Idioms, Cliches, and Slang

The phrase "it doesn't have to be peace and war" suggests that there are alternatives to extreme positions or opposite ends of a spectrum. It implies that there can be other options or solutions that do not fall within those two extremes.

It comes from that old story about the wolf who dressed up in a sheepskin to try to catch a sheep. If the sheepdog comes along and pulls his sheepskin hood down over his eyes, the wolf can't see. If he can't see, the dog can trick him. Thus, pulling the wool over his eyes means the sheepdog is going to trick him.

Yes. The image is of someone sitting on a fence, not coming down on either side. Sitting on the fence can mean not taking any firm stand on anything, not just in an argument. See the related link for more information.

It means to completely use up. It is often used in the context of money and may mean to completely drain someone of their wealth. It could also refer to using up someone's self-esteem, energy, youth, or other qualities.

Example: "I was suspicious of his new girlfriend. She seemed like a gold digger who just wanted to suck him dry financially."

The idiom "it's all in your head" means that something is imagined or not real, and is only a product of one's thoughts or perceptions. It often implies that a person's fears or concerns are not grounded in reality.

The phrase "pulled the wool over your head" means that someone has deceived or tricked you by concealing their true intentions or manipulating you without your knowledge. It implies that you have been fooled or misled.

It could mean the person is trying to get your attention or make physical contact, depending on the context and their intention. It's important to communicate openly and set boundaries if you're uncomfortable with the gesture.

" Sitting on the fence" is an idiom that means being undecided or neutral on an issue.

The term "straw man" comes from the notion of creating a fake enemy made of straw that is easier to attack or defeat than a real opponent. In the fallacy, a weak or distorted version of an argument is presented to make it easier to knock down, similar to attacking a straw dummy instead of a real person.

"Spilled the beans" is an idiom. There isn't another idiom for it.

It means you wear glasses.
it is when they count your eyes and the lenses in your glasses. 2+2=4

To "clam up" means to suddenly stop talking or become silent, usually due to feeling uncomfortable, anxious, or unwilling to share information. It can also refer to becoming secretive or uncommunicative in a situation.

The idiom "stuck between a rock and a hard place" is used to describe a situation where someone is faced with two equally difficult choices or options. It conveys a sense of being trapped or having limited options for resolution.

I've never heard it. Pickles are sour anyway, so a bad one might be something that's really horrible, but if it is an idiom it is an uncommon one, so I'd not try to use it.

To share the same point of view as someone else. To be in agreement on some topic.

To get behind something means to support it.

The origin of the phrase "clown clams" as an idiom is not clear, but it is likely a playful and imaginative term coined by someone to describe an amusing or whimsical situation or person. It is not a commonly recognized idiom in the English language.

The burning question is simply: How did this expression, so easily understood, become mistaken for an idiom?

Cockney slang similar "Bird" & the Americans "Chick", the Aussies "Shelia".

This phrase means it is easier to make mistakes or reveal secrets with speech than with actions. It suggests that people are more likely to say things they regret or divulge sensitive information by talking rather than doing something physically.

Does it make any sense the way it looks? No, because why would someone hold their nose to a grindstone? This is an idiom because you can't figure out what it means just by reading it.

Words can shift from slang to formal or vice versa due to changes in society, culture, and generational preferences. Slang terms may become formalized as they gain widespread acceptance, while formal words can become slang through informal usage among specific social groups or through popular media influence. Additionally, language evolution, technological advancements, and global trends can also impact the transformation of words between slang and formal language.

Looking at something ruefully means viewing it with a sense of regret, disappointment, or sorrow. It often involves reflecting on past actions or situations with a mix of resignation and wistfulness.

I'm guessing they don't like you for some reason. Very possibly it is some stupid reason.