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Third time lucky
The idiom third time lucky means that after failing twice, someone hopes the third attempt will succeed.The saying has been used in English since the 1800s and reflects a long standing belief that the number three can bring good fortune. Because of this, many people repeat something three times and hope the third attempt succeeds.
After two failed attempts to start the engine, he turned the key again and said third time lucky!
Three strikes and you're out
The idiom three strikes and you're out means that after three mistakes or failures, someone loses their chance or faces a consequence. It means there is a limit to how many times someone can fail before action is taken.The phrase comes from baseball, where a batter is out after three strikes during their turn at bat. Because the rule is clear and final, the expression became a way to describe reaching the last allowed mistake.
After missing the deadline twice already, he knew that if it happened again it would be three strikes and you're out.
Throw a curve ball
To throw a curve ball means something unexpected or difficult happens.The expression comes from baseball. A curveball is a pitch that bends as it travels toward the batter, making it harder to predict and hit.
The sudden rule change threw a curve ball at everyone preparing for the competition.
Throw in the towel
The phrase throw in the towel means to give up. It means that you are stopping because something is too difficult.This saying originates from boxing, where a boxer would throw down his towel to say he is surrendering.
He almost threw in the towel, but kept going.
To exchange blows
To exchange blows means that two people are hitting each other during a fight. It can describe a physical fight or a heated argument where both sides attack each other with strong words.The phrase comes from boxing and other forms of fighting, where a blow is a punch or strike. When opponents exchange blows, each person hits the other in turn.
The two boxers stepped into the ring and began to exchange blows as the crowd cheered.
Touch base
To touch base means making brief contact with someone to share information or check on progress.The phrase comes from baseball. A runner must touch each base while moving around the field. Missing a base can mean being called out.
Let's touch base tomorrow morning about the project.