Collocations and Idiomatic Expressions Flashcards

What does the idiom 'beat around the bush' mean?

Answer: To avoid coming to the main point

'Beat around the bush' means to avoid discussing the most important issue by talking about peripheral or irrelevant matters.

What does 'a blessing in disguise' mean?

Answer: Something that initially seems bad but proves to be beneficial

A 'blessing in disguise' refers to something that initially appears negative or unfortunate but ultimately turns out to be advantageous.

If someone 'burns their bridges,' what have they done?

Answer: Permanently damaged an important relationship or opportunity

'Burn bridges' means to permanently destroy a relationship or opportunity, making it impossible to return to a previous situation.

What does 'bite the bullet' mean?

Answer: To endure a painful or difficult situation with courage

'Bite the bullet' means to endure a painful or unpleasant situation bravely and without complaint.

When someone says 'the ball is in your court,' what do they mean?

Answer: It is now your turn or responsibility to act

'The ball is in your court' means it is now the other person's turn to take action or make a decision.

What does 'cut to the chase' mean?

Answer: To get directly to the most important point

'Cut to the chase' means to stop wasting time on unimportant details and address the main point of a discussion directly.

What does 'let the cat out of the bag' mean?

Answer: To accidentally reveal a secret

'Let the cat out of the bag' means to accidentally disclose a secret or surprise that was intended to remain hidden.