Idiom of the Week

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Week of February 25, 2008

Although it was a risk, Jennifer was sure she could win over the new clients.  She was willing to face the music if she failed.

To face the music – v.  To accept responsibility, criticism or punishment for something that you have done.  To accept the consequences of an action.

Rick was ready to face the music and explain to his boss how he lost the biggest deal of the year.

Week of February 18, 2008

"Avis has always played second fiddle to Hertz Rental Car."

 To play second fiddle - v.  To be in a less important position than something or somebody.  To be subordinate to someone, to be second best.

"No matter how hard she worked, Sharon felt she always played second fiddle to her co-worker, John."

Week of February 11, 2008

“I know I don’t have the qualifications they are asking for” explained Rachel, “but I really think I can get this job.”  

“Sure, when pigs fly!” commented Julia.

When pigs fly – Scottish proverb.  Wishful thinking, an impossible event, something that will never happen.

 “He’ll get that promotion when pigs fly.”

Week of February 4, 2008

“People were packed in like sardines on the rush hour train as more and more passengers boarded.”

Packed in like sardines – adj.  Extremely crowded.  Packed very tightly into a small space.

Sardines are small fish sold in tin cans.

“The conference room was too small for our large group, and we felt packed in like sardines.”