Phrases & Expressions

An attitude in which someone behaves as if better or more moral than other people.

• Get off your high horse and admit you were wrong.
• He's on his high horse again about people who arrive late.

To like each other immediately when meeting for the first time.

• They hit it off right away.
• We hit it off at the party.

Wait, be patient.

• Hold your horses, I'm coming!
• Hold your horses — we haven't decided yet.

Very quickly or suddenly.

• He was gone in a flash, before I could speak.
• Time passes in a flash when you're having fun.

To become less serious, anxious, or angry; to relax and enjoy yourself.

• Lighten up! I'm sure Ted was only joking when he said your guitar playing gave him a headache.
• Don always takes his job too seriously — he needs to lighten up.

Used to tell someone to accept a difficult situation that cannot be changed.

• The train is always late, so you'll just have to live with it.
• Your hair will never be straight — just live with it.

To become angry, upset, or lose control of one's emotions.

• He lost his cool when they criticized his work.
• Try not to lose your cool during the argument.

To suggest doing something because it is the most logical or easiest choice in the situation.

• You may as well stay for dinner.
• We may as well go.

Used to say that you or someone else has done something perfectly.

• You finished the project on time? Nailed it!
• She gave the presentation flawlessly. She really nailed it.

Used to emphasize that what you are saying is true and serious.

• No cap, I saw him there yesterday.
• This is the best pizza I've ever had, no cap.