Sports Idioms - Explanations

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Sports Idioms - Explanations

* to be on a sticky wicket - to be in a very difficult situation * to rest on one's laurels - to be satisfied with what one has already achieved * to kick-off - to start something * to be for the high jump - to be in serious trouble * to steer clear of - to keep away from * to learn the ropes - to find out how to do something * to be thrown in at the deep end - to face a difficult situation without any preparation * someone's track record - all one's achievements and failures of the past * plain sailing - easy, without problems * to give someone free rein - to give someone freedom to act * to box someone into a corner - to limit their freedom to move or act * below the belt - unfair * to be quick / slow off the mark - to be quick/slow at starting something * to be neck-and-neck - equal position * to sport something - to wear something * to move the goalposts - to change the rules to your own advantage * to stick one's oar in - to interfere * to be out of one's depth - not to be skilful enough at something * to take the wind out of one's sails - to make someone feel less confident * to fish for compliments - to try to get compliments * to skate on thin ice - to do something risky or dangerous * to throw in the towel - to accept defeat * a marathon (meeting/session/etc.) - very long * to give something your best shot - to try your best