Phrases & Expressions

A sudden, brief period of uncontrolled anger in a young child.

• Most parents have dealt with a toddler tantrum in a busy supermarket.
• Toddler tantrums are a normal part of development around the age of two.

To go back to an earlier time, usually said when wishing this were possible.

• If I could turn back time, I would change my decision.
• She often wishes she could turn back time.

To become pale, often due to fear, shock, illness, or surprise.

• She turned pale when she heard the bad news.
• He turned pale with fright.

A brave action.

• It was a bold move.
• He made a bold move.

A random guess.

• It's just a wild guess.
• Take a wild guess.

A guess based on some knowledge or experience, so it is likely to be right.

• If you don't know the answer, make an educated guess.
• I can only make an educated guess about the price.

Colder than the temperature at which water freezes (0°C or 32°F).

• The temperature dropped below freezing last night.
• It's been consistently below freezing for a week.

The inability to see clearly, making things look fuzzy or out of focus.

• He has blurred vision.
• The headache caused blurred vision.

To stop a repeating pattern of negative events or behaviors.

• We must break the cycle of violence.
• She wants to break the cycle of poverty.

A news story that is happening right now and is being reported as it develops.

• We have a breaking story from the capital.
• The news channel interrupted its programme for a breaking story.