stick to one's text
To limit one's focus to the matter at hand, or the primary subject at issue; to avoid diversion.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“Please stick to your text during the presentation.”
“The moderator reminded the speaker to stick to his text instead of discussing unrelated political issues.”
“Although the professor was tempted to explore the fascinating historical tangents, he chose to stick to his text to ensure the students understood the core concepts.”
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abound in one's own sense
To follow one’s own inclinations and opinions.
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ace up one's sleeve
A surprise advantage of which others are not aware.
- 03
act one's age
To behave in a manner appropriate to one's age.
- 04
act one's age, not one's shoe size
Synonym of act one's age (“to behave in a mature manner; to avoid being childish”).
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afraid of one's own shadow
Exceptionally timid.
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air one's dirty laundry in public
To reveal one's sordid secrets to the public.
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air one's dirty linen in public
Synonym of air one's dirty laundry in public.
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albatross around one's neck
A characteristic, possession, associate, or previous deed that hinders one's ability to succeed.
Last updated August 10, 2026