Idioms and Expressions

    Take it or leave it – either to choose something or not to choose it

There’s nothing else for dinner except pasta and vegetables, so take it or leave it.

 

Play ball – to cooperate or work with (usually unwilling to cooperate in the beginning)

            * It would be much easier if you played ball instead of fighting with me.  

So far so good – Until now everything is well or good

            * How is your planning going? So far so good.  

Take it or leave it – either to choose something or not to choose it.

Trick or Treat – A children's Halloween practice of asking for treats from door to door under threat of playing

tricks on householders who refuse.

Not miss a beat– to continue doing something without hesitation

            * When the mike failed, the TV newscaster kept reporting without missing a beat.

In no time – very quickly, not taking much time, also in a flash

                      * The children got ready in no time to go to the zoo.

Jump the gun – to move or act impatiently before the correct time

                      * The politician jumped the gun when he claimed victory before voting ended.

         The lion’s share – the majority, most

                        * The companies chairman kept the lion’s share of stock.

         Hold your horses – to be patient, similar to “keep your shirt on”

                        * Hold your horses! I am not ready to go yet.

         Come up short – to have less than needed, usually refers to money

                        * David came up short when he counted the money.