Phrases & Expressions

To undergo a surgical operation.

• He is going under the knife next week.
• Many people are afraid of going under the knife.

To get married, especially in a church wedding.

• They finally walked down the aisle after ten years together.
• She dreamed of walking down the aisle.

To survive a difficult period or situation.

• They weathered the financial storm.
• The company managed to weather the storm and is growing again.

A saying meaning that surviving hard experiences makes a person stronger.

• I failed the exam, but what doesn't kill you makes you stronger.
• After the accident, he felt that what doesn't kill you makes you stronger.

A safety rule: if you are unsure about something, it is better to discard it.

• When in doubt, throw it out, especially with wild mushrooms.
• The chef followed the rule: when in doubt throw it out.

When the person in charge is away, people will do as they please.

• The boss is on vacation; when the cat's away, the mice will play.
• The children made a mess because when the cat's away, the mice will play.

If there are signs of trouble, there is likely real trouble.

• He's been seen talking to her secretly; where there's smoke...
• Rumors are spreading about the company's finances. Where there's smoke, there's fire.

To entertain someone with good food and drinks, often to impress that person.

• The company wined and dined the clients before asking them to sign.
• She was wined and dined during her business trip.

To work extremely hard and tirelessly.

• He worked his tail off to save money for college.
• They worked their tails off renovating the house.

Worth the time, effort, or trouble spent.

• It would be worth your while to learn this skill.
• Help me move house and I'll make it worth your while.