Phrases & Expressions

to resolve misunderstandings or bad feelings between people

• Let's clear the air.
• They cleared the air.

A sudden feeling of fear or doubt before doing something important.

• He got cold feet the night before his wedding.
• She was going to quit her job, but she got cold feet at the last minute.

A short, critical period when there is great pressure to achieve something.

• The entire month of December is crunch time for Santa Claus.
• May is crunch time for many students — that's when they take their final exams.

To be upset about something bad that has happened and cannot be changed.

• There's no use crying over spilled milk now.
• It was a mistake, but don't cry over spilled milk.

Something or someone that one likes or finds pleasant (usually used in the negative).

• Hockey isn't Alan's cup of tea — he prefers soccer.
• I know Joy is nice, but she's just not my cup of tea.

To do something in the easiest or cheapest way, often by sacrificing quality.

• They cut corners to save money.
• Don't cut corners on safety.

Every bad situation has something positive.

• Don't lose hope — every cloud has a silver lining.
• Remember, every cloud has a silver lining.

To feel slightly ill.

• I'm feeling a bit under the weather.
• She felt under the weather, so she stayed at home.

Starting from the very beginning, using basic materials rather than a prepared mixture.

• They decided to tear down the old house and rebuild it from scratch.
• You baked these muffins from scratch? They're delicious!

To become difficult or impossible to control.

• The party got a little out of hand.
• Don't let the situation get out of hand.