ここをクリックすると、編集できます。
June 2012.
English Idioms
Periodically Japanese ask me to list some English idioms. It’s easy enough to come up with a list on short notice. But over time the request was repeated so much that I began to pay attention to the idioms that I use in my everyday life and to others I found in novels. I began keeping a list. The following are all idioms that I have used at one time or another in recent years. I didn’t look at the Internet. I didn’t check a book. I just thought them up over a period of a few hours stretched over several days. I surprise myself how many and how often I use idioms. At first I thought that maybe I could recall a hundred or so. But then when I reached 460 I began to worry where it would end. I decided to stop at 666, the number of the beast. But I went further. Eventually I just got bored with the project.
Perhaps the flexibility and notorious irregularity of the English language mean that there is absolutely no end to idioms that can be invented. Individuals are free to coin their own turn of phrase. Also, the longer one lives - and one’s culture - the more experiences one has - and one’s culture - with a corresponding increase in the number of comparisons one can draw and phrases to express them.
The plethora of idiomatic expressions also presents me with the chronic problem of the inadequacy of language as a communication tool. We cannot describe reality, how things really are. Instead, we are limited to describing what reality is like - sort of like trying to describe God - which is not the same thing at all. It makes me consider how difficult it is to communicate in plain speech, contrary to popular ideas about language. Speech is never plain. More trouble comes when Japanese demand that I explain the idioms. That’s a terrible chore. Japanese also demand explanations of tongue twisters, which is simultaneously ridiculous, annoying and nearly self-defeating. Finally, many people confuse “idioms” with “proverbs.”
1) It’s raining cats and dog.
2) It’s spitting rain.
3) It’s music to my ears.
4) Everything is topsy-turvy.
5) He’s barking up the wrong tree.
6) It’s as phony as a $3 bill.
7) A man’s home is his castle.
8) He’s all thumbs.
9) He has a green thumb.
10) Out of sight, out of mind.
11) Distance makes the heart grow fonder.
12) He has bats in his belfry.
13) He’s got his foot in his mouth.
14) It’s all smoke and mirrors.
15) My doctor is a quack.
16) He’s selling snake oil.
17) It’s all Greek to me.
18) French kiss.
19) He got caught red-handed.
20) The judge threw the book at him.
21) The judge sent him up the river.
23) The police closed the book on the
24) The judge threw the book at him.
25) He’s a bookworm.
26) He closed his dog-eared notebook.
27) He has his head in a book.
28) I can read him like a book.
29) Do it by the book.
30) He’s a night owl.
31) He’s as wise as an owl.
32) An elephant never forgets.
33) He’s not playing with a full deck.
34) He’s not the brightest bulb in the shop.
35) He’s losing his marbles.
36) He’s lost in thought.
37) He’s touched.
38) He’s touched in the head.
39) The lights are on but nobody’s home.
40) There are skeletons in the closet.
41) He’s out of the closet.
42) He’s the black sheep of the family.
43) It’s a day at the beach.
44) He’s the toast of the town.
45) He’s the life of the party.
46) Shake a leg!
47) Get the lead out!
48) Hop to it!
49) Jump to it!
50) Don’t be a stick in the mud.
51) He’s a henpecked husband.
52) He’s a nervous Nellie.
53) He’s got the jitters.
54) He’s got butterflies in his stomach.
55) He’s got wandering eyes.
56) He let his hair down.
57) Give me a hand.
58) Give me a leg up.
59) He lost his head.
60) He’s bug-eyed.
61) He’s a bleeding heart.
62) He flipped his lid.
63) He went ballistic.
64) He hit the roof.
65) He wears his heart on his sleeve.
66) He thinks he’s the cat’s meow.
67) He’s the cat’s pyjamas.
68) He has a honey tongue.
69) He has a loose tongue.
70) One in the hand is worth two in the bush.
71) Don’t count your chickens before they’re hatched.
72) Don’t put off to tomorrow what you can do today.
73) The early bird catches the worm.
74) He’s burning the midnight oil.
75) He’s an egghead.
76) He’s a know-it-all.
77) Don’t be a smarty-pants.
78) I’ve got you under my skin.
79) He’s as weak as a kitten.
80) He wouldn’t hurt a flea.
81) He’s got it made.
82) He’s in the thick of it.
83) He’s a self-made man.
84) He’s full of himself.
85) He talks a mile a minute.
86) He’s in the clear.
87) He’s a fish out of water.
88) He’s in the driver’s seat.
89) He’s a space cadet.
90) Mind your Ps and Qs.
91) Read the fine print.
92) He’s a silver fox.
93) She’s a cougar.
94) She’s got bedroom eyes.
95) He works at a snail’s pace.
96) He’s a wolf in sheep’s clothing.
97) He’s the cock of the town.
98) He put his foot down.
99) Let’s hit the sack.
100) Have one for the road.
101) Hit the road!
102) All roads lead to Rome.
103) There’s a clear road ahead.
104) They went on a road trip.
105) She’s an old maid.
106) She’s like an itch I can’t scratch.
107) He cracked his knuckles.
108) The more the merrier.
109) Less is more.
110) He’s in 7th heaven.
111) A cat has nine lives.
112) It sounds/smells fishy to me.
113) It’s a fly-by-night business.
114) His business is a little shady.
115) Holy moley!
116) Holy cow!
117) Jumpin’ Jehosephat!
118) They really hit it off.
119) Don’t make any wise cracks.
120) Keep your socks on!
121) Make it snappy!
122) My foot went to sleep.
123) The police are on a stake-out.
124) The police are hot on my tail.
125) It’s in the works.
126) He’s a true blue friend.
127) I want this room spic and span.
128) It’s as clean as a whistle.
129) He talked his head off.
130) He talked a blue streak.
131) I have one hour to kick back my heels.
132) It’s the greatest thing since sliced bread.
133) I’ve got a handle on it.
134) She gave him a licking.
135) If I am bad he will tan my hide.
136) He gives me the creeps.
137) He has big shoes to fill.
138) He was born with a silver spoon in his mouth.
139) He got his foot in the door.
140) I’m off the hook.
141) He’s a jack of all trades.
142) Bite your tongue!
143) She’s having a bad hair day.
144) He got up on the wrong side of the bed.
145) He’s as slippery as a fish.
146) She drinks like a fish.
147) He squirmed out of it.
148) I’m putty in her hands.
149) I’m a little rusty.
150) Look what the cat dragged in.
151) Waste not, want not.
152) I’m stuffed.
153) Cat got your tongue?
154) Don’t horse around.
155) It’s a five-finger discount.
156) He has sticky fingers.
157) He’s a fly on the wall.
158) You’re playing with fire.
159) He’s sleeping with the enemy.
160) He works for peanuts.
161) A penny for your thoughts.
162) In for a penny, in for a pound.
163) A miss is as good as a mile.
164) In a pig’s eye.
165) I’ll do it when pigs fly.
166) Once in a blue moon.
167) Time flies when you’re having fun.
168) Too many cooks spoil the broth.
169) A watched kettle never boils.
170) Time waits for no man.
171) There’s no time like the present.
172) The grass is always greener on the other side of the fence.
173) Put your best foot forward.
174) On a wing and a prayer.
175) He has the heart of a lion.
176) He’s getting cold feet.
177) He’s a peeping Tom.
178) Our plans are up in the air.
179) Out of the frying pan and into the fire.
180) Everything’s ship shape.
181) The sound of her voice sets my teeth on edge.
182) Belt it out!
183) I’m blue.
184) I’m under the weather.
185) He’s a snake-in-the-grass.
186) He’s got the world on his shoulders.
187) He’s got a monkey on his back.
188) He’s a workhorse.
189) He has a heart of gold.
190) He has the Midas touch.
191) It’s time to clean house.
192) We live in a fish bowl.
193) Put out the welcome mat.
194) It’s all in a day’s work.
195) Can I crash at your place?
196) He went on a bender.
197) Let’s paint the town red.
198) He laughed his guts out.
199) He laughed himself silly.
200) He got knocked silly.
201) It’s a white elephant.
202) He’s tongue-tied.
203) It’s very handy.
204) Let me sleep on it.
205) Let’s call it a day.
206) Take it easy.
207) It’s on the house.
208) He told an off color joke.
209) She’s long in the tooth.
210) It’s out of the question.
211) He’s on the dole.
212) That house is an eyesore.
213) The ATM machine is out of order.
214) I’m broke.
215) I’m as sick as a dog.
216) He’s absent-minded.
217) He kicked the bucket.
218) He’s pushing up the daisies.
219) He passed away.
220) He gave up the ghost.
221) He passed out.
222) It was a downpour.
223) Put some elbow grease in it.
224) He had a fender-bender.
225) His car is an old jalopy.
226) He’s going like a bat out of hell.
227) He needs to let off some steam.
228) Cool down.
229) Don’t put yourself down.
230) Chill out.
231) Catch some rays.
232) She stood me up.
234) He’s hot under the collar.
235) He’s got a bee in his bonnet.
236) He has a short fuse.
237) It’s easy to push all his buttons.
238) She’s as cute as a button.
239) He hit the nail right on the head.
240) He’s very pig-headed.
241) He’s as healthy as a horse.
242) He’s as strong as an ox.
243) He’s as stubborn as a mule.
244) She’s as quiet as a mouse.
245) He’s as busy as a beaver.
246) He’s a lone wolf.
247) He’s as free as a bird.
248) He’s a bird brain.
249) She eats like a bird.
250) I’m so hungry I could eat a horse.
251) She has doe eyes.
252) She has that doe-eyed look.
253) He fawns on her.
254) His room is a pig stye.
255) He was raised in a barn.
256) He squealed like a pig.
257) He’s an ugly duckling.
258) Birds of a feather flock together.
259) It’s puppy love.
260) He has a crush on her.
261) He’s got stars in his eyes.
262) Do it by the numbers.
263) Clam up.
264) Shut your trap.
265) He did a double take.
266) He turned a blind eye.
267) He hooked the other way.
268) I need to stock up.
269) I need to take stock.
270) It’s crystal clear.
271) It’s as clear as mud.
272) It’s as clear as a bell.
273) I can hear you loud and clear.
274) He has his hands full.
275) That boy is a hand full.
276) Put a lid on it.
277) Dogs are man’s best friend.
278) Diamonds are a girl’s best friend.
279) An apple a day keeps the doctor away.
280) He’s behind bars.
281) We’re up the creek without a paddle.
282) He lost his bearings.
283) Eeeni, meenie, miney, moe.
284) She stole my heart.
285) She dumped me.
286) It’s very handy.
287) He’s toast!
288) He’s a southpaw.
289) He’s got a lot on his plate now.
290) He’s got a full plate.
291) I’ll be back in two shakes of a lamb’s tail.
292) He has a sweet tooth.
293) Better late than never.
294) Once bitten, twice shy.
295) Three times the charm.
296) The apple never falls far from the tree.
297) Cleanliness is next to Godliness.
298) He never knew what hit him.
299) He’s the teacher’s pet.
300) April showers bring May flowers.
301) It never rains but it pours.
302) He’s in his father’s shadow.
303) He casts a long shadow.
304) She’s the apple of her father’s eye.
305) He’s too big for his britches.
306) I’m dog tired.
307) I’m dead tired.
308) He’s the top dog.
309) He’s the king of the hill.
310) He has ice water in his veins.
311) He’s as cold as ice.
312) You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink.
313) You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.
314) He speaks with a forked tongue.
315) He’s an Indian Giver.
316) He has something up his sleeve.
317) He put it on the back burner.
318) He’s got a thick skin.
319) He’s my point man.
320) He has peach fuzz on his chin.
321) Put your shoulder to the grindstone.
322) He can’t see the forest for the trees.
323) He’s a good Samaritan.
324) It’s crunch time.
325) I have to crunch the numbers.
326) He has a chip on his shoulder.
327) I have a photographic memory.
328) Catch 40-winks.
329) Get some shut-eye.
330) He was bitten by the love bug.
331) He covered all the bases.
332) He covered his tracks.
333) He has a mind/brain/memory like a sieve.
334) He put out the welcome mat.
335) She’s a wallflower.
336) She’s a clothes horse.
337) Don’t let him walk all over you.
338) He as a splitting headache.
339) She cried buckets.
340) He was out like a light.
341) Early to bed, early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise.
342) A penny saved is a penny earned.
343) He’s an easy mark.
344) Stop the presses!
345) He’s a regular Joe.
346) He’s as cool as a cucumber.
347) He’s as high as a kite.
348) He’s out on a limb.
349) Don’t burn your bridges.
350) It’s a stick up.
351) It’s a hold up.
352) He held up the bank.
353) They’re like two peas in a pod.
354) He pulled himself up by his bootstraps.
355) He pulled himself together.
356) He really takes to water.
357) He’s so stuck up.
358) It’s as comfortable as an old shoe.
359) She rules the roost.
360) He’s ahead of the game.
361) He drives a hard bargain.
362) Park yourself over there.
363) Stop and smell the roses.
364) Days of wine and roses.
365) He’s living in the past.
366) I’ll give him a piece of my mind.
367) I want to add my two cents.
368) He’s got lead feet.
369) Jump in head first.
370) Dive in.
371) Charge in.
372) No holds barred.
373) He’s got the trots.
374) Montezuma’s Revenge!
375) I tripped him up.
376) The luck of the Irish.
377) He got to first base, second base, etc.
378) What goes around comes around.
379) It’s a piece of cake.
380) Seeing is believing.
381) Believing is seeing.
382) The heart of the matter.
383) His comments cut like a knife.
384) It’s a Jonah day.
385) She’s a free spirit.
386) He’s tight-fisted.
387) They had a visit from the stork.
388) Lickety-split.
389) I gave him the slip.
390) He’s a real killjoy.
391) He has deep pockets.
392) June bride.
393) He’s like a bull in a china shop.
394) Love is blind.
395) Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
396) You’ve got to pay the piper.
397) He’s a couch potato.
398) He’s a slick customer.
399) It’s the real McCoy.
400) It’s bone dry.
401) They are like two peas in a pod.
402) He didn’t lift a finger to help me.
403) He was scared right out of his skin.
404) I’m on a roll.
405) He’s in the zone.
406) She’s dressed to the nines.
407) He’s so big he will mop the floor with me.
408) Sweep out the old, let in the new.
409) The calm before the storm.
410) It’s always darkest before the dawn.
411) He has a vice-like grip.
412) Wait in limbo.
413) Circle the wagons.
414) He’s in like Flint.
415) Grease the rails.
416) Smooth things over.
417) Over and out.
418) By the skin of his teeth.
419) It’s clear sailing from here on in.
420) Touch wood!
421) Knock on wood!
422) He wiped out on the hill.
423) He’s a Sunday driver.
424) Who cut the cheese?
425) Make your bed.
426) She had her cat/dog fixed.
427) She’s walking on sunshine.
428) He threw a spanner in the works.
429) He’s a happy camper.
430) He’s the runt of the litter.
431) He’s a litter bug.
432) A cigarette is a cancer stick.
433) Throw in the towel.
434) The kiss of death.
435) The pigeons came home to roost.
436) She’s drop-dead gorgeous.
437) Let’s call it a wrap!
438) The teacher has eyes in the back of her head.
439) The Prime Minister has his finger on the pulse of the nation.
440) I’ll scratch your back if you scratch mine.
441) Rome wasn’t built in a day.
442) When in Rome, do as the Romans do.
443) Let’s give him some air.
444) Don’t air your dirty laundry/linen in public.
445) He’s a captain of industry.
446) He marches to his own beat.
447) All things come to those who wait.
448) He’s a fair weather friend.
449) A lot of water under the bridge.
450) Let’s go skinny dipping.
451) It’s an accident waiting to happen.
452) Add fuel to the fire.
453) He’s as mad as a Hatter.
454) He’s walking tall.
455) He has his head in the clouds.
456) Bottoms up!
457) Don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater.
458) Rise and shine!
459) He’s as old as the hills.
460) He sticks to me like glue.
461) He’s a stickler for detail.
462) He’s living on borrowed time.
463) I’ve had a belly full.
464) Better let sleeping dogs lie.
465) Liar, liar pants on fire!
466) We’re not out of the woods yet.
467) It’s like a stroll in the park.
468) He’s a globetrotter.
469) Don’t upset the apple cart.
470) He’s pulling your strings.
471) She’s got a bun in the oven.
472) What’s good for the goose is good for the gander.
473) He’s got your goose.
474) No strings attached.
475) Keep a stiff upper lip.
476) He’s level-headed.
477) He has a good head on his shoulders.
478) I’m on the mend.
479) After fighting, it’s time to mend fences.
480) Don’t be sore at me.
481) He’s a sourpuss.
482) He’s a lost little lamb.
483) She’s as sweet as a lamb.
484) We’ve got to soldier on.
485) It’s time to face the music.
486) Blow your own horn.
487) Shape up or ship out.
488) My way or the highway.
489) They’re just shooting the breeze.
490) Time to hit the hay.
491) I’d bend over backwards for you.
492) He’s a horse of a different color.
493) That’s like the pot calling the kettle black.
494) He’s armed to the teeth.
495) He’s driving a lemon.
496) Let’s get the ball rolling.
497) Stick to your guns.
498) Stick to the game plan.
499) He got away clean.
500) He got away with murder.
501) He’s talking through his hat.
502) I’m at the end of my rope.
503) It’s the end of the line/road.
504) Keep it under your hat.
505) Different strokes for different folks.
506) He left me high and dry.
507) He spilled the beans.
508) I smell a rat.
509) I heard it straight from the horse’s mouth.
510) All’s well that ends well.
511) I got the axe at work.
512) I was sacked.
513) It’s hard to make ends meet.
514) He let the cat out of the bag.
515) He knocked my socks off.
516) It’s time to kick up our heels.
517) He really turns me off.
518) This place is really going to the dogs.
519) He said it tongue-in-cheek.
520) His bark is worse than his bite.
521) Don’t spread yourself too thin.
522) You’re on thin ice.
523) Don’t sell him short.
524) Let’s bury the hatchet.
525) He bit the dust.
526) Fork over the money.
527) Pay the reaper.
528) Play it by ear.
529) I blew it.
530) He’s a wet blanket.
531) He fed me his usual line.
532) It’s time to take the bull by the horns.
533) They were in stitches after my story.
534) Get off my back!
535) It’s really eating at me.
536) He’s giving me a snow job.
537) Give it your best shot.
538) Raise a stink about it.
539) Money talks.
540) Sail off into the sunset.
541) She’s as pretty as a picture.
542) He’s a picture of health.
543) He’s sleeping like a baby.
544) It hurts like hell!
545) It stings like a bee!
546) It’s as cold as ice.
547) It’s as cold as a witch’s thorax.
548) Everything’s right as rain.
549) He drank himself under the table.
550) I lost my shirt at the casino.
551) What’s eating you?
552) She’s very light on her feet/toes.
553) Let’s call it quits.
554) When the cat’s away the mice will play.
555) I’ve got him eating out of my hand.
556) I ran circles around him.
557) It’s a drop in the bucket/ocean.
558) He’s scraping the bottom of the barrel.
559) Not for all the tea in China.
560) He’s just a fly in the ointment.
561) Throw caution to the wind.
562) I’m fed up.
563) I’m all done in.
564) He had a change of heart.
565) In his heart of hearts.
566) Look on the bright side.
567) More than you can shake a stick at.
568) As deep as the ocean.
569) Don’t make a mountain out of a molehill.
570) Charity begins at home.
571) Don’t get your knickers in a twist.
572) I feel light-headed.
573) Not until hell freezes over.
574) It’s like watching the grass grow.
575) Wait until the cows come home.
576) As snug as a bug in a rug.
577) It fits me like a glove.
578) It’s just nickels and dimes.
579) He’s got his head in the sand.
580) A stitch in time saves nine.
581) Hold the fort while I’m gone.
582) He hung out his shingle.
583) I’m done for.
584) He was gunned down.
585) He breezed through it.
586) It was a breeze.
587) He’s all black and blue.
588) He’s got a glass jaw.
589) He’s a paper tiger.
590) She has an hourglass figure.
591) It’s in the bag.
592) He’s gone round the bend.
593) He has ants in his pants.
594) Keep your chin up.
595) His business is in the black.
596) My business is in the red.
597) Will you fill in for me for an hour?
598) Drop me a line when you get there.
599) Don’t bite off more than you can chew.
600) Every cloud has a silver living.
601) It’s as plain as day.
602) I got there in the nick of time.
603) Let’s give it a whirl.
604) Get it off your chest.
605) It’s just the tip of the iceberg.
606) He’s down for the count.
607) It’s a taste of your own medicine.
608) Doctor heal thyself.
609) It’s easier said than done.
610) Life in the fast lane.
611) 24/7
612) It’s like finding/looking for a needle in a haystack.
613) I hate playing second fiddle to my brother.
614) Draw the line.
615) Draw a line in the sand.
616) He’s got his ducks all lined up in a row.
617) It’s as light as a feather.
618) He looks green under the gills.
619) He doesn’t have any get-up-and-go.
620) He rubs me the wrong way.
621) He gets on my nerves.
622) Eat your fill.
623) The writing on the wall.
624) He pulled the wool over my eyes.
625) He stands head and shoulders above the rest.
626) He landed flat on his back.
627) He’s flat-footed.
628) He shoots from the hip.
629) He’s as straight as an arrow.
630) The house was as silent as the grave.
631) Be quiet! You’ll wake up the dead with that noise.
632) He’s cruisin’ for a bruisin’.
633) Wake up, sleepy head!
634) Let’s clean the house from top to bottom.
635) This job is just a sideline.
634) These are my Golden Years.
635) Those were the days.
636) She’s camera shy.
637) She has stage fright.
638) Let’s go Dutch.
639) A white lie.
640) His homework is not up to snuff.
641) He is out of line. His comment is out of line. His behavior is out of line.
642) Don’t fly off the handle when I tell you the news.
643) They fought to the bitter end.
644) Bite the bullet.
645) Bring home the bacon.
646) His wife wears the pants in the family.
647) He’s a family man.
648) He’s wet behind the ears.
649) He has blood on his hands.
650) Blood is thicker than water.
651) He’s got the gift of gab.
652) He has a silver tongue.
653) I have writer’s cramp.
654) He’s haunted by the ghosts of his past.
655) He has the thousand-yard stare.
656) It’s time to hit the books.
657) The naked truth.
658) There’s gonna be a show down.
659) Up-and-at-‘em!
660) Don’t be a weasel. Don’t weasel out on me!
661) I’m beat.
662) If the shoe fits, wear it.
663) He’s afraid of his own shadow.
664) He’s gone over the wall.
665) It’s a red herring.
666) Take a shot at it.
667) It’s a no-brainer.
668) Go ahead. Knock yourself out.
669) He’s dragging his feet.
670) Wild horses couldn’t drag it from me.
671) I’m hard up for cash.
672) He’s long-winded.
673) He’s a blow-hard.
674) They’re living in sin.
675) She’s the ‘other woman.’
676) She gave him the cold shoulder.
677) She’s playing hard-to-get.
678) He’s a pain in the neck.
679) He’s a thorn in my side.
680) He’s beside himself.
681) He wants to play hardball.
682) It’s the thought that counts.
683) Act in haste, repent in leisure.
684) Have your cake and eat it, too.
685) Let’s kill some time together.
686) Don’t goof around.
687) Get to the bottom of the problem.
688) It’s back to square one.
689) He’s a penny-pincher.
690) He has a clever cover story.
691) He’s a chip off the old block.
692) He just twiddled his thumbs.
693) Take it like a man.
694) He hit rock bottom.
695) Don’t fiddle around! / No fiddlin’.
696) Solid as a rock.
697) Don’t rock the boat.
698) Don’t make waves.
699) That was a close one. I almost bought the farm.
700) If it’s not one thing it’s another.
701) Put your thinking caps on.
702) Don’t be a stool pigeon.
703) He’s going down for the last time.
704) He’s a blank slate / sheet of paper.
705) I have writer’s block.
706) That’s the last straw!
707) It’s the straw that broke the camel’s back.
708) He flew off the deep end / went over the edge.
709) He’s yellow / chicken.
710) He’s a scaredy-cat.
711) It’s picture-perfect.
712) It’s cooked to perfection.
713) He’s between a rock and a hard place.
714) He left under a cloud.
715) Bad luck comes in threes.
716) I have enough cash to see me through ‘til Monday.
717) Make yourself at home.
718) May I--- ?
Be my guest.
719) He’s a hot head.
720) Ring in the New Year.
721) He hasn’t got a prayer.
722) He’s mercurial.
723) His cup is always half full/empty.
724) He’s just a face in the crowd.
725) It’s a wild goose chase.
726) She’s got dish pan hands.
727) It came to me like a bolt from the sky.
728) My foot is asleep. / I’ve got pins-and-needles.
729) He has a checkered past.
730) He’s got a mind like a sponge.
731) I hit my funny bone.
732) We’re losing money hand over fist.
733) It’s a real hot potato.
734) He’s all washed up.
735) He rubbed the sleep out of his eyes.
736) Oh! Speak of the devil! Look who it is!
737) He blew his stack!
738) He’s the weak link.
739) He was born under a dark cloud.
740) He was born under a lucky star.
741) I’m shaking in my shoes/boots.
742) Don’t step on my toes.
743) He has a good ear.
744) Take the plunge.
745) He peeled his tires.
746) Keep your eyes peeled.
747) Keep your eyes on the prize.
748) He’s a redneck.
749) Let him sow his wild oats.
750) They’re a dime a dozen.
751) He cuts a fine figure.
752) You punch/kick/hit/throw like an old woman.
753) He gives me the willies.
754) A friend in need is a friend indeed.
755) Six ways from Sunday.
756) He really opened my eyes.
757) He’s a dead ringer for _____ .
758) I’m dead certain.
759) He’s as dead as a doornail.
760) He’s dead weight.
761) He’s got his head on straight.
762) Why the long face?
763) He gave me the low-down.
764) Give me the skinny on it.
765) I’m cleaned out.
766) Do you want to mix it up?
767) He’s preaching to the choir.
768) I’m as stiff as a board.
769) I’m soaked to the skin / bone.
770) It’s as honest as the day is long.
771) My life is a train wreck.
772) He has a 5 o’clock shadow.
773) He’s full of liquid courage.
774) His teeth are floating.
775) It’s the cream of the crop.
776) I went to Stanford, you blow hole!
777) He’s plum crazy.
778) He’s at the top of his game.
779) In one ear and out the other.
780) He got it right in the kisser.
781) How do you like these apples?
782) It’s in the cards.
783) He was taken to the cleaners.
784) He gave me an ear full
785) Cross my heart.
786) Life is a bowl of cherries.
787) When life hands you lemons, make lemonade.
788) He flew the coop. / He’s flown the coop.
789) It’s finger-lickin’ good.
790) He stood up for me.
791) I feel like a million dollars.
792) Come on, cough it up.
793) He really came alive.
794) He really made a splash.
795) You really got the jump on me.
796) My job is on the line.
797) The world’s his oyster.
798) Put your money where your mouth is.
799) Go fly a kite!
800) He jumped the gun.
801) She’s a knockout.
802) Look before you leap
803) Let’s call it a night.
804) It was the end-all.
805) I had fun at the party. It was a blast.
806) I get snowed under if I don’t keep up with the housework
807) She looks like she fell off the ugly tree.
808) He out-foxed me.
809) He’s quite an operator.
810) He’s a smooth operator.
811) He’s a smooth talker.
812) He has his fingers in a lot of pies.
813) He ran off and left me holding the bag.
814) I’m brown-bagging it today.
815) He’s on the lamb.
816) She’s damaged goods.
817) He went bananas.
818) What kind of monkey business is this?
819) He took a shot in the dark.
820) That cake is out of this world!
821) I’m so bored I’m climbing the walls.
822) I finally cottoned on to his joke.
823) Relax! It’s just a tempest in a teapot.
824) You’re singing my tune.
825) Don’t be such a rube!
826) They tied the knot last month.
827) He’s in a jam.
828) He’s in a pickle.
829) It’s a sticky situation.
830) Use your noggin.
831) Count me in.
832) Are you up to it?
833) Let the chips fall where they may.
834) I beat him at his own game.
835) He had the last laugh.
836) The joke’s on you.
837) I slept like a log.
838) Now we’re talking turkey.
839) That’s a different kettle of fish.
840) I’ve got a bone to pick with you.
841) Your number’s up.
842) He’s got himself in hot water.
843) Let’s keep this between you and me.
844) Do you want to give it a go?
845) His excuse won`t fly with the teacher.
846) Do you have a boo-boo?
847) Nature calls.
848) He who hesitates is lost.
849) He's in the joint.
850) Use it or lose it.
851) Don’t take it lying down.
852) Keep your nose clean.
853) He’s really let himself go.
854) He won by a nose.
855) They are neck and neck.
856) His name doesn't ring a bell.
857) I have to see a man about a horse.
858) That sound is crawling up my spine.
859) It was ham-handed work.
869) Then the other shoe dropped.
861) My boss is breathing down my neck.
862) I really took a bath on the stock market.
863) He the night away.
864) I'm all tapped out.
865) Digital cameras cut the legs out from under his photography business.
866) I'm just spit-balling.
867) It's a deal-breaker.
868) She's a knock-out.
869) My hobby is collecting Japanese goo-gaws and doo-dads.
870) He got the bounce.
871) I want to bounce an idea off you.
872) He bounced around the house.
873) He got his walking papers.
874) It came to me in a flash.
875) It's bone dry.
876) He pulled a fast one on me.
877) She's dressed to the nines.
879) She pulled the rug out from under me.
880) He gives me the heebie-jeebies.
881) Let's get cracking.
882) Let's get this show on the road.
883) Put your back into it.
884) I'm tickled pink.
885) It just popped into my head.
886) He threw me for a loop.
887) I think he's onto something.
888) He's the hands-down winner.
889) He's a night owl.
890) He's an early bird.
891) Hold the fort.
892) Puppy love.
893) They're dropping like flies.
894) He did a slap-dash job.
895) Put that in your pipe and smoke it.
896) I've got bigger fish to fry.
897) A day late and a dollar short.
898)
English Idioms
Periodically Japanese ask me to list some English idioms. It’s easy enough to come up with a list on short notice. But over time the request was repeated so much that I began to pay attention to the idioms that I use in my everyday life and to others I found in novels. I began keeping a list. The following are all idioms that I have used at one time or another in recent years. I didn’t look at the Internet. I didn’t check a book. I just thought them up over a period of a few hours stretched over several days. I surprise myself how many and how often I use idioms. At first I thought that maybe I could recall a hundred or so. But then when I reached 460 I began to worry where it would end. I decided to stop at 666, the number of the beast. But I went further. Eventually I just got bored with the project.
Perhaps the flexibility and notorious irregularity of the English language mean that there is absolutely no end to idioms that can be invented. Individuals are free to coin their own turn of phrase. Also, the longer one lives - and one’s culture - the more experiences one has - and one’s culture - with a corresponding increase in the number of comparisons one can draw and phrases to express them.
The plethora of idiomatic expressions also presents me with the chronic problem of the inadequacy of language as a communication tool. We cannot describe reality, how things really are. Instead, we are limited to describing what reality is like - sort of like trying to describe God - which is not the same thing at all. It makes me consider how difficult it is to communicate in plain speech, contrary to popular ideas about language. Speech is never plain. More trouble comes when Japanese demand that I explain the idioms. That’s a terrible chore. Japanese also demand explanations of tongue twisters, which is simultaneously ridiculous, annoying and nearly self-defeating. Finally, many people confuse “idioms” with “proverbs.”
1) It’s raining cats and dog.
2) It’s spitting rain.
3) It’s music to my ears.
4) Everything is topsy-turvy.
5) He’s barking up the wrong tree.
6) It’s as phony as a $3 bill.
7) A man’s home is his castle.
8) He’s all thumbs.
9) He has a green thumb.
10) Out of sight, out of mind.
11) Distance makes the heart grow fonder.
12) He has bats in his belfry.
13) He’s got his foot in his mouth.
14) It’s all smoke and mirrors.
15) My doctor is a quack.
16) He’s selling snake oil.
17) It’s all Greek to me.
18) French kiss.
19) He got caught red-handed.
20) The judge threw the book at him.
21) The judge sent him up the river.
23) The police closed the book on the
24) The judge threw the book at him.
25) He’s a bookworm.
26) He closed his dog-eared notebook.
27) He has his head in a book.
28) I can read him like a book.
29) Do it by the book.
30) He’s a night owl.
31) He’s as wise as an owl.
32) An elephant never forgets.
33) He’s not playing with a full deck.
34) He’s not the brightest bulb in the shop.
35) He’s losing his marbles.
36) He’s lost in thought.
37) He’s touched.
38) He’s touched in the head.
39) The lights are on but nobody’s home.
40) There are skeletons in the closet.
41) He’s out of the closet.
42) He’s the black sheep of the family.
43) It’s a day at the beach.
44) He’s the toast of the town.
45) He’s the life of the party.
46) Shake a leg!
47) Get the lead out!
48) Hop to it!
49) Jump to it!
50) Don’t be a stick in the mud.
51) He’s a henpecked husband.
52) He’s a nervous Nellie.
53) He’s got the jitters.
54) He’s got butterflies in his stomach.
55) He’s got wandering eyes.
56) He let his hair down.
57) Give me a hand.
58) Give me a leg up.
59) He lost his head.
60) He’s bug-eyed.
61) He’s a bleeding heart.
62) He flipped his lid.
63) He went ballistic.
64) He hit the roof.
65) He wears his heart on his sleeve.
66) He thinks he’s the cat’s meow.
67) He’s the cat’s pyjamas.
68) He has a honey tongue.
69) He has a loose tongue.
70) One in the hand is worth two in the bush.
71) Don’t count your chickens before they’re hatched.
72) Don’t put off to tomorrow what you can do today.
73) The early bird catches the worm.
74) He’s burning the midnight oil.
75) He’s an egghead.
76) He’s a know-it-all.
77) Don’t be a smarty-pants.
78) I’ve got you under my skin.
79) He’s as weak as a kitten.
80) He wouldn’t hurt a flea.
81) He’s got it made.
82) He’s in the thick of it.
83) He’s a self-made man.
84) He’s full of himself.
85) He talks a mile a minute.
86) He’s in the clear.
87) He’s a fish out of water.
88) He’s in the driver’s seat.
89) He’s a space cadet.
90) Mind your Ps and Qs.
91) Read the fine print.
92) He’s a silver fox.
93) She’s a cougar.
94) She’s got bedroom eyes.
95) He works at a snail’s pace.
96) He’s a wolf in sheep’s clothing.
97) He’s the cock of the town.
98) He put his foot down.
99) Let’s hit the sack.
100) Have one for the road.
101) Hit the road!
102) All roads lead to Rome.
103) There’s a clear road ahead.
104) They went on a road trip.
105) She’s an old maid.
106) She’s like an itch I can’t scratch.
107) He cracked his knuckles.
108) The more the merrier.
109) Less is more.
110) He’s in 7th heaven.
111) A cat has nine lives.
112) It sounds/smells fishy to me.
113) It’s a fly-by-night business.
114) His business is a little shady.
115) Holy moley!
116) Holy cow!
117) Jumpin’ Jehosephat!
118) They really hit it off.
119) Don’t make any wise cracks.
120) Keep your socks on!
121) Make it snappy!
122) My foot went to sleep.
123) The police are on a stake-out.
124) The police are hot on my tail.
125) It’s in the works.
126) He’s a true blue friend.
127) I want this room spic and span.
128) It’s as clean as a whistle.
129) He talked his head off.
130) He talked a blue streak.
131) I have one hour to kick back my heels.
132) It’s the greatest thing since sliced bread.
133) I’ve got a handle on it.
134) She gave him a licking.
135) If I am bad he will tan my hide.
136) He gives me the creeps.
137) He has big shoes to fill.
138) He was born with a silver spoon in his mouth.
139) He got his foot in the door.
140) I’m off the hook.
141) He’s a jack of all trades.
142) Bite your tongue!
143) She’s having a bad hair day.
144) He got up on the wrong side of the bed.
145) He’s as slippery as a fish.
146) She drinks like a fish.
147) He squirmed out of it.
148) I’m putty in her hands.
149) I’m a little rusty.
150) Look what the cat dragged in.
151) Waste not, want not.
152) I’m stuffed.
153) Cat got your tongue?
154) Don’t horse around.
155) It’s a five-finger discount.
156) He has sticky fingers.
157) He’s a fly on the wall.
158) You’re playing with fire.
159) He’s sleeping with the enemy.
160) He works for peanuts.
161) A penny for your thoughts.
162) In for a penny, in for a pound.
163) A miss is as good as a mile.
164) In a pig’s eye.
165) I’ll do it when pigs fly.
166) Once in a blue moon.
167) Time flies when you’re having fun.
168) Too many cooks spoil the broth.
169) A watched kettle never boils.
170) Time waits for no man.
171) There’s no time like the present.
172) The grass is always greener on the other side of the fence.
173) Put your best foot forward.
174) On a wing and a prayer.
175) He has the heart of a lion.
176) He’s getting cold feet.
177) He’s a peeping Tom.
178) Our plans are up in the air.
179) Out of the frying pan and into the fire.
180) Everything’s ship shape.
181) The sound of her voice sets my teeth on edge.
182) Belt it out!
183) I’m blue.
184) I’m under the weather.
185) He’s a snake-in-the-grass.
186) He’s got the world on his shoulders.
187) He’s got a monkey on his back.
188) He’s a workhorse.
189) He has a heart of gold.
190) He has the Midas touch.
191) It’s time to clean house.
192) We live in a fish bowl.
193) Put out the welcome mat.
194) It’s all in a day’s work.
195) Can I crash at your place?
196) He went on a bender.
197) Let’s paint the town red.
198) He laughed his guts out.
199) He laughed himself silly.
200) He got knocked silly.
201) It’s a white elephant.
202) He’s tongue-tied.
203) It’s very handy.
204) Let me sleep on it.
205) Let’s call it a day.
206) Take it easy.
207) It’s on the house.
208) He told an off color joke.
209) She’s long in the tooth.
210) It’s out of the question.
211) He’s on the dole.
212) That house is an eyesore.
213) The ATM machine is out of order.
214) I’m broke.
215) I’m as sick as a dog.
216) He’s absent-minded.
217) He kicked the bucket.
218) He’s pushing up the daisies.
219) He passed away.
220) He gave up the ghost.
221) He passed out.
222) It was a downpour.
223) Put some elbow grease in it.
224) He had a fender-bender.
225) His car is an old jalopy.
226) He’s going like a bat out of hell.
227) He needs to let off some steam.
228) Cool down.
229) Don’t put yourself down.
230) Chill out.
231) Catch some rays.
232) She stood me up.
234) He’s hot under the collar.
235) He’s got a bee in his bonnet.
236) He has a short fuse.
237) It’s easy to push all his buttons.
238) She’s as cute as a button.
239) He hit the nail right on the head.
240) He’s very pig-headed.
241) He’s as healthy as a horse.
242) He’s as strong as an ox.
243) He’s as stubborn as a mule.
244) She’s as quiet as a mouse.
245) He’s as busy as a beaver.
246) He’s a lone wolf.
247) He’s as free as a bird.
248) He’s a bird brain.
249) She eats like a bird.
250) I’m so hungry I could eat a horse.
251) She has doe eyes.
252) She has that doe-eyed look.
253) He fawns on her.
254) His room is a pig stye.
255) He was raised in a barn.
256) He squealed like a pig.
257) He’s an ugly duckling.
258) Birds of a feather flock together.
259) It’s puppy love.
260) He has a crush on her.
261) He’s got stars in his eyes.
262) Do it by the numbers.
263) Clam up.
264) Shut your trap.
265) He did a double take.
266) He turned a blind eye.
267) He hooked the other way.
268) I need to stock up.
269) I need to take stock.
270) It’s crystal clear.
271) It’s as clear as mud.
272) It’s as clear as a bell.
273) I can hear you loud and clear.
274) He has his hands full.
275) That boy is a hand full.
276) Put a lid on it.
277) Dogs are man’s best friend.
278) Diamonds are a girl’s best friend.
279) An apple a day keeps the doctor away.
280) He’s behind bars.
281) We’re up the creek without a paddle.
282) He lost his bearings.
283) Eeeni, meenie, miney, moe.
284) She stole my heart.
285) She dumped me.
286) It’s very handy.
287) He’s toast!
288) He’s a southpaw.
289) He’s got a lot on his plate now.
290) He’s got a full plate.
291) I’ll be back in two shakes of a lamb’s tail.
292) He has a sweet tooth.
293) Better late than never.
294) Once bitten, twice shy.
295) Three times the charm.
296) The apple never falls far from the tree.
297) Cleanliness is next to Godliness.
298) He never knew what hit him.
299) He’s the teacher’s pet.
300) April showers bring May flowers.
301) It never rains but it pours.
302) He’s in his father’s shadow.
303) He casts a long shadow.
304) She’s the apple of her father’s eye.
305) He’s too big for his britches.
306) I’m dog tired.
307) I’m dead tired.
308) He’s the top dog.
309) He’s the king of the hill.
310) He has ice water in his veins.
311) He’s as cold as ice.
312) You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink.
313) You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.
314) He speaks with a forked tongue.
315) He’s an Indian Giver.
316) He has something up his sleeve.
317) He put it on the back burner.
318) He’s got a thick skin.
319) He’s my point man.
320) He has peach fuzz on his chin.
321) Put your shoulder to the grindstone.
322) He can’t see the forest for the trees.
323) He’s a good Samaritan.
324) It’s crunch time.
325) I have to crunch the numbers.
326) He has a chip on his shoulder.
327) I have a photographic memory.
328) Catch 40-winks.
329) Get some shut-eye.
330) He was bitten by the love bug.
331) He covered all the bases.
332) He covered his tracks.
333) He has a mind/brain/memory like a sieve.
334) He put out the welcome mat.
335) She’s a wallflower.
336) She’s a clothes horse.
337) Don’t let him walk all over you.
338) He as a splitting headache.
339) She cried buckets.
340) He was out like a light.
341) Early to bed, early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise.
342) A penny saved is a penny earned.
343) He’s an easy mark.
344) Stop the presses!
345) He’s a regular Joe.
346) He’s as cool as a cucumber.
347) He’s as high as a kite.
348) He’s out on a limb.
349) Don’t burn your bridges.
350) It’s a stick up.
351) It’s a hold up.
352) He held up the bank.
353) They’re like two peas in a pod.
354) He pulled himself up by his bootstraps.
355) He pulled himself together.
356) He really takes to water.
357) He’s so stuck up.
358) It’s as comfortable as an old shoe.
359) She rules the roost.
360) He’s ahead of the game.
361) He drives a hard bargain.
362) Park yourself over there.
363) Stop and smell the roses.
364) Days of wine and roses.
365) He’s living in the past.
366) I’ll give him a piece of my mind.
367) I want to add my two cents.
368) He’s got lead feet.
369) Jump in head first.
370) Dive in.
371) Charge in.
372) No holds barred.
373) He’s got the trots.
374) Montezuma’s Revenge!
375) I tripped him up.
376) The luck of the Irish.
377) He got to first base, second base, etc.
378) What goes around comes around.
379) It’s a piece of cake.
380) Seeing is believing.
381) Believing is seeing.
382) The heart of the matter.
383) His comments cut like a knife.
384) It’s a Jonah day.
385) She’s a free spirit.
386) He’s tight-fisted.
387) They had a visit from the stork.
388) Lickety-split.
389) I gave him the slip.
390) He’s a real killjoy.
391) He has deep pockets.
392) June bride.
393) He’s like a bull in a china shop.
394) Love is blind.
395) Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
396) You’ve got to pay the piper.
397) He’s a couch potato.
398) He’s a slick customer.
399) It’s the real McCoy.
400) It’s bone dry.
401) They are like two peas in a pod.
402) He didn’t lift a finger to help me.
403) He was scared right out of his skin.
404) I’m on a roll.
405) He’s in the zone.
406) She’s dressed to the nines.
407) He’s so big he will mop the floor with me.
408) Sweep out the old, let in the new.
409) The calm before the storm.
410) It’s always darkest before the dawn.
411) He has a vice-like grip.
412) Wait in limbo.
413) Circle the wagons.
414) He’s in like Flint.
415) Grease the rails.
416) Smooth things over.
417) Over and out.
418) By the skin of his teeth.
419) It’s clear sailing from here on in.
420) Touch wood!
421) Knock on wood!
422) He wiped out on the hill.
423) He’s a Sunday driver.
424) Who cut the cheese?
425) Make your bed.
426) She had her cat/dog fixed.
427) She’s walking on sunshine.
428) He threw a spanner in the works.
429) He’s a happy camper.
430) He’s the runt of the litter.
431) He’s a litter bug.
432) A cigarette is a cancer stick.
433) Throw in the towel.
434) The kiss of death.
435) The pigeons came home to roost.
436) She’s drop-dead gorgeous.
437) Let’s call it a wrap!
438) The teacher has eyes in the back of her head.
439) The Prime Minister has his finger on the pulse of the nation.
440) I’ll scratch your back if you scratch mine.
441) Rome wasn’t built in a day.
442) When in Rome, do as the Romans do.
443) Let’s give him some air.
444) Don’t air your dirty laundry/linen in public.
445) He’s a captain of industry.
446) He marches to his own beat.
447) All things come to those who wait.
448) He’s a fair weather friend.
449) A lot of water under the bridge.
450) Let’s go skinny dipping.
451) It’s an accident waiting to happen.
452) Add fuel to the fire.
453) He’s as mad as a Hatter.
454) He’s walking tall.
455) He has his head in the clouds.
456) Bottoms up!
457) Don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater.
458) Rise and shine!
459) He’s as old as the hills.
460) He sticks to me like glue.
461) He’s a stickler for detail.
462) He’s living on borrowed time.
463) I’ve had a belly full.
464) Better let sleeping dogs lie.
465) Liar, liar pants on fire!
466) We’re not out of the woods yet.
467) It’s like a stroll in the park.
468) He’s a globetrotter.
469) Don’t upset the apple cart.
470) He’s pulling your strings.
471) She’s got a bun in the oven.
472) What’s good for the goose is good for the gander.
473) He’s got your goose.
474) No strings attached.
475) Keep a stiff upper lip.
476) He’s level-headed.
477) He has a good head on his shoulders.
478) I’m on the mend.
479) After fighting, it’s time to mend fences.
480) Don’t be sore at me.
481) He’s a sourpuss.
482) He’s a lost little lamb.
483) She’s as sweet as a lamb.
484) We’ve got to soldier on.
485) It’s time to face the music.
486) Blow your own horn.
487) Shape up or ship out.
488) My way or the highway.
489) They’re just shooting the breeze.
490) Time to hit the hay.
491) I’d bend over backwards for you.
492) He’s a horse of a different color.
493) That’s like the pot calling the kettle black.
494) He’s armed to the teeth.
495) He’s driving a lemon.
496) Let’s get the ball rolling.
497) Stick to your guns.
498) Stick to the game plan.
499) He got away clean.
500) He got away with murder.
501) He’s talking through his hat.
502) I’m at the end of my rope.
503) It’s the end of the line/road.
504) Keep it under your hat.
505) Different strokes for different folks.
506) He left me high and dry.
507) He spilled the beans.
508) I smell a rat.
509) I heard it straight from the horse’s mouth.
510) All’s well that ends well.
511) I got the axe at work.
512) I was sacked.
513) It’s hard to make ends meet.
514) He let the cat out of the bag.
515) He knocked my socks off.
516) It’s time to kick up our heels.
517) He really turns me off.
518) This place is really going to the dogs.
519) He said it tongue-in-cheek.
520) His bark is worse than his bite.
521) Don’t spread yourself too thin.
522) You’re on thin ice.
523) Don’t sell him short.
524) Let’s bury the hatchet.
525) He bit the dust.
526) Fork over the money.
527) Pay the reaper.
528) Play it by ear.
529) I blew it.
530) He’s a wet blanket.
531) He fed me his usual line.
532) It’s time to take the bull by the horns.
533) They were in stitches after my story.
534) Get off my back!
535) It’s really eating at me.
536) He’s giving me a snow job.
537) Give it your best shot.
538) Raise a stink about it.
539) Money talks.
540) Sail off into the sunset.
541) She’s as pretty as a picture.
542) He’s a picture of health.
543) He’s sleeping like a baby.
544) It hurts like hell!
545) It stings like a bee!
546) It’s as cold as ice.
547) It’s as cold as a witch’s thorax.
548) Everything’s right as rain.
549) He drank himself under the table.
550) I lost my shirt at the casino.
551) What’s eating you?
552) She’s very light on her feet/toes.
553) Let’s call it quits.
554) When the cat’s away the mice will play.
555) I’ve got him eating out of my hand.
556) I ran circles around him.
557) It’s a drop in the bucket/ocean.
558) He’s scraping the bottom of the barrel.
559) Not for all the tea in China.
560) He’s just a fly in the ointment.
561) Throw caution to the wind.
562) I’m fed up.
563) I’m all done in.
564) He had a change of heart.
565) In his heart of hearts.
566) Look on the bright side.
567) More than you can shake a stick at.
568) As deep as the ocean.
569) Don’t make a mountain out of a molehill.
570) Charity begins at home.
571) Don’t get your knickers in a twist.
572) I feel light-headed.
573) Not until hell freezes over.
574) It’s like watching the grass grow.
575) Wait until the cows come home.
576) As snug as a bug in a rug.
577) It fits me like a glove.
578) It’s just nickels and dimes.
579) He’s got his head in the sand.
580) A stitch in time saves nine.
581) Hold the fort while I’m gone.
582) He hung out his shingle.
583) I’m done for.
584) He was gunned down.
585) He breezed through it.
586) It was a breeze.
587) He’s all black and blue.
588) He’s got a glass jaw.
589) He’s a paper tiger.
590) She has an hourglass figure.
591) It’s in the bag.
592) He’s gone round the bend.
593) He has ants in his pants.
594) Keep your chin up.
595) His business is in the black.
596) My business is in the red.
597) Will you fill in for me for an hour?
598) Drop me a line when you get there.
599) Don’t bite off more than you can chew.
600) Every cloud has a silver living.
601) It’s as plain as day.
602) I got there in the nick of time.
603) Let’s give it a whirl.
604) Get it off your chest.
605) It’s just the tip of the iceberg.
606) He’s down for the count.
607) It’s a taste of your own medicine.
608) Doctor heal thyself.
609) It’s easier said than done.
610) Life in the fast lane.
611) 24/7
612) It’s like finding/looking for a needle in a haystack.
613) I hate playing second fiddle to my brother.
614) Draw the line.
615) Draw a line in the sand.
616) He’s got his ducks all lined up in a row.
617) It’s as light as a feather.
618) He looks green under the gills.
619) He doesn’t have any get-up-and-go.
620) He rubs me the wrong way.
621) He gets on my nerves.
622) Eat your fill.
623) The writing on the wall.
624) He pulled the wool over my eyes.
625) He stands head and shoulders above the rest.
626) He landed flat on his back.
627) He’s flat-footed.
628) He shoots from the hip.
629) He’s as straight as an arrow.
630) The house was as silent as the grave.
631) Be quiet! You’ll wake up the dead with that noise.
632) He’s cruisin’ for a bruisin’.
633) Wake up, sleepy head!
634) Let’s clean the house from top to bottom.
635) This job is just a sideline.
634) These are my Golden Years.
635) Those were the days.
636) She’s camera shy.
637) She has stage fright.
638) Let’s go Dutch.
639) A white lie.
640) His homework is not up to snuff.
641) He is out of line. His comment is out of line. His behavior is out of line.
642) Don’t fly off the handle when I tell you the news.
643) They fought to the bitter end.
644) Bite the bullet.
645) Bring home the bacon.
646) His wife wears the pants in the family.
647) He’s a family man.
648) He’s wet behind the ears.
649) He has blood on his hands.
650) Blood is thicker than water.
651) He’s got the gift of gab.
652) He has a silver tongue.
653) I have writer’s cramp.
654) He’s haunted by the ghosts of his past.
655) He has the thousand-yard stare.
656) It’s time to hit the books.
657) The naked truth.
658) There’s gonna be a show down.
659) Up-and-at-‘em!
660) Don’t be a weasel. Don’t weasel out on me!
661) I’m beat.
662) If the shoe fits, wear it.
663) He’s afraid of his own shadow.
664) He’s gone over the wall.
665) It’s a red herring.
666) Take a shot at it.
667) It’s a no-brainer.
668) Go ahead. Knock yourself out.
669) He’s dragging his feet.
670) Wild horses couldn’t drag it from me.
671) I’m hard up for cash.
672) He’s long-winded.
673) He’s a blow-hard.
674) They’re living in sin.
675) She’s the ‘other woman.’
676) She gave him the cold shoulder.
677) She’s playing hard-to-get.
678) He’s a pain in the neck.
679) He’s a thorn in my side.
680) He’s beside himself.
681) He wants to play hardball.
682) It’s the thought that counts.
683) Act in haste, repent in leisure.
684) Have your cake and eat it, too.
685) Let’s kill some time together.
686) Don’t goof around.
687) Get to the bottom of the problem.
688) It’s back to square one.
689) He’s a penny-pincher.
690) He has a clever cover story.
691) He’s a chip off the old block.
692) He just twiddled his thumbs.
693) Take it like a man.
694) He hit rock bottom.
695) Don’t fiddle around! / No fiddlin’.
696) Solid as a rock.
697) Don’t rock the boat.
698) Don’t make waves.
699) That was a close one. I almost bought the farm.
700) If it’s not one thing it’s another.
701) Put your thinking caps on.
702) Don’t be a stool pigeon.
703) He’s going down for the last time.
704) He’s a blank slate / sheet of paper.
705) I have writer’s block.
706) That’s the last straw!
707) It’s the straw that broke the camel’s back.
708) He flew off the deep end / went over the edge.
709) He’s yellow / chicken.
710) He’s a scaredy-cat.
711) It’s picture-perfect.
712) It’s cooked to perfection.
713) He’s between a rock and a hard place.
714) He left under a cloud.
715) Bad luck comes in threes.
716) I have enough cash to see me through ‘til Monday.
717) Make yourself at home.
718) May I--- ?
Be my guest.
719) He’s a hot head.
720) Ring in the New Year.
721) He hasn’t got a prayer.
722) He’s mercurial.
723) His cup is always half full/empty.
724) He’s just a face in the crowd.
725) It’s a wild goose chase.
726) She’s got dish pan hands.
727) It came to me like a bolt from the sky.
728) My foot is asleep. / I’ve got pins-and-needles.
729) He has a checkered past.
730) He’s got a mind like a sponge.
731) I hit my funny bone.
732) We’re losing money hand over fist.
733) It’s a real hot potato.
734) He’s all washed up.
735) He rubbed the sleep out of his eyes.
736) Oh! Speak of the devil! Look who it is!
737) He blew his stack!
738) He’s the weak link.
739) He was born under a dark cloud.
740) He was born under a lucky star.
741) I’m shaking in my shoes/boots.
742) Don’t step on my toes.
743) He has a good ear.
744) Take the plunge.
745) He peeled his tires.
746) Keep your eyes peeled.
747) Keep your eyes on the prize.
748) He’s a redneck.
749) Let him sow his wild oats.
750) They’re a dime a dozen.
751) He cuts a fine figure.
752) You punch/kick/hit/throw like an old woman.
753) He gives me the willies.
754) A friend in need is a friend indeed.
755) Six ways from Sunday.
756) He really opened my eyes.
757) He’s a dead ringer for _____ .
758) I’m dead certain.
759) He’s as dead as a doornail.
760) He’s dead weight.
761) He’s got his head on straight.
762) Why the long face?
763) He gave me the low-down.
764) Give me the skinny on it.
765) I’m cleaned out.
766) Do you want to mix it up?
767) He’s preaching to the choir.
768) I’m as stiff as a board.
769) I’m soaked to the skin / bone.
770) It’s as honest as the day is long.
771) My life is a train wreck.
772) He has a 5 o’clock shadow.
773) He’s full of liquid courage.
774) His teeth are floating.
775) It’s the cream of the crop.
776) I went to Stanford, you blow hole!
777) He’s plum crazy.
778) He’s at the top of his game.
779) In one ear and out the other.
780) He got it right in the kisser.
781) How do you like these apples?
782) It’s in the cards.
783) He was taken to the cleaners.
784) He gave me an ear full
785) Cross my heart.
786) Life is a bowl of cherries.
787) When life hands you lemons, make lemonade.
788) He flew the coop. / He’s flown the coop.
789) It’s finger-lickin’ good.
790) He stood up for me.
791) I feel like a million dollars.
792) Come on, cough it up.
793) He really came alive.
794) He really made a splash.
795) You really got the jump on me.
796) My job is on the line.
797) The world’s his oyster.
798) Put your money where your mouth is.
799) Go fly a kite!
800) He jumped the gun.
801) She’s a knockout.
802) Look before you leap
803) Let’s call it a night.
804) It was the end-all.
805) I had fun at the party. It was a blast.
806) I get snowed under if I don’t keep up with the housework
807) She looks like she fell off the ugly tree.
808) He out-foxed me.
809) He’s quite an operator.
810) He’s a smooth operator.
811) He’s a smooth talker.
812) He has his fingers in a lot of pies.
813) He ran off and left me holding the bag.
814) I’m brown-bagging it today.
815) He’s on the lamb.
816) She’s damaged goods.
817) He went bananas.
818) What kind of monkey business is this?
819) He took a shot in the dark.
820) That cake is out of this world!
821) I’m so bored I’m climbing the walls.
822) I finally cottoned on to his joke.
823) Relax! It’s just a tempest in a teapot.
824) You’re singing my tune.
825) Don’t be such a rube!
826) They tied the knot last month.
827) He’s in a jam.
828) He’s in a pickle.
829) It’s a sticky situation.
830) Use your noggin.
831) Count me in.
832) Are you up to it?
833) Let the chips fall where they may.
834) I beat him at his own game.
835) He had the last laugh.
836) The joke’s on you.
837) I slept like a log.
838) Now we’re talking turkey.
839) That’s a different kettle of fish.
840) I’ve got a bone to pick with you.
841) Your number’s up.
842) He’s got himself in hot water.
843) Let’s keep this between you and me.
844) Do you want to give it a go?
845) His excuse won`t fly with the teacher.
846) Do you have a boo-boo?
847) Nature calls.
848) He who hesitates is lost.
849) He's in the joint.
850) Use it or lose it.
851) Don’t take it lying down.
852) Keep your nose clean.
853) He’s really let himself go.
854) He won by a nose.
855) They are neck and neck.
856) His name doesn't ring a bell.
857) I have to see a man about a horse.
858) That sound is crawling up my spine.
859) It was ham-handed work.
869) Then the other shoe dropped.
861) My boss is breathing down my neck.
862) I really took a bath on the stock market.
863) He the night away.
864) I'm all tapped out.
865) Digital cameras cut the legs out from under his photography business.
866) I'm just spit-balling.
867) It's a deal-breaker.
868) She's a knock-out.
869) My hobby is collecting Japanese goo-gaws and doo-dads.
870) He got the bounce.
871) I want to bounce an idea off you.
872) He bounced around the house.
873) He got his walking papers.
874) It came to me in a flash.
875) It's bone dry.
876) He pulled a fast one on me.
877) She's dressed to the nines.
879) She pulled the rug out from under me.
880) He gives me the heebie-jeebies.
881) Let's get cracking.
882) Let's get this show on the road.
883) Put your back into it.
884) I'm tickled pink.
885) It just popped into my head.
886) He threw me for a loop.
887) I think he's onto something.
888) He's the hands-down winner.
889) He's a night owl.
890) He's an early bird.
891) Hold the fort.
892) Puppy love.
893) They're dropping like flies.
894) He did a slap-dash job.
895) Put that in your pipe and smoke it.
896) I've got bigger fish to fry.
897) A day late and a dollar short.
898)