Phrases & Expressions

To make a noticeable or significant difference or impact.

• Her efforts really moved the needle.
• This change will move the needle.

Something that you are very pleased to hear.

• The news of his promotion was music to my ears.
• A day off on Friday? That sounds like music to my ears!

To need something immediately, much sooner than is realistic.

• The boss wants this report, and he needs it yesterday.
• Can you fix the printer quickly? We need it yesterday.

A new chance to live or work with more energy, after illness or trouble, or after being repaired.

• After recovering from his illness, he felt he had a new lease on life.
• Starting a new hobby gave her a new lease on life.

Used to say that it is pointless to feel regret over something that has already happened and cannot be changed.

• Nicole realized she'd made mistakes in her campaign, but there was no use crying over spilt milk.
• Your bike was wrecked in an accident? There's no use crying over spilt milk — you'll just have to buy a new one.

To know nothing about something; to have no idea.

• He talks about cooking a lot, but he doesn't have a clue how to make bread.
• "Do you know how to fix a broken printer?" — "No, I don't have a clue."

To do something that makes a process or activity easier or faster.

• A little extra funding will help oil the wheels.
• A friendly chat before the meeting can help oil the wheels.

Extremely old, ancient.

• That story is old as the hills; everyone knows it.
• My grandmother's recipes are old as the hills.

Likely to achieve something because things are developing as planned.

• The company is on course to double its profits this year.
• After three wins, the team is on course for the title.

Used to emphasize that you are telling the truth or that something is very important.

• On God, I didn't know she was coming.
• This is the best concert ever, on God!