Phrases & Expressions

Not clear at all; very confusing (often used sarcastically).

• His handwriting is clear as mud.
• That explanation was clear as mud.

To leave a place quickly, often because someone has rudely told you to.

• The owner shouted at the boys to clear off.
• Clear off and don't come back!

To be very expensive.

• Buying a house in this area costs an arm and a leg.
• That designer handbag must have cost an arm and a leg.

To hope for good luck, often by crossing your middle finger over your index finger.

• Cross your fingers for me.
• She crossed her fingers and waited.

To perform calculations or analyze data, especially financial figures.

• Let's crunch the numbers for the new project.
• The accountant will crunch the numbers.

To decorate a place or thing to make it look attractive.

• They decided to deck out the room for the party.
• She likes to deck out her new car with accessories.

Extremely tired.

• After the marathon, I was dog tired.
• After a long day at work, he looked dog-tired.

In an honest, straightforward way; according to the rules.

• We lost the match, but they beat us fair and square.
• Tony won the ping-pong tournament fair and square.

To start an engine or machine, often with a loud noise or effort.

• Let's fire up the old tractor.
• The crew will fire up the generators.

To start an activity or process that involves several stages.

• Let's get the ball rolling on this project.
• Someone needs to get the ball rolling.