a situation that is hard to define or categorize and therefore unclear
The idiom "gray area" is derived from the color gray, which is often associated with ambiguity and uncertainty. It has been used in the English language for many years to describe situations or issues that are not clearly defined, making it challenging to establish precise boundaries or categorize them definitively.
Grammatical Information:
approval to begin a project
The origin of the idiom "green light" can be traced back to the early 20th century, specifically to the traffic signal system. The use of red, yellow, and green lights in traffic signals was introduced to regulate and control vehicular movement. The green light, being the third and final signal in the sequence, indicated that it was safe for drivers to proceed. This phrase is frequently used in business settings, project management, decision-making processes, and personal endeavors.
Grammatical Information:
occurring without prior warning
official procedures or rules that are unnecessary and time-consuming
The idiom "red tape" has its origins in 16th century England where legal documents were bound by red tape as a way of showing that they were official. This phrase is typically used to describe excessive bureaucracy or official procedures which can hinder or delay progress.
Grammatical Information:
in debt due to spending more than one's earnings
The phrase "in the red" originates from the practice of using red ink to indicate negative amounts or deficits in financial records and accounting ledgers. This idiom is used to describe a financial situation where expenses exceed income, resulting in a negative balance or deficit.
a period marked by good luck or success
Grammatical Information:
a universal symbol of surrender or truce, used to indicate the intention to cease fighting or negotiate peace
Grammatical Information:
in a distinctive and very successful way
The idiom "with flying colors" is believed to have originated in the 16th century. At the time, flags were used to signal victory in battle. A flag that was flying high and undamaged was seen as a sign of victory, while a flag that was damaged or lowered was seen as a sign of defeat. The phrase "with flying colors" came to be used to describe a person or group who had achieved success or victory. It suggests that the person or group has performed exceptionally well and has surpassed expectations.
related to the sun
relating to the moon
relating to jobs or workers who engage in manual labor or skilled trades
relating to jobs or workers who perform professional, managerial, or administrative tasks, typically in office settings
a highly favorable or advantageous chance or situation that holds great potential for success or achievement
Grammatical Information:
Congratulations! !
You learned 21 words from Insight Advanced - Unit 10 - 10A. To improve learning and review vocabulary, start practicing.
Review
Flashcards
Spelling
Quiz
