The roof is on fire
On fire: This phrase usually describes something that is burning or raging. In general, on fire implies that the fire is out of control. It is usually used as an expression of imminent danger or emergency.
Example: I can see smoke coming from the roof. The roof is on fire!
Take a chill pill
Chill Pill: This phrase, while originating in drug slang, can now be used as a metaphor for calming down in high-stress situations. The phrase is often used by brave people who are trying to resolve a volatile situation without resorting to violence.
Example: The temperature was rising in the room, and people looked to be on the brink of a fight. Someone suggested that we all “take a chill pill” and back off our heated arguments.
Bad to the bone
Bad to the Bone: This phrase is used to describe someone (or something) as evil or rebellious. It originally came from blues music, when artists would use it to hint at sullen or dangerous behavior. Now, it is often used in a playful way, sometimes to describe creatures such as dragons.
Example: My brother’s new tattoo is a dragon that looks really bad to the bone!
Let the cat out of the bag
Let the cat out of the bag: This phrase describes letting a secret out for everyone to hear, usually unintentionally. It comes from a scam during the 1700s, where someone would be tricked into buying a pig that was hidden in a bag. The modern phrase is used to describe anyone who reveals information that was meant to be kept secret.
Example: The truth came spilling out and everyone knew the truth. She had let the cat out of the bag.
Barking up the wrong tree
Barking up the wrong tree: This phrase is used to describe someone who is trying the wrong approach, usually related to problem-solving. In the 1600s, dogs used to hunt raccoons by barking at the tree they were hidden in. However, they sometimes barked at other trees or mistakenly barked at a tree with no raccoon. The modern phrase is used to describe someone who is making erroneous assumptions.
Example: We’ve been trying to solve the problem for days, but I think we are barking up the wrong tree. Let’s try a different approach.
