A
Idioms beginning with "A"
Part of speech, explanation, example sentences, pronunciation
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Contents of A:
[--- and ---]
1. — And is used between repeated words to show continuation or emphasis.
When the children saw the beautiful Christmas tree they looked and looked.
Old Mr. Bryan has known Grandfather for years and years, since they were boys.
[…]
[a bit] {n.}, {informal}
A small amount; some.
There's no sugar in the sugar bowl, but you may find a bit in the bag.
If the ball had hit the window a bit harder, it would have broken it.
- Often used like an adverb.
* /This sweater […]
[a few] {n.} or {adj.}
A small number (of people or things); some.
The dry weather killed most of Mother's flowers, but a few are left.
In the store, Mary saw many pretty rings and bracelets, and she wanted to buy a few of them.
* /After the […]
[a friend in need is a friend indeed]
A genuine friend on whom one can always depend. — A proverb; often shortened to "a friend in need..."
* /When John's house burned down, his neighbor Jim helped him and his family with shelter, food and clothing. […]
[a hell of a] or [one hell of a] {adj.} or {adv. phr.}, {informal}
Extraordinary; very.
He made a hell of a shot during the basketball game.
Max said seven months was a hell of a time to have to wait for a simple visa.
* /The fall Max took […]
[a la] {prep.}
In the same way as; like.
Billy played ball like a champion today, a la the professional ball players.
Joe wanted to shoot an apple off my head a la William Tell.
(From French "a la", in the manner of.)
[a little] {n.} or {adj.}
A small amount (of); some. — Usually "a little" is different in meaning from "little", which emphasizes the negative; "a little" means "some"; but "little" means "not much". We say
* /"We thought that the paper was all gone, […]
[a little bird told me]
To have learned something from a mysterious, unknown, or secret source.
"Who told you that Dean Smith was resigning?" Peter asked. "A little bird told me", Jim answered.
[a little knowledge is a dangerous thing] {literary}
A person who knows a little about something may think he knows it all and make bad mistakes. — A proverb.
* /John has read a book on driving a car and now he thinks he can drive. A little knowledge […]
[a lot] {n.}, {informal}
A large number or amount; very many or very much; lots.
I learned a lot in Mr. Smith's class.
A lot of our friends are going to the beach this summer.
- Often used like an adverb.
* /Ella is a jolly girl; she laughs […]
[a must] {n.}
1. An inevitability; a necessity.
Visas in many foreign countries are a must.
2. An extremely interesting or memorable event, such as a free concert given by an international celebrity.
* /Alfred Brendel's Beethoven master […]
[a number] {n.}
A rather large number; numbers. — Used when there arc more than several and fewer than many.
The parents were invited to see the program, and a number came.
* /We knew the Smiths rattier well; we had visited them a number of […]
[a pretty pass] {n. phr.}
An unfortunate condition; a critical state.
While the boss was away, things at the company had come to a pretty pass.
[abide by] {v.}
To accept and obey; be willing to follow.
A basketball player may know he did not foul, but he must abide by the referee's decision.
The members agree to abide by the rules of the club.
[about face] {n.}
A sudden change of course or a decision opposite to what was decided earlier.
Her decision to become an actress instead of a dentist was an about face from her original plans.
[about one's ears] or [around one's ears] {adv. phr.}
To or into complete collapse, defeat, or ruin; to the destruction of a person's plans, hopes, or happiness.
* /They planned to have factories all over the world but the war brought their plans down […]
[about time] {n. phr.}
Finally, but later than it should have been; at last.
Mother said, "It's about time you got up, Mary."
The basketball team won last night. About time.
[about to]
1. Close to; ready to. — Used with an infinitive.
We were about to leave when the snow began.
I haven't gone yet, but I'm about to.
Compare: [GOING TO], [ON THE POINT OF].
2. {informal}
Having a wish or plan to. — Used with […]
[above all] {adv. phr.}
Of first or highest importance; most especially.
Children need many things, but above all they need love.
Syn.: [FIRST AND LAST].
[above suspicion] {adj. phr.}
Too good to be suspected; not likely to do wrong.
The umpire in the game must be above suspicion of supporting one side over the other.
[absent without leave (AWOL)] {adj.}
Absent without permission; used mostly in the military.
Jack left Fort Sheridan without asking his commanding officer, and was punished for going AWOL.
[Acapulco gold] {n.}, {slang}
Marijuana of an exceptionally high quality.
Jack doesn't just smoke pot, he smokes Acapulco gold.
[according as] {conj.}
1. Depending on which; whichever.
You may take an oral or written exam according as you prefer.
1. Depending on whether; if.
We will play golf or stay home according as the weather is good or bad.
[according to] {prep.}
1. So as to match or agree with; so as to be alike in.
Many words are pronounced according to the spelling but some are not.
The boys were placed in three groups according to height.
2. On the word or authority of.
* […]
[according to one's own lights] {adv. phr.}
In accordance with one's conscience or inclinations.
Citizens should vote according to their own lights.
[account]
See:
[CALL TO ACCOUNT],
[CHARGE ACCOUNT],
[LEAVE OUT OF ACCOUNT],
[ON ACCOUNT],
[ON ACCOUNT OF],
[ON ONE'S ACCOUNT],
[ON ONE'S OWN ACCOUNT],
[SAVINGS ACCOUNT],
[TAKE INTO ACCOUNT].
[ace in the hole] {n. phr.}
1. An ace given to a player face down so that other players in a card game cannot see it.
* /When the cowboy bet all his money in the poker game he did not know that the gambler had an ace in the hole and would win it from […]
[Achilles' heel] {n. phr.}, {literary}
A physical or psychological weakness named after the Greek hero Achilles who was invulnerable except for a spot on his heel.
John's Achilles' heel is his lack of talent with numbers and math.
[acid head] {n.}, {slang}
A regular user of LSD on whom the hallucinogenic drug has left a visible effect.
The reason John acts so funny is that he is a regular acid head.
[acid rock] {n.}, {slang}
A characteristic kind of rock in which loudness and beat predominate over melody; especially such music as influenced by drug experiences.
John is a regular acid rock freak.
[acoustic perfume] {n.}, {slang}
Sound for covering up unwanted noise, such as music over loudspeakers in a noisy construction area.
Let's get out of here — this acoustic perfume is too much for my ears.
[acquire a taste for] {v. phr.}
To become fond of something; get to like something.
Jack acquired a taste for ripe cheeses when he went to France.
[across the board] {adv. phr.}
1. So that equal amounts of money are bet on the same horse to win a race, to place second, or third.
I bet $6 on the white horse across the board.
- Often used with hyphens as an adjective.
* /I made an […]
[act high and mighty] {v. phr.}
To wield power; act overbearingly; order others around; look down on others.
Paul is an inexperienced teacher and he acts high and mighty with his students.
[act of faith] {n. phr.}
An act or a deed that shows unquestioning belief in someone or something.
It was a real act of faith on Mary's part to entrust her jewelry to her younger sister's care.
[act of God] {n.}
An occurrence (usually some sort of catastrophe) for which the people affected are not responsible; said of earthquakes, floods, etc.
* /Hurricane Andrew destroyed many houses in Florida, but some types of insurance did not compensate […]
[act one's age] or [be one's age] {v. phr.}
To do the things that people expect someone of your age to do, not act as if you were much younger than you are.
* /Mr. O'Brien was playing tag with the children at the party. Then Mrs. O'Brien said, "Henry! […]
[act out] {v.}
1. To show an idea, story, or happening by your looks, talk, and movements.
He tried to act out a story that he had read.
2. To put into action.
All his life he tried to act out his beliefs.
[act up] {v.}, {informal}
1. To behave badly; act rudely or impolitely.
The dog acted up as the postman came to the door.
2. To work or run poorly (as a after all machine); skip; miss.
Thе car acted up because the spark plugs were dirty.
[actions speak louder than words]
What you do shows your character better and is more important than what you say. — A proverb.
John promised to help me, but he didn't. Actions speak louder than words.
* /Joe is very quiet, but actions speak […]
[ad lib] {v. phr.}
To improvise; interpolate during speech.
When the actress forgot her lines during the second act, she had to ad lib in order to keep the show going.
[add fuel to the flame] {v. phr.}
To make a bad matter worse by adding to its cause; spread trouble, increase anger or other strong feelings by talk or action.
By criticizing his son's girl, the father added fuel to the flame of his son's love.
* […]
[add insult to injury] {v. phr.}
1. To hurt someone's feelings after doing him harm.
He added insult to injury when he called the man a rat after he had already beaten him up.
2. To make bad trouble worse.
* /We started on a picnic, and first it […]
[add the finishing touches] {v. phr.}
To complete; finish.
Mary's first novel promised to be excellent; however, her editor suggested that she should add some finishing touches before accepting it.
[add up] {v.}
1. To come to the correct amount.
The numbers wouldn't add up.
2. {informal}
To make sense; be understandable.
His story didn't add up.
[add up to] {v.}
1. To make a total of; amount to.
The bill added up to $12.95.
2. {informal}
To mean; result in.
The rain, the mosquitoes, and the heat added up to a spoiled vacation.
[afoul of] {prep.}
1. In collision with.
The boat ran afoul of a buoy.
2. In or into trouble with.
The thief ran afoul of the night watchman.
Speeders can expect to fall afoul of the law sometimes.
[afraid of one's shadow] {adj. phr.}, {informal}
Scared of small or imaginary things; very easily frightened; jumpy; nervous.
Mrs. Smith won't stay alone in her house at night; she is afraid of her own shadow.
* /Johnny cries whenever he must say […]
[after a fashion] {adv. phr.}
Not very well or properly; poorly.
He played tennis after a fashion.
The roof kept the rain out after a fashion.
Compare: [IN A WAY].
[after a while] {informal} or [in a while] {adv. phr.}
Later, at some time in the future; after a time that is not short and not long.
"Dad, will you help me make this model plane?" "After a while, Jimmy, when I finish reading the newspaper."
* […]
[after all] {adv. phr.}
1. As a change in plans; anyway. — Used with emphasis on "after".
Bob thought he couldn't go to the party because he had too much homework, but he went after all.
2. For a good reason that you should remember. — Used with […]
[after hours] {adv. or adj. phr.}
Not during the regular, correct, or usual time; going on or open after the usual hours.
The store was cleaned and swept out after hours.
* /The children had a secret after hours party when they were supposed to be […]
[after one's own heart] {adj. phr.}, {informal}
Well liked because of agreeing with your own feelings, interests, and ideas; to your liking-agreeable. Used after "man" or some similar word.
* /He likes baseball and good food; he is a man after my own […]
[after the dust clears] or [when the dust settles] {adv. phr.}
When a troubling, confusing, or disastrous event is finally over.
* /John invited Tim for dinner, but since Tim's father had just died, he replied, "Thanks. I'd like to come after the dust […]
[again]
See:
[COME AGAIN],
[EVERY NOW AND THEN] or [EVERY NOW AND AGAIN],
[NOW AND THEN] or [NOW AND AGAIN],
[ON AGAIN],
[OFF AGAIN],
[SOMETHING ELSE AGAIN],
[THEN AGAIN],
[TIME AND AGAIN],
[YOU SAID IT] or [YOU CAN SAY THAT AGAIN].
[against the grain] {adv. phr.}
1. Across rather than with the direction of the fibers (as of wood or meat).
He sandpapered the wood against the grain.
2. So as to annoy or trouble, or to cause anger or dislike. — Usually follows "go".
* /His […]
[against time] or [against the clock] {adv. phr.}
1. As a test of speed or time; in order to beat a speed record or time limit.
John ran around the track against time, because there was no one else to race against.
2. As fast as possible; so as to […]
[age]
See:
[ACT ONE'S AGE] or [BE ONE'S AGE],
[DOG'S AGE] or [COON'S AGE],
[LEGAL AGE] or [LAWFUL AGE],
[OF AGE],
[OVER AGE],
[UNDER AGE].
[Agent Orange] {n.}
A herbicide used as a defoliant during the Vietnam War, considered by some to cause birth defects and cancer, hence, by extension, an instance of "technological progress pollution".
* /If things continue as they have, we'll all be […]
[agree with] {v.}
To have a good effect on, suit.
The meat loaf did not agree with him.
The warm, sunny climate agreed with him, and he soon grew strong and healthy.
[ahead of] {prep.}
1. In a position of advantage or power over.
He studies all the time, because he wants to stay ahead of his classmates.
2. In front of; before.
The troop leader walked a few feet ahead of the boys.
3. Earlier than; […]
[ahead of the game] {adv. or adj. phr.}, {informal}
1. In a position of advantage; winning (as in a game or contest); ahead (as by making money or profit); making it easier to win or succeed.
* /The time you spend studying when you are in school will […]
[ahead of time] {adv. phr.}
Before the expected time; early.
The bus came ahead of time, and Mary was not ready.
The new building was finished ahead of time.
Contrast: [BEHIND TIME].
[air]
See:
[BUILD CASTLES IN THE AIR],
[CLEAR THE AIR],
[GIVE ONESELF AIRS],
[GET THE AIR] at [GET THE BOUNCE] (1),
[GIVE THE AIR] at [GIVE THE BOUNCE] (1),
[IN THE AIR],
[INTO THIN AIR],
[LEAVE HANGING] or [LEAVE HANGING IN THE AIR],
[ON THE […]
[air one's dirty linen in public] or [wash one's dirty linen in public] {v. phr.}
To talk about your private quarrels or disgraces where others can hear; make public something embarrassing that should be kept secret.
* /Everyone in the school knew that […]
[air shuttle] {n.}, {informal}
Air service for regular commuters operating between major cities at not too far a distance, e.g., between Boston and New York City; such flights operate without reservation on a frequent schedule.
* /My dad takes the air […]
[airbus] n. A trade name, also used informally for a wide-bodied airplane used chiefly as a domestic passenger carrier.
Airbuses don't fly overseas, but mainly from coast to coast.
[airquake] {n.}
An explosive noise of undetermined origin usually heard in coastal communities and appearing to come from some higher point in elevation.
What was that awful noise just now? — I guess it must have been an airquake.
[albatross around one's neck] {n. phr.}, {literary}
Guilt, the haunting past, an unforgettable problem.
Even though it was an accident, John's father's death has been an albatross around John's neck.
Compare: [MONKEY ON ONE'S BACK].
[alive and kicking] {adj. phr.}
Very active; vigorous; full of energy.
Grandpa was taken to the hospital with pneumonia, but he was discharged yesterday and is alive and kicking.
[alive with] {prep.}, {informal}
Crowded with; filled with.
The lake was alive with fish.
The stores were alive with people the Saturday before Christmas.
[all]
See:
[AFTER ALL],
[AND ALL],
[AT ALL],
[BEAT ALL] or [BEAT THE DUTCH],
[FOR ALL],
[FOR ALL ONE IS WORTH],
[FOR ALL ONE KNOWS],
[FOR ALL THE WORLD],
[FOR GOOD] also [FOR GOOD AND ALL],
[FROM THE BOTTOM OF ONE'S HEART] or [WITH ALL ONE'S […]
[all along] or ( {informal}) [right along] {adv. phr.}
All the time; during the whole time.
I knew all along that we would win.
I knew right along that Jane would come.
[all at once] {adv. phr.}
1. At the same time; together.
The teacher told the children to talk one at a time; if they all talked at one time, she could not understand them.
Bill can play the piano, sing, and lead his orchestra all at once.
2. […]
[all better] {adj. phr.}
Fully recovered; all well again; no longer painful. — Usually used to or by children.
"All better now," he kept repeating to the little girl.
[all but] {adv. phr.}
Very nearly; almost.
Crows all but destroyed a farmer's field of corn.
The hikers were exhausted and all but frozen when they were found.
[all ears] {adj. phr.}, {informal}
Very eager to hear; very attentive. — Used in the predicate.
Go ahead with your story; we are all ears.
When John told about the circus, the boys were all ears.
[all eyes] {adj. phr.}, {informal}
Wide-eyed with surprise or curiosity; watching very closely. — Used in the predicate.
At the circus the children were all eyes.
[all gone] {adj. phr.}
Used up; exhausted (said of supplies); done with; over with.
We used to travel a lot, but, alas, those days are all gone.
[all hours] {n. phr.}, {informal}
Late or irregular times.
The boy's mother said he must stop coming home for meals at all hours.
He stayed up till all hours of the night to finish his school work.
[all in] {adj. phr.}, {informal}
Very tired; exhausted.
The players were all in after their first afternoon of practice.
Syn.: [PLAYED OUT], [WORN OUT].
[all in a day's work] or [all in the day's work] {adj. phr.}, {informal}
Unpleasant or bad but to be expected; not harder than usual; not unusual.
Keeping ants away from a picnic lunch is all in the day's work.
* /When the car had a flat tire, […]
[all in all] (1) {n. phr.}, {literary}
The person or thing that you love most.
She was all in all to him.
Music was his all in all.
[all in all] (2) or [in all] {adv. phr.}
When everything is thought about; in summary; altogether.
All in all, it was a pleasant day's cruise.
* /All in all, the pilot of an airplane must have many abilities and years of experience before he can […]
[all in good time] {adv. phr.}
Some time soon, when the time is ripe for an event to take place.
"I want to get married, Dad," Mike said. "All in good time, Son," answered his father.
[all in one piece] {adv. phr.}
Safely; without damage or harm.
John's father was terribly concerned when his son was sent to war as a pilot, but he came home all in one piece.
[all kinds of] {adj. phr.}, {informal}
Plenty of.
People say that Mr. Fox has all kinds of money.
When Kathy was sick, she had all kinds of company.
Compare: [GREAT DEAL].
[all manner of] {adj. phr.}, {formal}
Many different kinds of; all sorts of.
In a five-and-ten-cent store you can buy all manner of things.
[all of] {adj. phr.}, {informal}
1. At least the amount or number of; fully; no less than.
It was all of ten o'clock before they finally started.
She must have paid all of $50 for that hat.
2. Showing all the signs of; completely in. — Used […]
[all out] {adv. phr.}, {informal}
With all your strength, power, or determination; to the best of your ability; without holding back. — Usually used in the phrase "go all out".
We went all out to win the game.
* /John went all out to finish the […]
[all over] {adv. phr.}
1. In every part; everywhere.
He has a fever and aches all over.
I have looked all over for my glasses.
Compare: [FAR AND WIDE].
2. {informal}
In every way; completely.
She is her mother all over.
3. {informal}
[…]
[all over but the shouting] {adj. phr.} {informal}
Finally decided or won; brought to an end; not able to be changed.
After Bill's touchdown, the game was all over but the shouting.
* /John and Tom both tried to win Jane, but after John's […]
[all right] (1) {adv. phr.}
1. Well enough.
The new machine is running all right.
2. {informal}
I am willing; yes.
"Shall we watch television?" "All right."
Compare: [VERY WELL].
3. {informal}
Beyond question, certainly. — Used for […]
[all right] (2) {adj. phr.}
1. Good enough; correct; suitable.
His work is always all right.
2. In good health or spirits; well.
"How are you?" "I'm all right."
3. {slang}
Good.
He's an all right guy.
[all right for you] {interj.}
I'm finished with you! That ends it between you and me! — Used by children.
All right for you! I'm not playing with you any more!
[all roads lead to Rome] {literary}
The same end or goal may be reached by many different ways. — A proverb.
"I don't care how you get the answer," said the teacher, "All roads lead to Rome."
[all set] {adj. phr.}
Ready to start.
"Is the plane ready for take-off?" the bank president asked. "Yes, Sir," the pilot answered. "We're all set."
[all shook up] also [shook up] {adj.}, {slang}
In a state of great emotional upheaval; disturbed; agitated.
What are you so shook up about?
[all systems go] {Originally from space English, now general colloquial usage.}
Everything is complete and ready for action; it is now all right to proceed.
After they wrote out the invitations, it was all systems go for the wedding.
[all the] (2) {adv. phr.}
Than otherwise; even. — Used to emphasize comparative adjectives, adverbs, and nouns.
Opening the windows made it all the hotter.
Take a bus instead of walking and get home all the sooner.
* /If you don't eat your […]
[all the ---er] {substandard}
The ---est; as ... as. — Used with a comparative adjective or adverb and subordinate clause in place of a superlative adjective or adverb.
That was all the bigger he grew.
Is that all the faster you can go?
[all the same] (1) or [all one] {n. phr.}
Something that makes no difference; a choice that you don't care about.
If it's all the same to you, I would like to be waited on first.
You can get there by car or by bus — it's all one.
[all the same] (2) or [just the same] {adv. phr.}, {informal}
As if the opposite were so; nevertheless; anyway; anyhow; still.
Everyone opposed it, but Sally and Bob got married all the same.
* /Mary is deaf, but she takes tap dancing lessons just […]
[all the thing] or [all the rage], [the in thing] {n. phr.}
The fashionable or popular thing to do, the fashionable or most popular artist or form of art at a given time.
After "The Graduate" Dustin Hoffman was all the rage in the movies.
* /It […]
[all the time] {adv. phr.}
1. or [all the while]
During the whole period; through the whole time.
Mary went to college in her home town and lived at home all the while.
* /Most of us were surprised to hear that Mary and Tom had been engaged all […]
[all the way] or [the whole way] {adv. phr.}
1. From start to finish during the whole distance or time.
Jack climbed all the way to the top of the tree.
Joe has played the whole way in the football game and it's almost over.
2. In complete […]
[all there] or [all here] {adj. phr.}, {informal}
Understanding well; thinking clearly; not crazy. — Usually used in negative sentences.
Joe acted queerly and talked wildly, so we thought he was not all there.
[all thumbs] {adj.}, {informal}
Awkward, especially with your hands; clumsy.
Harry tried to fix the chair but he was all thumbs.
[all told] {adv. phr.}, {informal}
Counting or including everything.
Including candy sale profits we have collected $300 all told.
[all up] {adj. phr.}, {informal}
Near to certain death or defeat without any more chance or hope.
With their ammunition gone the patrol knew that it was all up with them.
[all very well] {adj.}
All right; very good and correct; very true. — Usually followed by a "but" clause.
It's all very well for you to complain but can you do any better?
* /It's all very well if Jane comes with us, but how will she get back […]
[all walks of life] {n. phr.}
All socioeconomic groups; all professions and lines of work.
A good teacher has to be able to communicate with students from all walks of life.
A clever politician doesn't alienate people from any walk of life.
[all wet] {adj.}, {slang}
Entirely confused or wrong; mistaken.
When the Wright brothers said they could build a flying machine, people thought they were all wet.
If you think I like baseball, you're all wet.
Compare: [OFF ONE'S ROCKER].
[all wool and a yard wide] {adj. phr.}
Of fine character; especially, very generous and kind-hearted.
He's a wonderful brother — all wool and a yard wide.
[all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy]
Too much hard work without time out for play or enjoyment is not good for anyone. — A proverb.
* /Bill's mother told him to stop studying and to go out and play, because all work and no play makes Jack a […]
[all year round] {adv. phr.}
Always; all the time; throughout all seasons of the year.
In California the sun shines all year round.
[all-out effort] {n.}
A great and thorough effort at solving a given problem.
The President is making an all-out effort to convince Congress to pass the pending bill on health care.
[all-out war] {n.}
Total war including civilian casualties as opposed to a war that is limited only to armies.
Hitler was waging an all-out war when he invaded Poland.
[alley cat] {n.}, {slang}
1. A stray cat.
2. A person (usually a female) of rather easy-going, or actually loose sexual morals; a promiscuous person.
You'll have no problem dating her; she's a regular alley cat.
[allow for] {v.}
To provide for; leave room for; give a chance to; permit.
She cut the skirt four inches longer to allow for a wide hem.
Democracy allows for many differences of opinion.
[alone]
See:
[LET ALONE] or [LEAVE ALONE],
[LET WELL ENOUGH ALONE] or [LEAVE WELL ENOUGH ALONE].
[along]
See:
[ALL ALONG] or [RIGHT ALONG],
[COME ALONG],
[GET ALONG],
[GO ALONG],
[RUN ALONG],
[STRING ALONG].
[along for the ride] {adv. phr.}, {informal}
Being in a group for the fun or the credit without doing any of the work.
He wants no members in his political party who are just along for the ride.
[along in years] or [on in years] {adj. phr.}
Elderly; growing old.
As Grandfather got on in years, he became quiet and thoughtful.
Our dog isn 't very playful because it is getting on in years.
[alongside of] {prep.}
1. At or along the side of.
We walked alongside of the river.
2. Together with.
I played alongside of Tom on the same team.
Compare: [SHOULDER TO SHOULDER], [SIDE BY SIDE].
3. {informal}
Compared with or to; […]
[alpha wave] {n.}
A brain wave, 8—12 cycles per second, associated with a state of relaxation and meditation and, hence, free of anxieties.
Try to produce some alpha waves; you will instantly feel a lot better.
[ambulance chaser] {n.}
An attorney who specializes in representing victims of traffic accidents. By extension, a lawyer of inferior rank or talent.
Don't hire Cohen; he's just another ambulance chaser.
[American plan] {n.}
A system of hotel management in which meals are included with the room, as opposed to the European plan that does not include meals.
* /American tourists in Europe sometimes expect that their meals will be included, because they […]
[amount to] {v.}
Signify; add up to.
John's total income didn't amount to more than a few hundred dollars.
[and all] {informal}
And whatever goes with it; and all that means.
We don't go out much nowadays, with the new baby and all.
Jack's employer provided the tools and all.
[and how!] {interj.}, {informal}
Yes, that is certainly right! — Used for emphatic agreement.
"Did you see the game?" "And how!"
"Isn't Mary pretty?" "And how she is!"
Syn.: [YOU BET], [YOU SAID IT]. Compare: [BUT GOOD].
[and so forth] or [and so on]
And more of the same kind; and further amounts or things like the ones already mentioned.
The costumes were red, pink, blue, purple, yellow, and so forth.
Compare: [WHAT HAVE YOU].
[and the like] {n. phr.}
Things of a similar nature.
I like McDonald's, Wendy's, Kentucky Fried Chicken, and the like.
When I go out to the beach I take towels, a mat, suntan lotion, and the like.
[and then some]
And a lot more; and more too.
It would cost all the money he had and then some.
Talking his way out of this trouble was going to take all his wits and then some.
[angel dust] {n.}, {slang}
Phencyclidine, an addictive hallucinatory narcotic drug extremely dangerous to the users' health, also called PCP.
Mike has gone from grass to angel dust; he will end up in the morgue.
[answer for] {v.}
1. To take responsibility for; assume charge or supervision of.
The secret service has to answer for the safety of the President and his family.
2. To say you are sure that (someone) has good character or ability; guarantee: […]
[answer one's calling] {v. phr.}
To fulfill one's destiny in terms of work or profession by doing what one has a talent for.
Don answered his calling when he became a chiropractor. Susy answered her calling when she became a violinist.
[answer the call of nature] or [obey the call of nature] {v. phr.}, {slang}
To go to the bathroom to relieve oneself by urinating or defecating.
* /Ted was hiking in the mountains when suddenly he had to answer the call of nature but since there was no […]
[answer to] {v.}
To be named; go by a certain name or designation; be accountable.
When you walk my dog, please remember that he answers to the name "Caesar."
As head of the company she does not have to answer to anyone.
[ante up] {v.}, {informal}
To produce the required amount of money in order to close a transaction; to pay what one owes.
"I guess I'd better ante up if I want to stay an active member of the Association", Max said.
[ants in one's pants] {n. phr.}, {slang}
Nervous over-activity; restlessness.
Jane can not sit still; she has ants in her pants.
You have ants in your pants today. Is something wrong?
[any number] {n.}, {informal}
A large number; many.
There are any number of reasons for eating good food.
Don't ask George what his excuse is. He can invent any number.
Compare: [A LOT], [A NUMBER], [GOOD MANY].
[any old how] / [any old way] {adv. phr.}, {informal}
Doing something in a casual, haphazard, or careless way.
"John," the teacher said, "you can't just do your homework any old way; you must pay attention to my instructions!"
[any port in a storm]
Any help is welcome in an emergency. — A proverb.
The motel we stopped in was nothing to brag about, but we were so exhausted that it was a clear case of any port in a storm.
[anything but] {adv. phr.}
Quite the opposite of; far from being.
I don't mean he's lazy — anything but!
The boys knew they had broken the rules, and they were anything but happy when they were called to the office.
[anything like] or [anywhere near] {adv.}
Nearly. — Used in negative, interrogative, and conditional sentences, often in the negative forms "nothing like" or "nowhere near".
It's not anything like as hot today as it was yesterday.
* /Do you think […]
[apart from] or [aside from] {prep. phr.}
Beside or besides; in addition to.
The children hardly see anyone, apart from their parents.
Aside from being fun and good exercise, swimming is a very useful skill.
Syn.: [EXCEPT FOR], [OUTSIDE OF].
[apple of one's eye] {n. phr.}
Something or someone that is adored; a cherished person or object.
Charles is the apple of his mother's eye.
John's first car was the apple of his eye. He was always polishing it.
[apple-pie order] {n. phr.}, {informal}
Exact orderly arrangement, neatness; tidy arrangement.
The house was in apple-pie order.
Like a good secretary, she kept the boss's desk in apple-pie order.
[apropos of] {prep.}, {formal}
In connection with; on the subject of, about; concerning.
Apropos of higher tuition, Mr. Black told the boy about the educational loans that banks are offering.
* /Mr. White went to see Mr. Richards apropos of buying […]
[arm]
See:
[GIVE ONE'S RIGHT ARM],
[KEEP AT A DISTANCE] or [KEEP AT ARM'S LENGTH],
[SHOT IN THE ARM],
[TAKE UP ARMS],
[TWIST ONE'S ARM],
[UP IN ARMS],
[WITH OPEN ARMS],
[COST AN ARM AND A LEG].
[arm and a leg] {n.}, {slang}
An exorbitantly high price that must be paid for something that isn't really worth it.
It's true that to get a decent apartment these days in New York you have to pay an arm and a leg.
[arm in arm] {adv. phr.}
With your arm under or around another person's arm, especially in close comradeship or friendship.
Sally and Joan were laughing and joking together as they walked arm in arm down the street.
* /When they arrived at the […]
[armed to the teeth] {adj. phr.}
Having all needed weapons; fully armed.
The paratroopers were armed to the teeth.
[around the clock] also [the clock around] {adv. phr.}
For 24 hours a day continuously all day and all night.
The factory operated around the clock until the order was filled.
He studied around the clock for his history exam.
- […]
[around the corner] {adv. phr.}
Soon to come or happen; close by; near at hand.
The fortuneteller told Jane that there was an adventure for her just around the corner.
[as --- as ---]
- Used with an adjective or adverb in a comparison or with the effect of a superlative.
John is as tall as his father now.
I didn't do as badly today as I did yesterday.
* /John's father gave him a hard job and told him to do […]
[as a last resort] {adv. phr.}
In lieu of better things; lacking better solutions.
"We'll sleep in our sleeping bags as a last resort," John said, "since all the motels are full."
[as a matter of fact] {adv. phr.}
Actually; really; in addition to what has been said; in reference to what was said. — Often used as an interjection.
It's not true that I cannot swim; as a matter of fact, I used to work as a lifeguard in Hawaii.
[…]
[as a rule] {adv. phr.}
Generally; customarily.
As a rule, the boss arrives at the office about 10 A.M.
[as an aside] {adv. phr.}
Said as a remark in a low tone of voice; used in theaters where the actor turns toward the audience as if to "think out loud."
* /During the concert Tim said to his wife as an aside, "The conductor has no idea how to conduct […]
[as best one can] {adv. phr.}
As well as you can; by whatever means are available; in the best way you can.
The car broke down in the middle of the night, and he had to get home as best he could.
* /George's foot hurt, but he played the game as […]
[as far as] or [so far as] {adv. phr.}
1. To the degree or amount that; according to what, how much, or how far.
John did a good job as far as he went, but he did not finish it.
So far as the weather is concerned, I do not think it matters.
* […]
[as far as that goes] or [as far as that is concerned] or [so far as that is concerned] also [so far as that goes] {adv. phr.}
While we are talking about it; also; actually.
* /You don't have to worry about the girls. Mary can take care of herself, and […]
[as follows]
A list of things that come next; what is listed next. — Followed by a colon.
My grocery list is as follows: bread, butter, meat, eggs, sugar.
* /The names of the members are as follows: John Smith, Mary Webb, Linda Long, Ralph […]
[as for] {prep.}
1. In regard to; speaking of; concerning.
We have plenty of bread, and as for butter, we have more than enough.
2. Speaking for.
Most people like the summer but as for me, I like winter much better.
Compare: [FOR ONE'S […]
[as good as] {adv. phr.}
Nearly the same as; almost.
She claimed that he as good as promised to marry her.
He as good as called me a liar.
We'll get to school on time, we're as good as there now.
* /The man who had been shot was as good […]
[as good as one's word] or [good as one's word] {adj. phr.}
Trustworthy; sure to keep your promise.
The coach said he would give the players a day off if they won, and he was as good as his word.
* /We knew she was always good as her word, so we […]
[as hard as nails] {adj. phr.}
Very unfeeling; cruel, and unsympathetic.
Uncle Joe is as hard as nails; although he is a millionaire, he doesn't help his less fortunate relatives.
[as if] or [as though] {conj.}
1. As (he, she, it) would if; in the same way one would if seeing to show.
The baby laughed as if he understood what Mother said.
The book looked as though it had been out in the rain.
* /The waves dashed on the […]
[as if one has come out of a bandbox]
See: [LOOK AS IF ONE HAS COME OUT OF A BANDBOX].
[as is] {adv.}
Without changes or improvements; with no guarantee or promise of good condition. — Used after the word it modifies.
They agree to buy the house as is.
He bought an old car as is.
Compare: [AT THAT] (1).
[as it were] {adv. phr.}
As it might be said to be; as if it really were; seemingly. — Used with a statement that might seem silly or unreasonable, to show that it is just a way of saying it.
* /In many ways children live, as it were, in a different […]
[as likely as not] {adv. phr.}
Probably.
As likely as not, he will disappear forever.
[as long as] or [so long as] {conj.}
1. Since; because; considering that.
As long as you are going to town anyway, you can do something for me.
2. Provided that; if.
You may use the room as you like, so long as you clean it up afterward.
[as luck would have it] {adv. clause}
As it happened; by chance; luckily or unluckily.
As luck would have it, no one was in the building when the explosion occurred.
As luck would have it, there was rain on the day of the picnic.
[as much] {n.}
The same; exactly that.
Don't thank me, I would do as much for anyone.
Did you lose your way? I thought as much when you were late in coming.
[as much as] {adv. phr.}
1. or [much as]
Even though; although.
As much as I hate to do it, I must stay home and study tonight.
2. or [so much as]
Just the same as; almost; practically; really.
* /By running away he as much as admitted that he […]
[as of] prep. At or until (a certain time).
I know that as of last week he was still unmarried.
As of now we don't know much about Mars.
[as one man] {adv. phr.}
Unanimously; together; involving all.
The audience arose as one man to applaud the great pianist.
[as regards] {prep.}
Regarding; concerning; about.
You needn't worry as regards the cost of the operation.
He was always secretive as regards his family.
[as soon as] {conj.}
Just after; when; immediately after.
As soon as the temperature falls to 70, the furnace is turned on.
As soon as you finish your job let me know.
He will see you as soon as he can.
[as the crow flies] {adv. clause}
By the most direct way; along a straight line between two places.
It is seven miles to the next town as the crow flies, but it is ten miles by the road, which goes around the mountain.
[as the story goes] {adv. phr.}
As the story is told; as one has heard through rumor.
As the story goes, Jonathan disappeared when he heard the police were after him.
[as to] {prep.}
1. In connection with; about; regarding.
There is no doubt as to his honesty.
As to your final grade, that depends on your final examination.
Syn.: [WITH RESPECT TO].
2. According to; following; going by.
* /They sorted the […]
[as usual] {adv. phr.}
In the usual way; as you usually do or as it usually does.
As usual, Tommy forgot to make his bed before he went out to play.
Only a week after the fire in the store, it was doing business as usual.
[as well] {adv. phr.}
1. In addition; also, too; besides.
The book tells about Mark Twain's writings and about his life as well.
Tom is captain of the football team and is on the baseball team as well.
2. Without loss and possibly with gain.
[…]
[as well as] {conj.}
In addition to; and also; besides.
Hiking is good exercise as well as fun.
He was my friend as well as my doctor.
The book tells about the author's life as well as about his writings.
[as yet] {adv. phr.}
Up to the present time; so far; yet.
We know little as yet about the moon's surface.
She has not come as yet.
[as you please]
1. As you like, whatever you like or prefer; as you choose.
You may do as you please.
2. {informal}
Very. — Used after an adjective or adverb often preceded by "as".
There was Tinker, sitting there, cheerful as you please.
[…]
[aside of] {prep.}, {dialect}
Beside; by the side of.
Mary sits aside of her sister on the bus.
[ask for] {v.}, {informal}
To make (something bad) likely to happen to you; bring (something bad) upon yourself.
Charles drives fast on worn-out tires; he is asking for trouble.
* /The workman lost his job, but he asked for it by coming to work […]
[ask for one's hand] {v. phr.}
To ask permission to marry someone.
"Sir," John said timidly to Mary's father, "I came to ask for your daughter's hand."
[ask for the moon] or [cry for the moon] {v. phr.}
To want something that you cannot reach or have; try for the impossible.
John asked his mother for a hundred dollars today. He's always asking for the moon.
Compare: [PROMISE THE MOON].
[asleep at the switch] {adj. phr.}
1. Asleep when it is one's duty to move a railroad switch for cars to go on the right track.
The new man was asleep at the switch and the two trains crashed.
2. {informal}
Failing to act promptly as expected, […]
[at --- stage of the game] {adv. phr.}
At (some) time during an activity; at (some) point.
At that stage of the game, our team was doing so poorly that we were ready to give up.
It's hard to know what will happen at this stage of the game.
* […]
[at a blow] or [at a stroke] or [at one stroke] {adv. phr.}
Immediately; suddenly; with one quick or forceful action.
The pirates captured the ship and captured a ton of gold at a blow.
* /A thousand men lost their jobs at a stroke when the […]
[at a loss] {adj. phr.}
In a state of uncertainty; without any idea; puzzled.
A good salesman is never at a loss for words.
When Don missed the last bus, he was at a loss to know what to do.
[at a premium] {adv. phr.}
At a high price due to special circumstances.
When his father died, Fred flew to Europe at a premium because he had no chance to buy a less expensive ticket.
[at a set time] {prep. phr.}
At a particular, pre-specified time.
Do we have to eat in this hotel at a set time, or may we come down whenever we want?
[at a time] {adv. phr.}
At once; at one time; in one group or unit; together.
He checked them off one at a time as they came in.
He ran up the steps two at a time.
See: [EVERY OTHER].
They showed up for class three and four at a time.
[at all] {adv. phr.}
At any time or place, for any reason, or in any degree or manner. — Used for emphasis with certain kinds of words or sentences.
1. Negative
It's not at all likely he will come.
2. Limited
I can hardly hear you at all.
[…]
[at all costs] {adv. phr.}
At any expense of time, effort, or money. Regardless of the results.
Mr. Jackson intended to save his son's eyesight at all costs.
Carl is determined to succeed in his new job at all costs.
[at all hazards] {adv. phr.}
With no regard for danger; at any risk; regardless of the chances you must take.
The racer meant to win the 500-mile race at all hazards.
[at all hours] {adv. phr.}
Any time; all the time; at almost any time.
The baby cried so much that we were up at all hours trying to calm her down.
[at anchor] {adj. phr.}
Held by an anchor from floating away; anchored.
The ship rode at anchor in the harbor.
[at any rate] {adv. phr.}
In any case; anyhow.
It isn't much of a car, but at any rate it was not expensive.
Compare: [AT LEAST] (2), [IN ANY CASE].
[at bay] {adv.} or {adj. phr.}
In a place where you can no longer run away; unable to go back farther; forced to stand and fight, or face an enemy; cornered.
The dog ran the rat into a corner, and there the rat turned at bay.
* /The police chased […]
[at best] or [at the best] {adv. phr.}
1. Under the best conditions; as the best possibility.
A coal miner's job is dirty and dangerous at best.
We can't get to New York before ten o'clock at best.
Compare: [AT MOST].
Contrast: [AT WORST].
[…]
[at call] {adj.} or {adv. phr.}
1. Ready or nearby for use, help, or service; on request.
Thousands of auto insurance agents all over the country are at the insured person's call, wherever he may travel.
2. At the word of command; at an order or […]
[at close range] {adv. phr.}
Close by; in proximity.
The police officer fired at the fleeing murder suspect at close range.
[at cross purposes] {adv. phr.}
With opposing meanings or aims; with opposing effect or result; with aims which hinder or get in each other's way.
* /Tom's parents acted at cross purposes in advising him; his father wanted him to become a doctor; but […]
[at death's door] {adj.} or {adv. phr.}
Very near death; dying.
He seemed to be at death's door from his illness.
[at each other's throats] {prep. phr.}
Always arguing and quarreling.
Joan and Harry have been at each other's throats so long that they have forgotten how much they used to love one another.
[at ease] or [at one's ease] {adj.} or {adv. phr.}
1. In comfort; without pain or bother.
You can't feel at ease with a toothache.
2. or [at one's ease]
Comfortable in one's mind; relaxed, not troubled. — Often used in the phrase "put at ease" or […]
[at every turn] {adv. phr.}
Every time; all the time; continually without exception.
Because of his drinking, the man was refused a job at every turn.
[at face value] {prep. phr.}
What one can actually hear, read, or see; literally.
John is so honest that you can take his words at face value.
This store's advertisements are honest; take them at face value.
[at fault] {adj. phr.}
Responsible for an error or failure; to blame.
The driver who didn't stop at the red light was at fault in the accident.
When the engine would not start, the mechanic looked at all the parts to find what was at fault.
[…]
[at first] {adv. phr.}
In the beginning; at the start.
The driver didn't see the danger at first.
At first the job looked good to Bob, but later it became tiresome.
There was a little trouble at first, but things soon were quiet.
[at first blush] {adv. phr.}
When first seen; without careful study.
At first blush the offer looked good, but when we studied it, we found things we could not accept.
[at first glance] or [at first sight] {adv.} or {adj. phr.}
After a first quick look.
At first sight, his guess was that the whole trouble between the two men resulted from personalities that did not agree.
* /Tom met Mary at a party, and it was […]
[at great length] {prep. phr.}
1. In great detail.
Jim told us the story of his life at great length.
2. For a long time.
The boring speaker rambled on at great length.
[at half mast] {prep. phr.}
Halfway up or down; referring primarily to flagposts, but may be used jokingly.
When a president of the United States dies, all flags are flown at half mast.
[at hand] also [at close hand] or [near at hand] {adv. phr.}
1. Easy to reach; nearby.
When he writes, he always keeps a dictionary at hand.
2. {formal}
Coming soon; almost here.
Examinations are past and Commencement Day is at hand.
[at heart] {adv. phr.}
1. In spite of appearances; at bottom; in reality.
His manners are rough but he is a kind man at heart.
2. As a serious interest or concern; as an important aim or goal.
He has the welfare of the poor at heart.
[at home] {adv.} or {adj. phr.}
1. In the place where you live or come from.
I went to his house, but he was not at home.
Americans abroad are protected by the government like Americans at home.
2. Knowing what to do or say; familiar; […]
[at issue] {adj. phr.}
1. In dispute; to be settled by debate, by vote, by battle, or by some other contest.
His good name was at issue in the trial.
The independence of the United States from England was at issue in the Revolutionary War.
[…]
[at it] {adj. phr.}
Busily doing something; active.
His rule for success was to keep always at it.
The couple who owned the little cleaning shop were at it early and late.
* /Mr. Curtis heard a loud crash in the next apartment — the neighbors […]
[at large] {adv.} or {adj. phr.}
1. Not kept within walls, fences, or boundaries; free.
The killer remained at large for weeks.
Compare: [AT LIBERTY].
Cattle and sheep roamed at large on the big ranch.
2. In a broad, general way; at length; […]
[at last] also [at long last] {adv. phr.}
After a long time; finally.
The war had been long and hard, but now there was peace at last.
The boy saved his money until at last he had enough for a bicycle.
[at least] {adv. phr.}
1. or [at the least]
At the smallest guess; no fewer than; no less than.
You should brush your teeth at least twice a day.
At least three students are failing in mathematics.
* /Mr. Johnson must weigh 200 pounds at […]
[at leisure] {adj.} or {adv. phr.}
1. Not at work; not busy; with free time; at rest.
Come and visit us some evening when you're at leisure.
2. or [at one's leisure]
When and how you wish at your convenience; without hurry.
* /John made the […]
[at length] {adv. phr.}
1. In detail; fully.
You must study the subject at length to understand it.
The teacher explained the new lesson at length to the students.
2. In the end; at last; finally.
* /The movie became more and more exciting, […]
[at liberty] {adv.} or {adj. phr.}
Free to go somewhere or do something; not shut in or stopped.
The police promised to set the man at liberty if he told the names of the other robbers.
* /I am sorry, but I am not at liberty to come to your […]
[at loggerheads] {adj.} or {adv. phr.}
In a quarrel; in a fight; opposing each other.
The two senators had long been at loggerheads on foreign aid.
Because of their barking dog, the Morrises lived at loggerheads with their neighbors.
Compare: […]
[at loose ends] {adj. phr.}
Without a regular job or settled habits; uncertain what to do next; having nothing to do for a while; undecided; unsettled; restless.
Feeling at loose ends, I went for a long walk.
* /He had finished college but hadn't […]
[at most] or [at the most] {adv. phr.}
By the largest or most generous guess; at the upper limit; by the maximum account; not more than; at best; at worst.
It was a minor offense at most.
He had been gone 15 minutes at the most.
* /Their new […]
[at odds] {adj. phr.}
In conflict or disagreement; opposed.
The boy and girl were married a week after they met and soon found themselves at odds about religion.
Compare: [AT LOGGERHEADS].
[at once] {adv. phr.}
1. Without delay; right now or right then; immediately.
Put a burning match next to a piece of paper and it will begin burning at once.
* /Mother called the children to lunch, and Paul came at once, but Brenda stayed in the […]
[at one] {adj. phr.}
1. In union or harmony; in agreement or sympathy. Not usually used informally.
He felt at one with all the poets who have sung of love.
2. Of the same opinion, in agreement.
* /Husband and wife were at one on everything but […]
[at one time] {adv. phr.}
1. In the same moment; together.
Let's start the dance again all at one time.
Mr. Reed's bills came all at one time and he could not pay them.
Syn.: [AT THE SAME TIME] (1).
2. At a certain time in the past; […]
[at one's beck and call] or [at the beck and call of] {adj. phr.}
Ready and willing to do whatever someone asks; ready to serve at a moment's notice.
A good parent isn't necessarily always at the child's beck and call.
[at one's best] {prep. phr.}
In best form; displaying one's best qualities.
Tim is at his best when he has had a long swim before a ballgame.
Jane rested before the important meeting because she wanted to be at her best.
[at one's door] or [at one's doorstep] {adv. phr.}
1. Very close; very near where you live or work.
Johnny is very lucky because there's a swimming pool right at his doorstep.
* /Mr. Green can get to work in only a few minutes because the subway […]
[at one's elbow] {adv. phr.}
Close beside you; nearby.
The President rode in an open car with his wife at his elbow.
Mary practiced for several years to become a champion swimmer and her mother was always at her elbow to help her.
Contrast: […]
[at one's feet] {adv. phr.}
Under your influence or power.
She had a dozen men at her feet.
Her voice kept audiences at her feet for years.
Compare: [THROW ONESELF AT SOMEONE'S FEET].
[at one's fingertips] {adv. phr.}
1. Within easy reach; quickly touched; nearby.
Seated in the cockpit, the pilot of a plane has many controls at his fingertips.
2. Readily usable as knowledge or skill; familiar.
* /He had several languages at […]
[at one's heels] {adv. phr.}
Close behind; as a constant follower or companion.
The boy got tired of having his little brother at his heels all day.
John ran by the finish line with Ned at his heels.
* /Bad luck followed at his heels all his […]
[at one's service] {adv. phr.}
1. Ready to serve or help you; prepared to obey your wish or command; subject to your orders.
He placed himself completely at the President's service.
* /"Now I am at your service," the dentist told the next […]
[at one's wit's end] or [at wits end] {adj. phr.}
Having no ideas as to how to meet a difficulty or solve a problem; feeling puzzled after having used up all of your ideas or resources; not knowing what to do; puzzled.
* /He had approached every friend […]
[at pains] {adj. phr.}
Making a special effort.
At pains to make a good impression, she was prompt for her appointment.
[at present] {adv. phr.}
At this time; now.
It took a long time to get started, but at present the road is half finished.
At present the house is empty, but next week a family will move in.
[at random] {adv. phr.}
With no order, plan, or purpose; in a mixed-up, or thoughtless way.
He opened the letters at random.
His clothes were scattered about the room at random.
[at sea] (1) {adv.} or {adj. phr.}
1. On an ocean voyage; on a journey by ship.
They had first met at sea.
2. Out on the ocean; away from land.
By the second day the ship was well out at sea.
* /Charles had visited a ship in dock, but he […]
[at sea] (2) {adj. phr.}
Not knowing what to do; bewildered; confused; lost.
The job was new to him, and for a few days he was at sea.
When his friends talked about chemistry, Don was at sea, because he did not study chemistry.
Compare: [AT A […]
[at sight] or [on sight] {adv. phr.}
1. The first time the person or thing is seen; as soon as the person or thing is seen.
First graders learn to read many words on sight.
Mary had seen many pictures of Grandfather, so she knew him on sight.
[…]
[at sixes and sevens] {adj. phr.}
Not in order; in confusion; in a mess.
He apologized because his wife was away and the house was at sixes and sevens.
Our teacher had just moved to a new classroom, and she was still at sixes and sevens.
* […]
[at stake] {adj. phr.}
Depending, like a bet, on the outcome of something uncertain; in a position to be lost or gained.
The team played hard because the championship of the state was at stake.
* /The farmers were more anxious for rain than the […]
[at swords' points] {adj. phr.}
Ready to start fighting; very much opposed to each other; hostile; quarreling.
The dog's barking kept the Browns at swords' points with their neighbors for months.
* /The mayor and the reporter were always at […]
[at that] {adv. phr.}, {informal}
1. As it is; at that point; without more talk or waiting.
Ted was not quite satisfied with his haircut but let it go at that.
2. In addition; also.
* /Bill's seat mate on the plane was a girl and a pretty one at […]
[at the drop of a hat] {adv. phr.}, {informal}
1. Without waiting; immediately; promptly.
If you need a babysitter quickly, call Mary, because she can come at the drop of a hat.
Compare: [ON THE SPUR OF THE MOMENT].
2. Whenever you have a chance; […]
[at the eleventh hour] {prep. phr.}
At the last possible time.
Aunt Mathilda got married at the eleventh hour; after all, she was already 49 years old.
[at the mercy of] or [at one's mercy] {adj. phr.}
In the power of; subject to the will and wishes of; without defense against.
The champion had the other boxer at his mercy.
The picnic was at the mercy of the weather.
* /The small grocer was […]
[at the outset] {adv. phr.}
At the start; at the beginning.
"You'll live in the cheaper barracks at the outset; later you can move into the better cabins," the camp director said to the new boys.
[at the outside] {adv. phr.}
Maximally; at the utmost.
This old house can cost no more than $40,000 at the outside.
[at the point of] {prep.}
Very near to; almost at or in.
When Mary broke her favorite bracelet, she was at the point of tears.
The boy hurt in the accident lay at the point of death for a week, then he got well.
Compare: [ABOUT TO] (1), [ON […]
[at the ready] {adj. phr.}
Ready for use.
The sailor stood at the bow, harpoon at the ready, as the boat neared the whale.
[at the same time] {adv. phr.}
1. In the same moment; together.
The two runners reached the finish line at the same time.
Syn.: [AT ONCE], [AT ONE TIME].
2. In spite of that fact; even though; however; but; nevertheless.
* /John did pass the […]
[at the table] or [at table] {adv. phr.}
At a meal; at the dinner table.
The telephone call came while they were all at table.
[at the tip of one's tongue] or [on the tip of one's tongue] {adv. phr.}
{informal}
1. Almost spoken; at the point of being said.
It was at the tip of my tongue to tell him, when the phone rang.
* /John had a rude answer on the tip of his tongue, […]
[at the top of one's voice] or [at the top of one's lungs] {adv. phr.}
As loud as you can; with the greatest possible sound; very loudly.
He was singing at the top of his voice.
He shouted at the top of his lungs.
[at this rate] or [at that rate] {adv. phr.}
At a speed like this or that; with progress like this or that.
John's father said that if John kept going at that rate he would never finish cutting the grass.
* /So Johnny has a whole dollar! At this […]
[at times] {adv. phr.}
Not often; not regularly; not every day; not every week; occasionally; sometimes.
At times Tom's mother lets him hold the baby.
You can certainly be exasperating, at times!
We have pie for dinner at times.
Syn.: […]
[at will] {adv. phr.}
As you like; as you please or choose freely.
Little Bobby is allowed to wander at will in the neighborhood.
With an air conditioner you can enjoy comfortable temperatures at will.
[at work] {adj, phr.}
Busy at a job; doing work.
The teacher was soon hard at work correcting that day's test.
Jim is at work on his car.
[at worst] or [at the worst] {adv. phr.}
1. Under the worst conditions; as the worst possibility.
When Don was caught cheating in the examination he thought that at worst he would get a scolding.
Compare: [AT MOST].
Contrast: [AT BEST].
2. […]
[Aunt Tom] {n.}, {slang}, {originally from Black English}
A successful professional or business woman who, due to her success in a masculine profession, doesn't care about the women's liberation movement or the passing of the Equal Rights Amendment to […]
[awkward age] {n.}
Adolescence; awkwardness during adolescence.
Sue used to be an "ugly duckling" when she was at the awkward age, but today she is a glamorous fashion model.
[ax to grind] {n. phr.}, {informal}
Something to gain for yourself: a selfish reason.
In praising movies for classroom use he has an ax to grind; he sells motion picture equipment.
* /When Charles told the teacher he saw Arthur copying his […]