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Esci
1-
across the board
2-
to race against time
3-
neck and neck
4-
in the running
5-
par for the course
6-
to break the habit
7-
hands down
8-
to level the playing field
9-
to set the pace
across the board
Across the board
[ Frase ]
uk flag
/əkɹˌɑːs ðə bˈoːɹd/
Spelling
Chiudi
Accedi
N/A

N/A

Idiom

affecting everyone or everything in a particular situation or group

example
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The company gave a pay raise to all employees across the board.
We saw improvements in test scores across the board for the students.
What is the origin of the idiom "across the board" and when to use it?

The idiom "across the board" likely originates from board games where movement or progress is made uniformly across all positions on the game board. It means that something applies consistently to all aspects or areas without exception. This phrase is often used to describe a situation where something is universal or applies without any exceptions or variations.

to [race] against (time|the clock)
To race against time
[ Frase ]
uk flag
/ɹˈeɪs ɐɡˈɛnst tˈaɪm ðə klˈɑːk/
agire rapidamente

agire rapidamente

Idiom

to work as fast as possible to get something done within a very limited time

neck and neck
Neck and neck
[ Frase ]
uk flag
/nˈɛk ænd nˈɛk/
N/A

N/A

Idiom
Informal

used when two or more participants in a race or competition are very close and have an equal chance of winning

What is the origin of the idiom "make a go of something" and when to use it?

The idiom "neck and neck" likely originates from the world of horse racing, where it is crucial to measure the distances between horses at the finish line. When two horses are very close to each other, with their necks aligned, it signifies a close and competitive race with no clear leader. Over time, this horse racing terminology has been adopted into everyday language to describe any close competition or situation where two or more parties are evenly matched.

in the running
In the running
[ Frase ]
uk flag
/ɪnðə ɹˈʌnɪŋ/
nella corsa

nella corsa

Idiom
Informal

having a chance to win or succeed, particularly in a competition

What is the origin of the idiom "in the running" and when to use it?

"In the running" is a sports metaphor that comes from foot racing. In a race, the competitors who are still "in the running" are those who have not yet fallen behind or been eliminated from the race, meaning they still have a chance to win. It can be used to describe individuals or teams who are competing for a prize or goal, as well as products or ideas that are being considered for a particular opportunity.

par for the course
Par for the course
[ Frase ]
uk flag
/pˈɑːɹ fɚðə kˈoːɹs/
N/A

N/A

Idiom
Informal

used of a situation, outcome, or behavior that is considered typical, expected, or unsurprising given the circumstances

What is the origin of the idiom "par for the course" and when to use it?

The idiom "par for the course" has its origin in golf, where "par" represents the standard number of strokes that an expert golfer is expected to take to complete a specific hole or the entire course. Figuratively, this expression is used to describe a situation or outcome that is typical, usual, or expected based on prior experience.

To break the habit
[ Frase ]
uk flag
/bɹˈeɪk kˈɪk ðɪ ɐ wˈʌnz hˈæbɪt/
N/A

N/A

Idiom
Informal

to put a stop to one's habit, particularly one that is harmful or dangerous

What is the origin of the idiom "break the habit" and when to use it?

The idiom "break the habit" or "kick the habit" originates from the concept of habits or routines that individuals develop over time. It is rooted in the idea that habits, especially those that are considered detrimental or addictive, can be challenging to overcome. "Breaking" or "kicking" the habit signifies the deliberate and often difficult process of abandoning a behavior or routine in favor of healthier or more positive alternatives.

hands down
Hands down
[ Frase ]
uk flag
/hˈændz dˈaʊn/
N/A

N/A

Idiom
Informal

in a way that is effortless or easy

What is the origin of the idiom "hands down" and when to use it?

The idiom "hands down" likely has its origins in horse racing, where a jockey who is winning comfortably and confidently can lower their hands and relax the reins, indicating an easy and effortless victory. In a broader sense, the phrase is used to describe a situation where something is accomplished or won with ease, without any significant effort or competition.

To level the playing field
[ Frase ]
uk flag
/lˈɛvəl ðə plˈeɪɪŋ fˈiːld/
livella il campo di gioco

livella il campo di gioco

to create equal opportunities for all individuals or groups, regardless of their background or circumstances

To set the pace
[ Frase ]
uk flag
/sˈɛt ðə pˈeɪs/
N/A

N/A

Collocation

to set a high standard or example for others to follow

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