Phrases & Expressions

An unrealistic hope or plan that is unlikely to ever come true.

• Susan would love to move to New Zealand and write romance novels, but she knows it's just a pipe dream.
• You want to become a famous Broadway actor? That sounds like a pipe dream.

To ask someone to marry you.

• He finally popped the question.
• She hopes he will pop the question soon.

To complain or protest angrily and loudly.

• If they raise hell, we'll have to listen.
• She raised hell when the airline lost her luggage.

To make someone extremely tired or exhausted.

• The constant demands ran him ragged.
• This job will run you ragged.

Something that people treat as too important to be criticized or changed.

• The school's uniform rule is a sacred cow that nobody questions.
• We can't change the rules; it's a sacred cow.

A phrase used to emphasize a point or to check if the listener understands the speaker's perspective.

• This situation is complex, see what I'm saying?
• We can't just quit now, you see what I'm saying?

To do something extremely well or achieve great success.

• He's a talented musician, but I don't think he'll set the world on fire.
• She's very smart and could set the world on fire if she tried.

A popular online persona representing an idealized woman focused on self-care, healthy habits, and productivity.

• Her morning routine is very 'that girl'.
• She inspires many with her 'that girl' lifestyle.

To become extremely angry or upset and lose control.

• My dad will throw a fit if he sees this mess.
• She threw a fit when her flight was cancelled.

To give secret information or a warning to someone.

• He tipped me off about the job opening.
• A friend tipped her off that the shop was having a big sale.