| Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions by Katig.Com|
An idiom, also known as idiomatic expression, is a phrase or
sentence, whose meaning is completely different from the
literal meaning of the words comprising the idiom or idiomatic
expression. However idioms and idiomatic expressions have
become widely used because they convey clear and
meaningful messages in very few words that would otherwise
be lengthy to explain in non-idiomatic manner. Idioms are
previously considered informal expressions but because of
their widespread use idiomatic expressions have found
acceptance in formal communications as well.
Here are examples of idioms and the meaning behind these
Above and beyond – more than what is normally required. The off-duty
policeman chased and caught the bag snatcher; his action was above
and beyond what was expected of him since he was not on duty at that
Beyond the call of duty – in addition to what is required in the normal
course of performing one’s job. The fireman went back to the burning
house to rescue the cat; he acted beyond his call of duty.
Above suspicion – having a reputation for honesty that no one would
suspect you of wrongdoing. The teacher was elected club treasurer
because she is known to be completely above suspicion.
Ace in a hole – something or someone held in reserve to turn things
around later. The new recruit is the team’s ace in the hole to improve
their standing in the sports competition this year.
Acid test – a test whose result is considered to be conclusive or
beyond doubt. The DNA result will be the acid test that will determine if
the authorities caught the real culprit in the crime.
Across the board – Shared equally by everyone. The company
management decided to give salary increases to the employees
across the board.
Act as someone – to act or perform, temporarily or permanently, in the
capacity of someone else. I’ll act as your interim trainer until your
regular trainer comes back from his business trip in the province.
Act of God – an event for which no person is responsible for; a natural
event such as typhoon, earthquake, volcanic eruption, lightning, and
similar acts of nature. The insurance company did not pay for the
damage to their properties because it was caused by an act of God.
Act of war – an intentional act of hostility or violence so severe that war
is considered to be an appropriate response. The attack on the Twin
Towers in New York was considered by the Americans as an act of war
by the terrorists.
Add fuel to the fire – to do something that makes a bad situation
worse. The customer is already agitated so do not add fuel to the fire
by ignoring his plea for help.
Afraid of one’s own shadow – easily suspicious or frightened. Since
you told him of the hair-raising urban legend above the jail escapee he
has become afraid of his own shadow.
After all is said and done – when everything is discussed and acted
on. After all is said and done, everyone went home satisfied with the
result of the town meeting.
After hours – after the regular or normal time. Jim and Tom hang
around the cocktail lounge after hours.
After the fact – after an incident has occurred. Jake expressed
remorse for his crime after the fact.
Against someone’s will – to do something without a person’s
agreement or consent. You cannot force him to join your activities
against his will.
Against the clock – in a race with time; to get something done with
urgency. The doctors operated on the accident victim against the clock.