This is the eleventh of twelve pages (11/12) of alphabetically organized idiomatic expressions. These expressions all begin with the letter T. At the bottom of the page, you’ll find a challenging quiz about these idiomatic expressions.
- take a short cut – to choose a quicker or easier way to do something or reach a place
We took a short cut through the park and got there faster. - take off (1) – to leave the ground (airplane)
The plane took off at exactly 9:00 a.m.
take off (2) – to become successful or popular quickly
Her business really took off after she launched her new product.
take off (3) – to remove (especially clothing)
He took off his shoes when he came in. - take over – to assume control of something
The company was taken over by a larger corporation. - take part (in) – to participate
Are you going to take part in the race this year? - take the plunge – to do something difficult or risky after thinking about it
After years of thinking, she finally took the plunge and started her own business. - take time off (from) – to take a break from work or a routine
He took time off from work to travel. - take up – to begin a new hobby or activity
I took up painting last year.
- talk down to – to speak to someone as if they are less intelligent
Don’t talk down to me—I understand what you’re saying. - talk into – to persuade someone to do something
He talked me into going to the party. - talk out of – to persuade someone not to do something
She talked him out of quitting his job. - talk over – to discuss something
We need to talk over the details before we decide. - tear oneself away from something – to force yourself to stop doing something enjoyable
She tore herself away from the TV to study. - tear up – to destroy something by ripping it into pieces OR to start crying
He tore up the letter after reading it.
She teared up during the sad movie.
- tell apart – to distinguish the difference between two or more things
I can’t tell the twins apart. - things are looking up – the situation is improving
Don’t worry—things are looking up! - think over – to consider something carefully
Let me think it over before I answer. - throw away – to discard
I threw away my old shoes. - throw cold water on – to discourage or be negative about an idea
He threw cold water on our vacation plans. - throw the book at someone – to punish someone severely
The judge threw the book at the repeat offender. - try on – to put on clothing to see if it fits
Try on that jacket and see if it suits you. - try out – to test something to see how it works
I want to try out this new recipe. - try out (for) – to audition or compete for a spot on a team, play, etc.
He’s trying out for the school play.