Meaning: putting a lot of effort to get a task done
He has put in nothing but blood, sweat, and tears into this company
Meaning: to be cognizant of where one's interests lie in a given situation
He tries to come across as a neutral party, but he is very aware of which side his bread is buttered on
Meaning: used to refer to the person who originally invented a particular scheme, plan or idea
Gladys was the brains behind the successful birthday party that left all the children smiling on their way back home
Meaning: a very powerful individual
He is a big gun at the law firm; he has never lost a single court case
Meaning: to have a possibility of succeeding, even if a remote one
Do you believe that you stand a chance of getting that job?
Meaning: by any possible means
The farmer will not sell us the land. By hook or by crook, he is hanging on to it
Meaning: to succeed
My neighbor had applied for the post of architect in a big project, but did not cut the mustard
Meaning: accomplish something with great ease or efficiency
The new software made data entry a slam-dunk
Meaning: to start or finish with a lot of energy, enthusiasm, or success
These amazing recipes will set your engagement party off with a bang
Meaning: do what is required
So far, the team's new player has failed to deliver the goods. He failed to open his account in his first three games
Meaning: don't get discouraged or give up, no matter what
Things look bad for the team, but never say die. A miracle could happen
Meaning: a person who achieved greatness even though they came from a place not so great
Ken performed well despite his poor background, much like the rose that grew from concrete
Meaning: succeed with a first step
Mary was so excited to get her foot in the door with her new internship