I thought I’d have more responsibility in my new job, but I’m just playing second fiddle to Victoria.
To play a subordinate role to someone.
The teacher said I was lazy, that I needed to study more, and all that jazz.
Similar things, similar qualities, etcetera.
We didn’t know that her performance last night was the singer’s swan song.
A final act before dying or ending something. According to folklore, swans sing most beautifully just before they die.
The musician set my lyrics to music.
To write a piece of music to accompany a set of words.
Can you guys please be quiet? Your chin music is distracting me from my work.
Meaningless talk.
Now that hard cider is becoming popular in American bars, many companies are jumping on the bandwagon and releasing their own versions.
To follow a trend or craze.
The team is behind 4-1, but it’s not over till the fat lady sings.
The situation may change; nothing is certain until the conclusion.
My staff has to do what I say because I’m the boss, and I call the tune here!
Making important decisions and controlling a situation.
The woman in the portrait struck a chord with me, and I realized that it was my grandmother.
Used to describe something that is familiar to you, reminds you of something or is connected to you somehow.
My brother’s eschewed the idea of a full-time career and has had every odd ball job you could think of, but then he’s always been happy marching to the beat of his own drum.
When someone does things the way they want to, without taking anybody else or anything else into consideration.
My friend Scott is visiting this weekend. - Oh, that name doesn't 'ring a bell'.
When something does (or doesn’t) sound familiar.
This elevator music is putting me to sleep, so let’s go walk around the mall again.
Pleasant but boring recorded music that is played in public places.
I enjoy jazz and classical music, but when I want to dance, I need a four-on-the-floor beat.
In music, steady, uniformly accented beat in 4/4 time, a steady beat in four.
Elena blames Juan for the breakup of their marriage, but it takes two to tango.
When something goes wrong involving two people, it’s likely that they share the blame; cooperation is necessary.
If you keep coming in late, I’m going to have to blow the whistle and report you to the department head.
Reporting an illegal or unacceptable activity to the authorities.
If you think you can get a ticket for under $200 at Christmastime, you’re whistling Dixie.
Being unrealistically optimistic.
Of course the campaign didn’t go well. The boss sent me all second-stringers – not one single star from the sales staff.
A substitute player in a sport; a substitute for a job who is not the most talented person.
Can you believe Julia would be so tone-deaf as to talk about couples vacations on the day Carla’s divorce became final?
Not good at perceiving the impact of one’s words, insensitive.
Just because Tom can play by ear doesn’t mean he’s a great song writer.
To play a piece of music without referencing sheet music or a recording.
You may say you’re in love with your boyfriend, but you’ll be singing a different tune when you find out what he’s been up to.
Change your opinion.
Sometimes you have to blow your own trumpet to get proper credit for your work.
Brag; emphasize one’s own contributions.
The city council always dances to the tune of the large corporations in the area.
Consistently follow someone’s directions or influence.
Wow, I can’t believe they let so many things at their yard sale go for a song.
Buying or selling something at a very cheap price.
I told you not to try to sneak in, and now that you’ve been caught, you’re just going to have to face the music.
Dealing with consequences of one’s actions.
John thinks he can win the match, but he’s just whistling in the dark.
To be unrealistically confident or brave; to talk about something of which one has little knowledge.
Andy and Nick had a jam session last night and kept all the neighbours awake.
Playing improvised music in an informal setting.
News of the new president was music to my ears – she’s terrific.
Good to hear; welcome news.
Religious conservatives have been beating the drum for higher alcohol taxes.
Speak in favour of something to try to generate support.
Sometimes you have to toot your own horn to get proper credit for your work.
Emphasize your own contributions.
Jason used to dislike muffins, but now that he’s dating a pastry chef he’s changed his tune!
To alter or change one's opinion of something.
Your experience on this site will be improved by allowing cookies.