All Bark and No Bite

 
 
 
What do the following idioms mean? Think of examples of these idiomatic sentences.

Expressions

All Bark and No Bite

11. All bark and no bite:
Some politicians and leaders were all bark and no bite, while others speak quietly and carries a big stick. Give examples of this.

12. It’s all Greek to me: something very confusing, incomprehensible.
Give examples when you or your friend would say, “It’s all Greek to me.” What’s all Greek to you?

13. All in the same boat: in a similar (negative) circumstance.
Is everyone on the planet in the same boat? Are we all in the same boat?

14. Cost him and arm and a let: a great sacrifice.
“This cost me an arm and a leg,” said the refugee (migrant, immigrant). What was he talking about? Why did this happen?

15. An axe to grind: be angry, resentful with someone; to have a conflict.
Many Hollywood actors and politicians have an axe to grind. What do you think?

At the Drop of a Hat

16. At the drop of a hat: instantaneously.
Don is pretty lazy and procrastinates. But he does certain things at certain times at the at the drop of a hat. What does this mean?

17. Back seat driver: someone who criticizes and complains but does nothing or is not involved.
I like back seat drivers. Is this correct or incorrect? Are there back seat drivers at your school, workplace or government? What do they talk about?

18. Go back to square one: to fail and start all over.
“It’s back to square one.” Who might say this? When do they say this? Has this happened to you at work?

19. Barking up the wrong tree: to misplace priorities, scolding the wrong person or issue.
Do politicians, lawmakers, police or authority often bark up the wrong tree?

20. Beat around the bush: to speak indirectly; not get to the point.
Children, employees, managers and politicians often beat around the bush. Do you agree? Give examples. Why do they beat around the bush?

21. Bend over backwards: to really put in extra effort; to go out of one’s way (rather negative).
Peter bends over backwards to help Miss Bradley. Why does he bend over backwards? Is this good or bad?