chained to the oars
The condition of being forced to do strenuous and unwelcome labor against one's wishes for an extended period of time.
Teachers in large public schools frequently complain that they feel as if they had been chained to the oars.
champ at the bit
To be eager to begin; be tired of being held back; want to start.
The horses were champing at the bit, anxious to start racing.
As punishment John was kept after school for two hours. He was champing at the bit to go out.
change horses in the middle of a stream
change horses in midstream
To make new plans or choose a new leader in the middle of an important activity.
When a new President is to be elected during a war, the people may decide not to change horses in the middle of a stream.
chew the fat
chew the rag
To talk together in an idle, friendly fashion; chat.
We used to meet after work, and chew the fat over coffee and doughnuts.
The old man would chew the rag for hours with anyone who would join him.
chew the scenery
To act overemotionally in a situation where it is inappropriate; to engage in histrionics.
I don't know if Joe was sincere about our house, but he sure chewed up the scenery!
children and fools speak the truth
Children and fools say things without thinking; they say what they think or know when grown-ups might not think it was polite or wise to do so. A proverb.
Дети и глупцы говорят правду - "Устами младенца глаголет истина".
"Uncle Willie is too fat," said little Agnes. "Children and fools speak the truth," said her father.
"Дядя Вилли слишком толстый" - сказала маленькая Агнес. "Устами младенца глаголет истина" - сказал ее отец.
chip off the old block
A person whose character traits closely resemble those of his parents.
I hear that Tom plays the violin in the orchestra his father conducts; he sure is a chip off the old block.
clear the air
To remove angry feelings, misunderstanding, or confusion.
The President's statement that he would run for office again cleared the air of rumors and guessing.
When Bill was angry at Bob, Bob made a joke, and it cleared the air between them.