American Idioms

Idiom of the day :- far cry / (A) far cry

Usage, examples and definition of the Idiom :-

Very different (often in a worse way). ex. “This wine is nice, but it’s a far cry from the wine we had yesterday.” 

Idiom of the day :- Burn the midnight oil

Usage, examples and definition of the Idiom :-

Mr. Wilcox works all day and attends school at night. When he goes home he burns the midnight oil by studying until dawn. If you are like Mr. Wilcox and work or study long hours at night, you too can say that you burn the midnight oil.

Idiom of the day :- up to (doing something) / (To be/feel) up to (doing something)

Usage, examples and definition of the Idiom :-

Capable of, fit for. ex. “Do you feel up to playing a game of tennis?” 

Idiom of the day :- Fill the bill

Usage, examples and definition of the Idiom :-

If something fills the bill it is just what one wants. It is exactly what is required or needed. ‘Isn’t it wonderful to have such mild weather ? It certainly fills the bill for our picnic, doesn’t it ?’ ‘I was really hungry so this little snack sure fills the bill,’ Albo said.

Idiom of the day :- Copycat (noun or adjective)

Usage, examples and definition of the Idiom :-

Someone who imitates/mimics another person *not really used in a positive sense*. 

Idiom of the day :- If the cap fits, wear it

Usage, examples and definition of the Idiom :-

If something unpleasant is said about someone, something that could just as easily apply to you, you should take notice of it. If necessary, you should accept is as constructive criticism. That’s what we mean when we say if the cap fits, wear it. ‘I didn’t say you look funny, but if the cap fits, wear it !’

Idiom of the day :- Free and easy

Usage, examples and definition of the Idiom :-

Casual. Not very serious. ex. “Sarah was looking for a free and easy relationship.” 

Idiom of the day :- One’s nearest and dearest

Usage, examples and definition of the Idiom :-

‘I’m not as rich as Rocketfeller or as strong as Rambo, and no one has ever asked me to star in a film,’ Herbert said humbly, ‘yet my nearest and dearest tell me I’m the world’s most wonderful husband and father,’ he grinned. Herbert should be very proud for one’s nearest and dearest is one’s family.

Idiom of the day :- Scapegoat

Usage, examples and definition of the Idiom :-

Someone else who takes the blame.

Idiom of the day :- get cold feet / (To) get cold feet

Usage, examples and definition of the Idiom :-

To become timid or frightened. ex. “I usually get cold feet when I have to speak in public.”