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To go overboard: to over do something.
Ex: I always go overboard at Christmas and spend too much money on presents.
To rack (one’s) brain: to frantically try to remember something or find a solution to something.
Ex: I’ve been racking my brains trying to remember where I know that guy from.
To come across (something/someone): to find something/someone (usually by chance).
Ex: I came across this article about my old school when I was reading the paper this morning.
I couldn’t believe my eyes/ears: used when you what you are seeing/hearing is unbelievable.
Ex: I couldn’t believe my eyes when he finally stood up to that bully.
To stand up to someone/something. To stand up for something/someone: both of these phrases are used to mean that you’ve bravely said your opinion or have defended yourself/something against a more powerful force (a bully etc.). The first phrase is used when you directly defend yourself and the second phrase is used when you are defending someone/something else.
Ex 1: I finally stood up to my boss and told him what I thought of him.
Ex 2: In the end you have to stand up for what you believe in.
Rub off on (someone): when you are influenced by someone’s attitude or behaviour after spending time with them.
Ex: After spending a week with such nice a family, I hope that some of that good behaviour has rubbed off on Harry.
Once in a blue moon: very very occasionally.
Ex: I do drink, but only once in a blue moon.
It will blow over: used to mean that a bad/difficult situation will pass.
Ex: I know it feels bad now, but I promise it will all blow over and we will return to normal soon.
Keep your hair on!!: used when you want to tell someone not to overreact (this is not that polite).
Ex: Ok keep your hair on, it’s not that serious.
To show (someone) up: to embarrass someone.
Ex: He really showed himself up when he refused to help us with the preparations for the party. I mean it was his idea in the first place.
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Phrases, Idioms, Phrasal Verbs Quiz 9