1095 expressions
a toe in the water
What Does "a toe in the water" Mean? Idiomatic meaning (not the literal meaning of the words) To put or dip "a toe in the water" is an idiom that means to begin something slowly and tentatively, typi...
a token gesture
What Does "a token gesture" Mean? The expression "a token gesture" refers to an action or expression that is made or done to show goodwill, compliance, or concern but is often insincere, inadequate, ...
a tongue-twister
What Does "a tonguetwister" Mean? Meaning of the collocation or phrasal verb "A tonguetwister" refers to a sequence of words or sounds, typically rhyming or alliterative, that is difficult to pronoun...
a tool of the trade
What Does "a tool of the trade" Mean? The idiomatic expression "a tool of the trade" refers to something, either tangible or intangible, that is essential or characteristic for someone to perform thei...
a top-notch
What Does "a topnotch" Mean? It expresses a high degree of quality or excellence. It typically modifies nouns, describing them as being of the highest standard. Register: Neutral to informal. How t...
a top dog
What Does "a top dog" Mean? The idiomatic meaning of "a top dog" is a person or organization that is the most powerful, successful, or dominant in a particular field or group. It signifies someone at...
a toss-up
What Does "a tossup" Mean? The idiomatic meaning of "a tossup" is a situation where the outcome is uncertain and either possibility is equally likely. It suggests a very close contest or decision whe...
a touch and go
What Does "a touch and go" Mean? The idiomatic meaning of "a touch and go" is that a situation is risky or uncertain, with a high possibility of failure. It implies a precarious balance where the out...
a tough break
What Does "a tough break" Mean? The idiomatic meaning of "a tough break" is an unfortunate or unlucky event; a setback; a piece of bad luck, often implying that someone has been treated unfairly. It ...
a tough cookie
What Does "a tough cookie" Mean? The idiomatic meaning of "a tough cookie" refers to a person who is strong, resilient, and determined. It describes someone who can handle difficult situations and is...
a tough crowd
What Does "a tough crowd" Mean? The idiomatic meaning of "a tough crowd" refers to a group of people who are difficult to please, entertain, or impress. It doesn't mean the crowd is physically strong ...
a tough nut
What Does "a tough nut" Mean? The idiomatic expression "a tough nut" describes someone who is resilient, unyielding, and difficult to persuade or influence. It can also refer to a problem or situation...
a tough nut to crack
What Does "a tough nut to crack" Mean? The idiomatic meaning of "a tough nut to crack" refers to a problem that is difficult to solve, or a person who is difficult to understand or persuade. It sugges...
a tough row to hoe
What Does "a tough row to hoe" Mean? The idiom "a tough row to hoe" signifies facing a difficult, challenging, or arduous task or situation. It implies that success will require considerable effort, p...
a tough sell
What Does "a tough sell" Mean? The idiomatic meaning of "a tough sell" is that something is difficult to convince someone of, or that it will be hard to get someone to accept or buy it. It implies res...
a tour de force
What Does "a tour de force" Mean? "A tour de force" (pronounced /ˌtʊər də ˈfɔːrs/) is an idiomatic expression that signifies an exceptional achievement or display of skill, talent, or power. It's used...
a tower of babel
What Does "a tower of babel" Mean? The idiomatic meaning of "a tower of babel" refers to a situation characterized by confusion, noise, and a lack of clear communication, often due to a multitude of ...
a trade secret
What Does "a trade secret" Mean? The expression "a trade secret" refers to confidential information that gives a business a competitive advantage. This can include formulas, practices, designs, instr...
a trail of breadcrumbs
What Does "a trail of breadcrumbs" Mean? The idiomatic expression "a trail of breadcrumbs" refers to a series of clues, evidence, or information deliberately or unintentionally left behind that can be...
a train wreck
What Does "a train wreck" Mean? The idiomatic meaning of "a train wreck" is a disastrous or chaotic situation, event, or person. It implies a spectacular failure that is often both shocking and fasci...