Phrases & Expressions

Not attracting attention or notice; operating secretly.

• He tried to stay under the radar.
• The company operated under the radar.

Done secretly, often illegally or unofficially.

• He gave him money under the table.
• They were paid under the table.

Very close to you, especially something obvious that you have not noticed.

• My keys were right under my nose the whole time.
• How did this happen right under our noses?

To make an audience feel more excited and enthusiastic, often before a main performance.

• The comedian's job was to warm up the crowd.
• The DJ played some upbeat music to warm up the crowd.

Past events that are no longer important or that have been forgiven and forgotten.

• We argued, but that's water under the bridge now.
• Don't worry about that mistake; it's water under the bridge.

To be determined to win, no matter what the difficulties or consequences are.

• The coach demanded that the team win at all costs.
• She wanted to win at all costs, even if it hurt her friendships.

A situation where only the person or team who wins receives all the rewards or prize money.

• In this tournament, it's winner takes all.
• The final match was a winner takes all contest.

Midnight, or the middle of the night, when magic and ghosts are said to appear.

• They told ghost stories until the witching hour.
• At the witching hour, the old house was completely silent.

Good at one's job and deserving respect or pay.

• Any mechanic worth his salt can fix this.
• She's an artist worth her salt.

Having a youthful spirit and attitude, regardless of age.

• My grandmother is young at heart.
• He is 80 but young at heart.