Phrases & Expressions

To pay much more money for something than it is really worth.

• We paid through the nose for this hotel.
• You'll pay through the nose for that car.

To say something foolish, tactless, or embarrassing by mistake.

• I put my foot in my mouth.
• Don't put your foot in your mouth.

To understand a hidden meaning or unspoken message in what someone says or writes.

• Her letter seemed happy, but I could read between the lines.
• You need to read between the lines to understand the real message.

Immediately or from the very beginning of an event or situation.

• He answered right off the bat.
• I knew right off the bat that something was wrong.

A general principle based on practical experience, not on exact measurement or theory.

• A good rule of thumb for fish is 10 minutes per inch in the oven.
• As a rule of thumb, study two hours for every chemistry test.

It is your turn to decide or act.

• I've done my part — the ball is in your court.
• The ball is in your court now.

Those who start early have an advantage.

• Wake up early — the early bird catches the worm.
• In business, the early bird catches the worm.

An obvious problem nobody wants to discuss.

• Let's talk about the elephant in the room.
• His drinking is the elephant in the room.

The final problem that makes you lose patience.

• That comment was the last straw.
• Missing the flight was the last straw.

The largest part of something.

• He took the lion's share of the profit.
• The lion's share went to the eldest son.