Top 65 Slang For Saying – Meaning & Usage

In the world of language, there are countless ways to express ourselves. From catchy catchphrases to witty one-liners, slang for saying adds spice and flavor to our conversations. Whether you want to impress your friends or simply stay up-to-date with the latest linguistic trends, this listicle is here to guide you through the colorful world of slang for saying. Prepare to have your vocabulary enriched and your communication skills taken to the next level as we explore the top slang phrases that are making waves in popular culture.

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1. What’s the scoop?

This phrase is used to ask for the latest information or updates on a particular situation or topic.

For example, if someone wants to know the details of a recent event, they might ask, “Hey, what’s the scoop on that party last night?”
In a conversation about a recent celebrity scandal, someone might say, “I heard there’s some juicy gossip. What’s the scoop?”
When discussing a breaking news story, a person might ask, “Do you know what’s going on? What’s the scoop?”

2. No way!

This expression is used to express surprise, disbelief, or astonishment.

For instance, if someone tells you they won the lottery, you might respond, “No way! That’s incredible!”
In a conversation about a shocking twist in a TV show, someone might exclaim, “No way! I didn’t see that coming!”
When someone shares an unbelievable story, you might react by saying, “No way! That’s too crazy to be true!”

3. You bet!

This phrase is used to express agreement, affirmation, or certainty.

For example, if someone asks if you want to go out for dinner, you might respond, “You bet! I’m hungry.”
In a conversation about a challenging task, someone might say, “Can you handle it?” and you could reply, “You bet! I’ve got it under control.”
When someone asks if you’re confident in your abilities, you might answer, “You bet! I know I can do it.”

4. Piece of cake

This phrase is used to describe something that is very easy or simple to do.

For instance, if someone asks if a task is difficult, you might say, “No, it’s a piece of cake.”
In a conversation about a straightforward project, someone might say, “Don’t worry, it’s a piece of cake. You’ll finish it in no time.”
When someone asks if a game is challenging, you might respond, “Not at all. It’s a piece of cake to beat.”

5. Chill out

This phrase is used to tell someone to calm down or to relax.

For example, if someone is getting angry or stressed, you might say, “Hey, chill out. It’s not worth getting upset over.”
In a conversation about a tense situation, someone might suggest, “Let’s all just chill out and find a solution.”
When someone is overreacting to a minor issue, you might advise them, “Take a deep breath and chill out. It’s not a big deal.”

6. Hang on a sec

This phrase is used to ask someone to wait for a short period of time.

For example, “Hang on a sec, I just need to grab my keys.”
When someone is talking on the phone and needs to put the caller on hold, they might say, “Can you hang on a sec?”
If someone is in the middle of a task and needs a moment to finish, they might say, “Hang on a sec, I just need to wrap this up.”

7. That’s a bummer

This phrase is used to express disappointment or sympathy for a negative situation.

For instance, if someone shares bad news, you might respond with, “That’s a bummer.”
If someone cancels plans last minute, you might say, “Well, that’s a bummer. I was really looking forward to it.”
When someone tells you about a frustrating experience, you might say, “Wow, that’s a bummer. I’m sorry you had to go through that.”

8. Take a rain check

This phrase is used to politely decline an invitation but express the intention to accept it at a later time.

For example, if someone invites you to a party but you can’t attend, you might say, “I can’t make it this time, but can I take a rain check?”
If someone asks you to go out for dinner but you already have plans, you might say, “I can’t tonight, but let’s take a rain check.”
When someone invites you to an event that you’re interested in but can’t attend, you might say, “I wish I could go, but can I take a rain check?”

9. It’s a no-brainer

This phrase is used to describe a choice or decision that is very obvious or requires little thought.

For instance, if someone asks you if you want ice cream, you might say, “It’s a no-brainer, of course I want ice cream.”
When someone is deciding between two options and one is clearly better, you might say, “It’s a no-brainer, go with the cheaper option.”
If someone is considering whether or not to take a job offer with a higher salary, you might say, “It’s a no-brainer, take the job with the higher pay.”

10. Cut to the chase

This phrase is used to ask someone to skip unnecessary details and get to the main point or purpose of a conversation or situation.

For example, if someone is telling a long story, you might say, “Cut to the chase, what happened in the end?”
When someone is explaining a complicated process, you might say, “Could you cut to the chase and tell me the most important steps?”
If someone is giving a lengthy introduction before a presentation, you might say, “Let’s cut to the chase and get started with the main content.”

11. Give me a heads up

This phrase is used to ask someone to let you know ahead of time or give you a warning about something.

For example, if you’re going to have a meeting, you might say to a colleague, “Can you give me a heads up if the time changes?”
If you’re expecting a delivery, you could ask the delivery person, “Could you give me a heads up when you’re close?”
When making plans with a friend, you might say, “Let me know if you can’t make it, so I can have a heads up.”

12. Keep your cool

This phrase is used to tell someone to remain calm or composed in a challenging or stressful situation.

For instance, if someone is getting angry during an argument, you might say, “Hey, keep your cool. Let’s talk this through.”
If a friend is nervous before a presentation, you could say, “Just take a deep breath and keep your cool. You’ve got this.”
When playing a competitive sport, a coach might remind the team to “stay focused and keep your cool.”

13. Let’s call it a day

This phrase is used to suggest ending or finishing an activity or work for the day.

For example, if you’re working on a project with a colleague and it’s getting late, you might say, “Let’s call it a day and continue tomorrow.”
If you’re playing a game with friends and it’s getting late, you could say, “I’m getting tired. Let’s call it a day and finish this another time.”
When working on a construction site, the supervisor might say, “It’s getting dark. Let’s call it a day and resume tomorrow morning.”

14. That’s the ticket

This phrase is used to express agreement or approval with what someone has said or done.

For instance, if someone suggests a solution to a problem and you think it’s a great idea, you might say, “That’s the ticket!”
If a friend suggests going to a specific restaurant and you love the idea, you could say, “Yes, that’s the ticket! Let’s go there.”
When someone gives you directions and you understand them perfectly, you might say, “Ah, that’s the ticket. I know exactly where to go now.”

15. You’re pulling my leg

This phrase is used when someone is joking or teasing you, often in a playful or lighthearted manner.

For example, if a friend tells you an unbelievable story, you might say, “Come on, you’re pulling my leg. That can’t be true.”
If someone plays a prank on you and you realize it, you could say, “Okay, you got me. You’re pulling my leg.”
When someone tells you something that seems too good to be true, you might respond with, “Don’t pull my leg. Is that for real?”

16. It’s a long shot

This phrase is used to describe a situation or outcome that is highly unlikely or improbable.

For example, “I know it’s a long shot, but I’m going to try to win the lottery.”
In a discussion about job prospects, someone might say, “Getting hired without any experience is definitely a long shot.”
Another person might comment, “I’ve been practicing for months, but winning the championship is still a long shot for me.”

17. That’s the way the cookie crumbles

This phrase is used to accept and acknowledge an unfortunate or disappointing situation. It implies that things don’t always go the way we want them to.

For instance, if someone fails a test, they might say, “Well, that’s the way the cookie crumbles.”
In a discussion about a lost opportunity, someone might comment, “I didn’t get the job, but hey, that’s the way the cookie crumbles.”
Another person might say, “I was really hoping to go on vacation, but my plans fell through. That’s just the way the cookie crumbles.”

18. I’m all ears

This phrase is used to express that one is paying full attention and is ready to listen to what someone has to say.

For example, if someone wants to share a story, they might say, “Go ahead, I’m all ears.”
In a conversation where someone wants to give advice, they might say, “Tell me what’s going on, I’m all ears.”
Another person might say, “I have some news to share. Are you free to talk? I’m all ears.”

19. It’s not my cup of tea

This phrase is used to express that something is not to one’s personal taste or preference.

For instance, if someone is invited to go skydiving, but they are afraid of heights, they might say, “Thanks for the offer, but it’s not my cup of tea.”
In a discussion about music genres, someone might say, “I’ve tried listening to jazz, but it’s just not my cup of tea.”
Another person might comment, “I respect other people’s hobbies, but fishing is not my cup of tea.”

20. You’re on fire

This phrase is used to compliment someone on their current performance or success.

For example, if someone is playing a sport and scoring multiple goals, their teammate might say, “Wow, you’re on fire today!”
In a work setting, a colleague might say, “You’ve been meeting all your deadlines. You’re on fire!”
Another person might comment, “You’ve been acing all your exams. You’re really on fire with your studies.”

21. That’s a wrap

This phrase is commonly used in the entertainment industry to signify the end of a scene, shoot, or project.

For example, after a successful day of filming, a director might say, “That’s a wrap, everyone!”
In a theater production, the stage manager might announce, “That’s a wrap for tonight’s performance.”
After completing a task, someone might exclaim, “Well, that’s a wrap! Time to relax.”

22. No worries

This phrase is used to reassure someone that there is no need to worry or be concerned about a particular situation.

For instance, if someone apologizes for a mistake, you might respond with, “No worries, it happens to all of us.”
When someone thanks you for a favor, you can reply, “No worries, happy to help.”
If someone is running late, you can say, “No worries, take your time.”

23. Hang in there

This phrase is used to encourage someone to stay strong or keep going despite difficulties or challenges.

For example, if a friend is going through a tough time, you can say, “Hang in there, things will get better.”
When someone is struggling with a task, you can offer support by saying, “Hang in there, you’re doing great.”
If someone is feeling overwhelmed, you can provide reassurance by saying, “Hang in there, you’re not alone.”

24. Break a leg

This phrase is a way to wish someone good luck, especially in a performance or creative endeavor.

For instance, before a theater performance, you might say to the actors, “Break a leg!”
When someone is about to take a test or give a presentation, you can offer encouragement by saying, “Break a leg, you’ve got this.”
If someone is going on a job interview, you can wish them luck by saying, “Break a leg, I know you’ll do great.”

25. Hit the road

This phrase is used to indicate that it’s time to leave or begin a journey.

For example, if you’re ready to leave a friend’s house, you can say, “Well, it’s time to hit the road.”
When embarking on a road trip, someone might announce, “Let’s hit the road and start our adventure!”
If a meeting or event is over, you can suggest wrapping up by saying, “Okay, everyone, let’s hit the road.”

26. Let the cat out of the bag

This phrase means to accidentally or intentionally disclose information that was supposed to be kept secret. It is often used when someone unintentionally reveals a surprise or confidential information.

For example, “I accidentally let the cat out of the bag and told her about the surprise party.”
In a discussion about a leaked movie plot, someone might say, “Someone let the cat out of the bag and spoiled the ending.”
A friend might confess, “I can’t keep a secret, I always end up letting the cat out of the bag.”

27. Hangry

This word is a combination of “hungry” and “angry” and is used to describe the state of being irritable or angry because of hunger.

For instance, “I haven’t eaten all day, so I’m getting hangry.”
A person might say, “I get hangry if I don’t have breakfast.”
A friend might joke, “Watch out, she’s hangry. We need to find food ASAP.”

28. On the same page

This phrase means to be in agreement or to have a shared understanding with someone else.

For example, “We’re all on the same page about the project deadline.”
In a group discussion, someone might say, “Let’s make sure we’re all on the same page before moving forward.”
A colleague might ask, “Are we on the same page regarding the new company policy?”

29. Don’t sweat it

This phrase is used to tell someone not to worry or stress about something. It is a way to reassure someone that a situation is not a cause for concern.

For instance, “Don’t sweat it, we’ll figure it out.”
A friend might say, “I forgot to bring my wallet, but don’t sweat it, I’ll pay for lunch.”
In a conversation about a minor mistake, someone might say, “It’s not a big deal, don’t sweat it.”

30. It’s all good in the hood

This phrase is a colloquial way of saying that everything is fine or going well in a particular situation or community.

For example, “Don’t worry, it’s all good in the hood.”
A friend might say, “I finished all my tasks for the day, so it’s all good in the hood.”
In a discussion about a successful event, someone might say, “The party went smoothly, it’s all good in the hood.”

31. Keep it on the down low

This phrase means to keep something confidential or not share it with others. It is often used when discussing sensitive or private information.

For example, “We need to keep this party on the down low so it doesn’t get shut down.”
A friend might say, “I heard a rumor about Sarah, but you have to promise to keep it on the down low.”
In a conversation about a surprise, someone might say, “Don’t tell anyone, but we’re planning a surprise party. Keep it on the down low.”

32. Can’t judge a book by its cover

This saying means that you shouldn’t make assumptions about someone or something based solely on their outward appearance. It emphasizes the importance of looking beyond surface-level judgments.

For instance, “I know he looks intimidating, but you can’t judge a book by its cover. He’s actually really kind.”
A person might say, “I thought the movie would be boring because of the trailer, but I was wrong. Can’t judge a book by its cover.”
In a discussion about first impressions, someone might say, “It’s important to remember that you can’t judge a book by its cover. People are often more complex than they initially seem.”

33. Put a sock in it

This phrase is used to tell someone to stop talking or to be quiet. It is often used in a somewhat playful or lighthearted manner.

For example, “I’ve had enough of your complaining. Put a sock in it.”
A person might say, “The baby won’t stop crying. I wish he would just put a sock in it.”
In a conversation about a noisy neighbor, someone might say, “I had to go over and ask them to put a sock in it. Their music was too loud.”

34. Catch you on the flip side

This phrase is a casual way of saying goodbye or see you later. It implies that the speaker will see the other person again in the future.

For instance, “I have to go now. Catch you on the flip side.”
A friend might say, “I’ll see you tomorrow. Catch you on the flip side.”
In a conversation about plans, someone might say, “I have to run some errands, but I’ll catch you on the flip side.”

35. Hit the hay

This phrase means to go to sleep or go to bed. It is often used in a casual or lighthearted manner.

For example, “I’m exhausted. I think it’s time to hit the hay.”
A person might say, “I have an early morning tomorrow, so I’m going to hit the hay early.”
In a conversation about sleep habits, someone might say, “I try to hit the hay at the same time every night to maintain a consistent sleep schedule.”

36. Kick the bucket

This slang phrase means to die. It is often used as a euphemism to talk about someone’s passing.

For example, “I heard that old Mr. Johnson kicked the bucket last night.”
Someone might say, “I hope I don’t kick the bucket before I get to travel the world.”
In a humorous context, a person might joke, “If I have to attend another boring meeting, I might just kick the bucket right there.”

37. Beat around the bush

This slang phrase means to avoid getting to the main point or to speak indirectly instead of addressing a topic directly.

For instance, “Stop beating around the bush and just tell me what you want.”
A person might say, “I don’t have time for you to beat around the bush. Just give me a straight answer.”
In a conversation about a sensitive topic, someone might ask, “Can we please not beat around the bush and discuss this honestly?”

38. Break the ice

This slang phrase means to do something to ease tension or awkwardness in a social situation, typically by initiating a conversation or interaction.

For example, “He told a joke to break the ice at the party.”
A person might say, “I always struggle to break the ice when meeting new people.”
In a team-building activity, someone might suggest, “Let’s play a game to break the ice and get to know each other better.”

39. Take it with a grain of salt

This slang phrase means to be skeptical or cautious about accepting or believing something completely.

For instance, “He told me he won the lottery, but I took it with a grain of salt.”
A person might say, “I always take celebrity gossip with a grain of salt.”
In a discussion about a controversial news article, someone might caution, “Remember to take everything you read online with a grain of salt.”

40. Kill two birds with one stone

This slang phrase means to achieve two objectives or complete two tasks with a single action or effort.

For example, “By going to the grocery store on my way home, I can kill two birds with one stone.”
A person might say, “I love finding ways to kill two birds with one stone and save time.”
In a project management context, someone might suggest, “Let’s combine these two tasks to kill two birds with one stone.”

41. The ball is in your court

This phrase is often used to indicate that someone has the responsibility or opportunity to take the next step in a situation.

For example, in a negotiation, one party might say, “We’ve made our offer, now the ball is in your court.”
In a game or sport, a coach might tell a player, “The ball is in your court, make the winning shot.”
In a discussion about a project, someone might say, “I’ve done my part, now the ball is in your court to finish the task.”

42. A penny for your thoughts

This phrase is often used to ask someone to share their thoughts or opinions on a topic.

For instance, if someone looks deep in thought, you might say, “A penny for your thoughts.”
In a conversation about a decision, someone might ask, “What’s on your mind? A penny for your thoughts.”
If someone seems distracted or preoccupied, you could say, “You seem lost in thought. A penny for your thoughts?”

43. Actions speak louder than words

This phrase emphasizes the importance of actions over mere words or promises.

For example, if someone apologizes but continues to behave in the same way, you might say, “Actions speak louder than words.”
In a discussion about trust, someone might argue, “It’s not enough to say you’re sorry, your actions need to show it too.”
If someone makes a commitment but doesn’t follow through, you could say, “Remember, actions speak louder than words.”

44. Barking up the wrong tree

This phrase is often used to indicate that someone is pursuing a mistaken or misguided course of action.

For instance, if someone accuses the wrong person of a crime, you might say, “You’re barking up the wrong tree.”
In a discussion about solving a problem, someone might warn, “Be careful not to bark up the wrong tree and waste your time.”
If someone is searching for something in the wrong location, you could say, “I think you’re barking up the wrong tree, it’s not here.”

45. Don’t count your chickens before they hatch

This phrase is often used to caution against premature optimism or making plans based on uncertain outcomes.

For example, if someone starts celebrating a victory before it’s confirmed, you might say, “Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.”
In a discussion about a business deal, someone might advise, “Don’t make financial commitments until the contract is signed. Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.”
If someone is overly confident about the outcome of a situation, you could say, “Remember, don’t count your chickens before they hatch.”

46. A picture is worth a thousand words

This saying implies that an image can convey a complex idea or emotion more effectively than a lengthy explanation.

For example, a person might say, “I could try to explain how beautiful the sunset was, but really, a picture is worth a thousand words.”
In a discussion about the power of visual storytelling, someone might mention, “As they say, a picture is worth a thousand words.”
A photographer might caption their work with this saying to emphasize the impact of the image.

47. Better late than never

This saying suggests that it’s preferable to complete a task or fulfill a commitment, even if it’s delayed.

For instance, someone might apologize for being late and say, “Well, better late than never, right?”
In a discussion about meeting deadlines, a person might mention this saying as a reminder that it’s important to complete a project, even if it’s not on time.
A parent might use this phrase to comfort their child who didn’t finish their homework on time.

48. Don’t cry over spilled milk

This saying advises against dwelling on past mistakes or unfortunate events that cannot be undone.

For example, if someone accidentally breaks a valuable item, a friend might say, “Don’t cry over spilled milk. It was just an accident.”
In a discussion about accepting setbacks, a person might use this saying to encourage resilience and moving forward.
A teacher might say this to a student who made a small error on a test to emphasize the importance of focusing on future improvement.

49. Every cloud has a silver lining

This saying suggests that even in difficult or unfortunate circumstances, there is always a hopeful or optimistic aspect to be found.

For instance, if someone loses their job, a friend might say, “Don’t worry, every cloud has a silver lining. Maybe this is an opportunity for something better.”
In a discussion about finding the good in challenging times, a person might mention this saying as a reminder to look for the positive aspects.
A motivational speaker might use this phrase to inspire resilience and optimism in their audience.

50. It’s raining cats and dogs

This saying is used to describe heavy rain or a downpour.

For example, if someone looks out the window and sees heavy rain, they might say, “Wow, it’s really raining cats and dogs out there.”
In a conversation about weather, a person might use this saying to emphasize the intensity of the rain.
A writer might use this phrase in a piece of fiction to create vivid imagery of a storm.

51. Don’t judge a book by its cover

This saying emphasizes the importance of not making assumptions based solely on outward appearances, as they may not accurately reflect the true nature or value of something or someone.

For example, a person might say, “I didn’t think much of her at first, but she turned out to be incredibly talented. I guess you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover.”
In a discussion about first impressions, someone might comment, “It’s important to remember that you can’t always judge a book by its cover. People can surprise you.”
Another might use the phrase to caution against making snap judgments, saying, “Before you dismiss someone, remember that you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover.”

52. Hit the nail on the head

This saying means to accurately or precisely identify or describe something, often in a concise and effective manner.

For instance, if someone offers a solution to a problem and it perfectly addresses the issue, you might say, “You hit the nail on the head.”
In a conversation about understanding someone’s feelings, a person might say, “She really hit the nail on the head with her analysis of my emotions.”
Another might use the phrase to acknowledge someone’s insightful comment, saying, “You really hit the nail on the head with that observation.”

53. Bury the hatchet

This saying refers to ending a disagreement or conflict and moving forward in a positive and reconciliatory manner.

For example, if two friends have been arguing and they decide to put their differences aside and forgive each other, they might say, “Let’s bury the hatchet.”
In a discussion about resolving disputes, someone might comment, “Sometimes it’s necessary to bury the hatchet and focus on finding common ground.”
Another might use the phrase to encourage reconciliation, saying, “It’s time to bury the hatchet and mend our relationship.”

54. Easy as pie

This saying implies that a task or activity is extremely easy or straightforward to accomplish.

For instance, if someone asks how to use a new software program and it’s actually quite intuitive, you might say, “It’s easy as pie.”
In a conversation about cooking, someone might comment, “Once you get the hang of it, making a soufflé is easy as pie.”
Another might use the phrase to describe a simple DIY project, saying, “Putting up shelves is easy as pie if you have the right tools.”

55. Give it a shot

This saying means to attempt or try something, often implying a willingness to take a chance or give something a fair opportunity.

For example, if someone suggests trying a new restaurant, you might say, “Sure, let’s give it a shot.”
In a discussion about learning a new skill, someone might comment, “If you want to play guitar, you should give it a shot. You might discover a hidden talent.”
Another might use the phrase to encourage someone to try something new, saying, “You’ve never gone hiking before? You should definitely give it a shot!”

56. In the blink of an eye

This phrase means that something happened or will happen very quickly, almost too fast to notice.

For example, “The car sped past in the blink of an eye.”
A person might say, “He finished the race in the blink of an eye.”
In a conversation about a surprise ending to a movie, someone might say, “The twist at the end came out of nowhere. It happened in the blink of an eye.”

57. It’s a piece of cake

This phrase means that something is very easy to do or accomplish.

For instance, “Don’t worry about the test, it’s a piece of cake.”
A person might say, “I’ve been baking for years, so making a cake is a piece of cake for me.”
In a discussion about a simple task, someone might say, “Changing a lightbulb is a piece of cake.”

58. On cloud nine

This phrase means that someone is feeling extremely happy or on top of the world.

For example, “Winning the lottery would put me on cloud nine.”
A person might say, “She was on cloud nine after receiving a promotion at work.”
In a conversation about a great accomplishment, someone might say, “Scoring the winning goal in the championship game would make any player feel on cloud nine.”

59. Pull someone’s leg

This phrase means to play a harmless prank or joke on someone, usually by making them believe something that is not true.

For instance, “I was just pulling your leg. There’s no need to be upset.”
A person might say, “He always tries to pull my leg with his silly stories.”
In a discussion about a practical joke, someone might say, “I once pulled my friend’s leg by pretending to be a ghost.”

60. See eye to eye

This phrase means that two or more people have the same opinion or share the same viewpoint.

For example, “We don’t always see eye to eye on everything, but we respect each other’s opinions.”
A person might say, “I’m glad we see eye to eye on this issue.”
In a conversation about a disagreement, someone might say, “We need to find a way to see eye to eye and reach a compromise.”

61. Time flies when you’re having fun

This saying means that when you are engaged in enjoyable activities, time seems to pass quickly.

For example, “We were having so much fun at the party that time flew by.”
Someone might comment, “I can’t believe it’s already been a year since we started this project. Time really flies when you’re having fun.”
Another person might say, “I didn’t realize how late it was getting. Time flies when you’re having fun!”

62. A penny saved is a penny earned

This saying emphasizes the importance of saving money and how it can add up over time.

For instance, “Instead of spending all your money, try saving some. A penny saved is a penny earned.”
Someone might advise, “If you want to reach your financial goals, remember that a penny saved is a penny earned.”
Another person might say, “I used to spend all my extra money, but now I prioritize saving. A penny saved is a penny earned.”

63. All ears

When someone says they are “all ears,” it means they are ready to listen and pay full attention.

For example, “Tell me your idea. I’m all ears.”
Someone might say, “I’m here to listen and offer support. I’m all ears if you want to talk.”
Another person might comment, “I’m ready to hear your side of the story. I’m all ears.”

64. Back to square one

This saying is used to describe a situation where progress has been lost and one has to start from the beginning.

For instance, “We thought we were making progress, but now we’re back to square one.”
Someone might say, “After trying different strategies, we realized we needed to go back to square one.”
Another person might comment, “I thought I had figured it out, but now I’m back to square one.”

65. By the skin of your teeth

This saying means to barely succeed or survive a difficult situation.

For example, “I managed to pass the test by the skin of my teeth.”
Someone might say, “I was running late, but I made it to the train station by the skin of my teeth.”
Another person might comment, “I narrowly avoided getting caught in the rain. I made it inside by the skin of my teeth.”