O
Idioms beginning with "O"
Part of speech, explanation, example sentences, pronunciation
No categories:
Contents of O:
[one up] {adj. phr.}
Having an advantage; being one step ahead,
John graduated from high school; he is one up on Bob, who dropped out.
The Platters are one up on their neighbors. They own the only color television set in their neighborhood.
[one-upmanship] {v.}, {informal}
Always keeping ahead of others; trying to keep an advantage.
No matter what I do, I find that Jim has already done it better. He's an expert at one-upmanship.
* /Jack took the news to the principal while we were […]
[on faith] {adv. phr.}
Without question or proof.
He said he was twenty-one years old and the employment agency took him on faith.
He looked so honest that we accepted his story on faith.
[on file] {adv. phr.}
Placed in a written or electronic file; on record.
We are sorry we cannot hire you right now but we will keep your application on file.
[on foot] {adv.} or {adj. phr.}
1. By walking.
Sally's bicycle broke and she had to return home on foot.
2. Being planned.
The reporter said that a civil rights demonstration was on foot.
* /Plans have been set on foot for a party for Miss […]
[on guard] {adj. phr.}
Watchful; watching.
The police warned people to he on guard for pickpockets during the Christmas rush.
Two men are on guard at the door.
Contrast: [OFF GUARD].
[on hand] {adv. phr.}
1a. Nearby; within reach.
Always have your dictionary on hand when you study.
1b. Here.
Soon school will end and vacation will be on hand.
2. Present.
* /Mr. Blake's secretary is always on hand when he appears in […]
[on hold] {adv. phr.}
1. Left waiting while making a telephone call.
"Sorry sir," the secretary said, "I'll have to put you on hold for a minute."
2. Waiting; temporarily halted.
* /"Put your marriage plans on hold, son, and wait until after […]