[clear up] {v.} 1. To make plain or clear; explain; solve. * /The teacher cleared up the harder parts of the story./ * /Maybe we can clear up your problem./ […] A Dictionary of American Idioms

explain oneself

[explain oneself] {v. phr.} 1. To make your meaning plainer; make your first statement clear. * /When we didn't understand Fritz, he went on to explain himself./ 2. To give […] A Dictionary of American Idioms

coast is clear

[coast is clear] No enemy or danger is in sight; there is no one to see you. * /When the teacher had disappeared around the corner, John said, "Come on, […] A Dictionary of American Idioms

clear out

[clear out] {v.} 1. To take everything out of; empty. * /When Bill was moved to another class he cleared out his desk./ 2. {informal} To leave suddenly; go away; […] A Dictionary of American Idioms

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tongue

[tongue] See: [AT THE TIP OF ONE'S TONGUE], [CAT GET ONE'S TONGUE], [HOLD ONE'S TONGUE], [KEEP A CIVIL TONGUE IN ONE'S […]

Tom Masson

(1866-1934), writer There are seventy million books in American libraries, but the one you want is always out.

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blow up in one's face

[blow up in one's face] {v. phr.}, {informal} To fail completely and with unexpected force. * /The thief's plan to rob the […]

get up with the chickens

[get up with the chickens] or [rise with the chickens] {v. phr.} To rise very early in the morning. * /All the farmers in […]

hire out

[hire out] {v.}, {informal} 1. To accept a job; take employment. * /Frank hired out as a saxophonist with a dance band./ 2. […]

saber rattling

[saber rattling] or [sword rattling] {n.} A show of military strength usually to frighten; a threat of military force. * […]