Phrases & Expressions

(have two left feet) To be very clumsy, especially when dancing.

• I have two left feet, so I avoid dancing.
• He tried to dance but had two left feet.

Two people who are very similar to each other in appearance or behaviour.

• The twins are like two peas in a pod.
• My grandmother and I are two peas in a pod.

Not visible or obvious; hidden beneath the surface.

• There might be problems under the surface.
• He felt anger building up under the surface.

To assess the general mood or atmosphere of a place or group of people.

• Let's do a quick vibe check before we decide.
• Vibe check! Your comments are making everyone uncomfortable.

If there are rumors or signs of trouble, there is probably some truth to them.

• They say he's cheating, and where there's smoke there's fire.
• Rumors of layoffs are spreading; where there's smoke there's fire.

It is better to be efficient than to work very hard.

• We need to work smarter not harder.
• Focus on quality, work smarter not harder.

Your health and character are influenced by the food you consume.

• Remember, you are what you eat.
• A doctor told him, 'You are what you eat'.

Used to say that if you help someone, that person will help you in return.

• I'll fix your bike if you help me paint — you scratch my back and I'll scratch yours.
• You scratch my back and I'll scratch yours, right?

Asked when someone is unusually silent.

• What's wrong? Cat got your tongue?
• Has the cat got your tongue today?

Someone, especially a child, who is difficult to control or manage.

• That toddler is a real handful!
• Their new puppy is a real handful and chews everything in sight.