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To get the better of someone: this is used when someone/thing has an advantage over someone else. It has the feeling of someone being affected negatively by someone else. So if someone always manages to beat you at something, or if they can always upset you on purpose, we would say that they always get the better of you.
Example: Even though I try to ignore his comments, he always manages to get the better of me and I end up being stressed.
To get over something: This means that you have recovered from a problem or an illness.
Example: I was sad when I broke up with my girlfriend but I got over it after a few months.
To bide one’s time: This means that you are going at your own pace and are being patient but you will take action when you feel the time is right.
Example: The boxer just bided his time and then attacked at the end of the round when his opponent was tired.
Out of control: this means that the situation/person has gone wild and can’t be controlled.
Example: She was out of control when she was younger but she seems very respectable now.
Out of my hands: This means that you are no longer in charge of the situation. It is no longer your responsibility.
Example: I wish I could help you but since I was transferred, it’s really out of my hands.
To be full of oneself: this is used to describe an arrogant person.
Example: I can’t stand that guy he’s always bragging, he’s so full of himself.
To be a cop out (U.K): this is used when someone takes the weak option and doesn’t take the brave option.
Example: That film was such a cop out, it could have been thought provoking but in
the end it was just another pro-
Spit it out: this is used when someone is hesitating from saying something and you order/ask them to say what they are trying to say. (This is not really polite).
Example: A) Ummm……I want to…. Ummmm….
B) Spit it out!
A) I want to quit.
To stick to one’s guns: This is when you don’t back down and you stick to what you believe. Even if someone tries to change your mind you stay with your opinion.
Example: I respect people who stick to their guns. I find people who change their minds easily a bit difficult to deal with.
To back down: This is when you concede, or when you stop defending your position.
Example: Her husband backs down too easily and she always gets her own way.
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Phrases, Idioms, Phrasal Verbs Quiz 13