Phrases & Expressions

To be strongly attracted to something, even if it is dangerous.

• He's drawn to gambling like a moth to a flame.
• She's attracted to him like a moth to a flame.

A liquid that is very valuable, such as oil, olive oil or honey.

• This aged balsamic is like liquid gold.
• High-quality olive oil is considered liquid gold.

The power of the law to reach and punish people, no matter how far away they are.

• They thought they could escape, but the long arm of the law caught them.
• The police believe the long arm of the law will eventually find the suspect.

To consider someone or something as inferior or unworthy of respect.

• He looks down his nose at anyone who doesn't have a lot of money.
• She looks down her nose at my simple clothes.

To have the right appearance for a particular role, job or activity.

• He looks the part of a successful businessman.
• In his new suit, he really looked the part for the interview.

To lose the respect or admiration of others; to be humiliated.

• He feared he would lose face if he admitted his mistake.
• The company lost face after the product recall.

To no longer have the skill or ability one used to have at doing something well.

• I used to make delicious pies, but this one tastes terrible — I think I've lost my touch.
• The old chef seems to have lost his touch; the food isn't what it used to be.

An effort, person, or situation that has no chance of success.

• Cindy spent five years studying Russian; finally she realized it was a lost cause.
• Jack needs to cut down on coffee, but he's so addicted to caffeine that it's a lost cause.

Cooked at a low temperature for a long time to make food tender.

• Brisket is best cooked low and slow.
• We cooked the lamb low and slow for six hours.

(Slang) To eat too much food, often in a greedy way.

• I made a pig of myself by eating four slices of pie.
• Of course you could eat another hamburger, but you don't want to make a pig of yourself.