The phrase ‘run out of steam’ means that one has lost the energy or enthusiasm to keep doing what they were doing.
Example in use: “The student campaign ran out of steam when it became clear there was no way they would win a seat in the council.”
Ginger’s Phrase of the Day provides you with a daily dose of interesting facts and trivia on some of the more, and less, common phrases in the English language. Learn the real meaning behind these phrases, when and how to use them and other less-known info behind each phrase.
Blue Blood
The phrase ‘blue blood’ originates from an old sentiment that aristocratic blood was blue. Normally used to describe royal family members.
Example in use: “I often remind my husband that I have blue blood flowing through my veins.”
Zip Your Lip
The phrase ‘zip your lip’ is used to say that one should remain silent or keep a secret.
Example in use: “I zipped my lip at yesterday’s meeting, as there was no point in saying anything.”
Upper Hand
The phrase “upper hand” is mostly used to describe someone who made a decision based on his/her dominant position.
Example in use: “In this case, the president has an upper hand in the decision making and not the congress.”
A Dish Fit For The Gods
The phrase ‘A dish fit for the gods’ is another Shakespeare’s gem. It means that a meal is of high caliber.
Example in use: “I ate this delicious vegetarian dish at the new restaurant. It was a dish fit for the gods.”
On The Ball
The phrase ‘on the ball’ is a used to say when someone understands the situation very well.
Example in use: “Dana is totally on the ball since she started taking her vitamin supplements every day.”
To Hear Something Straight From The Horse’s Mouth
The phrase ‘to hear something straight from the horse’s mouth’ means that you heard the information from someone who has personal knowledge on the spoken matter.
Example in use: “I don’t believe it that she did it. I’m going to go to ask her and hear it straight from the horse’s mouth.”
Not A Spark Of Decency
The phrase ‘not a spark of decency’ refers to someone who has no or very rude manners.
Example in use: “Class 207 showed not a spark of decency by refusing to stand up when their principle entered the classroom”.
Put Wool Over Other People’s Eyes
The phrase: ‘put wool over other people’s eyes’ means to deceive or trick somebody.
Example in use: “He’s too smart for you to try and put wool over his eyes. Think twice before you do it.”
A Leopard Never Changes Its Spots
The phrase “a leopard never changes its spots” means that it’s impossible for one to change their character, even if they will try very hard. The expression, sometimes also used as “a leopard can’t change its spots”, is used to explain the idea that no one can change their innate nature.
Examples in use:
“Brendan: ‘Do you think he’ll ever stop lying to us?’ William: ‘I doubt it; after all, a leopard never changes its spots.’ ”
“The teacher tried to be kind to her students, but a leopard can’t change its spots, she was still very mean.”