AMERICAN IDIOMS (Y)
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Idioms starting with Y
Here is our list of popular "Y" idioms that are used in American English:
Yack (v.): Somewhat rude version of "to talk."
ex: "He was yackin' away, and I wasn't even listening."
Yawn: Something one says to show that one is bored.
ex: "Oh, great, another romantic comedy. Yawn."
Yeah: Conversational form of "yes".
Year-round (adj./adv.)
Operating all year.
ex. "This facility is open year-round."
Yes-man:
A person who tries to be liked by agreeing with everything said, especially by a boss.
You bet!: 1) Of course.
ex: "P1: Hey you wanna come to the beach with us? P2: You bet!"; 2) No problem.
ex: "P1: Thanks for all your help! P2: You bet!"
You can say that again:
That is true (stress on "that").
ex. "P1: It sure is hot today! P2: You can say that again!"
You can't teach an old dog new tricks:
A proverb with two meanings: 1) old(er) people can't learn anything new and 2) old habits are hard to break.
You don't say:
Used to show surprise at something that is being said.
ex. "You don't say! He was really struck by lightning?"
Your guess is as good as mine:
I don't know any better/ more than you know.
ex. "P1: How old is Robert? P2: Your guess is as good as mine. I have no idea."
You're telling me!: Phrase meaning "I know exactly what you mean"; Similar to "Don't I know it!";
ex: "P1: My son's in Iraq. I miss him so much! P2: You're telling me! I've got two sons over there!"
Yuppie (n.): Abbreviated for of "young urban professional"; said of young, very career-oriented, financially successful people.