This is lesson 5 from Idiom Part 1. Each idiom is followed by its definition and examples. After you learn them, you can use them in your daily conversation.
Previous English Idiom Lesson
In our previous English idiom lesson, we cover below:
Idioms Related to Life is a Journey
English Idiom Part 1- Lesson 5
1- When the Chips are down = when a very serious (difficult/dangerous) situation arises
Her husband left her alone when the chips were down.
2- The luck of the draw = A result of chance instead of choice
You can not pick who you play against – it is just the luck of the draw.
3- At stake = In a position to be lost, at risk
The future of mankind is at stake.
4- On the cards = Likely to happen
A promotion is on the cards for her if she keeps up the good work.
5- Take a chance = Take a risk
I will not be taking any chances that will cause harm to other people.
6- A toss-up between X and Y = Either of two (X & Y) results seems equally likely
It’s a toss-up between Angela and Daisy for the job.
7- Against all the odds = despite very low probability; in a most unlikely way
No-one thought i could do it but, against all the odds, I won the game.
8- Hit the jackpot = To have sudden good luck or success
I think we hit the jackpot with the advertising, our sales have doubled.
9- Have something up one’s sleeve = Have something in reserve
She has been acting weird all day, she must have something up her sleeves.
10- Look after = To take care of
It is a tradition that the young look after the old in their family.
11- Dealt a lousy hand= bad luck or being unfortunate in life
Jack had no luck in the last two years, so if you ask me, he has been dealt a lousy hand.
12- Put (your) money on something or someone= to rely on sth/someone, to bet on sth/someone
Chris will be promoted. I’d put money on it.
13- Show your hand= saying or showing what you want to do
To be a clever player, you should not usually show your hand without knowing other’ player’s intentions.
14- You win some, you lose some= It’s not possible to win all the time
My friend tried to comfort me by saying you win some you lose some.
Note: another similar idiom for this is to say “You can not win them all”
15- Play the card right= make the best use of one’s opportunities
You have a chance of winning if you play your cards right.
Next English Idiom Lesson
In our next English idiom lesson, we cover below:
Idioms Related a Company is a Ship
Related Idioms
Here is the list of idioms related to this lesson.
Idiom Part 1 Outline
If you wish to explore all lessons that are covered in HiCafe Idiom Part 1, you can visit the Essential and Popular English idioms- Part 1 page.
English Fluency Resources
If you like to read all of lessons related to English expressions, phrases, idioms, proverbs, slang and words, you can visit our Improve English Fluency page.