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CLOSE IN: We were halfway up the mountain when the fog suddenly closed in. Within minutes, we couldn’t see more than a metre ahead.
To gradually move closer to the speaker and restrict his space or visibility (often used for weather, like storms or fog, or danger, like an enemy or anxiety)
TALK (SBD) INTO (STH): I told him I didn’t want to buy it, but somehow he talked me into getting the expensive version.
Persuade someone to do something they were initially unwilling to do.
FALL THROUGH: We were supposed to launch the new website last week, but everything fell through when the developers missed their deadline.
Fail to happen or be completed (especially plans or arrangements).
DRAG (STH) OUT: She could’ve just said “I lost the money,” but she dragged it out for twenty minutes, telling a long, unnecessary story.
Make something last longer than necessary.
LAY INTO (SBD): The manager laid into the team after they missed the deadline — he shouted, blamed everyone, and slammed the door on his way out.
Attack someone verbally; criticise angrily.
SLEEP (STH) OFF: I had an awful hangover the next morning after the party. I just stayed in bed all day to sleep it off.
Recover from the effects of something (usually alcohol) by sleeping.
PETER OUT: At first, the protest was loud and energetic, but by midday, the crowd had thinned and the chanting slowly petered out.
Gradually become smaller, weaker, or less active until it stops.
HARP ON: During dinner, he kept harping on about his new car — the engine, the price, the stereo — for nearly an hour. I nearly told him to shut his mouth but I stayed patient.
Talk repeatedly and tediously about something.
SOUND (SBD) OUT: I think my parents might let me go to the concert, but I’ll sound them out first before buying tickets.
To discreetly ask someone’s opinion or try to find out what they think, usually before making a decision or taking action. Tactical. Indirect. Diplomatic.
STORM OUT: As soon as she saw the email, she slammed her laptop shut, shouted “Unbelievable!” and stormed out of the room.
Leave a place angrily and suddenly. (Also: STORM IN: Enter a place angrily and suddenly.)
