Phrases & Expressions

A cold, unkind nature that feels no pity for other people.

• How could you say that? You have a heart of stone!
• Only someone with a heart of stone could ignore that crying child.

To be optimistic about the future while also planning for potential problems.

• My father's advice was simple: hope for the best, prepare for the worst.
• It's wise to hope for the best and prepare for the worst.

Suddenly and completely, leaving no trace; used after verbs like vanish or disappear.

• The thief vanished into thin air after the robbery.
• All our savings seemed to disappear into thin air.

To form an opinion of someone or something based only on appearance, often unfairly.

• Don't judge a book by its cover — he is kinder than he looks.
• The restaurant looks dirty but the food is excellent — never judge a book by its cover.

To have just enough money to survive and avoid poverty or starvation.

• The small salary was just enough to keep the wolf from the door.
• They worked hard to keep the wolf from the door during the recession.

To stay focused on achieving a goal or winning.

• Keep your eye on the prize and finish the race.
• She has her eye on the prize: the championship.

To look at or try something quickly before deciding whether to buy or use it.

• We are just kicking the tires on a few laptops before we decide.
• Many visitors came to kick the tires, but few bought anything.

To work extremely hard, often to the point of exhaustion.

• Ted knocked himself out getting votes for Nicole, and she didn't even thank him.
• I really knocked myself out getting these free concert tickets for you — I hope you appreciate it.

To avoid leaving any sign that you have been in a place, especially in nature.

• Hikers must leave no trace of their visit.
• We promised to leave no trace behind.

A phrase used to signal the start of engines, especially on an aircraft.

• The pilot announced, 'Light the fires!' and the engines roared.
• It's time to light the fires for our flight.