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Idioms: Chapter: 5 Cross-Cultural Communications Changing India by Sudha Murty

 

Example:

1.      In the fast lane: This means to be in a situation of high activity or living life at a fast pace.

 

Example: After getting that new job, she's been living in the fast lane, working long hours and traveling frequently.

 

2.      Lose your marbles: This means to lose your mind or sanity, to become mentally confused.

 

Example: He's been under so much stress lately that it feels like he's about to lose his marbles.

 

3.      Plain as day: This means something is very clear or obvious, not difficult to understand.

 

Example: The answer to the problem was plain as day once you looked at it from the right perspective.

 

4.      In the nick of time: This means at the last possible moment before something bad happens or before a deadline.

 

Example: They arrived at the airport in the nick of time to catch their flight.

 

5.      Play second fiddle: This means to have a subordinate or less important role or position in a situation.

 

Example: He's used to being in charge, so it's hard for him to play second fiddle to someone else.

 

6.      Step up your game: This means to make an effort to improve, perform better, or be more competitive.

 

Example: If we want to win this tournament, we need to step up our game and practice harder.

 

7.      Straight from the horse’s mouth: This means getting information or news directly from the most reliable source or the person involved.

 

Example: I heard it straight from the horse's mouth that they're planning to expand the business next year.

 

8.      Take it easy: This means to relax, not worry, or to slow down.

 

Example: After a long week at work, he decided to take it easy over the weekend and do some leisurely activities.

 

9.      Tip of the iceberg: This means that you've only seen or experienced a small, visible part of a much larger issue or problem.

 

Example: The financial problems we're facing are just the tip of the iceberg; there's much more going on beneath the surface.

 

10.  Up a creek without a paddle: This means being in a difficult or challenging situation with no easy way to solve the problem.

Example: When I realized I left my phone at home and my car ran out of gas, I was up a creek without a paddle, with no way to call for help.

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