Idiomatic and Phrasal Expressions Flashcards

When someone says they are 'on the fence' about a decision, what do they mean?

Answer: They are undecided or neutral

'On the fence' means being undecided or not having taken a side yet.

If a project is said to be 'behind the eight ball,' what is the situation?

Answer: It is in a difficult or disadvantaged position

'Behind the eight ball' describes being in a difficult or losing position.

What does the phrasal verb 'look into' mean in 'The manager will look into the complaint'?

Answer: Investigate or examine

'Look into' means to investigate or examine something more carefully.

If someone tells you to 'hang tight,' what are they asking you to do?

Answer: Wait patiently

'Hang tight' is an informal way of telling someone to wait patiently.

What does 'bite the bullet' mean in everyday American English?

Answer: Endure a painful situation with courage

'Bite the bullet' means to endure something difficult or unpleasant with determination.

The phrase 'call it a day' most likely means:

Answer: Stop working for the day

'Call it a day' means to stop working or doing an activity for the day.

What is the meaning of 'burn bridges' in the sentence 'You don't want to burn bridges with your old employer'?

Answer: Permanently damage a relationship

'Burn bridges' means to permanently destroy a relationship or opportunity.