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Idioms Lesson 37. To throw (someone) a curve: to introduce an unexpected topic, causing embarrassment. I was enjoying my day until nature threw me a curve and it started to rain. I hate it when my students throw me a curve by suggesting I might be wrong—even when I am!.
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To throw (someone) a curve: to introduce an unexpected topic, causing embarrassment • I was enjoying my day until nature threw me a curve and it started to rain. • I hate it when my students throw me a curve by suggesting I might be wrong—even when I am!
To make waves: to create a disturbance, usually by complaining. • Please don’t make waves at the next department meeting with your constant driveling.
To carry on: to continue as before; to conduct, to engage in; to behave in an immature manner • When the inspection was finished, our chief told us all to carry on with our work. • Everyone knew he was carrying on an affair with the boss’s wife except our boss. • Stop carrying on like a child!
Not on your life: absolutely not, no way • “Hey, Jack, will you let me hit you in the head with my hammer?” • “Not on your life!!”
To cover ground: to be extensive, to discuss material • We did not cover enough ground at the last meeting, so be ready to work hard at this one! • We covered a lot of ground in class today. • Common usage: to cover __________ ground. Include some amount here: A lot Enough Not enough Too little
To throw the book at: to punish with full penalty, to be harsh on. • The judge threw the book at the man who was brought in for driving while he was drunk. • I don’t think you should throw the book at him just because he is young.
To put one’s foot in (it, one’s mouth): to do or say the wrong thing • I really put my foot in my mouth when I called him by the wrong name. • He put his foot in it by forgetting her birthday.
To be up for grabs: to be available to others • A good grade is always up for grabs to anyone with the determination to work for it.
To show off: to display one’ ability in order to attract attention; to let others see, to expose to public view • I hate it when people show off their good fortune. • My son sometimes shows off when we have company.
To learn the ropes: to become familiar with routine procedures. • It takes time for new students to learn the ropes. • Learning the ropes at a new job can be frustrating if no one helps you.
To have under one’s belt: to have experience, ownership, or accomplishments • I have just under three years of teaching under my belt.
To keep (one’s) fingers crossed: to hope to have good results, to hope nothing bad happens • I’m keeping my fingers crossed that everyone will do well on the finals! • Please tell Sam I will keep my fingers crossed for him.