throw one's weight around
To exercise influence or authority, especially to an excessive degree or in an objectionable manner.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“He likes to throw his weight around at the office.”
“The new manager tries to throw his weight around, but the staff ignores his unreasonable demands.”
“Despite having no official authority, the consultant continued to throw his weight around, alienating the very team he was hired to assist.”
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abound in one's own sense
To follow one’s own inclinations and opinions.
- 02
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”).
- 05
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.
- 08
albatross around one's neck
A characteristic, possession, associate, or previous deed that hinders one's ability to succeed.
Last updated August 10, 2026