Idiom | Meaning | Example |
tail between his legs |
running away in defeat or fear, retreating quickly
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When the bear followed me, I ran with my tail between my legs!
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tail lights |
gone, departed, could not see me for dust
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When I heard the police siren, I was tail lights. I was gone.
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tail wagging the dog |
(See the tail wagging the dog)
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tailgate |
drive too close to the car in front, on his tail
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The instructor told me not to tailgate - to leave more space.
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take a back seat |
say you are not as good, play second fiddle
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You are good at chess. Don't take a back seat to anyone!
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take a boo |
look at, take a look
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Take a boo with my telescope. See the dust on the moon?
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take a bow |
bow to the audience, show you like applause
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The crowd is clapping because you played well. Take a bow.
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take a break |
rest for a few minutes or days or weeks
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You've been working hard. Do you want to take a break?
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take a bullet |
accept blame or injury to protect someone
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Pat said she was responsible for our mistake - she took a bullet.
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take a chance |
gamble, try your luck
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I'm going to take a chance and buy gold. It's a gamble, but... .
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