Body Idioms
Page 1 of 12
Meaning: Doing or saying something when a person is not around and has no idea it is happening, usually in a sneaky or unfair way.
Example: Sarah later found out her coworker had been complaining about her work behind her back in every team meeting, and it completely changed how she felt about the friendship. Read more ➺
Meaning: To watch someone so closely that it starts to feel annoying or uncomfortable.
Example: Sarah's boss kept breathing down her neck all morning, leaning over her desk and checking every email until she could barely think straight. Read more ➺
Meaning: Causing a lot of worry, stress, or anxiety.
Example: Waiting outside the operating room for news was a nerve-racking experience for the entire family. Read more ➺
Meaning: A person who eats a lot or is strongly obsessed with food (informal, humorous slang).
Example: After finishing three burgers and fries, his friends jokingly called him big back. Read more ➺
Meaning: To strongly affect someone emotionally, especially by causing sympathy, sadness, or compassion.
Example: The film's emotional ending was meant to pull your heartstrings and leave the audience in tears. Read more ➺
Meaning: To make the greatest possible effort to achieve something difficult.
Example: She strained every nerve to secure the contract before the competitors stepped in. Read more ➺
Meaning: A particular area, neighborhood, or region where someone lives or comes from.
Example: He rarely visits this neck of the woods because it is far from his office. Read more ➺
Meaning: Very close together; side by side, often with little or no personal space.
Example: People were standing cheek by jowl on the train during the morning rush. Read more ➺
Meaning: In direct competition between two people, teams, or sides.
Example: The two tech companies are going head-to-head as they launch their flagship phones. Read more ➺
Meaning: To look sad, disappointed, or unhappy. (figurative)
Example: Everyone could tell she had a long face after hearing the bad news. Read more ➺
