Newsletter Lesson #05
Idioms starting with 'D'
Hello, and welcome to another newsletter lesson. Today is a look at idioms - phrases that native English speakers use which can be hard to understand.
This lesson has a look at four idioms starting with ‘d’.
deep pockets
meaning: wealthy; able to fund/afford a lot of things
(because a rich person needs big pockets to carry all their money)
Examples
The project has been a disaster so far, but the owners have deep pockets. They are, however, beginning to get a little angry with the amount of time things are taking.
It seems the only way to have a winning football team now is for it to have deep pockets; money has become more important than coaching.
The start-up has a good idea, but unless it is able to find someone with deep pockets to bankroll it’s expansion and some marketing, it’ll never be able to break into the market.
down the drain
meaning: a complete waste (often used for money, work, or time)
(because it is like pouring your money, work, or time down the sink)
Examples
The project had been going well when suddenly the backers pulled out. Six months and half a million dollars straight down the drain.
I bought a TV yesterday, only to find it doesn’t work with my satellite connection. All that money down the drain.
Our team just bought a new player for $10m, and he is totally useless. Our whole transfer budget down the drain.
dig your heels in
meaning: to resist pressure from others to do something; to stick to your plan despite others wanting you to change
(because if you don’t want to be pulled somewhere, you press your heels into the ground)
Examples
The board thought an offer of $20m was fair, but the other company is digging its heels in, holding out for $30m.
Dave wanted to go to Disneyland, but his wife dug her heels in and said she wanted to go to Las Vegas. Eventually Dave agreed.
I don’t know why he is digging his heels in over this: if he looked at my proposal he would see it helps both of us.
drag your feet
meaning: to do something you have to, but very slowly because you don’t want to
(because when children don’t want to go somewhere they walk slowly, pulling their feet along the ground)
Examples
I sent this to the accounts department, but they seem to be dragging their feet on it. I’m not sure what their problem is, so I’m heading down there today.
The boss told Dave he had to fire three people from his department, but he has been dragging his feet, trying to think of a new plan.
The council has been dragging its feet on releasing the money for the new playpark. A lot of people think it is because a property developer is also interested in the land.
I hope that was useful for you.
Remember that more information on idioms and other materials to help with your English studies can be found at the AB51 English School website.
You can also book English classes, practice time, or writing feedback by contacting jamie.wills@ab51.org.
And do feel free to share or subscribe to this newsletter lesson if you think it can help you or a friend.
Until next time.