Pre-Final Idioms Flashcards
On the carpet
Being scolded
ex: Because of her repeated lateness, Betty’s boss called her on the carpet.
To pay the piper
To bear the consequences (from the story of the Pied of Hamelin)
ex: The cruel leader was doing well at the present time, but he knew that one day he might have to pay the piper.
To show one’s hand
To reveal one’s intentions
ex: When someone joined in bidding for the antique, the dealer was forced to show his hand.
To tilt at windmills
To fight imaginary enemies (from Don Quixode)
ex: The vice president told the committee, “We’re really on your side, and if you fight us you’ll be tilting windmills.”
To feather one’s nest
Grow rich by taking advantage of circumstances
ex: While working as the tax collector, he adroitly feathered his own nest.
Fair-weather friends
Unreliable, they fail one in time of distress
ex: The general was chagrined to learn that so many of his supposed supporters were actually fair-weather friends.
To sow one’s wild oats (შვრია)
To lead a wild, carefree life
ex: During his teen years, the millionaire avidly sowed his wild oats.
Windfall
Unexpected financial gain
ex: When the bankrupt company struck oil, the surprised investor received a windfall of $20,000.
