EN · B2 · LEARN

Strategy and consequences

Understand each item before testing yourself. Choose honestly whether it already feels familiar or needs practice.

1 of 10Phrase

burn bridges

damage a relationship so it is difficult to return to it

Example

Disagree politely so you do not burn bridges.

Use ten nuanced expressions to discuss choices, delays, risks, and workplace relationships.

burn bridges
Phrase
damage a relationship so it is difficult to return to it
Disagree politely so you do not burn bridges.
jump on the bandwagon
Expression
join a popular activity or trend
Several brands may jump on the bandwagon this year.
play it by ear
Expression
decide what to do as a situation develops
The schedule may change, so we will play it by ear.
kick the can down the road
Expression
delay dealing with a difficult decision
Another temporary fix will kick the can down the road.
turn a blind eye
Expression
deliberately ignore a problem
A responsible manager should not turn a blind eye to bullying.
grasping at straws
Phrase
trying unlikely solutions because nothing else works
Without any evidence, we were grasping at straws.
throw caution to the wind
Expression
act without worrying about the risk
Do not throw caution to the wind with customer data.
leave no stone unturned
Expression
search or investigate every possibility
We will leave no stone unturned in our search for the cause.
walk on eggshells
Phrase
act very carefully to avoid upsetting someone
Nobody should have to walk on eggshells during a meeting.
beat someone to the punch
Expression
act before another person has the chance
Submit the proposal early to beat someone to the punch.