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Some common idiomatic expressions

August 6, 2016 pdf

Here is a list of some common idiomatic expressions.

Lose one’s cachet

To lose one’s cachet is to lose the respect one used to enjoy.

  • The business has lost some of its cachet.

A piece of cake

If something is a piece of cake it can be achieved easily.

  • The interview was a piece of cake. I know I will get the job.

Sell like hot cakes

If something sells like hot cakes, it is sold quickly and in large amounts.

  • Her latest book is selling like hot cakes.

Call for

Call for means demand for or need for.

  • There is little call for pagers.

Call something off

To call something off is to cancel an event or agreement.

Julie has called off her engagement to Martin.

Call on

To call on somebody is to turn to them for help.

Call the shots / Call the tune

When you call the shots, you control a given situation.

It is my wife who calls the shots at home.

On call

When somebody is on call, they are available to provide a service if necessary.

Give someone their cards

To give someone their cards is to dismiss them from employment.

Get your cards

When you get your cards, you are dismissed from employment.

On the cards

If something is on the cards, it is likely.

  • Marriage is on the cards.

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