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Across the board
The phrase across the board means applying to everyone or everything equally no matter the situation. No one is treated differently. It is often used for rules, prices, or changes.The term originates from American horse racing, where betting "across the board" meant placing bets on the same horse to finish first (win), second (place), or third (show) on the betting board.
Prices were reduced across the board.
Against all odds
The phrase against all odds means succeeding despite very low chances, a term originating from chances in betting. It highlights determination, luck, or both. People use it to describe surprising success.Against all odds, the injured runner finished the race.
Against the clock
You are working against the clock or against time when you are working fast to finish something by a specific time.This idiom is drawn from timed competitions where there is a fixed time for a contest.
He was racing against the clock to finish his assignment on time.
Ahead of the game
The idiom ahead of the game means being well prepared or more advanced than others. It suggests planning and smart thinking. This idiom likely stems from sports gambling, where you gained an advantage if you were already ahead.By studying early, she stayed ahead of the game.
All dolled up
All dolled up means to make yourself look pretty using makeup and fancy clothes. It is commonly used to describe getting ready for a party or event.She got all dolled up for the end of year function.
All in the same boat
The idiom all in the same boat means everyone is in the same situation, or sharing the same circumstances. Good or bad, it affects everyone equally. The orgin of this idiom is the literal image of a group of people all in the same boat.We all failed the test, so we’re in the same boat.
All of a Sudden
The phrase all of a sudden means happening quickly and without warning. It is often used for surprising events.It is simply a common way of saying something happened suddenly.
All of a sudden, the dog started barking.
All work and no play
The idiom all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy means that only focussing on work with no time for leisure makes a person boring and unhappy.
Apple of my eye
The idiom the apple of my eye means someone who is loved very much. It is often used for children or close family members. The origin is from 9th century Old English, when the pupil of the eye was called the "apple". If you called someone the apple of your eye it meant they were as precious to you as your ability to see.My daughter is the apple of my eye.