Phrases & Expressions

To make significant changes to a situation or organization to make it more exciting or effective.

• The new manager wants to shake things up.
• Let's shake things up and try a new approach.

To wait patiently and not take any action or move from your place.

• Nicole must sit tight; colleges won't reply until April.
• Sit tight — the doctor will be with you in a few minutes.

To apply the brakes very suddenly and forcefully.

• He had to slam on the brakes to avoid the deer.
• The taxi driver slammed on the brakes when the light turned red.

To sleep very soundly and peacefully.

• After a long day at the beach, I slept like a baby.
• I slept like a baby after the exam.

A firm basis or reliable foundation for something; a secure position.

• His research provided solid ground for the new theory.
• We need solid ground before making a decision.

To betray someone who trusts you.

• She stabbed her best friend in the back by telling her secrets to her enemy.
• He felt stabbed in the back when his business partner stole all the money.

To be independent, especially financially, and able to manage without help.

• After college, she wanted to stand on her own two feet.
• He's old enough to stand on his own two feet.

A strong liking for sweet foods, especially candy and desserts.

• Amber's got a real sweet tooth.
• If you have a sweet tooth, try the chocolate cake here.

The most important fact or consideration.

• The bottom line is that we need more funding.
• The bottom line is, we need more money.

A competitive and stressful struggle for wealth, power, or success.

• He quit the rat race to start a farm.
• Many people feel trapped in the rat race.