make the things that are happening become more unpleasant.I'm scared that if I complain it will just make matters worse.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Some people just don't want to tell teachers or even friends because they don't want to make matters worse.

make no bones about it
To make no bones about something is to be open and honest and not to hesitate.He makes no bones about the fact that he likes a drink.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:...there's no guarantees in this game. This is a very cut-throat business, make no bones about it, it's a very cut-throat business.

make or break
The thing that is most important to success or failure is descibed as make or break.This exam is make or break for my career.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The staff will make or break your business and getting people, getting baristas that are passionate about that product themselves is a really great way to go.

make short work of
To make short work of something is to do or finish it quickly and easily.She made short work of that chocolate cake.

make the grade
be good enoughThis new product doesn't make the grade.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Raulin and Wright both believe classical instruments made of native timber can make the grade.

make up your mind
To make up your mind means to make a decision or decide what to choose.I can't make up my mind what to eat.
This is how the expression is used in one of our storieseople have made up their mind that they don't want this invasive species.

make use of
use something for your advantageYou should make use of our language library.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:All we have to do is make use of a simple device invented nearly 200 years ago, and this is it, a mesh of metal screen.

make yourself at home
When you visit someone, they might tell you to make yourself at home. That means you should relax and make yourself feel as comfortable as you would in your own home.Come in and make yourself at home.

makes it mark
makes a lasting impression; has an obvious effectThe volcanoes in the region have made their mark on the landscape.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Water makes it mark everywhere along the coast of Discovery Bay.

makes your day
makes your day worthwhile; cheers you up; makes you happyEmails from people who like your work are something that makes your day.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Seeing kids, if they smile or they have a giggle or whatever, it just makes your day.

making a beeline
To make a beeline for something is to take the quickest and most direct route.Watch the children make a beeline for the ice-cream.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Instead of making a beeline for Alice Springs, it would be a giant 'U' shape, starting with the Birdsville Track.

making a dent in
To make a dent in something is to reduce the amount.The tax bill will make a dent in my savings.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I think we are making a dent in Salvation Jane.

making a killing
making lots of moneyOur company is making a killing with this new product.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:With half a million visitors each year and accommodation routinely full, the island should be making a killing.

making waves
To make waves is to attract attention by doing something interesting.She's making waves in the music scene.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But, these kids are not just making waves in the pool.

mark my words
pay attention to what I'm sayingShe'll accept our offer, you mark my words.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:All the markets are important, but mark my words, once this thing takes off there won't be anywhere near enough camels in Australia to supply that market.

mateship
friendship; camaraderie; the state of equality and fellowship among menThe mateship among soldiers is important for their morale.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:For about 2,000 workers who have built the railway during the last two years it's been a story of hard work and mateship.

means business
Somone who means business is serious and determined to get things done. They mean to do exactly what they say.He means business and will shoot anyone who tries to escape.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Both the council and residents have complained that the Government has been dragging its feet on this issue, but the Government now insists it means business.

mecca
any place of pilgrimage; a special place people want to come toThe great pyramid of Egypt is a tourist mecca.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:And each of Belgium's thousands of different beers is served in its own particular glass. There are dark beers, light beers, strong beers, beers made of fruit, sparkling beers -- it's a beer lover's beer mecca.

mercury
The mercury refers to the mercury in a thermometer. A thermometer is a device with a thin glass tube traditionally filled with mercury which expands up the tube as the temperature increases.Today the mercury will reach 40 degrees.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:In winter it's freezing and in summer the mercury creeps over 50 degrees.

middle of the road
Middle of the road is conventional, standard or mainstream.Her style of dress is just middle of the road.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I'd never like to be classed as middle of the road or mainstream.

milk of human kindness
The milk of human kindness is an expression that refers to kind feelings or gentle and affectionate feelingsThe milk of human kindness was not much in evidence on the battlefront.

mind blowing
amazing or astonishingThe Nexus website is mind blowing.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It's proof, the owners say, that the role of pets in the family has changed.
Definitely more of a child, people will go to all lengths, to actually spend money on their babies, and you know, in winter, some of the fashions that they come in with are like mind blowing.

mind goes blank
If your mind goes blank then you can’t think of anything.My mind's gone blank.

mind you
The expression mind you is used for emphasis.When I was young we used to walk, walk mind you, all the way to school every day.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But that hasn't stopped one former outlaw motorbiker from going into the food trade. Condiments are his thing. Mind you, he can't get into the supermarkets, find decent distributors or even manage to stay on the local tourism committee.

mind-boggling
Something that is mind-boggling is so amazing or complicated that it is difficult to imagineThe English Bites language library is mind-boggling.
This is how the expression is used in one of our storieslane-spotting is a hobby with an international following and these enthusiasts' intimate knowledge of each aircraft is nothing short of mind-boggling.

mind's eye
Your mind's eye is your imagination.I can still picture her in my mind's eye.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Few eyes have seen its work. No light penetrates here and the diver's torches only capture a glimpse but it's enough for the mind's eye to sense the vaulting spaces.

mine of information
A mine of information is a someone or something that can provide a lot of information.He's a mine of information about gardening.

miss out
To miss out is to not get what you want.I missed out on that job
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The concerns arise because Melbourne singers, musicians, stagehands and technicians are all missing out on work and audiences are missing out too.

mod cons
modern conveniences; appliances that make life easier like dishwashersThe new house has all the mod cons.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:When we go on a holiday we really know we've been on a holiday because we don't take any mod cons.

money-spinner
A money-spinner is something that makes a lot of money.Football is a real money-spinner.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Before he turned to retail, Piers Cody was in media, having built up Cody Outdoor Signs into a big money-spinner.

moral high ground
Taking or having the moral high ground is having an argument that is considered morally better or that shows what a worthy person you are.Vegetarians take the moral high ground when they claim that producing meat can only be cruel.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But they believe they have the moral high ground.

more often than not
usuallyMore often than not I'll be out for lunch at midday.

Mother Nature
Mother Nature refers to the natural world.Farmers have to rely on Mother Nature for rain.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Our cutting edge photonics technology is old hat for Mother Nature.

mother of all
the most extreme example of; the biggestThis is the mother of all storms.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:On a perfect spring morning in South Australia's Barossa Valley comes the mother of all food junkets.

mounting evidence
evidence that is building up; accumulating proofThere is mounting evidence that the Earth is warming up.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But cane farmers continue to question the mounting evidence of damage to the reef.

mouthful
Something that is a mouthful is difficult to say or pronounce or just too long to bother saying.The new hospital is going to be called the Marjorie Jackson Nelson Hospital, which is quite a mouthful
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:We are at the premises of the South Australia Society of Model and Experimental Engineers which is a mouthful so it's usually known as the initials SASMEE, S-A-S-M-E-E. It's a lot easier to do.

moves afoot
If there are moves afoot, there are actions being planned.There are moves afoot to cut back staff.

mucked in
helped, especially with difficult or unpleasant workEveryone mucked in after the party to clean up.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:As the State industry department's commissioner for Italy, Sir James Gobbo also mucked in to help set up the production, but it's been slow going juggling two cultures, two government bureaucracies and 350 volunteers.

mucking around
Mucking around means being silly, or playing.Stop mucking around and do some work!
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I started with my uncle just on a hire track and just mucking around.

mulling over
Mulling over means studying or looking at and thinking about. Usually we use this expression to mean thinking about something in a dreamy or unsystematic wayI sat around yesterday mulling over things that happened when I was a child.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It has 75 community bank branches and is mulling over another 1,000 applications.

muscle in
force your way in; break inHe muscled in to the queue.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The hiatus in Tasmanian scallops coming to market has provided an opportunity for Asian imports to muscle in.

music to the ears
pleasant to hear; good to hear; good newsThe sound of rain on the roof is music to the ears of the farmers who need it.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Such talk is music to the ears of horticulturalists Michael and Tamara Boland.

mutually exclusive
Things that are mutally exclusive cannot exist at the same time. They cannot go together.Believing in God and being an atheist are mutually exclusive.

my speed
my style; what I likeYou can have nightclubbing - a comfortable armchair and a good book is more my speed.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Now, Pauline's ute is a little bit more my speed.

NEWGAY

nail in the coffin
A nail in the coffin is one of a series of things that leads to the failure of destruction of something.The flood is yet another nail in the coffin for this year's crop.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:In the 1990s former Soviet whaling captains who worked in the Antarctic in the 60s admitted that at the time they'd massively under reported their catch. Between 1960 and 62, they said they'd taken 400 humpbacks but in truth they'd taken 14,000.
That was not the last nail in the coffin that was just a massive nail right through the middle of the whole thing.

naturally gifted
born with a special talent or skillHe's a naturally gifted athlete.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It's not just that he has a beautiful and he's very naturally gifted from a vocal point of view, but he's outstanding in the way in which he is so disciplined.

neck and neck
very closeAs the horses approach the finish line, it's neck and neck.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:First race it was neck and neck all the way, but the Queenslanders scraped through to the finals, meaning the Territorians had to race again.

neck of the woods
particular area; localityWhat are you doing in this neck of the woods.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Now, this festival and this event we think is very important, because those links are growing and it is important for our country to engage with our near neighbours - far more important than it is, say, for America or Europe, because it's our neck of the woods.

nest egg
money saved for the futureI'm going to use our nest egg to travel around the world.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Well, Mark Latham talks of a youth savings scheme, a kind of superannuation for the young, so that all first home buyers would have a nest egg to buy into property.

never in my wildest dreams
Something that is never in or beyond your wildest dreams is something totally unexpected but very pleasant.Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would become famous.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:All my friends in Australia had joked to me before I left, saying, "Oh, you're going to marry a Samoan and stay there." And it was never in my wildest dreams.

never looked back
never had any regretsSince I changed jobs I've never looked back.

new breed
new typeHe's one of the new breed of scientists.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:In 1841, this East Coast view was chosen as the backdrop for a new breed of prison.

new lease on life
If a person is given a new lease on life they have an increase of interest and energy for life.The promotion has given him a new lease on life.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:He was contemplating leaving the profession, but says essential learnings has given him a new lease on his teaching life.

niche market
specialised marketThere is a niche market for live insects to feed pet frogs.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Kellyville Pets in Sydney says tarantulas are sold to a small niche market, in numbers far less than 10,000 a year.

nip in the bud
stop something in its early stagesThis computer program nips in the bud any problems with viruses.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:He says the program works because it nips typical behavioural problems in the bud, encouraging students to take control of their relationships with their peers and teachers, tackle their fears, and help others to do the same.

no matter what
even if it's difficult; in any circumstancesI'm going to finish this job no matter what.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:No grandparent resents bringing up their own grandkids. I mean any grandparent that's worth her salt will say "these are my flesh and blood and I'll take them no matter what".

no mean feat
not easyLearning English is no mean feat.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:By anyone's standards packing a school hall full of this many kids is no mean feat, making them laugh is something most wouldn't attempt and keeping them captivated, some would say, is impossible.

no say
If you have no say in something, you are not consulted or listened to.I had no say in the redesign of the website.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Here is a government that is giving millions of dollars but still has no say whatsoever in the running of Radio Australia.

no worries
The expression no worries is very common in Australia and is often used to say that you will do something without complaint.Can you drive me home?
No worries.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Okay Grace, just fire it up, make sure that these plugs are okay.
No worries.

no-brainer
Something that is an obvious choice or doesn't need much intelligence to work out is called a no-brainer.The choice between accepting the offer or not is a no-brainer. If we don't accept, we'll have to close down.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:Given a choice between hiring someone with 30 years' experience and someone with no experience, I think that's a no-brainer.

not a patch on
Something that is not a patch on something else is not nearly as good as that something else.Australian soccer is not a patch on English soccer.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:The fishing's not a patch on what it used to be.

not all beer and skittles
not all pleasure; not just funLife's not all beer and skittles.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:But it is not all beer and skittles yet, the entrance to the terminal and parking seems to be confusing some.

not breathe a word
not say anything or reveal a secretDon't breathe a word about what I've told you.

not on
Something that's not on is not acceptableLoud music after midnight is not on.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:I think the "Pathway to Peace" program is very beneficial for little kids to help them understand that doing the wrong thing isn't on and that it helps older people as well in the community to understand that peace is the best way in harmony.

not out of the woods yet
not out of danger yetThings have improved, but we're not out of the woods yet.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:It's a very important thing for people to realise to be very careful about consumption of water. We are not out of the woods yet.

not to mention
Not to mention is used to add another part to a sentence, and emphasises that this addition is also important, although only added on at the end.I would like to congratulate all of the competitors who have made such an effort at these games, not to mention their coaches.

nothing short of
completelyThe team's win was nothing short of incredible.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:He did a job that's nothing short ofmiraculous

nothing to write home about
Nothing to write home about means something's not very interesting or remarkable. It’s pretty ordinary.The book is nothing to write home about, but at least it's short.

nothing ventured, nothing gained
This means that if you don’t' try new things or take risks, you won't ever get the benefits of taking a risk."Nothing ventured, nothing gained", he said as he bet a thousand dollars at the casino.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:These scientists say it's a case of nothing ventured, nothing gained and all they can do now is cross their fingers.

nuclear family
A nuclear family is the immediate family of mother, father and children living together by themselves.The conventional model of the family in modern industrialised societies is the nuclear family.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:For much of the last century the nuclear family proved itself a resilient centrepiece of Australian culture.

nut out
To nut out a problem is to think about it or solve it.It took me a while to nut out how to use the EB website.
This is how the expression is used in one of our stories:That's basically getting the scientists and the experts together nutting out what are the things we can do.

zhaizibo1990

十分有用，希望继续哦，把今天的分都加了