Phrases & Expressions

To worry too much about unimportant details.

• Don't sweat the small stuff; focus on the main goal.
• He tends to sweat the small stuff, which slows down progress.

To hide or ignore something embarrassing or shameful rather than dealing with it.

• The company tried to sweep the scandal under the rug, but the press found out.
• Don't sweep your problems under the rug; face them directly.

To add something extra to an offer to make it more attractive or acceptable.

• They offered a bonus to sweeten the deal.
• We can offer free shipping to sweeten the deal.

To protect and guide someone who is younger or less experienced.

• She took the new employee under her wing.
• The senior manager took me under his wing.

To become extremely popular or successful in a particular place very quickly.

• The new band took the music scene by storm.
• Her first novel took the literary world by storm.

To confront a difficulty or problem directly and bravely.

• It's time to take the bull by the horns and solve this.
• She decided to take the bull by the horns.

To finally decide to do something important or risky after thinking about it.

• After years of hesitation, he finally took the plunge and bought the house.
• She decided to take the plunge and start her own business.

To speak confidently and convincingly about something, often without proving it through actions.

• He always talks the talk and walks the walk.
• You need to talk the talk if you want to be a leader.

A task or request that is very difficult to accomplish.

• Winning the championship with such a young team is a tall order.
• Getting the project finished by Friday is a tall order.

Used to express surprise or annoyance at something extreme or outrageous.

• He forgot my birthday and my anniversary? That takes the cake!
• After all that, he expects a raise? That takes the cake.