Phrases & Expressions

To withdraw from a competition or activity, often gracefully.

• The injured player had to bow out of the match.
• She decided to bow out after winning her last race.

To limit someone's freedom or choices.

• The new rules seem to box in small businesses.
• Don't box yourself in; explore all your options.

A situation where people misunderstand each other due to poor communication.

• There must have been crossed wires somewhere.
• We had crossed wires about the meeting time.

To strongly encourage someone to do something, especially something unwise.

• His friends egged him on to jump from the bridge.
• She kept egging him on to ask for a raise.

In a way that is elegant, impressive, and often luxurious.

• She arrived in style at the gala.
• They celebrated their anniversary in style.

With the audience sitting on all sides of the stage or performance area.

• The play was performed in the round.
• Watching a concert in the round makes everyone feel close to the stage.

A person whose bad behavior or character has a negative effect on an entire group.

• One bad apple can spoil the whole bunch.
• He was the one bad apple in the team.

To be excluded or neglected, not receiving the help or attention one needs.

• When the company downsized, many experienced workers were left out in the cold.
• He felt left out in the cold after his friends made plans without him.

To copy someone's good behaviour or methods because you admire that person.

• You should take a leaf out of her book and start saving money.
• He needs to take a leaf out of his brother's book and be more organized.

To invent and tell a story, often one that is long or imaginative.

• The old man loved to weave a tale for the children.
• He could weave a tale about his adventures.