Phrases & Expressions

Things that make life comfortable and pleasant.

• He enjoys the creature comforts of his new home.
• The hotel provides many creature comforts.

To hope for good luck, often by crossing your middle finger over your index finger.

• Cross your fingers for me.
• She crossed her fingers and waited.

A firm texture that makes a crisp sound when bitten.

• I love the crunchy texture of fresh vegetables.
• The fried chicken had a perfect crunchy texture.

To manage or cope successfully without something.

• I can do without coffee.
• We had to do without electricity for a day.

To pay for something, especially when it is expensive.

• Let me foot the bill this time.
• Who is going to foot the bill for the repairs?

To make someone understand an idea or feeling.

• He got his point across clearly.
• We need to get this message across to the public.

To become actively involved in the practical or difficult parts of a job.

• The boss isn't afraid to get his hands dirty.
• We all had to get our hands dirty to finish the project on time.

To compete strongly with someone, making it difficult for them to win.

• We lost the soccer tournament, but we gave the champions a real run for their money.
• The underdog team gave the favorites a run for their money for most of the game.

To chase someone or something.

• The police went after the thief.
• The dog went after the ball as soon as I threw it.

Used to show that something is surprising or strange.

• He doesn't like chocolate. Go figure.
• Go figure — she's afraid of dogs.