Backward-looking
opposing progress; reactionary; stagnant
Example
Though GDP is backward-looking, it sends a clear message that the economy is doing well, and inflation is moderating, good news for the Federal Reserve.
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Fiddle the result
Fiddle the result
(BRITISH ENGLISH)
falsify (figures, data, or records), typically in order to gain the desired outcome
Example
Don’t allow these dodgy people to fiddle the result again.
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Mask slips
Mask slips
One’s true personality, agenda, or motivation has been revealed, which stands in contrast to what was presented to other people.
Examples
Her mask slipped for just a moment, and everyone could see the contempt she really held for her audience.
The mask has fully slipped.
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On a one on one
On a one on one
If having a direct individual competition, confrontation between two rivals
Example
He wouldn’t stand a chance against his challenger, on a one on one.
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Victim mentality
Victim mentality
the unreasonable belief that you’re always a victim, in almost all interactions and situations
Example
It would be easy to blame others for our long and continuing fall in credibility, but a victim mentality will not help.
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Pin drop; pin-drop
Pin drop; pin-drop
Extremely quiet
Examples
The speaker brought the audience to pin drop silence by saying she declared her final decision.
When she rose to speak, there was pin-drop silence.
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Bittersweet
Bittersweet
pleasure accompanied by suffering or regret; both pleasant and painful or regretful:
Examples
A bittersweet memory.When asked if the experience had been bittersweet, he said it was “just sweet.”
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By a long shot
By a long shot
by far; outstandingly; by a great deal
Examples
He is the best by a long shot
This known auto company will probably become the most valuable company in the world by a long shot.
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Join suit / follow suit
Join suit / follow suit
conform to another’s actions; do the same thing
Examples
When one airline reduces the prices, the rest will follow suit.
If only the teachers unions would join suit.
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Oaf
Oaf
a person, particularly a man, who is rough or clumsy and unintelligent
Examples
They are just big, clumsy oafs.
He could be an oaf at times, but he is the best choice among them.
English Journalistic Gems 