The Wrong Use Of The English Idioms

The Wrong Use Of The English Idioms

An idiom is a special expression whose meaning is quite different from the ordinary or literal meaning of the individual words contained in it. The contemporary English idioms are stock expressions and fixed phrases. They have structures and compositions that are immutable and inavoidable i.e their levied structural and grammatical characteristics cannot be changed. Their words, wordings and word order are fixed and unalterable and are therefore used in their pure, undiluted and unalterated from.

If an English idiom is changed, it is rendered absolutely unidiomatic; it becomes a corrupted idiom, an oddity an anomaly, an aberration. Referring to it as an idiom is a misnomer. It will be nothing short of a nonsense expression. This being so, it is worthy to note that nobody, no matter his or her level of scholastic achievements has a literary, poetic or editorial right or licence to change the English idioms. For instance, an idiom may not seem to make sense but it is not changed because there is no logic in the English idioms.

But strangely enough, many English idioms have been distorted in a manner that betrays an extremely poor knowledge of their good, proper and correct usage. Examples are innumerable

(1)         Speak of the devil – not speak of the angle

(2)         Two heads are better than one – not two good heads are better than one

(3)         The sky is the limit – not the sky is the beginning

(4)         Better the devil you know than the devil you don’t know – not the devil you know is better than the angel you don’t

1.          Crack your brain

Rock your brain

NOTE: “To rock your brain” means to think very hard or for a long time about something.

2.          To scale through something

To sail through something

NOTE: “To sail through something” means to pass an exam or a test without difficulty or stress or to deal with something difficult very easily.

3.          To pass in flying colours

To pass with flying colurs

NOTE: To pass with flying colours “means to pass very well with a very high mark or grade”.

4.          To give somebody go ahead

To give somebody the go ahead i.e the permission

5.          The sky is the beginning

The sky is the limit

NOTE: The sky is the limit “means there is no limit to what someone can do”

6.          Everyone has his or her price

Everyone has their price

NOTE: Everyone has their price “means there is no limit to what someone can be bribed in some way”.

7.          On the table

At table

NOTE: “At table “means during a meal while “on the table” means offered for consideration e.g (a) children should show table manner while at table (b) several issues were put on the table during the meeting

8.          Keep a tab on somebody

Keep tabs on somebody

NOTE: “To keep tabs on somebody “means to keep somebody inder close observation or watch

e.g (a) The principal keeps close tabs on the stubborn student

     (b) The police are keeping abs on the organization

9.          To leave somebody to their devices

To leave somebody to their own devices

NOTE: “To leave somebody to their own devices” means to leave somebody alone t do whatever they want. E.g children should not be left to their own devices. They can do themselves a mischief i.e hurt themselves

10.       If you can’t beat them, you join them

If you can’t beat them, join them

NOTE: If you can’t beat them, join them “means you will start doing the same bad thing as other people because you have tried to do something different and it has failed

11.       To join the bandwagon

To climb on the bandwagon

To jump on the bandwagon

NOTE: To climb on the bandwagon “or jump on the bandwagon” means to join other person in doing something that is becoming fashionable because you hope t become popular or famous.

12.       From the beginning to the end

From the beginning to end

13.       From the top to the bottom

From top to bottom

NOTE: “From top to bottom” means completely, thoroughly 

e.g. (a) The house was cleaned from top to bottom

(b) The police searched the house from the top to bottom

(c) The company is in a complete mass it has to be reorganized      from top to bottom

14.       From the cover to the cover

From cover to cover

NOTE: From cover to cover “means everything in it

e.g I have  read the novel from cover to cover

15.       Put yourself in my shoes

Put yourself in my place or position

NOTE: To put yourself in my place or position “means to imagine what situation is like for someone”

e.g If you think your problem is the worst, put yourself in my place. “In somebody’s shoes means in the situation that someone else is in e.g what would you do if you were in my shoes?”

16.       Pride goes before fall

Pride goes before a fall Or Pride comes before a fall

NOTE: “Pride goes before a fall” or “Pride comes before a fall” means if you are too proud of yourself, something will certainly happen to make you look small, foolish and ashamed of yourself

17.       Make nonsense of something

Make a nonsense of something

NOTE: “To make a nonsense of something”  means t reduce its value greatly. E.g The boys spoken English makes a nonsense of English

18.       No other than

None other than

NOTE: “None other than” is used for emphasis. It means no one else but. E.g the new arrival in none other than the Director

19.       A jack of all trades but master of none

A jack of all trades

NOTE: “A jack of all trades” means a persons who can do many different types of work but not very well

20.       Search all the lengths and breadths of the town

Search the lengths and breadths of the town

NOTE: The length and breadth of means every part of a large area

21.       A fight to death

A fight to the death

NOTE: “A fight to the death” means a fight, struggle, contest or disagreement that ends when someone is killed.

e.g Nigerian politician have reduced Nigeria am politics to a horrendous frightening level o a fight to the death.

22.       To put a finishing touch to something

To put that finishing touch to something

NOTE: “To put a finishing touch something” means the last small details that make something complete

23.       To tear something in to  shreds

To tear something in to shreds or pieces

24.       In one piece

In one piece

NOTE: “In one piece” means safe and not harmed or hurt especially after a dangerous experience.

e.g The two women were lucky to come out of the wreckage in one piece.

25.       The point at stake

The point at stake

NOTE: “The point at issue” means the most important part of the subject that is being discussed.

26.       To point accusing fingers at somebody

To point a finger at somebody

Or To point the finger of guilt at somebody

NOTE: “To point a finger at somebody or to point the finger of guilt at somebody” means to accuse somebody of doing something.

27.       To follow the footsteps of somebody

To follow in somebody’s footsteps

NOTE: “To follow in somebody’s footsteps” means to do the same job, have the same style of life, etc as somebody else especially in your family e.g Ada studied Journalism following in her father’s footsteps

28.       To drag somebody’s name in the mud

To drag somebody’s name through the mud or mire

NOTE: “To drag somebody’s name through the mud or mire.” Means to spoil their reputation.

29.       Speak under anonymity

Speak on condition of anonymity

NOTE: “To Speak on condition of anonymity” means the name of the speaker will not mentioned.

30.       Sign your death warrant

Sign your own death warrant

NOTE: “To sign your own death warrant” means to do something that will cause you great danger or very serious problems

31.       A question mark on sth

A question mark about sth

NOTE: “a question mark abut sth” means a doubt whether sth is good on correct or whether it will be successful

32.       Make good your promise

Make good on your promise

NOTE: “To make good on your promise” means to do or pay what you have said would do

33.       All hand on deck

All hand to the pump

NOTE: “All hand on deck” is used for saying that everyone must help because there is an emergency, “All hands to the pump” is used for saying that everyone must hard because the situation is urgent

34.       The last but not the least

Last but not least

NOTE: “Last but not the least” means last but no less important than the other

35.       Make a drama of sth

Make a drama out of sth

NOTE: “To make a drama out of sth” means treat a particular situation as if it is more serious or exciting than it really is to exaggerate a small problem or incident

36.       Raise an alarm

Raise the alarm

Or should the alarm

NOTE: “To raise the alarm or should the alarm” means to tell people about sth dangerous that is happening

37.       Has a skeleton in his cupboard

Has a skeleton in the cupboard

NOTE: “To have a skeleton in his cupboard” means to have a dreadful and embarrassing family secret which will expose one to ridicule if known publicly.

38.       To cut your coat according to your size

To cut your coat according to your cloth

39.       A bird at hand is worth two in the bush

A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush

NOTE: “A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush” means it is better to keep something that you already have than to risk losing it in the hope of getting more.

40.       You cannot eat your cake and have it

You cannot have your cake and eat it

NOTE: “You cannot have your cake and eat it” means you cannot have the advantage of something without its disadvantage.

41.       Birds of the same feather flock together

Birds of a feather flock together

NOTE: “Birds of a feather flock together” means people of the same sort are usually found together.

42.       To bite more than you can chew

To bite off more than you can chew

NOTE: “To bite off more than you can chew”. It means to try to do too much or something is too difficult.

43.       Do not bite the fingers that feed you

Do not bite the hand that feeds you

NOTE: “Do not bite the hand that feeds you” means do not harm somebody who has been kind to you.

44.       He who pays the piper dictates the tune

He who pays the piper calls the tune

NOTE: “He who pays the piper calls the tune” means the person who provides money for sth can also control how it is spent.

45.       The taste of the pudding is in the eating

The proof of the pudding is in the eating

NOTE: “The proof of the pudding is in the eating” means you can only judge if something is good or bad when you have tried it.

46.       More grease to your elbow

More power to your elbow

NOTE: “More power to your elbow” is a contemporary English idiom used to express support or encouragement for somebody.

47.       To rest on your oars

To rest on your burels

NOTE: To feel so satisfied with what you have done or achieved that you do not try to do any longest.

48.       The power that be

The powers that be

NOTE: “The powers that be” means people who control a country or an organization.

49.       At the helm of affairs

At the helm

NOTE: “At the helm” means in charge of a country, organization e.t.c

“To take the helm” means to take charge of a country, organization, e.t.c.

50.       The devil you know is better than the angel you don’t

Better the devil you know than the devil you don’t

NOTE: “Better the devil you know than the devil you don’t” means it is easier and wiser to stay in a bad situation that you know and can deal with rather than change to a new situation which may be worse.

51.       An idle hand is the devil’s workshop

The devil makes work for idle hands or

The devil finds work for idle hands

52.       To throw the baby and the bathwater

To throw the baby out with the bathwater

NOTE: To throw the baby out with the bathwater” means to lose something that you want at the same time as you are trying to get rid of something that you do not want.

53.       To search all nooks and corners

To search all the nooks and crannies

NOTE: “To search every nook and cranny” or “To search all the nooks and crannies” means every part of a place.

54.       Go extra mile

Go the extra mile

NOTE: “Go the extra mile” means to make special efforts to achieve something.

55.       At snail’s speed

At a snail’s pace

NOTE: “At a snail’s pace” – very slowly

56.       Half bread is better than none

Half a loaf is better than no bread

NOTE: (Saying) you should be grateful for something ever if it is not as good much, etc as you really wanted because it is better than nothing

57.       Tested and trusted

Tried and tested or tried and trusted

NOTE: That you have used or relied on successful in the past, reliable e.g a – remedy for method politician

58.       People from all works of life

People from walks of life

NOTE: “People from walks of life” means people from different professions.

59.       He who eats with the devils needs a long spoon

He who sups with the devil needs a long spoon

60.       A slip of tongue

A slip of the tongue

NOTE: “ A slip of the tongue” means A minor error in speech

61.       A slip of pen

A slip of the pen

NOTE: “A slip of the pen” means a minor error in writing

62.       Every why has a reason

Every why has a wherefore

NOTE: “Every why has a wherefore” means there is reason(s) for every action.

63.       The why and wherefore

The why and wherefores

NOTE: “The why and wherefores” means the reasons for something

64.       Hell was let loose

All hell was let loose or All hell broke loose

65.       Take a cue from somebody

Take your cue from somebody

NOTE: “To take your cue from somebody” means to behave in the same manner  as someone else because you think that it is the right time to do.

66.       As fit as fiddle

As fit as a fiddle

NOTE: “As fit as fiddle” means in very good health

67.       A close door meeting

The meeting was held behind closed door (in private)

68.       Much water has passed under the bridge

It’s all water under the bridge (Br.E) water under the dam (Am.E)

NOTE: “It’s all water under the bridge” means past events are over and done with.

69.       Fill a form

Fill in a form (Br.E) or

Fill out a form

NOTE: “To fill in a form” or “To fill out a form” means to add information such as your name or address in the empty spaces provided in the form as an official document.

70.       Fill a gap

Fill in a gap

71.       I was made to understand

I was given to understand

NOTE: “I was given to understand” means to tell someone something or to make someone believe that something is true.

72.       On ground

On the ground

NOTE: “On the ground:” means in the place where sth is happening and among the people who are in the situation especially a war

e.g the policy on the ground has the overwhelming support of the masses

73.       Once beaten twice shy

Once bitten twice shy

74.       The like of

The likes of

NOTE: “the likes of” is used to refer to a particular person or thin

75.       On a platter of gold

On a silver platter

76.       Reach for the moon – reach for the stars i.e to be successful as sth difficult

77.       The last straw that broke the camels back

The last straw

NOTE: The last straw or the final straw or the straw that broke the camels back i.e the final straw that broke that camels back latest in a series if unpleasant events

78.       Diaper into the thin air

NOTE: Diaper into thin air i.e disappear mysteriously

79.       If the worse come to the worse

If the worst come to the worst

NOTE: “If the worst come to the worst” means if the situation becomes too difficult or dangerous.

80.       Everybody ran for their lives

Everybody ran for dear life

NOTE: “Everybody ran for dear life” means everybody scampered for safety or everybody ran for cover.

81.       To see the hand writing on the wall

To see the writing on the wall

NOTE: “To see the writing on the wall” means to see the clear sign of something unpleasant.

82.       Wonders shall never end

Wonders will never cease (WWC)

NOTE: “Wonder will never cease” is used to express surprise and pleasure at something.

83.           To give somebody the benefit of doubt

To give somebody the benefit of the doubt

NOTE: “To give somebody the benefit of the doubt” means to accept that somebody has done something wrong, is telling the truth, e.t.c because there is no clear evidence to support one’s feeling that this may not be the case.  To treat somebody as being honest and good even when you are not sure.

84.           Beyond all shadow of  doubt

Beyond a shadow of a doubt or without a shadow of a doubt

NOTE: “Beyond a shadow of a doubt” or “Without a shadow of a doubt” is used for saying that are completely certain of something e.g (a) I know without a shadow of a doubt that the boy is lying.

85.           Have my doubt

Have my doubts

NOTE: “Have my doubts” means to have good reasons for not being certain about whether something is good, true or genuine.

E.g (a) I have my doubts about the veracity of the story

(b)     I have my doubts about the authenticity of the cheque i.e I have good reasons to believe that the cheque is fake.

86.           Avoid somebody/something like a plague

Avoid somebody/something like the plague

NOTE: “To avoid somebody/something like the plague” means to be determined to keep away from someone or something

e.g If I were you, I would avoid the man like the plague.

He is a devil incarnate. He is a living proof of evil, he is evil personified, he has seemingly infinite capacities for evil, his middle name is evil

87.           Donkey years

Donkey’s years

NOTE: “Donkey’s years” means a very long time

88.           Shut/slam the door on somebody’s face

Shut/slam the door in somebody’s face

NOTE: “To shut/slam the door in somebody’s face” means to shut a door hard or violently when somebody is trying to come in.

89.           Set a precedence

Set a precedent

NOTE: “To set/establish/create a precedent” means to take an action or event in the past that is used as an example or reason for a present action or event.

90.           Be doomed to fail

Be doomed to failure

NOTE: “To be doomed to failure” means it is certain to fail

91.           To my hearing

In my hearing

NOTE: “In my hearing” means you hear it, although the speaker is not talking to you e.g The teacher said it in my hearing that he would travel abroad. “To my face” means to say something directly to someone e.g If any teacher has  a complaint, he should not engage in idle gossip and backbiting, he should say it to the Director’s face.

92.           Knowing fully well

Knowing full well or knowing perfectly well

NOTE: “Knowing full well or perfectly well” means to know something while pretending not to e.g you know full well what I’m talking about.

93.           Out of my own free will

Of my own free will

NOTE: “Of my own free will” means I was not told or forced to do something.

94.           What is good for the goose is also good for the gander

What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander

NOTE: “What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander” means what one person is allowed to do, another person must be allowed to do in similar circumstances .

95.           A mess of porridge

A mess of pottage

e.g To compromise your principle for a mess of pottage

96.           Point of call

Port of call

97.           It takes two to tangle

It takes two to tango

NOTE: “IT takes two to tango” means two people, not just one are usually responsible for bad situation, i.e if a problem involves two people then both of them are equally responsible.

98.           To be stinkingly rich

To be stinking rich

NOTE: “To be stinking rich” means to be extremely rich or fabulously wealthy, to be seriously rich.

99.           On the ground of

On the grounds of

NOTE: “On the grounds of” means “on the reasons of” e.g the man was retired on the grounds of ill-health.

100.        To get out on the wrong side of the bed

To get out of bed on the wrong side

NOTE: To get out of bed on the wrong side” means to be bad tempered for the whole day for no particular reason.

101.        Stand at attention

Stand to attention

NOTE: “To stand to attention” is a military command which means to stand very straight in a formal way. The opposite is “stand at ease” which means to stand with feet apart and hands behind your back.

102.        It is how you make your bed and you must lie on it

You have made your bed and you must lie on it.

NOTE: “you have made your bed and you must lie on it” means you must accept the results of your actions.

103.        A beggar has no choice

Beggars can’t be choosers or

Beggars must not be choosers

NOTE: “Beggars can’t can choosers” means A state of no choice and that somebody must be satisfied with what is available.

104.        If wishes were horse beggars will ride

If wishes were horses, beggars might ride or

If wishes were horses, beggars would ride

NOTE: It means wishing for something does not make it happen.

105.        To join issue with somebody

To take issue with somebody

NOTE: “To take issue with somebody” means to start disagreeing or arguing with somebody about or on something e.g I don’t want to take issue with your on religion because it is a very sensitive and volatile matter.

106.        From grace to grass

From grace

NOTE: “From grace” means to lose the respect or trust that people have for somebody because they engage in dirty act.

107.        From the onset

From the outset or

At the outset

108.        From the onset

From the outset or

At the outset

NOTE: “From the outset” or “At the outset” means from or At the beginning.

109.        A proud owner of something

The proud owner of something

110.        From cradle to grave

From the cradle to the grave i.e from birth to death

111.        A tip of the iceberg

The tip of the iceberg

NOTE: “The tip of the iceberg” means only a small part of a larger problem.

112.        Bare one’s mind

Bare one’s heart or bare one’s soul

NOTE: “Bare one’s heart or bare one’s soul” means to tell somebody your deepest and most private feelings on an issue, e.g the human right activity bared his heart on many important national issues in an exclusive interview.

113.        A rubbing of minds

A meeting of minds

NOTE: “A meeting of minds” means a close understanding between people with similar ideas especially when they meet to do something or meet for the first time e.g the occasion offered an opportunity for the two parliamentarians to meet minds on a matter of urgent national significance.

114.        On the saddle

In the saddle

NOTE: “IN the saddle” is a fixed propositional idiom which means in a position of authority and control e.g those in the saddle should show high degree of honesty and exemplary conduct.

115.        The man on the street

The man in the street

NOTE: “The man in the street” means an average or ordinary person either male or female e.g the poverty eradication programme was designed to improve the living condition of the man in the street.

116.        In stock for somebody

In store for somebody

NOTE: “In store for somebody” means waiting to happen to somebody. We don’t know what life holds in store for us, so we must not give up.

117.        A fight to death

A fight to the death

NOTE: “A fight to the death” means a fight or disagreement that end when someone is killed e.g politics shouldn’t be a fight t the death affair

118.        From the scratch

From scratch

NOTE: “From scratch” from the beginning

119.        Pomp and pageantry

Pomp and circumstances

NOTE: “pomp and circumstances” means a formal and impressive ceremony e.g the victorious green eaglet were received amid pomp and circumstances

120.        All manners of

All manner of

NOTE: “all manner of” many different types of people or things. The idioms is followed by a plural noun and verb.

e.g (a) All manner of people are usually seen at motor parks

(b) The popular market has all manners of goods for sale

121.        Has no manner

Has no manners

NOTE: “Has no manners” means badly behaved i.e ill-bred and uncouth

122.        Time waits for nobody

Time and tide wait for no man

NOTE: “Time and tide wait for no man” means no one can delay the passing of time

123.        Be at alert

Be on the alert

NOTE: “Be on the alert” means a situation in which people are watching for danger and ready to deal with it.

e.g The police are on the alert

124.        To take something its stride

To take something in your stride

NOTE: “To take something in your stride” means to accept and deal with something difficult without letting it worry you too much

e.g the man took the unfortunate incident in his stride

125.        In the cover of the dark

Under cover of darkness

NOTE: “Under cover of darkness” means hidden or protected by darkness

e.g In the past, criminals used to operate under cover of darkness

126.        A force to reckon with

A force to be reckon with

NOTE: “A force to be reckon with” means a person who has much power and influence

127.        To have a head for figures

To have a good head for figures

NOTE: “To have a good head for figures” means to be good at calculation using numbers

128.        To speak in tongue

To speak in tongues

NOTE: “To speak in tongues” means to speak in strange languages that no one understands as result of extreme religious excitement

129.        We live in a small world

It’s a small world

NOTE: “It’s a small world” (spoken) is used for showing that you are surprised when you meet unexpectedly someone who you know or when you discover that someone knows the same people as you know or has been to the places as you have

130.        The in and out of something

The ins and out of something

NOTE: “The ins and out of something” means the details of an activity or a procedure

131.        Nothing of sort

Nothing of the sort or Nothing of the kind

NOTE: “Nothing of the sort” or nothing of the kind means not at all so

e.g Most student say the teachers is wicked but he is nothing of the sort

132.        Something of kind

Something of the kind

NOTE: Something of the kind means something like what has been heard e.g did you say he is simple and easy going, I have heard some thing of the kind

133.        Smile to the bank

Laugh all the way to the bank

NOTE: To laugh all the way to the bank means to make much money easily and feel pleased about it

134.        To engage in a disappearing act

To do a disappearing act means to disappear especially when someone is needed or being looked for e.g Jacob is a lazy boy,. He always does a disappearing act whenever he discover that there is much work to be done

135.        In shambles

In a shambles

NOTE: In a shambles means (1) a badly organized and does not operate effectively (2) an extremely untidy place e.g the classroom is a shambles

136.        Not by any stretch of imagination

Not buy any stretch of the imagination

NOTE: Not by any stretch of the imagination is used to say strongly that something is not true even if you try to imagine or believe it. E.g The man could not by any stretch of the imagination to be describe as handsome

 

137.        You can be rest assured

You may rest assured

NOTE: You may rest assured is used to say that what you said is true and will definitely happen

138.        At all cost

At all cost

NOTE: At all costs means whoever is needed to achieve something

139.        Two wrongs does not make a right

Two wrongs don’t make a right

NOTE: “Two wrongs don’t make right” means to pay evil for evil doesn’t solve a problem

140.        At a go

At one go

NOTE: “At one go” means in one single

e.g  The brilliant student passed all his subjects as one go

141.        Beat your chest

Thumb your chest

NOTE: “To thumb your chest” means “To say something with a great sense of pride and accomplishment”

142.        Suffice to say that

Suffice it t say that

NOTE: “Suffice it to say that” means “I will only say that”

143.        The last I heard of him

The last I heard

NOTE: “The last I heard” is used to give the most recent news you have about somebody or something

144.        A daylight robbery

Daylight robbery

NOTE: “daylight robbery” means the facts of charging too much money for something

145.        Within a twinkling of an eye

In the twinkling of an eye

NOTE: “within a twinkling of an eye” or in a twinkling of an eye” or in a twinkling of an eye means very quickly.

146.        You will have yourself to blame

You only have yourself to blame

NOTE: “You only have yourself to blame” is used to say that you think something is somebody’s fault

147.        To the later

To the letter

NOTE: “To the letter” means to follow exactly what is said e.g the instructions should be followed to the letter.

148.        To feel my two ears burning

To feel my ears burning

NOTE: “To feel my ears burning” means to have an unpleasant sound in your ears which makes you think that other people are talking about you in an unkind way.

149.        In the earnest

In earnest

NOTE: “In earnest” means more seriously

150.        To put up an act

To put on an act

NOTE: “To put on an act” means to pretend e.g don’t take her seriously, she is just putting on an act.

151.        Acts of God

An act of God

NOTE: “An act of God” means an event caused by natural forces which is beyond human control forces of nature such as storm, flood, earthquake.

152.        To have benefit of something

To have the benefit of something

NOTE: “To have the benefit of something” means on advantage that something gives you e.g Prof. Olu had the benefit of the best education at the Harvard University.

153.        To fall on his/her deaf ears

To fall on deaf ears

NOTE: If a piece of advice or an admonition or plea falls on deaf ears, it means that it is ignored by the person to whom it is directed e.g all the warnings given to the students against late coming and truancy fell on deaf ears, i.e they didn’t heed the warning.

154.        Your good office

Your good offices

NOTE: “Your good offices” means the influence or power that a person has and which he/she can use to help people.

e.g (a) I got the plum job through the good offices of a childhood friend

(b) We appealed to the Director to use his good offices to assist the poor students

(c) We got what we wanted through the commissioner’s good offices i.e with his help using his influence or power.

155.        To take law into your hand

To take the law into your own hands

NOTE: To take the law into your own hands means to punish someone in your own way without involving the police or the courts i.e to take extra – judicial action instead of seeking legal redress in a court of competent jurisdiction.

156.        To put your life at a risk

To put your life at risk

NOTE: “To put your life at risk” means to endanger your life e.g by smoking and drinking everyday, you are putting your life at risk.

157.        Go to toilet

Go to the toilet

NOTE: “To go to the toilet” means to get ride of waste from your body.

NOTE: The idiom is harmed by the omission of the definite article “the” which is an obligatory element in the idiom and which renders it anomalous i.e (unusual) and unidiomatic, e.g wash your hands when  every you go to the toilet.

158.        To go into details

To go into detail

NOTE: “To go into detail” means to mention many facts of a situation

159.        To give something a trial

To give something a try

NOTE: “To give something a try” means to attempt it

160.        The man is in money

The man is in the money

A money bag

A money bags

To have very deep pocket

To have very deep pockets

NOTE: “The man is in the money” means he is seriously rich, he is stinking rich, he is stupendously rich and well connected within the exclusive circle of the super rich.

161.        The lion share

The Lion’s share

NOTE: “The Lion share” means the largest or best part of something when divided.

162.        To hand on the balance

To hand in the balance

NOTE: “To hang in the balance” means to be uncertain or dicey or precarious.

163.        To wash your hands off a matter

To wash your hands of the matter or

To wash your hands of the affair

NOTE: “To wash your hands of the matter/affair” means you do not want to be involved in a matter or with someone e.g I’ve decided to wash my hands of her.

164.        To stick to your gun

To stick to your guns

NOTE: “To stick to your guns” means to refuse to change your mind about something even when other people try to persuade you that you are wrong. To be obstinate or intransigent.

165.        To stick out your neck

To stick your neck out

NOTE: “To stick your neck out” means to do something that is dangerous or risky.

166.        To make friend with somebody

To make friends with somebody

NOTE: “To make friends with somebody” means to become friends.

167.        To make friend in high places

To make friends in high places

NOTE: “To make friends in high places” means to know people who are powerful, influential and important.

168.        To love somebody without string

To love somebody without strings

NOTE: “To love somebody without strings means to love somebody without condition i.e to show love that is strong deep, total and unconditional, love that is pure, undiluted and unadulterated.

169.        To set pen on paper

To set pen to paper or To put pen to paper

NOTE: “To set pen to paper” or “To put pen to paper” means to begins to write.

170.        Everything being equal

All things being equal or other things being equal

NOTE: “All things being equal” or “Other things being equal” means if things stay as expected and if there are no special facts to consider. It is a Latin word “Ceteris Paribus” e.g All things being equal, the job be given to Emmanuel because he is the most qualified.

171.        To call somebody all sorts of names

To call somebody names

NOTE: “To somebody names” means to use rude or insulting words about somebody.

172.        Out of bound

Out of bounds

NOTE: When a place or room is out of bounds to or for somebody, it means that certain people are not allowed to go there.

173.        Behind every successful man, there is a woman

Behind every successful man, there is a strong woman

174.        As poor as a church rat

As poor as a church mouse

NOTE: If a person is being described as “As poor as a church mouse” it means the person is a pauper, he lives in abject poverty and agonizing misery. He is the poorest of the poor and the lowest of the low. His middle name is poverty.

175.        He who laughs last laughs best

He who laughs last laughs longest

176.        To save for the raining day

To save for a rainy day

NOTE: “To save for a rainy day” means to save something for a time in the future when you may need it. It means that we shouldn’t be improvident so that in our critical hours of future need, we can have something to fall back on.

177.        Let the sleeping dogs lie

Let sleeping dogs lie

NOTE: “To let sleeping dogs lie” means to leave a person or situation alone if they might cause you trouble.

178.        To play truancy

To play truant or to play hooky (AmE)

NOTE: “To play truant” or “hooky” means to stay away from school without permission or good reason, e.g parents often don’t know that their children are playing truant.

179.        To put one and two together

To put two and two together

NOTE: “To put two and two together” means to guess the meaning of something or situation.

180.        To read between the line

To read between the lines

NOTE: “To read between the lines” means to guess something that is not expressed directly.

181.        To give somebody headache

To give somebody a headache

NOTE: To give somebody a headache” means to be a source of problem or worry to somebody, e.g the class is noisy, it is a regular bedlam because all the students in the class behave like an unruly bunch.

182.        There are teachers and there are teachers

There are teachers and teachers

NOTE: “There are teachers and teachers” means some teachers are better than others.

183.        Two good heads are better than one

Two heads are better than one

NOTE: The contemporary English Idioms are fixed phrases and stock expressions, they have structures and compositions that are unchangeable and inviolable, their words, word order and grammatical forms cannot be changed so that they are not rendered anomalous and unidiomatic. Besides, no logic in English and in the English idioms.

184.        Off record

Off the record

NOTE: “If you tell somebody something off the record, it means that it is not official and you do not want it repeated, said or repeated publicly.

185.        A thorn on the flesh

A thorn in the flesh or A thorn in the side

NOTE: “A thorn in the flesh” means a person or thing that repeatedly annoys somebody or stops them from doing something.

186.        Come rain come shine

Come rain or shine

NOTE: “Come rain or shin” means no matter the circumstance.

187.        Pride goes before fall

Pride goes before a fall or pride comes before a fall

NOTE: “Pride goes before a fall” or “pride comes before a fall” means if you have too high an opinion of yourself or your abilities, something will happen to make you look stupid.

188.        As God will have it

As luck would have it

NOTE: “As luck would have it” means in the way that chance decides what will happen. E.g As luck would have it, the principal was not around when his office was gutted by fire.

189.        To speak volume to

To speak volumes for/about

NOTE: “To speak volumes for or about” means to tell much about somebody or something without the need for words e.g the woman’s columness in the face of extreme provocation spoke volumes for her deep sense of maturity and patience.

190.        To jump from frying pan to fire

To be out of frying pan and into the fire

NOTE: “To be out of frying pan and into the fire” means to go from a bad situation to one that is worse.

191.        To burn midnight oil

To burn the midnight oil

NOTE: “To burn the midnight oil” means to study or work until late at night.

192.        To have something on your sleeves

To have something up your sleeve

NOTE: “TO have something up your sleeve” means to have a secret plan.

193.        A green snake under green grass

A snake in the grass

NOTE: “A snake in the grass” means a person who pretends to be your friend but who cannot be trusted.

194.        A stab on the back

A stab in the back

NOTE: “A stab in the back” means behavior that is bad and disloyal especially from someone you trusted.

195.        Around here

Round here

NOTE: “Round here” means near where you are now or where you live e.g

(a)         Do you have a good private school round here?

(b)         The director lives round here?

(c)         Do you live round here?

196.        The long and the short of a story

The long and short of a story

NOTE: “The long and short of a story” means the summary of a story.

197.        This time around

This time round

198.        A cog in the wheel of one’s progress

An obstacle to one’s progress

199.        Pave way for something

Pave the way for something

NOTE: “To pave the way for something” means to create a situation that makes it possible or easier for something to happen.

200.        With regards to

With regard to

NOTE: “With regard to” or “In regard to” means concerning

201.        To be in soup

To be in the soup

NOTE: “To be in the soup” means to be in trouble

202.        To take a cue from somebody

To take your cue from somebody

NOTE: “To take your cue from somebody” means to copy what somebody else does as an example of how to behave.

203.        The marching order

Marching orders

NOTE: “Marching orders” means to order somebody to leave a place, job e.t.c.

e.g The Gatekeeper was given marching orders for sleeping on duty.

204.        Out of the wood

Out of the woods

NOTE: “Out of the woods” means free from difficulties or problem e.g The economy is not out of the woods

205.        To be spoiling for fight

To be spoiling for a fight

NOTE: “To be spoiling for a fight” means to want to fight with somebody very much.

206.        To lose your bearing

To lose your bearings

NOTE: “To lose your bearings” means to become lost or confused.

207.        Feel at home

Make yourself at home

NOTE: “To make yourself at home” means to be relaxed and comfortable.

208.        And so what

So what

NOTE: “So what” is used to show that you think something is not important especially after somebody has criticized you for it. E.g so what if nobody else agrees with me?

209.        To deal on something

To deal in something

NOTE: “To deal in something” means to trade in something or to sell something e.g

(a) The lady deals in Ladies wear and shoes

(b) The Ibo man deals in motor vehicle spare parts.

210.        To shoot at sight

To shoot on sight

NOTE: “To shoot on sight” means to shoot as soon as you see somebody. E.g The Soldiers were given a shoot on sight order to quell the Bokom Haram insurgency.

211.        To be forewarned is to be forearmed

Forewarned is forearmed

NOTE: “Forewarned or forearmed” means the knowledge of possible dangers, problems e.t.c allows one to prepare for them.

212.        Go the round

Go the rounds or make the rounds or do the rounds

NOTE: “To make the rounds” or “Do the rounds” means to be passed from one person to another.

213.        It behoves on somebody

It behoves somebody

NOTE: “ It behoves somebody to do something” means it is right and necessary for them.

214.        To do something turn by turn

To do something in turn

NOTE: “To do something in turn” means to do something one after the other to make sure it is done fairly.

215.        First come, first serve

First come, first served

NOTE: “ First come, first served” means people should be attended to based on the time of their arrival.

216.        In somebody’s employment

In somebody’s employ

NOTE: “In somebody’s employ” means being paid by the person e.g over thirty workers are in the Director’s employ

217.        At your wit end

At your wits’ end

NOTE: “At your wits’ end” means to be worried by a problem that you do not know what to do next.

218.        To blaze a new trail

To blade a trail

NOTE: “To blade a trail” means to be the first to do or discover something that others follow. E.g the Wright Brothers blazed the trail in Aeronautics i.e the science and practice of building and flying aircraft.

219.        To pull somebody’s legs

To pull somebody’s leg

NOTE: “To pull somebody’s leg” means to play a joke on somebody usually by making him or her believe something that is not true.

220.        To be for your own advantage

To be to your advantage

NOTE: “To be to your advantage” means to your benefit and will likely make you succeed. E.g It will be to your advantage to attend the workshop.

221.        In company of

In company with

NOTE: “In company with” means together with or at the same time as somebody. E.g The president came in company with his wife.

222.        When in Rome behave like Romans

When in Rome do as the Romans do

NOTE: “When in Rome do as the Romans do” means that when you are in a foreign country or in a situation you are not familiar, you should behave in the manner that the other people around you behave.

223.        To have your fingers in every pie

To have a finger in every pie

NOTE: “To have a finger in every pie” means to be involved in many different activities. E.g The young business Whiz-kid has a finger in every pie.

224.        To be smooth sailing

To be plain sailing or To be clear sailing (AmE)

NOTE: “To be plain sailing” means to be simple and free from trouble e.g The conduct of elections in Nigeria is not always plain sailing, it is usually sleazy, fraudulent, ignoble and mired in a large scale irregularities.

225.        On air

On the air

NOTE: “On the air” means broadcasting e.g The radio station is on the air.

226.        To make something for yourself

To make something of yourself

NOTE: “To make something of yourself” means to be successful in life. E.g To make something of yourself is not a bed of roses.

227.        The man doesn’t mix words

The man doesn’t mince words

NOTE: “IF a man doesn’t mince words, it means that he says what he think even if it may offend people, forthright

228.        To put emphasis on something

To place emphasis on something or to place importance on something or to place value on something. E.g The School places great emphasis on moral and academic excellence.

229.        Speak of the angel

Speak of the devil  or talk of the devil

NOTE: “Speak of the devil” or “talk of the devil” is used when some one you have just been talking about arrives unexpectedly.

230.        Osaruwa has sticking fingers

Osaruwa has sticky fingers

NOTE: “Osaruwa has sticky fingers” means he is likely to steal.

231.        Ada cannot hold a candle for Aisha

Ada cannot hold a candle to Aisha

NOTE: “Ada cannot hold a candle to Aisha” means Ada is not as good as Aisha.

232.        To leave nothing to imagination

To leave nothing to the imagination

NOTE: “To leave nothing to the imagination” means (of clothes) to allow more of somebody’s body to be seen than usual. E.g The girl’s skimpy and transparent dress left nothing to the imagination.

233.        To play a fast one on me

To pull a fast one on me

NOTE: “To pull a fast one on me” means to trick me e.g The smart alec tried to pull a fast one on me.

234.        Out of question

Out of the question

NOTE: “Out of the question” means not with discussing because it is impossible, e.g Three square meals per day among low income earners is out of the question.

235.        Many hands make work light

Many hands make light work

NOTE: “Many hands make light work” means a task is soon completed if many people help.

236.        To ground

To the ground

NOTE: “To the ground” means (of destruction) completely e.g The building was burned to the ground by the irate mob.

237.        To work your finger on the bone

To work your fingers to the bone

NOTE: “To work your fingers to the bone” means to work very hard.

238.        To run oneself to the ground

To run oneself into the ground

NOTE: “To run oneself into the ground” means to exhaust oneself

239.        At a glance

At a single glance

NOTE: “At a single glance” means with one look e.g the expert auto mechanic can tell at a single glance what is wrong with your car.

240.        In all probabilities

In all probability

NOTE: “IN all probability” means It is very likely e.g In all probability, he will come late due to the traffic gridlock

241.        A slap in my face

A slap in the face

NOTE: “A slap in the face” means a rejection or insult e.g it was a slap in the face to walk out on the Director

242.        At the wake of something

In the wake of something

NOTE: “In the wake of something” means following something e.g the terrorist attack left an unimaginable scale of destruction in its wake i.e it was followed by an unimaginable scale of destruction.

243.        Let a sleeping dog lie

Let the sleeping dogs lie

NOTE: “Let the sleeping dogs lie” means do not try to change a situation that could become a problem.

244.        To take your heel

Take to your heels

NOTE: “To take to your heels” means to run away e.g the criminals took to their heels when they saw an anti crime patrol van.

245.        Under influence

Under the influence

NOTE: “To be under the influence” means to be drunk e.g it is not good to drive under the influence

246.        A lone voice in the wilderness

A voice in the wilderness

NOTE: “A voice in the wilderness” means someone whose suggestions are ignored. E.g The child right activist is a voice in the wilderness

247.        On top of your voice

At the top of your voice

NOTE: “At the top of your voice” means as loud as possible e.g (a) stop skating at the top of your voice

(a)         The students were shouting at the top of their voices

(b)         The students were shouting at the top of their voices

248.        In wilderness

In the wilderness

NOTE: “In the wilderness” means no longer in an important or influential position esp in politics.

249.        After a few years in the wilderness, Dr. Kelvin was reappointed an ambassador

250.        In good fate

In good faith

NOTE: “IN good faith” means with honest intentions

251.        The letters of the law

The letters of the law

NOTE: “The letter of the law” means the exact requirements or words of a law.

e.g every student should stick to the letter of the school rules and regulations.

252.        To the letters

To the letters

NOTE: “To the letter” means paying strict attention to every detail. E.g the instructions should be followed to the letter

253.        To burn to ashes

To burn to the ground

NOTE: When something is burnt to the ground, it burnet completely by fire

254.        The class room is in a shamble

The classroom is a shambles

NOTE: “When something is a shambles, it is in a complete mess or disorder.

255.        Contrary to expectation

Contrary to all expectations or against all expectations means different from what was expected

NOTE:  “Contrary to all expectations or against all expectations means different from what was expected.

256.        At longer heads

At logger heads

NOTE: “AT logger heads”

257.        You will reap what you sow

You reap what you saw

NOTE: “At logger heads” means

258.        You will reap what you sow

You reap what you sow

NOTE: You reap what you sow” means have to deal with bad effects or results of what you did.

259.        Beyond the realm of possibility

Beyond the realms of possibility

NOTE: “Beyond the realms of possibility” means not possible.

260.        To develop cold feet

To get cold feet or To have cold feet

NOTE: “To get/have cold feet” means to suddenly become nervous about doing something that you have planned to do.

261.        A level playing ground

A level playing field

NOTE: “A level playing field” means a situation in which everyone has the same opportunities

262.        To throw away the baby and the bathwater

To throw the baby out with the bathwater

NOTE: To throw the baby out with the bathwater” means to get rid of the good and useful aspects of something without intending to while you try to get rid of the negative aspects.