Idioms starting with T

Each card gives the idiom's meaning and one example of it in use. Open one for the Vietnamese expression that comes closest.

51 idioms

Take a back seat
Work and Business
To let someone else lead.
Example: He took a back seat and let the juniors present.
Take it with a grain of salt
Communication and Mind
To not believe something completely.
Example: He exaggerates, so take it with a grain of salt.
Take something to heart
Emotions and Feelings
To be deeply affected by criticism or advice.
Example: It is easy to take something to heart when it is said in public.
Take the bull by the horns
Success and Failure
To deal with a difficult problem directly and bravely.
Example: She took the bull by the horns and called the client herself.
Talk shop
Work and Business
To discuss work in a social setting.
Example: They promised not to talk shop at dinner and failed.
Tell me who your friends are and I'll tell you who you are
People and Relationships
Your friends show what kind of person you are.
Example: Before hiring him, she looked at the people he spent his time with — tell me who your friends are and I'll tell you who you are.
That ship has sailed
Time and Life
The opportunity has passed and cannot be recovered.
Example: He wants the old role back, but that ship has sailed.
The apple doesn't fall far from the tree
People and Relationships
Children usually resemble their parents in behaviour or ability.
Example: Both mother and daughter are doctors — the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.
The ball is in your court
Communication and Mind
It is now your turn to act or decide.
Example: I have sent the offer, so the ball is in your court now.
The best of both worlds
Success and Failure
A situation in which you enjoy the advantages of two different things at once.
Example: Working three days at home gives her the best of both worlds.
The best things in life are free
Money and Wealth
The things that matter most cannot be bought.
Example: A walk with the children reminded him that the best things in life are free.
The calm before the storm
Time and Life
A quiet period just before serious trouble.
Example: The office was silent all morning — the calm before the storm.