Phrases & Expressions

To hold a grudge or resentment, often because of a past injustice or feeling of inferiority.

• He has a chip on his shoulder about not getting promoted.
• She has a chip on her shoulder about her past.

To start doing something only because it has become popular or fashionable.

• Everyone's jumping on the bandwagon now.
• Don't just jump on the bandwagon because your friends did.

To argue against an idea or plan, even if you agree with it, to encourage discussion.

• Let me play devil's advocate.
• He's just playing devil's advocate.

To lose energy, enthusiasm, or momentum and become unable to continue.

• After running for an hour, I started to run out of steam.
• The project ran out of steam due to lack of funding.

Unwilling to change one's habits, opinions, or way of life.

• My grandfather is very set in his ways.
• It's hard to change him; he's set in his ways.

To make someone feel worried or suspicious that something bad might happen.

• His strange behavior set off alarm bells.
• The sudden silence set off alarm bells in my head.

An opportunity has passed and it is now too late to do something.

• I wanted to apply for that job, but that ship has sailed.
• Sorry, that ship has sailed; the deadline was yesterday.

To be extremely careful about what you say or do around someone, to avoid upsetting them.

• I always walk on eggshells around my boss.
• Don't make me walk on eggshells; just tell me what you think.

To show your emotions and feelings openly, rather than hiding them.

• She wears her heart on her sleeve, so you always know how she feels.
• He wears his heart on his sleeve, which can sometimes get him into trouble.

When a situation becomes difficult or serious, and you must take action or make a decision.

• When push comes to shove, he'll always help his friends.
• When push comes to shove, you have to trust your own instincts.