Apple of one’s eye
The talented singer became the apple of the nation’s eye after winning the popular singing competition.
‘Apple of one’s eye’ means to cherish or highly value someone or something above all others. The phrase originates from the literal meaning of the phrase ‘apple of the eye,’ which refers to the pupil of the eye, considered a delicate and vital part of one’s visual perception. Therefore, calling someone or something the ‘apple of one’s eye’ suggests that they are held in the highest regard, similar to how the eye values and protects its pupil.
Sample Sentences
My little sister is the apple of my eye. I love her more than anyone else in the world.
The cute puppy became the apple of our eyes the moment we brought him home.
The teacher’s pet is clearly the apple of the teacher’s eye. She always praises him and gives him special attention.
Like a bull in a china shop
When I’m in a hurry, I tend to move like a bull in a china shop and accidentally bump into things.
‘Like a bull in a china shop’ means to act clumsily or recklessly, often causing damage or chaos. The phrase draws imagery from the notion of a bull, a large and powerful animal, entering a delicate and fragile place like a china shop, where delicate objects are easily broken.
Sample Sentences
Be careful with those delicate figurines. Don’t handle them like a bull in a china shop!
Watch your step in the antique store. It’s easy to feel like a bull in a china shop with all those fragile items around.
Jack was excited to help in the kitchen, but his lack of cooking experience made him feel like a bull in a china shop, knocking over ingredients and utensils.
