Phrases & Expressions

A superstitious phrase said to ward off bad luck after mentioning good fortune.

• I hope this weather lasts, touch wood.
• We haven't had any problems so far, touch wood.

To stay afloat in water by moving your arms and legs.

• He had to tread water until the rescue boat arrived.
• Children learn to tread water in their first swimming lessons.

Speaking very quietly so others cannot hear you easily.

• "Amber is strange," muttered Nicole under her breath as Ted was leaving.
• He agreed to take out the garbage, saying under his breath, "I always do the dirty work."

Used to say what a person or thing is really like, despite appearances.

• Under the skin, all people are basically the same.
• He seems tough, but under the skin he is very kind.

To show what you think of a company or product by choosing whether to buy from it.

• If you don't like how a company treats its workers, vote with your wallet.
• We vote with our wallets every time we choose what to buy.

A statement from a doctor that a person is healthy.

• The doctor gave him a clean bill of health.
• After the tests, she was given a clean bill of health.

Very common and therefore not special or valuable.

• Apps like that are a dime a dozen.
• Such complaints are a dime a dozen.

Someone or something annoying.

• My neighbor is a pain in the neck.
• This printer is a pain in the neck.

Everywhere, or every time you try to do something.

• Obstacles appeared at every turn.
• Our plans were blocked at every turn by new rules.

To avoid saying something directly, often because it is unpleasant or awkward.

• Don't beat around the bush; just tell me.
• If you want something, just tell me — don't beat around the bush!