trying
121up to something — trying to make a deal, planning a joke David is up to something. He has a look of mischief in his eye …
122on the make — trying to get some advantage money or sexual etc. Be careful of him. He is on the make and will try and cheat you out of your money …
123chasing rainbows — trying to achieve something that is not possible or practical. He wanted to go into show business, but friends told him to quit chasing rainbows …
124closing the stable door after the horse has bolted — trying to stop something bad happening when it has already happened and the situation cannot be changed. Improving security after a major theft would seem to be a bit like closing the stable door after the horse has bolted …
125shutting the stable door after the horse has bolted — trying to stop something bad happening when it has already happened and the situation cannot be changed. Improving security after a major theft would seem to be a bit like closing the stable door after the horse has bolted …
126fighting a losing battle — trying to achieve something that you will probably not be able to achieve Police are fighting a losing battle against the rising crime rate …
127fighting for survival — trying to remain successful or continue to exist Many corner shops are now fighting for survival …
128on the defensive — trying to defend something from attacks or criticism put someone on the defensive: a controversy that has put the school s leadership on the defensive …