Winning the lottery was a real turn up for the book.
turn up for the book
idiomA very unexpected, usually pleasant, surprise.
Origin
disputed originOriginally from racecourse betting, from turn up (“stroke of luck”) and book (“record of betting; bookmaker”).
Our team was losing by ten points, so their sudden victory was a real turn up for the book.
Given the candidate's dismal polling numbers, his landslide victory in the primary election was a genuine turn up for the book.
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bad books
Disfavor.
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balance the books
To add up all the debits and credits.
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blot one's copy book
To damage one's own reputation through bad behavior.
- 04
book burning
Any mass destruction, removal, or recalling of books, motion pictures, broadcasts, or electronic works as a form of censorship, especially motivated by religious or political objections to the material.
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book dumping
The practice of donating old used books that burden rather than assist communities.
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book in
To check in (to a hotel).
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Buggins's turn
A humorous, disparaging term for the appointment of a person by rotation or promotion, on the basis of length of service (it being that person's "turn") rather than merit or level of qualification.
- 08
call someone every name in the book
To call someone many abusive names.
Last updated April 17, 2026