Phrases & Expressions

To take attention or praise away from someone else's achievements.

• He tried to steal my thunder by announcing his own news first.
• She was worried her colleague would steal her thunder.

To cause someone to feel sympathy or to remember something similar.

• Her story struck a chord with many people.
• The song struck a chord with the audience.

To suddenly become very rich or successful, often by chance.

• She hopes to strike it rich in the oil business.
• Many people dream of striking it rich with a lottery win.

In baseball, to be out after missing the ball three times.

• The batter struck out in the final inning.
• He struck out three times in the same game.

To remove old paint from a surface, often using chemicals or tools.

• We need to strip paint from the old door.
• Use a scraper to strip paint from the walls.

Forest management that protects the environment and ensures future growth.

• Sustainable forestry protects biodiversity.
• They practice sustainable forestry.

To put aside your pride and do something that is difficult for you.

• Swallow your pride and ask for help.
• He had to swallow his pride and apologize.

To make someone officially promise to do a job properly when that person starts it.

• The new prime minister will be sworn in next week.
• She was sworn in as the first female judge.

To worry too much about unimportant details.

• Don't sweat the small stuff; focus on the main goal.
• He tends to sweat the small stuff, which slows down progress.

To carry someone or something away with great force.

• The flood swept away several houses near the river.
• The strong current swept him away from the beach.