Reading set "Random idiom flashcards set to learn" (Number of items 10)

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loaded for bear

"Loaded for bear". Karate bears by Ron Niebrugge
loaded for bear  {adj. phr.},  {slang}
Ready for action; prepared and eager.
Frank liked the new merchandise and as he set out on his rounds as a salesman, he felt really loaded for bear.
The football team arrived Friday noon, loaded for bear.
Categories:adjective slang



dance to another tune

To talk or act differently, usually better because things have changed; be more polite or obedient because you are forced to do it.
Johnny refused to do his homework but punishment made him dance to another tune.
Categories:polite verb



dead as a doornail

dead as a doornail  {adj. phr.}
Completely dead without the slightest hope of resuscitation.
This battery is dead as a doornail; no wonder your car won't start.
Categories:adjective



dead letter

dead letter  {n. phr.}
An undeliverable letter that ends up in a special office holding such letters.
There is a dead letter office in most major cities.
Categories:noun



dead loss

dead loss  {n. phr.}
A total waste; a complete loss.
Our investment in Jack's company turned out to be a dead loss.
Categories:noun



keep under one's hat

keep under one's hat  {v. phr.},  {informal}
To keep secret; not tell.
Mr. Jones knew who had won the contest, but he kept it under his hat until it was announced publicly.
- Often used as a command.
Keep it under your hat.
Categories:informal verb



keep up appearances

keep up appearances  {v. phr.}
To maintain an outward show of prosperity in spite of financial problems.
Mr. Smith's widow had a hard time keeping up appearances after her husband's death.
Categories:death time verb



mixed bag

mixed bag  {n. phr.}
A varied set of people, ideas, objects, or circumstances, including both the good and the bad.
This report is a mixed bag of opinions.
There was a mixed bag of people at the press conference.
Categories:noun



mixed up

mixed up  {adj. phr.},  {informal}
1. Confused in mind; puzzled.
Bob was all mixed up after the accident.
Compare: BALL UP (1).
2. Disordered; disarranged; not neat.
The papers on his desk were mixed up.
3.  {informal}
Joined or connected (with someone or something bad).
Harry was mixed up in a fight after the game.
Mary's father told her not to get mixed up with the students that always break school rules.
Categories:adjective informal



blue Monday

blue Monday  {n.}
A Monday when you have to work after a happy weekend.
It was blue Monday and John nodded sleepily over his books.
Housewives sometimes wish they could sleep through blue Monday.
Categories:noun