Phrases in English




Word Meaning
what’s yer poison Eye dialect of what’s your poison
time will tell (Idiomatic) Events and outcomes cannot be known beforehand.
I’m good (informal) No: used when asked whether one wants or needs something, etc.
nice to meet you A polite expression used when the speaker is first introduced to someone.
spring forward, fall back A mnemonic to advise how clocks are altered for Daylight Saving Time: time goes forward in the Spring, and back in Fall
what’s your job Inquires about the subject’s current occupation.
once or twice (Idiomatic) A small, indefinite number of times.
AINEC (Internet slang) Initialism of and it’s not even close
you could have fooled me What you now tell me is true I thought was false, or I nonetheless think is false; I don’t believe you.
Appendix:Snowclones/I’m here to X A and Y B, and I’m all out of A (snowclone) Said before doing something (X A or Y B), usually with a determined, resolute tone.
what’s your name Alternative form of what is your name
why not Zoidberg (internet slang
rhetorical
sarcastic
) Call of attention to something that is ridiculous.
time you got a watch (humorous) A phrase used to reply to the question what time is it?.
AOB Any other business.
I’m Hindu indicates that the speaker is a follower of Hinduism
fair play (colloquial
UK
Irish
) used to acknowledge or congratulate for something.
CU (philately) in stamp descriptions, commercially used.
what’s your phone number Asks the interlocutor to give his or her phone number for subsequent communication.
after the jump Used to introduce an inline advertisement in a webpage etc.
cease fire (military) Stop engaging in hostile acts, particularly those involving firearms. A command that troops end the existing status of engaging in hostile action.
as ever (Idiomatic) consistent with past behaviour, as expected
I’m hot Indicates that the speaker is hot (i.e. feeling the sensation of heat, especially to the point of discomfort)
best of The attainment of a majority of wins in (an odd-numbered series of games).
get well soon Expressing hope that the listener will soon recover from illness.
what’s your poison (informal) Used to ask someone what alcoholic beverage they would like to drink.
when is closing time when is closing time?
yes and amen An emphatic agreement.
you don’t dip your pen in the company inkwell Alternative form of you don’t dip your pen in company ink
I’m hungry I’m hungry.
short of Except; without resorting to; up to the point of.
bbiab (Internet slang) Be back in a bit.
what’s yours (informal) What do you want to drink?
duces tecum (legal) Bring with you.
after you A gesture, usually polite, urging another person to take a turn at something ahead of the speaker.
yes and no &lit yes
and
no
I’m in love with you A declaration of passion or romantic feeling.
after you, Alphonse An exchange indicating excessive formality or effort at politeness, particularly where two people each refuse to go forward because each insists on allowing the other to go forward first.
the pants off (Idiomatic) An intensifier used with some transitive action verbs to indicate that the action is performed with thoroughness, vigor, or complete success.
I’m Jewish Indicates that the speaker is of Jewish ethnic descent.
few sandwiches short of a picnic (Idiomatic) Exhibiting disquiet or unsoundness of mind; not sane; mad.
shut the front door (euphemistic
vulgar
minced oath
) shut the fuck up (usually expressing disbelief)
bbiafm (text messaging
Internet
) Initialism of be back in a few minutes
does a bear shit in the woods (colloquial
rhetorical question
mildly
vulgar
) A rhetorical question in response to a question whose answer is an emphatic yes.
the party is over An irresponsible or carefree period has ended; it is time to be serious or take responsibility.
tomayto tomahto Alternative spelling of tomayto, tomahto
I’m looking for a grocery store Indicates that the speaker is looking for a grocery store.
BBL Abbreviation of be back later
does anyone here speak English Does anyone here speak English?
heads I win, tails you lose Said to describe a conflict in which someone has a particular advantage from the start.
tomayto, tomahto (Idiomatic) Used to dismiss a correction to one’s adherence to an alternative standard
I’m looking for a job Indicates that the speaker is looking for a job.
beneficium ordinis seu excussionis (legal) See beneficium excussionis.
stick a fork in something (idiomatic
informal
) Used to indicate that something or someone is finished, or, in a broader sense, defeated or ruined.
does Dolly Parton sleep on her back (colloquial
rhetorical question
) Synonym of is the Pope Catholic
the penny drops Understanding is reached; one comprehends.
TIAS (internet
text messaging
) Initialism of try it and see
perstat (medical) (The condition under discussion) persists.
I’m lost Indicates that the speaker is unable to find his or her way.
shut up and take my money (informal) Said about something that the speaker wants to buy immediately.
TANSTAAFL (Idiomatic) There ain’t no such thing as a free lunch; something advertised as being “free” will invariably have hidden costs.
mind you (idiomatic
colloquial
chiefly
UK
) Used to introduce a qualification or contrastive statement
I’m married Indicates that the speaker has a spouse.
isn’t it so Isn’t it true?
bbl (Internet) Alternative form of BBL Initialism of be back later
wham-bam-thank-you-ma’am Alternative form of wham, bam, thank you ma’am
does not compute (humorous) That does not make sense.
hold your fire Do not discharge your weapon. Used originally for weapons needing a spark or lighting of a fuse to ignite gunpowder; now sometimes used to mean any weapon launching a projectile.
pardon me (Idiomatic) Sorry; said as an apology
mind your own beeswax See mind your own business.
I’m mute I’m mute
SRO (initialism) standing room only
does someone look like (rhetorical question) Used if the interlocutor seems to believe something inaccurate about (someone); this question serves to free someone of a misconception.
YOLO (slang) you only live once, i.e. expressing the view that one should make the most of the present moment.
I’m not being funny (UK
idiom
) Used as a softening preface to a statement that might be taken as offensive or malicious.
leave me alone stop talking to me, stop being near me, stop interfering with my life
going once, going twice, sold Said before closing the bidding for a particular item in an auction.
does the Pope shit in the woods (idiomatic
jocular
vulgar
) Rhetorical question in response to a question where the answer is an emphatic yes.
yolo Alternative form of YOLO
you get that (informal) That’s a normal occurrence; that’s typical.
TIMTOWTDI Alternative form of TMTOWTDI
I’m not interested I’m not interested.
dafuq (vulgar
internet slang
) The fuck.
talk about &oth talk
about
here be dragons A fanciful notation, commonly attributed to historical maps, held to indicate either the belief that unknown dangers exist in a certain location on the map, or that actual dragons can be found there.
always a bridesmaid, never a bride Said of a person who has potential that is never fulfilled.
the plot thickens (idiomatic
often
_
humorous
) Used to describe an increasingly complex or mysterious situation.
TINSTAAFL (Idiomatic) There is no such thing as a free lunch; an alternative to TANSTAAFL
close, but no cigar (Idiomatic) That’s almost correct, but not quite
I’m not religious Indicates that the speaker is a not a follower of religious doctrine.
ultra vires (legal) beyond the legal power or authority of a person or body
ne bis in idem (legal) The concept that no legal action can be instituted twice for the same cause.
bound to (only
_
with a bare infinitive
) Indicates something which cannot be avoided.
always the bridesmaid, never the bride Alternative form of always a bridesmaid, never a bride
the plural of anecdote is not data anecdotal evidence is not adequate to prove something
I’m pregnant Indicates that the speaker is pregnant.
comedy equals tragedy plus time A tragic subject can be made into a comedy, given the passage of enough time.
get you (UK) An expression of encouragement, commonly used sarcastically.
heads will roll (Idiomatic) some people will be fired for incompetence
all to the better Even better.
I’m rubber, you’re glue The first line of a children’s rhyme countering an attack of character.
going to Forms a future tense.
when push comes to shove (Idiomatic) When the pressure is on; when the situation is critical or urgent; when the time has come for action, even if it is difficult.
tant pis so much the worse
you had to be there Used to indicate to the interlocutor that the situation being talked about could only be properly understood if that person had been present.
I’m scared Indicates that the speaker is scared.
you have beautiful eyes Used by the speaker to compliment the interlocutor’s eyes.
enjoy your meal Used to wish someone enjoyment of the meal they are about to eat.
I’m sick Indicates that the speaker has an illness.
doesn’t have both oars in the water (euphemistic) (of a person) crazy
you have the advantage of me (polite
dated
) You know my name, but I do not know yours; what is it, please?; you know me but I do not know you
here lies (epitaph) Written on gravestones followed by the buried person’s name.
check is in the mail (idiomatic
often
ironic
) A common excuse used by debtors to put off creditors
I’m single Indicates that the speaker does not have a spouse or romantic partner.
BBS (Internet slang) Initialism of be back soon
stick ’em up Put your hands in the air (to surrender)!
when the chips are down (Idiomatic) When the pressure is on; when the situation is urgent or critical
YKINMK (internet) Initialism of your kink is not my kink: an acknowledgement that people have different sexual preferences
you just had to Used to scold someone.
that’ll be the day (Idiomatic) Said in reply to something that one believes will never happen.
I’m sorry Indicates that the speaker is sorry
very good A polite acknowledgement of orders or statements.
lather, rinse, repeat (informal
often
_
humorous
) Indicating that an action or process was repeated, or needs to be repeated.
you kiss your mother with that mouth (rhetorical question
informal
sarcastic
) Used to indicate that the other person’s speech has become too obscene or vulgar.
that’ll do used to acknowledge something as being sufficient
the rabbit died (idiomatic
euphemistic
) Indicates one’s own pregnancy, or that someone has found out they are pregnant.
I’m straight Indicates that the speaker is a heterosexual.
in order for To indicate a possible consequence of an event or action.
when the going gets weird, the weird turn pro In times of change or upheaval, anyone can make a legitimate business from their own personal vision, however different it may be.
explicit (obsolete) Used at the conclusion of a book to indicate the end.
I’m thirsty (usually) I need some water, or want something to drink.
IMHO (Internet) Initialism of in my humble opinion
NFBSK (internet slang
rare
) Initialism of not for British schoolkids: general euphemism to replace an expletive, similar to hell
the rest is history (Idiomatic) Used to indicate that one does not need to give extra details about a story as it is too complicated or already well-known.
it depends Used to indicate that different situations may produce different results.
I’m tired Indicates that the speaker is in need of rest or sleep.
in order to As a means of achieving the specified end; to.
monkeys might fly out of my butt (North America
slang
vulgar
) A response to a situation that one thinks has no chance of ever occurring.
oh my life Synonym of oh my days
do want (chiefly
Internet slang
) Used as an expression to indicate one’s desire to have something.
would it hurt (rhetorical question) Used to point out that the interlocutor is failing to do something relatively easy that they should be doing.
you know what (Idiomatic) A phrase used to get someone’s attention before announcing something.
here you are (Idiomatic) Said when you hand something over to someone or do a favour to them, usually to draw the recipient’s attention to the exchange; Equivalent to thank you when receiving something.
all wool and a yard wide (dated) Describes someone or something of high quality.
hit it (informal) Start performing; start playing a song, etc.
I’m transgender I’m transgender
servabo fidem I shall keep faith (motto of various groups).
pound for pound Alternative spelling of pound-for-pound
bottom falls out (Idiomatic) Said about a collapse
OK yah (British
upper class
) an affirmative response
would it kill someone (rhetorical question) Indicates the speaker is annoyed that someone is not doing something they should do.
you know what I mean (colloquial) a phrase used to attempt to get the interlocutor to agree
here you go (Idiomatic) Alternative form of here you are
alone in a crowd Feeling as though one does not fit in with the people around one.
me neither (colloquial) Used to say that a negative-containing statement of the previous speaker applies to the speaker as well.
chin up (Idiomatic) Be happy; cheer up.
to be continued (television) Used at the end of an episode to indicate that the story continues in the next episode.
I’m twenty years old Indicates that the speaker is aged twenty.
vide infra see below
such is life Used to express the acceptance of misfortune.
off with someone’s head (jocular) Used to express a desire to kill the person in question.
Lord knows Alternative form of God knows
case closed The above is meant as final, not subject to amendation or variation.
yon (knitting) Acronym of yarn over needle
you know what they say Used to introduce, or alluding to, an apt adage
you’ve got to laugh Used when somebody sees the funny side to a tough situation, to remind not to take things so seriously.
ten points to Gryffindor (slang) Used to praise someone for a statement or action viewed as commendable.
that’s a relief that’s a relief (said upon hearing good news that makes someone cease to be worried about something)
I’m worried Indicates that the speaker is worried.
kill the rabbit (obsolete
idiomatic
) To get a positive test result from an old-fashioned pregnancy test.
vide supra see above
live and learn An exhortation to gain knowledge from lived experiences. Commonly used after an accident or misfortune to indicate a moral lesson.
would not throw someone out of bed an understatement meaning one finds a person sexually attractive
WWJD Initialism of what would Jesus do
catch you later (informal) An informal farewell
that’s a wrap Used to indicate that the activity being engaged in has just ended.
the rubber meets the road &lit rubber
meet
road
to be honest (Idiomatic) Frankly, honestly.
I’m your huckleberry (dated
informal
US
) I am your partner; I will join you; I will work with you; I will fight you; I will dance with you.
STC Said to contain.
off with their head Alternative form of off with someone’s head
Lord love you Said to express good will toward the listener
you learn something new every day Uttered after acquiring new knowledge.
catch you on the flip side (informal) Goodbye, farewell.
all your base are belong to us (Internet slang
humorous
) Used to tout victory over an opponent, or simply as a humorous catchphrase.
that’s all That is all I want to say. There is no more to it.
horses for courses (chiefly
Britain
idiomatic
) Different people are suited for different jobs or situations; what is fitting in one case may not be fitting in another.
HRU (Internet slang
text messaging
) How are you?
to be named later In an exchange, a unspecified example of a thing (in sports, usually a player), either not yet chosen or named publicly, at the time of a trade.
Sieg Heil The greeting Sieg Heil, used in the Third Reich during the Nazi era and by neo-Nazis today.
good night A farewell said in the evening or before going to sleep.
would you mind putting on your seat belt Politely asks someone in a vehicle to put on their seat belt.
easy does it (Idiomatic) Relax; do something gently, lightly or carefully; slow down; calm down.
that’s all she wrote (idiomatic
US
) Indicating an abrupt termination of a project, or of one’s hopes or plans.
me too That applies to me as well.
oh noes (Internet slang) oh no (compare lolz)
that’s for me to know and you to find out a phrase used to reply to a question whose answer the speaker doesn’t want to reveal
to be truthful Synonym of to be honest
still got one’s communion money (UK
Ireland
) stingy, frugal.
Good Night, Vienna Alternative form of goodnight Vienna
suo motu Synonym of sua sponte
do you accept American dollars Used to ask whether or not products or services may be paid for in American dollars.
winner, winner, chicken dinner (childish) An expression or declaration of victory, especially in a game of chance.
workers of the world, unite Laborers are encouraged to unionize or otherwise engage in collective action on a global scale in order to use the strength of their numbers to obtain better conditions.
talk of the devil (Idiomatic) Alternative form of speak of the devil
you must be fun at parties A sarcastic retort to somebody who has said something perceived as boring or pedantic.
that’s it There is nothing more to the issue. That’s all.
hit me (card games) In blackjack, said by a player to ask the dealer to deal them another card.
how about that (rhetorical question) A general statement of surprise or bemusement with regard to a particular event.; isn’t that good, or unexpected, etc.
ding, ding, ding, we have a winner (humorous) Said when somebody answers a question correctly.
do you accept credit cards Used to ask whether or not products or services may be paid for by credit card.
word has it people who gossip are saying that…, there is a rumor going around that…
woulda, coulda, shoulda An expression of dismissiveness or disappointment concerning a statement, question, explanation, course of action, or occurrence involving hypothetical possibilities, uncertain facts, or missed opportunities.
you must be new here Used to express (often sarcastically) that someone has in some way displayed their ignorance, unfamiliarity, or incompetence.
how are you (Idiomatic) An informal greeting, not requiring a literal response. Typical responses include:
do you believe in God Used to ask whether the interlocutor believes in God.
woulda, shoulda, coulda Alternative form of woulda, coulda, shoulda
that’s life Expresses acceptance of misfortune.
safety in numbers Short of there is safety in numbers
how are you doing (informal) Alternative form of how do you do
NN (internet) Not now
do you come here often A common phrase for initiating conversation with a stranger, especially one for seeking romantic involvement.
worm has turned Past of worm turns
you never know Used to speculate about a slight possibility.
that’s my Indicates approval at someone who is doing something praiseworthy.
how are you getting along (informal) A greeting roughly equivalent to how are you.
senso lato In the broad sense.
leave well enough alone To leave something alone; to avoid trying to correct, fix, or improve what is already adequate.
do you have a boyfriend Used to ask whether the interlocutor has a boyfriend.
that’s saying something (idiom) Said of something that has an even greater impact or effect than what is readily apparent, considering the context.
the shoe is on the other foot (Idiomatic) The roles of people in a situation have been reversed, such that the advantage has shifted to a party which was previously disadvantaged.
this is someone (MLE) This is what (the named person) said or did; used in recounting events, etc.
how bist (UK
_
dialect
West Country
&
West Midlands
informal
) How are you? A generic greeting.
senso stricto In the strict/narrow sense.
do you have a girlfriend Used to ask whether the interlocutor has a girlfriend.
Lord only knows Alternative form of God knows, in sense of something unknown to mortal men.
WWWWW (humorous
math
) Abbreviation of lang=en
that’s that (Idiomatic) There is nothing more to say or to do concerning the matter.
check yourself before you wreck yourself (colloquial) Consider the consequences of your actions before you end up in trouble.
this is the life (informal) An expression of bliss, an expression of happiness with one’s current situation.
how can you sleep at night A rhetorical question, used to tell someone that they should feel guilty about something.
asf Initialism of and so forth
wake up and die right (informal
used imperatively
) get a grip
aaby Abbreviation of as amended by
do you have a menu in English A question used to ask for a restaurant menu in the English language
wwwww (mathematics) Abbreviation of lang=en (used at the end of a proof)
that’s the bunny (UK
colloquial
) That is the right person or thing; that’s it.
the show must go on (Idiomatic) One must finish what one has started; things must continue no matter what.
this is where we came in (Idiomatic) Said of a situation which has become repetitive.
nod’s as good as a wink to a blind bat (simile
colloquial
) The idea/proposed action is inconsequential to the current situation.
wake up and smell the ashes (rare) Synonym of wake up and smell the coffee
on the huh (East Anglia) not level, not square, not straight
do you have any brothers or sisters Used to ask whether someone has any siblings.
dogs bark Feet hurt (are in pain).
worm turns (idiomatic
usually preceded by the
) Circumstances change so that a previously disadvantaged party gains the advantage, or vice-versa.
rien ne va plus (gambling) In roulette, an announcement made by the croupier while the wheel is spinning and no more bets can be placed.
that’s the spirit Used to encourage someone’s positive attitude.
mea culpa My fault, due to my error; I am to blame.
this just in Said to announce breaking news.
how did he die What were the circumstances of his death? (cause, etc)
more like Used to challenge another’s use of a term, replacing it with something the speaker or writer considers more pertinent.
sic semper tyrannis Thus always to tyrants; tyrannical leaders will inevitably be overthrown.
Kansai dialect group of Japanese dialects in the Kansai region (Kinki region) of Japan
do you have any pets Used to ask whether the interlocutor is an owner of pets.
alright me babber (Bristol
informal
) A generic greeting.
Elvis has left the building (Idiomatic) A phrase used to announce the end of a show, usually one performed by an Elvis impersonator.
this means war An avowal of anger towards someone, suggesting revenge is now sought.
how do Alternative form of how do you do
she could be his mother One could be someone’s parent, said of a woman older than a man.
narmean Eye dialect of
do you have children Used to ask whether somebody is a parent of children.
wya (internet slang
text messaging
) Initialism of where you at (where are you at?)
alright me lover (West Country
informal
) A generic greeting.
that’s the ticket (Idiomatic) That’s just right; that’s just what is needed.
how do I get to Please show me/tell me the best way to reach …
IC I see
shoulda, coulda, woulda Alternative form of woulda, coulda, shoulda
nome sane (AAVE) Eye dialect of know what I’m saying
guess what &lit guess
what
whenever one turns around Alternative form of every time one turns around
do you have Wi-Fi Asks if there is any available Wi-Fi connection.
alright my babber (Bristol
informal
) Alternative form of alright me babber
the story goes The story is usually depicted as follows.
how do I get to the airport Used to ask for directions in order to go to an airport.
shoulda, woulda, coulda Alternative form of woulda, coulda, shoulda
do you kiss your mother with that mouth Alternative form of you kiss your mother with that mouth
Lord willing and the creek don’t rise (idiomatic
US
informal
) Barring unforeseen circumstances.
you said it Used to express complete agreement with a previous statement by the interlocutor
alright my lover (West Country
informal
) Alternative form of alright me lover
how do I get to the bus station Used to ask for directions in order to go to a bus station.
ask me one on sport a sarcastic reply given when a person does not know the correct answer.
need I say more (colloquial
humorous
rhetorical question
) Used to say that audience can predict the result of something.
sounds like a plan (informal) Used to indicate agreement with a proposed suggestion.
put that in your pipe and smoke it (idiomatic
colloquial
pejorative
) Used after stating something surprising or undesired, to emphasize its truth. Also used after refuting an argument. Sometimes an adjective is inserted before pipe.
do you know <i>This entry exists purely in order to provide translations</i>
take a picture, it will last longer (informal) an ironic statement said after being stared at for a long time.
the streets are paved with gold (Idiomatic) Used to describe a place where it is easy to become wealthy or live well.
how do I get to the train station Used to ask for directions in order to go to a train station.
ask my arse (idiomatic
slang
) A common reply to any question; still deemed wit at sea, and formerly at court, under the denomination of selling bargains.
stop the car When giving directions to a person (for example, a taxi driver), indicates that he or she should stop the vehicle.
do you know who I am An arrogant expression of one’s importance.
wouldn’t you know (Idiomatic) Alternative form of wouldn’t you know it
YMBJ (internet
text messaging
) Initialism of you must be joke
you shouldn’t have (Idiomatic) Used to express gratitude at unnecessary generosity, especially when receiving a gift.
how do ye do Alternative form of how do you do
fans are slans (dated
fandom slang
) Science fiction fans are more intelligent and more creative than other people.
use one’s coconut (Philippines
dated
) Use one’s head; think.
bit by a barn mouse (UK
dialect
idiomatic
) tipsy
stick that in your pipe and smoke it Alternative form of put that in your pipe and smoke it
nostra sponte (legal) on its own initiative
do you mind Used to politely ask someone for a favour
but for the grace of God Were it not for God’s help, someone could have suffered that outcome.
wouldn’t you know it (Idiomatic) Expresses dismay or annoyance, especially at bad luck or misfortune.
head in the sand Exhibiting disregard or denial of a problem or threat.
the terrorists will have won (Idiomatic) Phrase used to indicate that if a specified activity is not continued or carried out, those who seek to disrupt normal activities through terror will have succeeded, which is an unacceptable result.
HMU (Internet slang
text messaging
) Initialism of hit up; contact me at a later time.
how do you do (formal) a greeting used meeting somebody. Alternatives are pleased to meet you and nice to meet you. Often not actually meant as a question (depends on the region).
please excuse my dear Aunt Sally (mathematics) A common mnemonic that is used to help people remember the order of operations, in the PEMDAS order.
much of a muchness (Idiomatic) Of two or more things, having little difference of any significance between them.
bless someone’s cotton socks Used to express affection toward the named person.
do you need help Asks the interlocutor if they require assistance
or else otherwise or as an alternative
dress for the slide, not the ride (motorcycling) When choosing clothing for riding a motorcycle, priority should be given to protective gear that helps one survive an accident.
that’s wassup (slang) This is excellent; this is cool. Used to express approval
the thick plottens (humorous) The plot thickens.
much to be said Used to assert the defensibility or advisability of what follows.
bless someone’s heart Used to express gratitude. (Compare bless you, God bless you.)
a blessing and a curse Something that is both a benefit and a burden, or that may seem initially beneficial but also brings unforeseen negative consequences
do you speak English Asks the interlocutor whether or not he or she is able to speak in the English language.
Appendix:Harry Potter/Draco Dormiens Nunquam Titillandus The motto of the fictional European school Hogwarts.
you think (Idiomatic) A sarcastic, rhetorical response to an obvious statement.
that’s what I’m talking about Used to express enthusiastic support for the referent of that.
how do you like that Said in surprise or disappointment.
art imitates life The observation that a creative work was inspired by true events; based on a true story.
please help me A request for help.
five will get you ten (Idiomatic) I strongly believe
I’ve been raped Indicates that the speaker has been raped.
GLWT Initialism of good luck
do you think you can walk Asked to find out whether an ill or wounded person is able to walk or needs to sit down or lie down.
or so Roughly, approximately.
that’s what she said (US
humorous
idiomatic
) A joking retort, intended to draw attention to a previous statement which has the potential for a risqué double entendre.
the thing is (idiomatic
colloquial
) Used to introduce the main point or issue
how do you like them apples (colloquial
rhetorical question
) directed jestingly or mockingly at someone who has received surprising information, ridiculing the situation
please pass the salt please pass the salt
I’ve been robbed Indicates that the speaker has been robbed.
nature calls (euphemistic) Used to indicate that someone (usually the speaker) feels a need to urinate or defecate.
a boon and a bane Something that is both a benefit and an affliction.
but me no buts Used to cut off objections or qualifications
or something (Idiomatic) Or something like that. Used to indicate the possibility that previously mentioned word may not be exactly correct in its applicability.
YMMV (Internet) Initialism of your mileage may vary
you welcome (African American Vernacular English) Eye dialect of you’re welcome
that’s what’s up (idiomatic
slang
) Used to express acquiescence or concurrence.
how do you pronounce this word Please say this word out loud so that I can learn how it is pronounced.
fare thee well (Archaic) Goodbye, farewell.
please repeat after me A request for the interlocutor to repeat what the speaker says next. Often used in language training.
I’ve been shot Indicates one has been shot and may require medical attention.
pot, meet kettle (informal
humorous
) Used to draw attention to hypocrisy.
NAWALT Initialism of not
a boon or a bane Something that can be either a benefit or an affliction.
where are the snows of yesteryear (rhetorical question
colloquial
) Used to emphasize that life passes quickly.
or what (Idiomatic) Or something else; allows for the existence of an unexpressed alternative to what was said.
rolling in it &lit roll
in
it
Appendix:Snowclones/that’s X for you (snowclone) Used to point out that a previously described behavior is typical of something, usually someone or a class of persons.
the toilet is clogged the toilet is clogged
how do you say…in English Common phrase used to ask how to express an idea or translate a word, often in a foreign language.
circle gets the square (jocular) An affirmative response; often used sarcastically.
more than someone has had hot dinners (informal) A very large number.
please say that again Used as request for the interlocutor to repeat what he or she said previously.
I’ve burned myself Indicates that the speaker is physically hurt due to contact with fire or heat.
different strokes A shortened version of different strokes for different folks
where are the toilets Alternative form of where is the toilet
or words to that effect (Idiomatic) used to indicate a paraphrase or the chance of an error in the details of reported speech.
you win Used to express resignation. To concede defeat even though one is not convinced of the opposing arguments.
how do you spell this word I want to know how this word is written.
to hell with A phrase used to show displeasure or disregard to something.
in virtue of which by which
please sit down Offering a seat to somebody.
where are we What is our current location?
out to intending to (do a specified action)
ymts (Internet slang) Initialism of you mean to say
YOYO Initialism of you’re on your own
am I right (colloquial
rhetorical question
) Said by someone who has just stated what he or she considers to be an unassailable truth.
IDR (Internet
text messaging
) Initialism of I don’t remember (or recall)
in potentiâ (with marked ablative) Alternative spelling of in potentia
tt Abbreviation of ’tis true
please speak more slowly Used to ask the interlocutor to speak more slowly.
I’ve lost my keys (UK) Indicates that the speaker has lost his or her keys.
where are we going where are we going?
but who’s counting (colloquial
rhetorical question
sarcastic
humorous
) Used as a retort or comeback, often to deprecate oneself or another for excessive concern or attention to detail.
dyor (informal) Initialism of do your own research
you wish (idiomatic
colloquial
) Used to express the speaker’s skepticism about a preceding statement concerning some desired or assumed state of affairs.
am I right or am I right (colloquial
rhetorical question
) Alternative form of am I right
how goes it (Idiomatic) An informal greeting roughly equivalent to how are you.
methinks the lady doth protest too much Alternative form of the lady doth protest too much
please turn left When giving directions to a person (for example, a taxi driver), indicates that he or she should turn left.
could be written on the back of a postage stamp (figuratively) Is very small or limited.
I’ve never heard it called that before (informal) Used to draw attention to a possible double entendre in the immediately preceding utterance of another speaker.
where are you where are you? (used over the phone or while texting, for example)
you wish, jellyfish (childish) Synonym of you wish
am I under arrest Asked to authority, to ascertain if one is being detained.
methinks thou dost protest too much Alternative form of the lady doth protest too much
please turn right When giving directions to a person (for example, a taxi driver), indicates that he or she should turn right.
bang to rights (British) &lit bang (adverb), to rights
gimme a break (informal) An expression of disbelief
where are you from In which country or region were you born or raised?
revenge is sweet Said when one is satisfied with taking revenge on oneself.
’tis the season Indicating that it is the time of year around Christmas, and that things associated with that time period are happening or likely to happen.
pull the other one Alternative form of pull the other one, it’s got bells on
where are your parents where are your parents?
out with it Used to tell somebody to reveal a secret.
have a good one phrase used when parting.
how long is a piece of string (colloquial
often
humorous
) Used as a response to a question such as “How long will it take?” or “How big is it?” when the length or size is unknown, infinite, or variable.
ay up me duck (chiefly
Midlands
informal
) A generic greeting.
before you can say Jack Robinson Very quickly; quicker than one expects.
pull the other one, it’s got bells on (idiomatic
jocular
) Expresses disbelief.
where away (nautical) A query uttered by the officer of the deck as to the direction of an object sighted by the lookout.
only time will tell (Idiomatic) Alternative form of time will tell
could fit on the back of a postage stamp Alternative form of could be written on the back of a postage stamp
before you can say knife Very quickly; quicker than one expects.
pull the other one, it’s got brass bells on Alternative form of pull the other one, it’s got bells on
where can I find a hotel Please direct me to a hotel.
the wheels came off (Idiomatic) Synonym of the wheels fell off
angel passes Used to denote an awkward pause.
how many languages do you speak how many languages do you speak?
could go all day One has much to say about something, but chooses to say only a fraction of it.
sleep tight If you keep yourself tightly bundled you will sleep warm and rest well.
nature vs nurture Comparing innate skills with learned skills.
practice, practice, practice emphatic guidance on the importance of practice to learning a skill or similar
where do I sign up (rhetorical question) Expresses interest in doing something.
WYCIWYG (Internet
acronym
) What you cache is what you get: A URI scheme specific to the Mozilla family of web browsers which indicates that a link should be preferentially fetched from cache instead of from the web server.
help is on the way help is on the way
many thanks An expression of gratitude, expressing greater gratitude than thank you or thanks.
the wheels came off the bus (Idiomatic) Synonym of the wheels fell off
mercy bucket (humorous) Eye dialect of merci beaucoup
how many siblings do you have Used to ask how many brothers or sisters someone has.
pleased to meet you A polite formula used when being introduced to somebody.
could have fooled me Alternative form of you could have fooled me
CPCFC (geometry) Initialism of corresponding parts of congruent forms are congruent
DILLIGAFF (US
military slang
) Acronym of does it look like I give a flying fuck?
where do you live Used to ask where the person lives.
the wheels came off the wagon (Idiomatic) Synonym of the wheels fell off
mercy buckets (jocular) thanks a lot
where do you live at (nonstandard) Alternative form of where do you live
you’d better believe it Used to emphasise a previous comment
than a bygod (colloquial
idiomatic
) Used with a comparative to express extreme heat or cold.
the wheels fell off (Idiomatic) Something failed, often after a laborious, tiring process.
could have, would have, should have Expressing regret at something that cannot now be changed.
where does it hurt Asked to find out where a wounded or ill person is feeling pain.
hell if I know (idiom
vulgar
) Synonym of I don’t know
you’d complain if you were hung with a new rope (humorous) Said as a mild admonishment to somebody who is always complaining.
the wheels fell off the bus (Idiomatic) Synonym of the wheels fell off
every good boy deserves fudge (music
mnemonic
) A mnemonic phrase to help remember the order of the five lines on a musical treble stave in order from the bottom to the top: E G B D F.
could I see the menu, please Said in a restaurant, to ask for the menu.
SITI (aviation
travel
fare construction
dated
) Sold inside, ticketed inside. (relative to the country of origin of travel).
where does this bus go Used to ask where the bus is going.
help wanted Indicates that a position of employment is open.
the wheels fell off the wagon (Idiomatic) Synonym of the wheels fell off
how much do I owe you Asking how much money is to be paid for products or services.
where does this train go Used to ask where the train is going.
how much do you charge Used to ask a professional the monetary cost of his/her services.
ICBW (internet) Initialism of I could be wrong
steady as she goes (nautical) A cry to a helmsman to keep on the current course.
put the same shoe on every foot To attempt to apply a single solution to different problems.
suck my cock (idiomatic
vulgar
offensive
) An expression of discontent or aggravation to another party.
where have you been where have you been?
temper temper (Idiomatic) Used to tell someone to control their (bad) temper
eid mubarak (Islam) A customary Muslim greeting on the days of Eid ul-Adha and Eid ul-Fitr at the end of Ramadan.
how much does it cost What is its price?, How much money do you want for it?
IDST (UK
slang
used in graffiti
) Initialism of if destroyed still true
Appendix:Snowclones/in X, no one can hear you Y (snowclone) Indicates a threat of imminent danger. X is often limited to words having something to do with space (e.g. cyberspace). Y is a sound made by humans, especially ‘scream’.
coulda, shoulda, woulda Alternative form of woulda, coulda, shoulda
BEDMAS (mathematics
acronym
) Brackets, exponents, division, multiplication, addition, subtraction; a mnemonic for arithmetic order of precedence, with B first and AS last.
give credit where credit is due Alternative form of credit where credit’s due
boom goes the dynamite Indicating that something spectacular has happened, particularly where a plan or an effort has successfully culminated.
suck my dick Alternative form of suck my cock
where is the toilet (British
literal
) Direct me to the restroom (US) or WC (British).
wyd (internet slang
text messaging
) Initialism of what you doing (what are you doing?)
YO Abbreviation of years old
Eid Mubarak Alternative form of eid mubarak
how much is it how much does it cost?
in your dreams (idiomatic
colloquial
) Used to express the speaker’s skepticism about another’s preceding statement about a desired or assumed state of affairs.
ISHYGDDT (internet slang) Initialism of I seriously hope you guys don’t do this; used to indicate that the speaker does not approve of something previously mentioned
coulda, woulda, shoulda Alternative form of woulda, coulda, shoulda
queer as Dick’s hatband See Dick’s hatband.
nulla poena sine lege Alternative spelling of nulla pœna sine lege
suck my penis Alternative form of suck my cock
what a lovely day The day is lovely.
ono Abbreviation of or nearest offer
svidaniya Only used in do svidaniya
to save one’s life (informal) at all (Used with “can’t”, “couldn’t” etc. to emphasize a lack of skill)
ICCL I couldn’t care less (phrase used to express an uncaring opinion towards a subject)
IDTS (internet slang
text messaging
) Initialism of I don’t think so
exsqueeze me (humorous) Excuse me.
nulla pœna sine lege (legal) The principle that a person shall receive no punishment unless he has committed an offence as explicitly defined in a law.
like a martin to his gourd (US
regional
) Straight, unerringly, directly.
what a pity Used to express regret or disappointment about an unfortunate event or piece of information.
HAND Initialism of have a nice day
you’ll be late for your own funeral (humorous) Said as a mild admonishment to somebody who is always late for things.
every man for himself An expression of indifference, that everyone should forget about comradeship and save themselves.
size matters (jocular) Used to assert the opinion that sexual partners prefer men with larger penises, or that penis size has an effect on the quality of an act of intercourse.
KAT Initialism of kill all taigs

Note: these words have been obtained from Wiktionary and have been classified and improved through automated computer linguistics processes.