Phrases & Expressions

To be extremely attractive or impressive.

• Her new car is so stylish it could stop traffic.
• The actress looked stunning; she could stop traffic.

To deal with dangerous, ruthless people, especially in business.

• Investing in that company felt like swimming with sharks.
• He's used to swimming with sharks in business.

To accept criticism, punishment, or unpleasant situations bravely and without complaining.

• He had to take it on the chin when his project failed.
• The team took it on the chin but vowed to come back stronger.

To punish someone as severely as possible.

• When Ted failed his chemistry test for the second time, his teacher really threw the book at him.
• The judge threw the book at Matt for stealing a football — he'll be in jail for six months.

Feeling physically exhausted but mentally unable to sleep or calm down.

• She was tired but wired after the long flight.
• He felt tired but wired all night.

To increase something to the highest possible level or intensity.

• The band turned the volume up to eleven.
• The new horror film turns the tension up to eleven.

Feeling mentally alert and anxious, but physically exhausted and unable to relax.

• After too much coffee, I felt wired and tired.
• The approaching deadline left him wired and tired all week.

Whatever difficulties happen; used to say that you are determined to do something.

• I'll finish this, come hell or high water.
• Come hell or high water, we'll win.

Extremely good or impressive; the best.

• This new phone is da bomb!
• Her performance was da bomb.

Worthless, stupid, or not worth considering.

• That movie is for the birds; don't waste your time.
• His advice on the matter was completely for the birds.