Spin someone a yarn
To tell a long, far-fetched story
Examples
But I have been spinning you a long yarn, Mr. What’s-your-name, and all about nothing.
They spinning us a yarn yet again.
Tisn’t often I spins you a yarn, but, just to set you to rights, I’ll give you a twist; so here’s heave with the winch.
Troll
A term used to describe someone who deliberately and maliciously provokes or upsets others online.
Example
A lot of trolls on here tonight
Thick as a brick
Very stupid, dimwitted
Examples
You took apart the entire washing machine just to unblock the pump? I swear, sometimes you can be as thick as a brick, Larry.
He is thick as a brick.
Astute
Having or showing an ability to accurately assess situations or people and turn this to one’s advantage
Examples
“getting Buttler back was a pretty astute move” ·
He is an astute and eloquent man.
Weakling
An ineffectual or cowardly person
Examples
“this is no place for weaklings”
No one can stop him. Especially the coalition of the weaklings.
Jerk someone around
To hassle someone; to waste someone’s time
Examples
Stop jerking me around and give me my money back!
I hope he is not just jerking everyone around as usual.
Pull no punches
To speak very honestly and directly about something even if it upsets people
Example
… she’s straightforward, accurate, knows what she’s talking about, and pulls no punches.
Grit
Courage and resolve; strength of character
Examples
“he displayed the true grit of the navy pilot”
We are British, born of grit, sacrifice, and unspeakable pride.
Thick skinned, thick-skinned
An adjective that describes someone who is not easily hurt by criticism; impervious to criticism
Example
It will make no difference to him, too thick skinned!
English Journalistic Gems 