Definition: The most important or central point of an issue.
Example: The crux of the matter is that we don’t have enough time to finish the project.
Definition: Absolutely certain; without any possibility of being wrong.
Example: She proved beyond the shadow of a doubt that she was the best candidate.
Definition: To make progress or success easier for something else.
Example: The new discovery will pave the way for advances in medicine.
Definition: Something that has both positive and negative effects.
Example: Technology is a double-edged sword: it makes life easier but can also make us dependent.
Definition: To make a bad situation worse.
Example: His rude comments only added fuel to the fire during the argument.
Definition: Something very likely to go wrong.
Example: Driving too fast on icy roads is a recipe for disaster.
Definition: To argue against an idea, even if you don’t believe it, just to test it.
Example: Let me play the devil’s advocate and point out the risks of your plan.
Definition: Doing something correctly or in a way that will likely succeed.
Example: Your essay needs a little editing, but you’re on the right track.
Definition: To take an unusual or less common course.
Example: We decided to go off the beaten path and explore a small village instead of the city.
Definition: Something that seems bad at first but turns out to be good.
Example: Losing that job was a blessing in disguise—it pushed me to start my own business.
Definition: A small part of a much bigger problem or situation.
Example: The protests were just the tip of the iceberg; people had been unhappy for years.
Definition: To face a difficult or unpleasant situation with courage.
Example: He finally bit the bullet/take the bull by the horns and admitted his mistake.
Definition: Just barely; almost failing.
Example: She passed the exam by the skin of her teeth.
Definition: There is something good in every bad situation.
Example: I know you’re upset about the delay, but remember, every cloud has a silver lining.
Definition: To describe exactly what is causing a situation or problem.
Example: You hit the nail on the head when you said the team needs better communication.
Definition: It’s your turn to take action or make a decision.
Example: I’ve done all I can—the ball is in your court now.
Definition: Very quickly.
Example: The car disappeared in the blink of an eye.
Definition: An obvious problem that people avoid talking about.
Example: We need to discuss the elephant in the room: the company is losing money.
Definition: Important things take time.
Example: Learning a language takes patience—Rome wasn’t built in a day.
Definition: To give up; to admit defeat.
Example: After several failed attempts, she finally threw in the towel.
Definition: A very small part of what is needed.
Example: Donating $10 might feel like a drop in the ocean, but every bit helps.