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1-
to press home one's advantage
2-
to get in on the act
3-
to fish in troubled waters
4-
to have one's cake and eat it (too)
5-
to know which side one's bread is buttered on
6-
to have it both ways
7-
to not give somebody an even break
8-
to give somebody an inch
9-
want jam on it
to [press] home {one's} advantage
to press home one's advantage
Frase
uk flag
/pɹˈɛs hˈoʊm wˈʌnz ɐdvˈæntɪdʒ/
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Idiom
Informal

to maximize one's current advantage or position of strength in a particular situation

example
Ejemplo
Click on words
After winning the first two sets, the tennis player pressed home her advantage by aggressively attacking her opponent's weaknesses.
In the business world, it's important to press home your advantage when you have a competitive edge in the market.
What is the origin of the idiom "press home one's advantage" and when to use it?

The idiom "press home one's advantage" likely originated from the concept of pushing forward and capitalizing on a favorable position or situation. It emphasizes the idea of maintaining momentum and exploiting an advantageous circumstance fully. This expression is used to describe a strategic approach in which someone makes an extra effort to maximize the benefits of a favorable situation. It is often applied in competitive contexts, such as sports, business, or negotiations, where taking full advantage of a strong position is crucial for success.

to [get|be] in on the act
to get in on the act
Frase
uk flag
/ɡɛt biː ɪn ɑːnðɪ ˈækt/
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Idiom
Informal

to take advantage of or become involved in an activity that someone else has started in an attempt to achieve the same amount of success or profit

What is the origin of the idiom "get in on the act" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "get in on the act" can be traced back to the world of entertainment, particularly in theater and show business. In the context of theatrical performances, an "act" refers to a distinct segment or portion of a play or show, often with its own storyline or performance. The idiom likely emerged from the idea that individuals wanted to be part of the excitement and attention associated with a successful performance or show. It is used to express a desire to become involved in an activity, situation, or opportunity that is already underway and generating interest or success.

to [fish] in troubled waters
to fish in troubled waters
Frase
uk flag
/fˈɪʃ ɪn tɹˈʌbəld wˈɔːɾɚz/
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Idiom
Informal

to make effort to turn a difficult situation in one's favor

What is the origin of the idiom "fish in troubled waters" and when to use it?

The idiom "fish in troubled waters" is rooted in the world of fishing, where it refers to the practice of fishing in turbulent or disturbed waters. The origin of the phrase lies in the idea that when waters are troubled, fish may become disoriented or agitated, making them easier to catch. Fishermen would take advantage of this situation to increase their chances of catching fish. It is used figuratively to describe someone who seeks opportunities or advantages in situations of confusion, disorder, or difficulty.

to [have] {one's} cake and eat it (too|)
to have one's cake and eat it (too)
Frase
uk flag
/hæv wˈʌnz kˈeɪk ænd ˈiːt ɪt tˈuː ɔːɹ/
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Idiom
Informal

to desire to have two things that are impossible to have without sacrificing the other

What is the origin of the idiom "have one's cake and eat it" and when to use it?

The phrase "have one's cake and eat it" is an idiom that is used to express the idea of wanting to have things both ways, which is often impossible. The origin of this phrase can be traced back to the 16th century, and its earlier form was "eat your cake and have it too."

to [know] which side {one's} bread is buttered on
to know which side one's bread is buttered on
Frase
uk flag
/nˈoʊ wˌɪtʃ sˈaɪd wˈʌnz bɹˈɛd ɪz bˈʌɾɚd ˈɑːn/
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Idiom
Informal

to know the exact way to treat others or how to act so as to get what one desires

What is the origin of the idiom "know which side one's bread is buttered on" and when to use it?

The idiom "know which side one's bread is buttered on" has its origins in the practice of buttering bread. The phrase has been in use for centuries and was used both literally and figuratively. In a literal sense, it referred to the act of spreading butter on one side of a slice of bread to make it more palatable. Figuratively, it is now used to advise someone to recognize their own best interests and make choices that benefit them.

to have it both ways
Frase
uk flag
/hæv ɪt bˈoʊθ wˈeɪz/
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Idiom

to benefit from two opposing or contradictory situations or options at the same time

What is the origin of the idiom "have it both ways" and when to use it?

The idiom "have it both ways" originates from the desire to enjoy two mutually exclusive benefits or situations simultaneously. It reflects the impossibility of benefiting from two opposing options at the same time. It is used to describe a situation where someone wants to enjoy the benefits of two conflicting options or circumstances, often implying that such a desire is unrealistic or unreasonable.

to {not} [give] {sb} an even break
to not give somebody an even break
Frase
uk flag
/nˌɑːt ɡˈɪv ˌɛsbˈiː ɐn ˈiːvən bɹˈeɪk/
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Idiom
Informal

to take advantage of someone who is easily tricked instead of giving them a fair chance

What is the origin of the idiom "not give a sucker an even break" and when to use it?

The idiom "not give a sucker an even break" likely originated in American slang during the early 20th century, particularly in the context of confidence tricks and swindles. The term "sucker" was used to refer to a gullible or easily deceived person, often someone who could be easily cheated or taken advantage of. In this context, "an even break" means a fair and equitable opportunity. It is used to describe situations where someone is being taken advantage of or deceived, especially when the person being deceived is vulnerable or unsuspecting

to [give] {sb} an inch
to give somebody an inch
Frase
uk flag
/ɡˈɪv ˌɛsbˈiː ɐn ˈɪntʃ/
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Idiom

to treat someone in such a kind and generous manner that they become greedy and ungrateful to one

What is the origin of the idiom "give an inch" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "give an inch" can be traced back to the concept of measurement and the use of inches as a unit of length. In this idiom, "inch" symbolizes a small, measurable increment. The phrase likely emerged from the idea that when someone grants or allows even a small concession or compromise, it can create an opportunity for others to exploit or demand more. It is commonly employed in situations involving negotiations, relationships, or interactions where boundaries or limits are set.

want jam on it
want jam on it
Oración
uk flag
/wˈɑːnt dʒˈæm ˈɑːn ɪt/
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Humorous
Idiom
Informal

used to ask if someone wants extra or additional benefits or features, often in a playful manner

What is the origin of the idiom "want jam on it" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "want jam on it" is rooted in colloquial English, particularly in British slang. The phrase originated in the early 20th century and is often used as a playful or sarcastic remark to express a desire for something additional or extra when it is not necessary or already sufficient. The phrase can be used in various contexts, such as when discussing food, personal preferences, or even when someone is being overly particular or demanding about a particular matter.

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Aprendiste 9 palabras de Taking Advantage. Para mejorar el aprendizaje y revisar el vocabulario, ¡comienza a practicar!

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