Week of December 17, 2007

 “Peter hoped he hadn’t bitten off more than he could chew by accepting three new clients.”

Bite off more than one can chew – v.  To take on more responsibilities than you can practically manage.   To try to do something that is too difficult.

“There were times when the responsibilities of her new management position were overwhelming and Marie felt that she’d bitten off more than she could chew.”

Week of December 10, 2007

“Tim wondered how he would explain the butchering of the overseas project to his colleagues.”

Butcher something – v.  To make a mistake, to mess something up, to bungle or botch, to kill something (metaphorically).

“Thomas could not believe how badly his boss butchered her acceptance speech.”

Week of December 2, 2007

“I told you that your proposal wasn’t thorough enough,” commented Jeff after the business meeting.

“I know, next time I’ll work harder.” replied Donald. “Don’t rub salt in the wound!”

Rub salt in the wound – v.  To make a bad situation worse for somebody.  To intentionally cause someone to feel pain about a painful experience.

“Knowing that Joan didn't get a promotion, Jack decided not to mention his own promotion that day so as not to rub salt in the wound.”