Phrases & Expressions

A difficult or challenging first experience in a new role or situation.

• His first day as a firefighter was a real baptism by fire.
• Starting a business can be a baptism by fire.

To become strong and tough by going through great difficulties.

• Her leadership skills were forged in fire.
• Their friendship was forged in fire during years of hardship.

A poetic or informal term referring to the vastness of the ocean.

• The ship sailed into the big blue.
• Looking out at the big blue always calms me.

The taste opposite to sweet, often found in coffee, dark chocolate, or certain vegetables.

• Many people dislike the bitter taste of coffee.
• Dark chocolate has a complex bitter taste.

To be inconsistent in one's opinions or actions, often changing from one extreme to another.

• He keeps blowing hot and cold about the job offer.
• The government is blowing hot and cold on environmental policy.

Born into a rich family and given many advantages.

• He never had to work because he was born with a silver spoon.
• She complains about her life, but she was born with a silver spoon.

To bend your body low in front of someone to show great respect.

• Everyone in the hall bowed down as the queen entered.
• In the old story, the servants bowed down before their master.

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.

To start doing a new type of business or activity.

• The company is branching out into international markets.
• She branched out from writing novels to screenplays.