Phrase Guide Staff Two friends, Emma and Jake, are discussing Jake’s recovery after a recent surgery, while making plans for an upcoming trip: Emma: So, have you packed already?Jake: Not quite, but I’ve been thinking about it.Emma: Thinking about it? Jake, we leave in three days!Jake: Relax, Emma. I’m on the mend, remember? Doctor said I should take … Read more
Here’s a conversation about a colleague following up on a project proposal and sharing exciting updates on potential partnerships. One phrase that stands out in the conversation is: “Does that ring a bell?” What does this phrase mean? How can you use it in your everyday conversations? – Hey, Tom, how’s it going today?– I’m … Read more
In the above article, Nessa Cronin emphasizes the importance of collective intelligence over conformity during challenging times, advocating for a “hive mind” approach to foster creativity and resilience instead of a “herd mentality.” You can read it here. But what does the phrase “hive mind” mean? How can we use it in our everyday conversation? … Read more
The image above is an excerpt from World War II in Ukraine: Stalin’s Scorched Earth Policy by Andrew Gregorovich. You can read the full document here. The phrase “Scorched Earth Policy” appears in both the title and the first paragraph, as highlighted in the image. If you’ve come across this page, it’s likely that you’ve … Read more
Meaning Sentence Examples Origin of the Phrase The expression is believed to date back to the 17th century and was originally literal, referring to the idea of lighting both ends of a candle. In those times, candles were a precious commodity, and burning one at both ends would waste it, causing it to burn out … Read more
Meaning Quick Sentence Examples: Usage Context People use the phrase when they want to refer to the complete package or the entirety of something, often to emphasize that no part is missing or excluded. It’s commonly used in both casual and informal contexts. Here are some situations when it might be used: I. When referring … Read more
“Bet my bottom dollar” means to be very sure or confident about something, as if you are willing to risk your last or only dollar on it. It’s often used to express strong certainty or belief in the outcome of a situation. Examples of Sentences Using the Phrase Alternative ways to say “bet my bottom … Read more
“Let bygones be bygones” means to forgive and forget past mistakes, grievances, or conflicts, and to move forward without holding onto past resentments. It encourages leaving behind old issues or hurts and focusing on the present and future, rather than dwelling on past wrongs. Examples of sentences using the phrase “let bygones be bygones” Alternative … Read more
The phrase “Put Out Some Feelers” means to discreetly gather information or test opinions, often to gauge interest, reactions, or possibilities before making a decision or taking action. It is commonly used in situations where someone wants to gauge interest, reaction, or opinion about a potential idea, plan, or decision before moving forward. Examples of … Read more
“If these walls could talk” is a figurative expression that suggests the idea of walls having the ability to recount the events, secrets, or stories that have occurred within a particular place. The phrase implies that a space has witnessed significant or intriguing moments, often of a private, mysterious, or emotional nature, and if the … Read more