Vocabulary: Idiomatic Expressions Flashcards

Your coworker says the new software rollout went off without a hitch. What does this mean?

Answer: It happened without any problems

"Off without a hitch" means something proceeded smoothly with no problems.

If a colleague tells you to take the deadline with a grain of salt, what should you do?

Answer: Treat it as flexible and not entirely certain

"Take it with a grain of salt" means to view information with healthy skepticism.

Your friend says learning French has been an uphill battle. What does this suggest?

Answer: It has been difficult and required great effort

An "uphill battle" describes a struggle that demands sustained effort.

When someone says you hit the nail on the head, they mean you:

Answer: Described the situation exactly right

"Hit the nail on the head" means to be precisely correct.

A manager says the project is now on the back burner. This means it is:

Answer: Given lower priority for now

"On the back burner" means something is set aside as a lower priority.

If you say a coworker is on the ball, you mean they are:

Answer: Alert and competent

"On the ball" describes someone who is quick, attentive, and efficient.

Your neighbour says winter prices are through the roof. This means prices are:

Answer: Extremely high

"Through the roof" means something has risen to a very high level.