Phrases & Expressions

Free from a difficult situation, obligation, or responsibility.

• You're off the hook.
• He got off the hook for the accident.

Extremely happy.

• She's been on cloud nine since she heard the news.
• I was on cloud nine after the proposal.

Feeling nervous, anxious, or easily irritated.

• Whenever Susan feels on edge, she takes a few deep breaths to relax.
• Ever since his car accident, Neil has been on edge.

Waiting to speak to someone on the phone, usually while listening to music or messages.

• Please stay on hold; a representative will be with you soon.
• My call was put on hold for over twenty minutes.

Very old, worn out, or close to failing or collapsing.

• My old car is on its last legs.
• This computer is on its last legs; it needs replacing.

According to what is written or officially stated, but perhaps not in reality.

• On paper, the plan looks perfect.
• He's an average player on paper.

Alert, quick to understand, and competent in handling things.

• Our new manager is really on the ball.
• You need to be on the ball to catch mistakes.

Working during the hours that you are paid for.

• You can't make personal calls while you're on the clock.
• She was still on the clock when the manager called her.

Very rarely.

• I see my cousins once in a blue moon.
• He visits once in a blue moon.

Extremely good, impressive, or delicious; far better than usual.

• Her homemade oatmeal cookies are out of this world.
• Mmm, I love your chicken soup — it's out of this world.