How Do You Spell THEIR?

Pronunciation: [ðˈe͡ə] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "their" can be tricky due to its irregular phonetic representation. The word is pronounced /ðɛː(r)/, with a voiced dental fricative (represented by the symbol ð) and a long vowel sound (represented by the symbol ɛː). It is commonly misused with similar-sounding words such as "there" and "they're". However, "their" is a possessive pronoun used to indicate ownership, whereas "there" refers to a location and "they're" is a contraction of "they are". Remembering the correct spelling and pronunciation of "their" is essential in written and spoken English.

THEIR Meaning and Definition

  1. Their is a pronoun used to refer to something that belongs to or is associated with a group of people, animals, or things. It signifies possession or ownership by indicating that the following noun belongs to a particular group of people.

    In specific terms, their is the third-person plural possessive pronoun. It is used when referring to something that belongs to or is related to a group of two or more individuals. For example, when indicating possession, someone might say, "They left their bags in the car."

    Similarly, their can also be employed as a pronoun when referring to a singular noun in certain situations where the gender of the possessor is unknown or generic. For instance, "Someone left their umbrella behind."

    The term their functions as a determiner as well. In this context, it is used to indicate that the following noun is associated with a particular group of individuals. For instance, "Their team won the championship," signifies that a group of individuals associated with the team emerged as champions.

    Overall, their is a versatile pronoun that allows for easy identification of possession or association with a particular group of people, animals, or things. It helps in indicating ownership or acknowledging a shared connection within a given context.

  2. Of them; of or belonging to; poss. plu. of they; their is used when prefixed to a noun or to an adjective and its noun, as their own statemnts; the form theirs is employed as the substitute for a noun, and stands alone, as, the statements are theirs, theirs is the best cultivated field.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for THEIR *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for THEIR

Etymology of THEIR

The word "their" originated from the Old English word "þǣra" or "þǣm" (pronounced thaira/thaim), which was the genitive plural form of the pronoun "they". This Old English form eventually evolved into "their" in Middle English, maintaining its function as the possessive form of "they". The term "þǣra" can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic language and further to the Proto-Indo-European root "*to-" which denotes the third person plural pronoun.

Idioms with the word THEIR

  • give sb a run for their money The idiom "give someone a run for their money" means to provide strong competition or opposition to someone, usually in a contest or competition. It suggests that the person being referred to is giving their opponent a tough challenge, making them work hard and exert significant effort to succeed. The phrase also implies that the person being challenged is not expected to win easily and might face a possible defeat.
  • rush/run sb off their feet The idiom "rush/run someone off their feet" means to keep someone extremely busy or overwhelmed with tasks or duties, often to the point of exhaustion. It implies a state of being constantly on the move, rushing from one task to another, unable to catch a break.
  • frighten/scare the wits out of sb, at frighten/scare sb out of their wits The idiom "frighten/scare the wits out of someone" or "frighten/scare someone out of their wits" means to cause extreme fear or terror in someone. It suggests that the person is so scared that their ability to think or reason effectively is momentarily lost.
  • frighten/scare sb out of their wits The idiom "frighten/scare sb out of their wits" means to intensely scare, terrify, or alarm someone to the point where they become extremely frightened or panicked. It implies that the person's fear is so intense that it affects their ability to think or reason clearly.
  • send sb away with a flea in their ear The idiom "send sb away with a flea in their ear" means to dismiss or reject someone in a particularly harsh or reprimanding manner. It implies a scolding or rebuke that leaves the person feeling embarrassed, chastised, or humiliated.
  • bring sb out of their shell, at come out of your shell The idiom "bring someone out of their shell" or "come out of your shell" refers to the act of helping someone become more sociable, confident, or open in social situations. It suggests that the person tends to be introverted, shy, or reserved, and by bringing them out of their shell, they are encouraged to engage more actively and comfortably with others.
  • show sb in their true colours The idiom "show sb in their true colours" means to reveal someone's true nature, character, or intentions, especially when they act differently in various situations or when they try to hide their true self. It refers to a situation where someone's real personality or motives are exposed, often highlighting negative qualities or hidden agendas that were previously unknown or disguised.
  • beat sb at their own game The idiom "beat someone at their own game" means to outwit or outperform someone in a situation where they are known to be skilled or experienced. It refers to surpassing someone's abilities or tactics in a particular field or activity by using similar methods or strategies.
  • put sb off their stride/stroke The idiom "put someone off their stride/stroke" means to interrupt or disturb someone, causing them to lose their concentration, confidence, or rhythm in what they were doing. It refers to the disruption of someone's smooth progress or performance by unexpected external factors or distractions.
  • put sb off their stride The idiom "put someone off their stride" means to disrupt or disturb someone's rhythm, confidence, or concentration, causing them to become less effective or efficient in what they are doing. It refers to a situation where something unexpected or unsettling happens, causing a person to lose their composure or focus.
  • sb could do sth with one arm/hand tied behind their back The idiom "sb could do sth with one arm/hand tied behind their back" means that someone is capable of accomplishing a task or overcoming a challenge with great ease or mastery. It implies that the person possesses exceptional skill or ability and could successfully complete the task even under difficult circumstances.
  • sb couldn't act, argue, fight, etc. their way out of a paper bag The idiom "sb couldn't act, argue, fight, etc. their way out of a paper bag" is used to describe someone who lacks the ability or skill to accomplish a specific task or achieve a desired outcome. It implies that the person is completely incapable and incompetent.
  • sweep sb off their feet The idiom "sweep someone off their feet" means to make someone fall deeply in love or become infatuated with someone, usually through overwhelming charm, charisma, or romantic gestures. It implies that the person is completely captivated or carried away by the other person's actions or personality.
  • take sb's word for it, at take sb at their word The idiom "take someone's word for it" or "take someone at their word" means to believe what someone says without requiring any further proof or confirmation. It implies placing trust or confidence in the honesty or credibility of the person. It is often used to emphasize that one accepts someone's statement or promise as true without question.
  • give sb a dose/taste of their own medicine The idiom "give someone a dose/taste of their own medicine" means to retaliate or treat someone in the same negative or hurtful way that they have treated others. It refers to reciprocating the same kind of behavior or treatment that someone has inflicted upon others, in order to make them experience the same consequences or feelings they have caused.
  • put sb/sth through their paces The idiom "put sb/sth through their paces" means to evaluate or test someone or something thoroughly to determine their abilities, skills, or performance. It often involves subjecting them to a series of tasks or challenges to assess their capabilities or to see how they perform under pressure.
  • put their heads together The idiom "put their heads together" means for two or more people to come together and collaborate in order to solve a problem, make a decision, or come up with an idea. It implies the act of sharing thoughts, discussing, and brainstorming collectively to reach a more effective outcome.
  • catch sb with their pants/trousers down The idiom "catch someone with their pants/trousers down" refers to the act of unexpectedly finding or surprising someone in an embarrassing, unprepared, or compromising situation. It implies that the person was caught off guard or exposed in a state of vulnerability or unpreparedness.
  • when sb was a (mere) twinkle in their father's eye The idiom "when sb was a (mere) twinkle in their father's eye" refers to a period of time before someone was born or conceived. It suggests that the person being referred to did not yet exist, and their existence was merely a possibility or a future plan in the mind of their parent.
  • in his/her/their wisdom The idiom "in his/her/their wisdom" refers to a sarcastic or ironic way of describing a decision or action made by someone in a position of authority or power. It implies that the decision or action is questionable, illogical, or unintelligent, despite being made by someone who is expected to possess wisdom or expertise in the matter.
  • take sb at their word The idiom "take sb at their word" means to accept or believe what someone says without questioning or doubting their honesty or truthfulness.
  • bless their little cotton socks The idiom "bless their little cotton socks" is an affectionate and sometimes slightly patronizing expression used to describe someone's innocence, naïveté, or well-intentioned but misguided actions. It is often used to express fondness or pity towards someone, particularly when they are trying their best but might be unaware of certain realities or lacking in experience.
  • give sb their head The idiom "give sb their head" means to allow someone the freedom to act or make decisions without interference or control. It typically refers to empowering someone to have autonomy or authority over a specific situation or task.
  • put sb in their place The idiom "put somebody in their place" means to assert authority or dominance over someone who has been acting in an arrogant or disrespectful manner, making them aware of their lower position or role in a particular situation. It is often used when someone is being boastful, condescending, or trying to take advantage of others.
  • put sb off their stroke, at put sb off their stride To put someone off their stroke or off their stride means to distract or disturb them, causing them to lose their focus or rhythm in what they are doing. It refers to interrupting someone's flow or concentration, which may hinder their performance or progress in a particular activity or task.
  • play sb at their own game The idiom "play someone at their own game" means to engage or compete with someone using the same tactics, strategies, or methods that they typically employ, usually in an attempt to outperform, outwit, or defeat them. It implies that one is adapting to someone else's style or approach and turning it against them for personal advantage.
  • put sb out of their misery The idiom "put sb out of their misery" means to end someone's suffering or alleviate their distress, typically by a quick and merciful action or decision. This phrase is often used metaphorically to refer to any situation or circumstance where someone is experiencing great discomfort, anxiety, or confusion and needs relief or resolution.
  • leave sb to their own devices To "leave someone to their own devices" means to allow or leave someone to make their own decisions or choices without interference, supervision, or direction. It implies trusting someone to handle a situation or solve a problem on their own without offering guidance or intervention.
  • Birds in their little nests agree. The idiom "Birds in their little nests agree" means that people who live or work together in close quarters are more likely to maintain harmony and avoid conflicts. It implies that individuals who coexist peacefully in their respective roles or environments tend to avoid disagreements or arguments.
  • any judge/lawyer/teacher etc. worth their salt The idiom "any judge/lawyer/teacher/etc. worth their salt" refers to someone who is competent, skilled, and knowledgeable in their respective profession. It implies that the person being described possesses the necessary expertise and ability to perform their duties effectively. The phrase often emphasizes the importance of experience, qualifications, and practical skills that are expected from professionals in their field.
  • beard sb in their den The idiom "beard someone in their den" means to confront or challenge someone, especially in their own space or territory, where they typically feel safe or powerful. It implies the act of confronting someone directly, usually in a confrontational or assertive manner, in order to expose, question, criticize, or challenge their actions, beliefs, or authority.
  • keep sb on the edge of their seat The idiom "keep sb on the edge of their seat" means to keep someone in a state of excitement, suspense, or anticipation, often by providing thrilling or captivating entertainment or information. It suggests that the person is so engrossed or engaged that they are figuratively sitting at the edge of their seat, eagerly waiting to see what will happen next.
  • Coming events cast their shadows before. The idiom "Coming events cast their shadows before" means that indications or signs of future events can often be seen or felt in advance. It suggests that certain changes or outcomes can be anticipated based on the early signs or warnings that manifest beforehand.
  • would give you the shirt off their back The idiom "would give you the shirt off their back" means that someone is extremely generous and willing to help others, even at their own expense. It implies that the person is selfless and supportive, willing to go to great lengths to assist someone in need.
  • to each their own The phrase "to each their own" is an idiom that means everyone is entitled to their own preferences or opinions, and it is subjective as people have different likes, dislikes, or ways of doing things. It expresses the idea that what may be suitable or enjoyable for one person may not be the same for others, and individuals should be allowed to make their own choices without judgment or interference from others.
  • Cowards die many times before their death The idiom "Cowards die many times before their death" is a quote from William Shakespeare's play Julius Caesar. It refers to the notion that those who lack bravery or are fearful tend to experience frequent mental distress or anxiety, as if they are repeatedly facing their own demise, even though they are alive. In essence, it suggests that the fear of death or failure can prevent individuals from truly living and taking risks.
  • Men are blind in their own cause. The idiom "Men are blind in their own cause" means that people tend to be biased or lack objectivity when it comes to defending or advocating for their own interests or beliefs. It suggests that individuals may overlook flaws or fail to see the bigger picture when it comes to evaluating their own actions or positions.
  • sb's heart is in their boots The idiom "sb's heart is in their boots" typically means that someone feels extremely afraid, dejected, or disheartened. It signifies a deep sense of fear or despair that is often noticeable through a person's body language or behavior.
  • pay sb back in their own coin The idiom "pay someone back in their own coin" means to retaliate or seek revenge on someone by treating them in the same negative or hurtful manner that they treated you. It implies responding to someone's actions with similar actions, usually negative or unpleasant, as a form of retribution or justice.
  • keep sb on their toes The idiom "keep sb on their toes" means to keep someone alert, attentive, or prepared by creating a sense of challenge, uncertainty, or surprise. It implies staying vigilant and ready for any unexpected circumstances or situations.
  • take a/its/their toll The idiom "take a/its/their toll" means to have a negative or detrimental effect on someone or something, often resulting in exhaustion, damage, or loss.
  • sb could do sth with their eyes closed/shut The idiom "sb could do sth with their eyes closed/shut" is used to express that someone is very skilled or experienced at a particular task or activity. It implies that the person is so knowledgeable or proficient in the task that they can perform it effortlessly and without needing to concentrate or pay close attention.
  • Cowards die many times before their death(s). The idiom "Cowards die many times before their death(s)" means that people who are constantly afraid or lack courage experience immense fear and anxiety throughout their lives, even without any real threat or danger. They often worry excessively and are frequently consumed by their fears. This idiom highlights how a coward's internal fear can cause them to suffer emotionally, even if they are not facing any immediate physical harm or death.
  • in his/her/their (infinite) wisdom The idiom "in his/her/their (infinite) wisdom" is used sarcastically to refer to someone's decision, action, or statement that is considered foolish, irrational, or illogical. It implies that the person is making a choice that may not be well-reasoned or based on intelligence, despite claiming to possess great wisdom.
  • frighten sb out of their wits The idiom "frighten someone out of their wits" means to scare or startle someone to such an extreme extent that it overwhelms their normal capacity to think or act rationally. It implies a level of fear or terror that greatly exceeds what is typically expected or reasonable.
  • give sb their due The idiom "give someone their due" typically means to acknowledge or recognize someone's accomplishments, skills, or positive qualities, especially when they are often overlooked or underappreciated. It often suggests the need to be fair or objective in one's assessment of someone.
  • put sb/sth out of their/its misery The idiom "put someone/something out of their/its misery" means to end the suffering or discomfort of someone or something, typically by providing a quick or merciful resolution. It is often used when referring to a situation or condition that is causing pain, distress, or hopelessness.
  • put sth/sb out of their misery The idiom "put something/somebody out of their misery" means to end someone's suffering or relieve them from a difficult or unpleasant situation, typically by bringing about the end or resolution. It is often used figuratively to describe ending someone's mental or emotional suffering, or to refer to a situation or decision that has been causing distress or discomfort.
  • put sb through their paces The definition for the idiom "put someone through their paces" is to test someone's skills, abilities, or knowledge in order to evaluate their performance or competence.
  • give somebody a (good) run for their money The idiom "give somebody a (good) run for their money" means to pose a strong challenge or competition to someone, often unexpectedly or surpassing initial expectations. It suggests that the person or team being challenged will face difficulty or have to work hard to achieve victory or superiority over their opponent.
  • let somebody stew in their own juice The idiom "let somebody stew in their own juice" means to allow someone to suffer the consequences of their actions or decisions without offering them assistance or intervention. It implies allowing the person to experience the negative outcomes of their own choices or behavior, instead of helping or interfering to alleviate their troubles.
  • stop/halt somebody in their tracks The idiom "stop/halt somebody in their tracks" means to interrupt or halt someone suddenly and completely, usually by surprising or shocking them. It refers to a situation where someone is stopped abruptly, preventing them from continuing with their actions or train of thought.
  • put somebody off their stride The idiom "put somebody off their stride" means to interrupt or disturb someone's rhythm, focus, or confidence, causing a decrease in their performance or ability to perform effectively. It refers to a situation where an unexpected event or distraction hinders someone from maintaining their usual pace or skill.
  • put somebody off their stroke The idiom "put somebody off their stroke" means to disrupt or disturb someone's state of concentration, rhythm, or efficiency, typically leading to a decline in their performance or productivity. It is often used in relation to someone's physical activity or mental focus being negatively impacted.
  • sweep somebody off their feet The idiom "sweep somebody off their feet" typically refers to someone being overwhelmed by emotions or being completely charmed and captivated by someone or something. It describes the act of making a strong and often sudden impression on someone, causing them to feel infatuated, impressed, or enchanted.
  • walk somebody off their feet The idiom "walk somebody off their feet" means to exhaust or tire someone out by making them walk a lot or keeping them busy with various activities. It implies overwhelming someone physically or mentally, to the point where they become extremely tired or fatigued.
  • beat somebody at their own game The idiom "beat somebody at their own game" means to outperform or outwit someone by using the same tactics, strategies, or skills as them, often surpassing their level of expertise or ability. It implies gaining an advantage or achieving success by adopting the same methods as one's opponents or competitors.
  • somebody’s word is their bond The idiom "somebody's word is their bond" means that a person's commitment or promise can be trusted completely. It implies that when someone gives their word or makes a pledge, they will follow through on it without fail, displaying utmost reliability and integrity.
  • give somebody their cards The idiom "give somebody their cards" means to dismiss or fire someone from their job or position, usually due to poor performance, incompetence, or unwanted behavior. It implies terminating employment or ending a professional relationship.
  • catch somebody with their pants down The idiom "catch somebody with their pants down" means to unexpectedly find someone in a compromising, embarrassing, or vulnerable situation, often implying that they were unprepared or caught off guard.
  • catch somebody with their trousers down The idiom "catch somebody with their trousers down" means to catch someone in an embarrassing or vulnerable situation, usually when they are unprepared or unaware. It often refers to someone being caught in a compromising or revealing situation, both figuratively and literally.
  • no teacher/actor, etc. worth their salt The idiom "no teacher/actor, etc. worth their salt" is used to describe a person who is considered competent, skillful, or knowledgeable in their field of expertise. It implies that a teacher, actor, or any professional worth their salt possesses the necessary qualifications, experience, or abilities to excel in their respective profession.
  • anyone in their right mind The idiom "anyone in their right mind" refers to someone who is rational, sensible, or of sound judgment. It implies that a reasonable person would not act or think in a particular way under the given circumstances.
  • beat someone at their own game The idiom "beat someone at their own game" means to outdo or defeat someone by using their own tactics, strategies, or skills against them. It refers to achieving success or victory against someone who is typically skilled, experienced, or dominant in a particular area or activity.
  • send someone away with a flea in their ear The idiom "send someone away with a flea in their ear" refers to scolding or reprimanding someone vigorously or rebuffing them sharply, usually in a public or humiliating manner, with the intention of making a strong impression or teaching them a lesson. It implies deliberately causing discomfort, embarrassment, or humiliation to the person.
  • set someone back on their heels The idiom "set someone back on their heels" means to surprise or shock someone, usually with unexpected or challenging information or actions. It describes a situation where someone's confidence or certainty is abruptly undermined, often causing a brief disorientation or confusion.
  • someone's word is their bond The idiom "someone's word is their bond" means that a person's promise or commitment is absolutely trustworthy and will be honored. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining trust and integrity in promises or agreements.
  • bring someone to their senses The idiom "bring someone to their senses" means to make someone think rationally or see the truth of a situation after being confused, irrational, or carried away by emotion. It implies restoring someone's sanity, understanding, or awareness.
  • carry (someone) off their feet To "carry (someone) off their feet" is an idiomatic expression that means to impress or charm someone so much that they become completely infatuated or swept off their feet. It refers to making a profound and irresistible impact on someone, often leading to feelings of love or overwhelming admiration.
  • catch someone with their hand in the cookie jar The idiom "catch someone with their hand in the cookie jar" means to catch someone in the act of doing something wrong, typically referring to catching someone red-handed while they are engaging in illicit or dishonest behavior. It can be used figuratively or literally, with "hand in the cookie jar" suggesting that the person was caught stealing or taking something they were not supposed to.
  • catch someone with their pants down The idiom "catch someone with their pants down" means to surprise or catch someone in a vulnerable or embarrassing situation, often when they are unprepared or unaware. It can be used both literally, such as catching someone without their pants on, and figuratively, referring to catching someone off-guard in an unexpected or disadvantageous circumstance.
  • someone could do something in their sleep The idiom "someone could do something in their sleep" means that someone is extremely skilled or knowledgeable in doing a particular task or activity. It implies that the person can perform the task effortlessly and without giving it much thought.
  • cut someone off in their prime The idiom "cut someone off in their prime" refers to prematurely ending or interrupting someone's success, progress, or significant period of productivity. It implies stopping someone's development, potential, or achievements at their peak or when they are most effective or influential.
  • stop someone in their tracks The expression "stop someone in their tracks" means to cause someone to abruptly halt or be caught by surprise, often due to a sudden and unexpected action, event, or occurrence. It refers to interrupting someone's current course of action or thought, instantly capturing their attention or stopping them from proceeding further.
  • leave someone to their own devices The idiom "leave someone to their own devices" means to allow or leave someone to act or think independently and without assistance or interference. It refers to giving someone the freedom and autonomy to handle a situation or problem in their own way, without offering any guidance or involvement.
  • give someone a taste of their own medicine The idiom "give someone a taste of their own medicine" means to respond or treat someone in the same negative or harmful way that they have treated or behaved towards others. It is often used to suggest that the person deserves to experience the same negative consequences or treatment that they have inflicted upon others.
  • give someone a dose of their own medicine The idiom "give someone a dose of their own medicine" means to treat someone in the same negative or unpleasant way that they have treated others, as a form of retaliation or retribution. It implies that the person should experience firsthand the consequences of their own actions or behavior.
  • drive somebody out of their mind/wits To "drive somebody out of their mind/wits" means to make someone extremely frustrated, irritated, or crazy due to a persistent or overwhelming annoyance or problem. It refers to a situation or actions that cause someone to lose their patience or mental stability.
  • sweep someone off their feet The idiom "sweep someone off their feet" means to impress, enchant, or completely win someone over through intense charm, charisma, or romantic gestures.
  • walk someone off their feet The idiom "walk someone off their feet" means to make someone extremely tired or exhausted, usually due to a demanding or busy schedule or an overwhelming amount of tasks or activities. It implies that the person is constantly on their feet and feels physically drained.
  • play someone at their own game The idiom "play someone at their own game" means to use someone's own strategies, tactics, or methods against them in order to outsmart or defeat them. It involves matching or surpassing someone's abilities or actions by adapting to their style of play or behavior.
  • give somebody their head The idiom "give somebody their head" means to allow someone the freedom, autonomy, or independence to do things their own way without interference or restriction. It refers to giving someone the authority, control, or full reign to make their own decisions and pursue their own path.
  • give someone a run for their money The idiom "give someone a run for their money" means to provide someone with strong competition or challenge them in a particular situation, usually in terms of skills, abilities, or achievements. It suggests that the person being challenged may not have an easy victory and will have to work hard to outperform or outdo their competitor.
  • give someone their head The idiom "give someone their head" means to allow someone the freedom to do as they wish or make their own decisions, often without interference or control from others. It implies granting someone autonomy or independence in a particular situation.
  • a legend in their own lifetime The idiom "a legend in their own lifetime" refers to an individual who becomes widely renowned and revered for their accomplishments or extraordinary abilities while they are still alive. It suggests that the person's reputation and influence are remarkable enough to earn them legendary status even during their lifetime.
  • let someone stew in their own juice The idiom "let someone stew in their own juice" means to allow someone to suffer the consequences of their actions or decisions without intervening or providing help. It implies leaving someone to deal with the negative outcomes they have caused themselves, often as a way of teaching them a lesson or making them realize their mistakes.
  • keep somebody on their toes To "keep somebody on their toes" means to keep someone alert, attentive, and ready for action. It refers to making sure someone remains active and vigilant in order to quickly respond to any situation or challenge. This idiom implies keeping others engaged, involved, or even slightly anxious, to ensure they are always prepared for unexpected events or changes.
  • leave somebody to their own devices The idiom "leave somebody to their own devices" means to allow someone to act or think independently without interference or supervision. It implies giving someone the freedom to make their own decisions and handle things on their own without providing guidance or assistance.
  • everybody and their brother The idiom "everybody and their brother" is used to emphasize the overwhelming number or abundance of people. It is often employed to express that a large or diverse group of individuals, often more than expected, are involved or interested in something.
  • everyone and their brother The idiom "everyone and their brother" is used to emphasize that a large number of people, often including those who are not directly related or involved, are participating in or aware of a certain situation, event, or activity. It signifies a broad or widespread involvement or knowledge.
  • bring somebody to their knees The idiom "bring somebody to their knees" means to completely defeat or overpower someone, causing them to submit or surrender, usually in a figurative or metaphorical sense rather than a literal interpretation. It implies reducing someone's strength, power, or resistance to the point of complete submission or vulnerability.
  • give sb their marching orders The idiom "give someone their marching orders" means to dismiss or terminate someone from their job or position forcefully and without hesitation. It implies that a person is instructed to leave immediately and does not have the opportunity to argue or negotiate their departure.
  • beat sb to within an inch of their life The idiom "beat sb to within an inch of their life" means to violently assault someone to the point where they are severely injured or nearly killed. It expresses extreme physical violence inflicted upon someone.
  • knock sb off their perch To "knock sb off their perch" is an idiomatic expression that means to dethrone or remove someone from a position of power, authority, or superiority that they have become accustomed to. It typically is used when someone or something disrupts or challenges their dominance or preeminence.
  • give sb their walking papers The idiom "give someone their walking papers" means to terminate or dismiss someone from their job or position. It implies that the individual is being asked to leave their employment, often suggesting a sense of finality or severity in the decision.
  • everybody and their dog The idiom "everybody and their dog" typically means that a large number of people, or almost everyone, is involved or interested in something. It emphasizes the widespread or overwhelming participation or popularity of a particular activity, event, or trend.
  • sb's bark is worse than their bite The idiom "someone's bark is worse than their bite" means that a person may seem intimidating or aggressive, but their actions or behavior do not match their threatening words or appearance. Essentially, it refers to someone who talks tough or makes empty threats but does not actually follow through with any harmful actions.
  • knock sb off their pedestal To "knock someone off their pedestal" means to cause someone to lose their high status, prestige, or admiration, typically by revealing their flaws, mistakes, or unethical behavior. It implies the act of challenging or undermining someone's reputation or exalted position, often resulting in a loss of respect or admiration from others.
  • can't hold their drink/liquor The idiom "can't hold their drink/liquor" is used to describe someone who becomes easily intoxicated or affected by alcohol. It implies that the person is not able to handle or control their behavior or emotions after consuming even a small amount of alcohol.
  • somebody’s eyes are bigger than their stomach The idiom "somebody's eyes are bigger than their stomach" means that someone has taken or desired more food or drink than they are able to consume. It suggests that the person has overestimated their appetite or capacity to consume. This expression can also be used metaphorically to describe someone who takes on more tasks, responsibilities, or commitments than they can handle.
  • turn in their grave The idiom "turn in their grave" means that someone who has already died would be extremely upset, disappointed, or outraged if they were alive to witness something happening at the present time. It implies a strong negative reaction or disapproval from the deceased person, as if their burial site is disturbed by the event or action.
  • someone's bark is worse than their bite The idiom "someone's bark is worse than their bite" means that someone may seem or sound intimidating or threatening, but their actions or behavior do not match their words. It suggests that, despite their initial display of aggression or anger, they are not as fierce or dangerous as they may appear.
  • bad workers always blame their tools The idiom "bad workers always blame their tools" means that incompetent or inept individuals often make excuses or attribute their lack of skill or poor performance to external factors, such as the tools or resources they are given, rather than taking responsibility for their own inadequacies or shortcomings. This saying suggests that rather than admitting their own shortcomings, they shift the blame onto something else to avoid being held accountable for their own failures.
  • knock somebody off their perch/pedestal The idiom "knock somebody off their perch/pedestal" refers to a situation where someone or something is humbled or dislodged from a position of power, authority, or superiority. It implies the act of bringing someone down from a position of high regard or respect, often by exposing their faults, weaknesses, or mistakes.
  • bring someone or something to their knees The idiom "bring someone or something to their knees" means to cause someone or something to fall or to be defeated, typically through extreme hardship or adversity. It can also imply reducing someone or something to a weaker or submissive state.
  • give somebody their walking papers The idiom "give somebody their walking papers" means to terminate someone's employment or to dismiss someone from their job. It implies that the person is being asked to leave their workplace or job site.
  • everybody and their mum The idiom "everybody and their mum" is a colloquial expression used to emphasize that a large number of people or a vast majority of individuals are involved or interested in something. It suggests that it is a widespread or popular activity, commonly known or acknowledged by almost everyone.
  • bring someone to their knees The idiom "bring someone to their knees" means to completely weaken or subdue someone, typically through a challenging or difficult situation. It implies a state where someone is forced to submit, surrender, or be humbled due to the overwhelming circumstances they are facing.
  • everyone has their price The idiom "everyone has their price" means that everyone can be convinced or persuaded to do something, usually immoral or unethical, if offered the right amount of money or incentive. It implies that there is a monetary value or reward that can sway someone's decision or actions, regardless of their moral principles.
  • everybody and their mother The idiom "everybody and their mother" is used to emphasize that a large number of people, typically including almost everyone, are involved in or interested in a particular situation or event. It suggests that the involvement or interest is extensive and widespread, often to the point of being excessive or overwhelming.
  • someone's eyes are bigger than their belly The idiom "someone's eyes are bigger than their belly" refers to a situation where a person takes more food than they can actually eat or handle. It means that someone's appetite or desire for something is greater than their actual capacity to handle or consume it. This idiom can also be used to describe a situation where someone's ambitions or aspirations exceed their abilities or resources.
  • give somebody their marching orders The idiom "give somebody their marching orders" means to dismiss or fire someone, typically from their job or position. It implies being told to leave or being given a directive to depart immediately.
  • knock someone off their perch The phrase "knock someone off their perch" is an idiomatic expression used to describe the act of displacing someone from a position of dominance, power, or superiority. It signifies causing someone to lose their established status, authority, or influence.
  • everyone and their mother The idiom "everyone and their mother" refers to a large number of people or an excessive amount of people, usually used to emphasize how crowded or widespread something is.
  • boys and their toys The idiom "boys and their toys" refers to the tendency of males (typically adults) to have a strong interest in and attachment to gadgets, machinery, or other forms of electronic equipment, often disregarding their age-appropriateness. It emphasizes the idea that individuals, particularly men, often find pleasure in playing with or collecting various technological or mechanical items, which may be seen as self-indulgent or juvenile to some.
  • bring sb/sth to their knees The idiom "bring sb/sth to their knees" means to cause someone or something to be in a weakened or submissive state, often through intense pressure, hardship, or a devastating event. It implies overcoming or overpowering someone or something to the point where they have no choice but to surrender or succumb to the situation.
  • knock someone off their pedestal The idiom "knock someone off their pedestal" means to cause someone to lose their high status, admiration, or the favorable image they have held in others' eyes through criticism, exposure of flaws, or discrediting their reputation. It refers to undermining someone's elevated or idolized perception in order to reveal their flaws, mistakes, or unethical behavior.
  • everyone and their mum The expression "everyone and their mum" is an idiomatic phrase used to emphasize that a large number of people or almost everyone is involved or interested in something. It conveys the idea that a particular event, activity, or item is very popular and widely known.
  • throw sb back on their own resources The idiom "throw sb back on their own resources" refers to a situation where someone is left to rely on their own abilities, skills, or resources to solve a problem or handle a situation, usually due to a lack of external support or assistance. It implies that the person is forced to be self-reliant and find a solution independently.
  • everyone and their dog The idiom "everyone and their dog" is used to emphasize that a lot of people, or even too many people, are involved or interested in a particular situation or event. It signifies that the subject in question has gained widespread popularity or attention, to the point where it seems like almost everyone, including their pets, is involved.
  • somebody’s bark is worse than their bite The idiom "somebody's bark is worse than their bite" means that someone may seem aggressive or threatening, but in reality, they are not as intimidating or harmful as they appear. This phrase implies that the person's words or actions may be more intimidating or aggressive than their actual ability or willingness to cause harm.
  • sb's eyes are bigger than their belly/stomach The idiom "sb's eyes are bigger than their belly/stomach" refers to a situation where someone takes or wants more food than they can actually eat or handle. It illustrates a tendency to overestimate one's appetite or capacity, often resulting in the inability to finish the food or feeling overwhelmed by it. Figuratively, it can also apply to situations where someone desires or takes on more than they can handle or manage.
  • If frogs had wheels, they wouldn't bump their butts,

Similar spelling words for THEIR

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