Level 1
I think I’ll stay home today; I’m feeling a bit *under the weather.*
Feeling ill or unwell
That designer bag cost an *arm and a leg!*
To be very expensive
Let’s *get the ball rolling* on this new marketing campaign.
Start something
Losing that job was a *blessing in disguise*; it pushed me to start my own business.
Something that seems bad but turns out good
At the meeting, Jenna told a funny story to *break the ice.*
To start a friendly conversation in an awkward or tense situation
The test was a *piece of cake* after all that studying.
Very easy
The accountant always does everything *by the book*, following all of the rules.
Follow the rules strictly
The teacher is always *goes the extra mile* to help her students succeed.
Do more than what’s expected
When you said we need better communication, you *hit the nail on the head.*
To be exactly right about something
I’ve done everything I can; now *the ball is in your court.*
It’s your decision or responsibility to act next It’s your decision or responsibility to act next
After hours of trying to learn how to make a slam dunk, Sam finally *threw in the towel* and went inside.
Give up
Let’s *touch base* next week about the proposal.
Make brief contact to update or check in
We only go out to dinner *once in a blue moon* because we’re so busy.
Very rarely
When she got the job offer, she was *on cloud nine.*
Extremely happy
I *missed the boat* on buying tickets — the concert is sold out.
Miss an opportunity
I felt in *over my head* during that advanced coding class.
In a situation that’s too difficult
Don’t *spill the beans* about the surprise party!
To reveal a secret
I’m exhausted — time to *hit the sack.*
Go to bed or sleep
Let’s *hit the road* early to avoid traffic.
Start a journey
He *threw his coworker under the bus* to avoid blame.
Betray someone to protect yourself