Quiet as a Mouse
Meaning:
Very silent and calm
Explanation:
This idiom is used to describe someone who is extremely quiet and does not make noise or attract attention. It is often used for children or shy people. It suggests silence and caution.
Examples of ‘Quiet as a Mouse’:
- The child was quiet as a mouse.
- She sat quiet as a mouse in the corner.
Quality Time
Meaning:
Meaningful time spent with someone
Explanation:
This idiom is used when people spend focused and meaningful time with family or loved ones. It is not just about time, but about attention, care, and connection. It helps strengthen relationships and bonding.
Examples:
- I spent quality time with my family.
- Parents should give quality time to their children.
Quit Cold Turkey
Meaning:
Stop a habit suddenly
Explanation:
This phrase is used when someone stops a bad habit immediately without gradual reduction. It is often used for addictions like smoking or drinking. It can be difficult because there is no slow adjustment.
Examples:
- He quit smoking cold turkey.
- She stopped caffeine cold turkey.
Quick on the Draw
Meaning:
React very quickly
Explanation:
This idiom describes someone who responds or acts very fast, especially in decision-making or conversation. It often suggests sharp thinking and alertness. It can be both positive and competitive.
Examples:
- He is quick on the draw in meetings.
- She is quick on the draw with answers.
Question of Time
Meaning:
Something will definitely happen eventually
Explanation:
This phrase is used when an event is certain to happen in the future, but the exact time is unknown. It shows inevitability rather than uncertainty. It is often used in predictions.
Examples:
- It’s only a question of time before he succeeds.
- Their victory is just a question of time.
Quid Pro Quo
Meaning: Something given in exchange for something else
Explanation:
This phrase is used when two parties agree to give and receive something in return. It is often used in business, politics, or formal agreements. It highlights mutual exchange.
Examples:
- The deal was based on quid pro quo.
- There was a quid pro quo arrangement.
Queen Bee
Meaning:
A powerful or influential woman in a group
Explanation:
This idiom refers to a woman who is dominant or central in a social or professional group. Others often follow or look up to her. It can be used positively or negatively depending on context.
Examples:
- She is the queen bee of the office.
- The queen bee controlled the group.
Quick Fix
Meaning:
A fast but temporary solution
Explanation:
The phrase quick fix is used when a solution solves a problem quickly but not permanently. It suggests convenience rather than long-term effectiveness. It is often used in technical or practical situations.
Examples:
- This is just a quick fix.
- They offered a quick fix to the issue.
Quiet Before the Storm
Meaning:
Calm before a big problem or event
Explanation:
This idiom is used when there is a peaceful period before a difficult or chaotic situation begins. It suggests that trouble is expected soon. It creates a sense of warning or anticipation.
Examples:
- The silence was the quiet before the storm.
- It felt like the quiet before the storm.
Quite a Few
Meaning:
A large number
Explanation:
This phrase is used to describe more than a few, meaning many items or people. It is often used in casual conversation. It is less formal than saying “a large number.”
Examples:
- Quite a few people attended the event.
- I have quite a few books.