Idioms List with the Preposition “AT”
At Loose Ends
Definition:
Not knowing what to do with oneself, having a great deal of spare time
For example:
After graduating from college, Jon found himself at loose ands and decided to travel.
At Death’s Door
Definition:
Dying
For example:
We came home to find my grandmother at death’s door.
At Sixes and Sevens
Definition:
In a state of confusion or disagreement about how to deal with a situation
For example:
The whole company is at sixes and sevens over how to respond to the new foreign competitors.
At the Drop of a Hat
Definition:
Spontaneously, suddenly
For example:
Jacob is unpredictable. He won’t leave the office for weeks, but then he’ll take off for New York at the drop of a hat.
At the End of One’s Rope (Tether)
Definition:
Running out of endurance or patience
For example:
Amber keeps whistling in the office. She doesn’t even realize she’s doing it, but I’m at the end of my rope.
At the End of the Day … (X Will Happen.)
Definition:
In the final analysis, when all is said and done
For example:
Yes, there will be problems if we enter the South American market, but at the end of the day there are large profits to be made there.
At Wit’s End
Definition:
Frustrated because all measures to deal with something have failed
For example:
I’m at my wit’s end trying to deal with the insect infestation—nothing I’ve tried has worked.
Back At You
Definition:
Same to you (used to return a greeting or insult)
For example:
Hey, it’s great to see you! —Back at you.
Light at the End of the Tunnel
Definition:
A sign of hope after a long period of difficulties
For example:
Lindsay has been having a lot of personal problems. But yesterday she said she’s seeing light at the end of the tunnel.
Point the Finger At
Definition:
Accuse, blame
For example:
In the meeting today, Yolanda pointed the finger at the marketing team for the decline in sales.
