"How did you know that Mr Roberts is going to resign?" "I got it straight from the _____'s mouth." (information that comes from someone who is directly involved – in this case, from Mr Roberts)

What do you think of our new English teacher? Personally I think she's a bit of a cold _____. (someone who is not very friendly)

William didn't get the promotion he wanted last year, and he's had a _____ in his bonnet about it ever since. (to be very involved in something that you think is important, in a way that other peoplefind annoying)

I always thought Laurence was rather shallow and superficial, but yesterday I saw him reading a book of Renaissance poetry. He's a bit of a dark _____, isn't he? (someone with a secret, especially a secret ability, skill or achievement)

That's the third burger you've eaten. I wish you'd stop making such a _____ of yourself. (to eat a lot of food)

"Do you think I'll pass my driving test tomorrow, Julie?" "Sorry, Mark, I don't think you have a _____ in hell's chance." (to have no chance at all of doing something)

I'd love to be a _____ on the wall when Debbie tells Mr Roberts what she thinks of him! (to be able to see what people are doing without them noticing you)

The party was wonderful. We had a _____ of a time. (to have a lot of fun)

I'm not going out with you looking like that. You look like something that the _____ dragged in! Brush your hair and put on some clean clothes! (to have a very dirty or untidy appearance)

The hotel used to be the best in town, but since the new manager took over it's really gone to the _____s. (not as good at it was in the past)

It was a very simple job, but I made a _____'s ear of it. (do something very badly)

He thinks he's better than us. I wish he would get off his high _____. (stop behaving as if he knows more or is better than anyone else)

Tony! What a surprise! It's wonderful to see you again. I haven't seen you for _____'s years! (an extremely long time)