Idiom | Meaning | Example |
on speaking terms |
not friendly but saying hello etc.
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Louise and I are not friends, but we're on speaking terms.
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on tap |
available from the tap on a keg of beer or ale
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There was a red neon sign in the window: COLD BEER ON TAP
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on target |
done by the planned date, on schedule
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If we can complete the drawings by Monday, we'll be on target.
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on tenterhooks |
carefully, cautiously, afraid to move
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He's cautious since his accident. He drives around on tenterhooks.
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on the back burner |
to be done later, not as important
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The playground project is on the back burner until next spring.
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on the ball |
smart, intelligent, bright, sharp
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Max has a lot on the ball. He can solve our problem.
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on the bandwagon |
helping, supporting, on side
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Get on the bandwagon, folks! Our man is going to be Premier!
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on the beat |
on the job, working, doing a task or assignment
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A journalist must be on the beat, working among the people and telling their stories.
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on the books |
listed, accounted for
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Is it legal to sell items that aren't on the books - that aren't listed?
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on the bright side |
positive, optimistic
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Chan is positive. He always looks on bright side of things.
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