Phrases & Expressions

To attract someone's interest or make someone take part.

• The story drew me in from the first page.
• The teacher tried to draw in the shy students during the discussion.

Used to say that something is more difficult to actually do than to merely talk about doing.

• You want to climb Mount Everest? Easier said than done!
• Moving into a new home is easier said than done.

To eat a very large amount of food.

• He eats like a horse after his workout.
• My son eats like a horse.

To repair or improve something such as a building or vehicle.

• He fixed up the old car.
• They are fixing up an old house in the village.

To spend time in a silly way without a serious purpose.

• If we keep fooling around here, we'll be late to the restaurant.
• Stop fooling around — you've got a lot of work to do.

To get into trouble or a difficult situation.

• He got into hot water for being late again.
• If you break the rules, you'll get into hot water.

To organize your life or work effectively.

• You need to get your act together if you want to pass the exam.
• After the crisis, the company finally got its act together.

To commit completely to an endeavor, investing all effort and resources.

• She decided to go all in on her new business.
• They went all in for the championship.

To try to achieve the highest possible level or success.

• The team is going for gold in the competition.
• She's been going for gold since she started.

Wait, be patient.

• Hold your horses, I'm coming!
• Hold your horses — we haven't decided yet.