1. A hot potato: speak of an issue (mostly current) which many people are talking about and which is usually disputed
E. g. Gun control is a political hot potato.
2. A penny for your thoughts: a way of asking what someone is thinking
E. g. You have been quiet for a while, a penny for your thoughts.
3. Actions speak louder than words: people's intentions can be judged better by what they do than what they say.
E. g. Paul made all sorts of promises when he was on the campaign trail. However, actions speak louder than words, so we'll see how many of those promises he actually keeps.
4. Add insult to injury: to further a loss with mockery or indignity; to worsen an unfavorable situation.
E. g. To ask our members to accept a pay cut adds insult to injury.
5. At the drop of a hat: without any hesitation; instantly.
E. g. She cries at the drop of a hat.
6. Back to the drawing board: when an attempt fails and it's time to start all over.
E. g. We need to go back to the drawing board on this project. I think it had some fundamental flaws from the start.
7. Ball is in your court: it is up to you to make the next decision or step.
E. g. I've done all I can; now the ball's in your court.
Doubts on this article
