John had been down in the dumps ever since he lost his job three months ago. He had sent out dozens of résumés, but not a single reply came back. Just when he was about to throw in the towel, his phone rang. It was a company he’d dreamed of working for.

“Can you come in for an interview tomorrow?” the woman on the phone asked.

John couldn’t believe his luck. He dusted off his old suit, practiced answering questions in front of the mirror, and arrived at the office ten minutes early. The receptionist greeted him warmly, but his palms were sweaty, and his heart was pounding. He told himself to keep his cool.

The interview started off rough. He stuttered when talking about his previous job, and for a moment, he thought he’d blown his chance. But then, something changed. They asked him to talk about a time he faced a challenge. His eyes lit up, and he told the story of how he led a failing team to success.

By the end of the interview, he had them smiling and nodding. As he walked out of the room, one of the interviewers said, “I think we’ve found our guy.”

John smiled. Things were finally looking up.

Idioms Used in the Story

1. Down in the dumps

Meaning: Feeling sad or depressed

Examples:

After the breakup, Sarah was really down in the dumps.

He’s been down in the dumps since he failed the exam.

2. Throw in the towel

Meaning: To give up or quit

Examples:

I almost threw in the towel, but I kept going and passed the course.

Don’t throw in the towel yet — you’re almost there!

3. Keep (one’s) cool

Meaning: To stay calm under pressure

Examples:

Even during the argument, she kept her cool.

You need to keep your cool during the interview.

4. Blow (one’s) chance

Meaning: To ruin or waste an opportunity

Examples:

He blew his chance at the promotion by arriving late.

Don’t blow your chance — be prepared!

5. Look up

Meaning: To improve or get better

Examples:

Things are finally looking up for the business.

After months of struggle, her life is starting to look up.