To Swayze it means to take radical, immediate responsibility for fixing a major problem yourself rather than seeking professional help or waiting for an “official” solution. While often used as slang for leaving a place abruptly (referencing the movie Ghost), the “Swayze Suture” describes a gritty brand of self-reliance, performing radical first aid on a … Read more
Meaning of Idiom “Scaredy-Cat” 1. A scaredy-cat is a person who is easily frightened or timid. 2. A person who is afraid to do something dangerous or challenging. 3. A person who won’t do something because they are afraid of getting in trouble. The term “scaredy-cat” is synonymous with many similar idioms in English but … Read more
What Does Steal Someone’s Thunder Mean? The idiom ‘steal/stole someone’s thunder’ can be used seriously but it is often used humorously in regards to trivial but exciting announcements. Similar idioms are steal the limelight and steal the spotlight. Sentence Examples “We were getting ready to announce our engagement when Robby and Becky stole our thunder by telling everyone … Read more
To stand on someone’s shoulders means to physically place one’s feet on another person’s shoulders and stand up. However, this phrase also forms the basis of an ancient aphorism. Meaning Of Idiom ‘Stand On Someone’s Shoulders’ To stand on someone’s shoulders means to benefit from the previous work of someone in one’s field; to be … Read more
Meaning of Idiom ‘Sleep Tight’ When we say sleep tight we mean sleep well; goodnight; sleep soundly; and sleep safely. ‘Sleep tight’ is an affectionate and familiar way to bid someone goodnight. The humorous rhyme ‘sleep tight, don’t let the bed bugs bite.’ The phrase ‘don’t let the bed bugs bite’ was not part of … Read more
Meaning of Idiom ‘Screw Up’ (phrasal verb) To screw something up means to do something badly and make a mistake; to fail at something; to mishandle a situation or make the wrong choices. Also possible: Fuck up Mess up (multiple meanings) Usage Notes You can screw something up or screw up something. The phrasal verb … Read more
The literal meaning of shoot down is to bring something or someone down with gunfire or other weapons. This definition is especially applicable to military operations where planes are shot down during combat or other air-borne missiles are shot down. This means that something in the air is shot at and damaged or destroyed, thus … Read more
Ship Out Meaning (Phrasal Verb) To leave or depart to a faraway place; to go on a navy mission by ship; to send something or export it, by ship or other means. Usage Notes This expression is usually used in regard to military members. To ship out originally meant to depart by ship but it … Read more
Meaning of Shape Up (Phrasal Verb) 1. improve or meet a higher standard of performance Sentences Examples “You need to shape up and pull your weight around here.” “You’re a good player but your attitude stinks,” said the coach. “It’s time you shape up and become a team player.” “Shape up, man. You’re a slacker. … Read more
Meaning of A Sight for Sore Eyes A sight for sore eyes is something or someone that is extremely pleasant or comforting to look at, especially after a long period of exhaustion or discomfort; something that brings relief or joy, making a person feel better about their situation; something that brings relief or happiness; something … Read more