Phrases & Expressions

Part of the saying "a friend in need is a friend indeed": a friend who helps you in hard times is a true friend.

• A friend in need is a friend indeed, as my grandmother used to say.
• When I lost my job, Tom proved to be a friend in need.

A person or problem that is difficult to deal with or understand.

• This math problem is a hard nut to crack.
• The suspect was a hard nut to crack for the detectives.

A mind that learns and remembers new things very quickly and easily.

• Children have a mind like a sponge.
• She has a mind like a sponge and picked up the language quickly.

Saving money is just as beneficial as earning it.

• I always look for discounts. A penny saved is a penny earned.
• Don't waste that; a penny saved is a penny earned.

A person who offers comfort and sympathy when you are sad or upset.

• When she lost her job, she needed a shoulder to cry on.
• He's always been a shoulder to cry on for his friends.

Completely illuminated or decorated with lights, often for a special occasion.

• The town was all lit up for the festival.
• The Christmas tree was all lit up.

Clumsy and awkward, especially with your hands.

• I'm all thumbs when I try to sew.
• He is all thumbs today and has already dropped two plates.

Mild, short-term sadness and mood swings after giving birth.

• Many new mothers experience the baby blues.
• The baby blues usually disappear within two weeks.

Good value for the money you spend.

• This cheap phone offers great bang for your buck.
• We want more bang for our buck on this project.

A large amount of money.

• He left his job to earn big bucks in finance.
• Movie stars make big bucks.