Idiom
on the blink
Meanings
Not functioning properly; out of order (often temporarily).
Definition
Not working properly or temporarily out of order.
If something is on the blink, it is not working correctly and may stop working at times. The problem is usually temporary or fixable, like a minor breakdown. This idiom is most often used for machines, devices, or systems.
Examples
- My phone has been on the blink all week.
- The office printer is on the blink again.
- I think the air conditioner is on the blink.
- Our internet has been on the blink since the storm.
More at B2 level
- Bob's your uncle Used to say that something will be easy or will happen exactly as expected after a simple step.
- touch base To touch base means to briefly contact someone to share a quick update or confirm plans.
- ballpark figure A ballpark figure is an approximate number or estimate, not an exact one.
- take the mickey To take the mickey means to tease someone or make fun of them in a not-too-serious way.
- cheap as chips Very cheap; costing very little money.
More idioms
- Bob's your uncle Used to say that something will be easy or will happen exactly as expected after a simple step.
- close but no cigar Used to say someone almost succeeded but did not quite achieve the goal.
- down to the wire If something goes down to the wire, it is decided at the very last moment before the deadline or fi…
- lost the plot To become confused or unreasonable and no longer understand what is happening or what matters.
- ducks in a row To have everything organized and ready in the correct order.