Idiom
take the biscuit
Meanings
To be the most annoying, outrageous, or unacceptable example of something (often the last straw).
To be the most surprising or extreme instance compared with others (usually with disapproval).
Definition
“Take the biscuit” means to be the most surprising, annoying, or extreme example of something, usually in a negative way.
If something “takes the biscuit,” it is the worst, most shocking, or most ridiculous example in a situation. People often use it when they are annoyed or incredulous. It can refer to a person’s behaviour, a comment, or an event that goes beyond what is acceptable or expected.
Examples
- He turned up two hours late and didn’t even apologise—that really takes the biscuit.
- Of all the excuses I’ve heard, that one takes the biscuit.
- The way she spoke to the waiter takes the biscuit.
- I thought the delays were bad, but cancelling at the last minute takes the biscuit.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes use it for praise, but it is usually negative and expresses annoyance or disbelief.
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 updates, confirm plans, or check progress.
- ballpark figure A ballpark figure is an approximate number or estimate, not an exact one.
- take the mickey To take the mickey means to mock someone or tease them in an unkind or cheeky way.
- cheap as chips Very cheap; costing very little money.
More idiom (verb phrase)s
- touch base To touch base means to briefly contact someone to share updates, confirm plans, or check progress.
- take the mickey To take the mickey means to mock someone or tease them in an unkind or cheeky way.
- drop the ball To drop the ball means to make a mistake or fail to do something you were responsible for.
- have a chinwag To have a chinwag means to have a relaxed, friendly chat with someone.
- face the music To accept and deal with the unpleasant consequences of what you have done or a difficult situation.