punishing

severe and debilitating.

"the recession was having a punishing effect on our business"

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in the clear

phrase of clear

no longer in danger or suspected of something.

"the latest information put her in the clear"

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"false flag"

The term "false flag" originated in the 16th century as an expression meaning an intentional misrepresentation of someone's allegiance. The term was famously used to describe a ruse in naval warfare whereby a vessel flew the flag of a neutral or enemy country in order to hide its true identity.

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spit in one’s face

To disrespect someone

(figuratively) To disrespect someone; to treat someone disrespectfully; hence go to the hell.

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passenger side

The nearside on a car is the side that's closest to the kerb. The nearside is often called the passenger side; so, the nearside front is the front passenger seat on a car. The nearside rear is the passenger side of the car in the back seat.

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crank up

to increase

to increase (loudness, output, etc)

he cranked up his pace.

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Living on a fixed income

Living on a fixed income basically means you're solely or almost entirely dependent on funds such as Social Security, pensions and inheritance, with little to no flexibility in the amount you're paid each month.

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Why is New Hampshire known as the Granite State?

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One of the original 13 states (it entered the Union in 1788), New Hampshire was named after the English county of Hampshire. New Hampshire is called the "Granite State" because of its numerous granite quarries; the nickname may also reflect the state's attachment to tradition and its history of a frugal government.

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civic-minded

: disposed to look after civic needs and interests.

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task force

a unit specially organized for a task.

"aides say his plans include a task force on hate crimes"

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Military Appreciation Month

May, marked officially as Military Appreciation Month, is a special month for both those in and out of the military.

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Eagle Scout

Eagle Scout is the highest achievement or rank attainable in the Scouts BSA program of the Boy Scouts of America. Since its inception in 1911, only four percent of Scouts have earned this rank after a lengthy review process. The Eagle Scout rank has been earned by over 2.5 million youth.

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Spout off

To speak (about someone or something) in a particularly boastful or arrogant manner. To speak for a tedious or exasperating length of time. To utter something in a brash , unwelcome , or unpleasant manner.