Phrases & Expressions

To accept responsibility for something bad that has happened.

• He decided to shoulder the blame for the mistake.
• Someone has to shoulder the blame.

To show that you are ready to use your power or to fight.

• The new manager showed her teeth when the deadlines were missed.
• The dog showed its teeth when it growled.

To send a direct message, often with a romantic or flirtatious intention.

• He decided to slide into her DMs.
• Don't slide into my DMs if you're not serious.

Something intended to deceive or mislead.

• The magician's trick was just smoke and mirrors.
• Don't be fooled by their smoke and mirrors.

To smoke cigarettes heavily and continuously.

• He was smoking like a chimney after the stressful meeting.
• My uncle was smoking like a chimney until his doctor warned him.

To return to the very beginning of a process or task.

• Our plan failed, so we're back to square one.
• After the mistake, it felt like we were back to square one.

To take attention or praise away from someone else's achievements.

• He tried to steal my thunder by announcing his own news first.
• She was worried her colleague would steal her thunder.

To cause someone to feel sympathy or to remember something similar.

• Her story struck a chord with many people.
• The song struck a chord with the audience.

To suddenly become very rich or successful, often by chance.

• She hopes to strike it rich in the oil business.
• Many people dream of striking it rich with a lottery win.

To put aside your pride and do something that is difficult for you.

• Swallow your pride and ask for help.
• He had to swallow his pride and apologize.