Tag: English Phrase

Champ at the Bit Meaning To show impatience at being held back or delayed. Example The dismissal bell hadn’t rung, but they were champing at the bit to leave …

Chaise Lounge Meaning Lounge chair. Example Rita felt very comfortable in the store’s new chaise lounge, imported from Paris. Origin The French called it a chaise longue or long …

Caught Eavesdropping Meaning A person found to be deliberately trying to overhear a conversation not intended for his/her ears. Origin The phrase goes back centuries to the time when …

Catch 22 Meaning A no win situation – one where, whatever happens, there will almost certainly be a bad outcome. Origin Catch 22 was the title of the 1955 …

Carry The Can Meaning To take the blame for something in which others have also taken part and are largely responsible. Origin The origin probably goes back to the …

Can’t Hold a Candle to Meaning To be far less competent or have far less skills than someone else. Example When it comes to performance, Corvette can’t hold a …

Can It Meaning Stop what you are doing or saying. Example You’re playing your music too loud – can it! Origin Short for cancel it. M Alternative: Put it …