Open (something) up open up (something)

To make something less congested.We opened up the yard by cutting down some trees.

On the rocks

To be in a state of difficulty, to be having problems (usually used for a relationship).The man has been married for seven years but his... Read more →

On the double

Very fast.My father asked me to bring him the newspaper on the double.

On the dot

Right on time.The man always arrives for his meetings on the dot.

On the dole

Receiving welfare.There are many people on the dole who live in the poor area.

On the defensive

Trying to defend oneself.I always feel that I am on the defensive when I talk to my friend about money.

On the contrary

As the opposite.I thought that the movie would be boring but on the contrary it was quite interesting.

On the cheap

At a low cost, using a small amount of money.The young couple do not have much money so they will travel on the cheap.

On the button

Exactly on time.I arrived for the meeting right on the button.

On the borderline

Undecided, in an uncertain position between two things.My test scores are on the borderline between passing or failing the course.