Some idiomatic expressions

Here are some common idiomatic expressions in English.

Take stock of

To take stock of a situation is to assess it.

A man of straw

This expression is used to refer to a person who is of no consequence.

In full swing

If something is in full swing, it is at the height of activity.

Be born with a silver spoon in his mouth

This expression is used to refer to a person who is born to wealth and luxury.

Stands to reason

If something stands to reason, it is obvious or clear from the facts.

Stand someone in good stead

If something stands you in good stead, it will be of great use to you.

Take the wind out of someone’s sails

If something takes the wind out of your sails, it makes your words or actions ineffective.

Take someone to task

To take someone to task is to reprimand them.

Have a bone to pick with somebody

If you have a bone to pick with somebody, you have an unpleasant matter to settle with them.

Pay someone back in their own coin

To pay someone back in their own coin is to treat them in the same way they have treated you.

One’s hands are full

When your hands are full, you are very busy.

Have a hand in something

If you have a hand in something, you are involved in it.

Fight shy of

To fight shy of somebody is to try to avoid them.