Phrases & Expressions

To have a very exciting and enjoyable time, often involving parties and spending money.

• They decided to paint the town red after the exam.
• The team went out to paint the town red after their win.

To lift one's glass to propose a toast or express good wishes.

• Let's raise a glass to the happy couple.
• He raised a glass in her honor.

Protection for those who face serious harm but don't qualify for refugee status.

• He applied for subsidiary protection due to the conflict.
• The court granted subsidiary protection to the applicant.

The most important person in a group or organization; the leader.

• She's the top banana in the marketing department.
• Who's the top banana around here?

A meme format showing a choice between two options, often with difficulty.

• This is a classic two buttons situation.
• He faced the two buttons meme dilemma.

An opinion that people think is right or clever, especially online.

• That's a huge W take on the new policy.
• He always has a W take on current events.

To force someone to leave an organisation, often in a way that involves shame.

• He was drummed out of the army for his actions.
• Members can be drummed out of the club for breaking the rules.

To look at someone or something with suspicion or disapproval.

• He looked askance at the stranger in his house.
• The boss looked askance at his late arrival.

A slogan meaning that no decision about a group should be made without that group taking part.

• The disability rights movement's motto is 'Nothing about us without us'.
• The new policy follows the principle of 'nothing about us without us'.

To try to win the favour of someone in authority by flattering that person or being too helpful.

• He always polishes the apple with the boss.
• She was polishing the apple to get a promotion.