In its stead

Example

Eventually Mario's project sidelined in its stead the newcomer Jane took the lead with an innovative perspective

Face the music

Example

I guess it's time to go back home and face the music

Stand someone in good stead

Example

I believe that the work done as advertising editor would stand me in good stead  now that I'm a journalist

Goal disallowed

Example

A goal will be disallowed if, at any moment, a referee stops play before the successful shot for any reason

Bursting point

Example

Sam had been under pressure for 1 year when he finally reached bursting point

Tipping point

Example

Climate change: in five years the world toward the tipping point

Point of no return

Example

Greenland ice sheet which could raise sea level by 7m ‘nears point of no return'

Plug the holes

Example

Analysis: Bayern Munich are plugging the holes in their squad by signing Ajax duo

Of your own making

Example

The Prime Minister, however, is now caught in a trap of her own making

Bring up a subject

Example

It's not a good idea to bring up politics with William

Pie-eyed

Example

Last night I got pie-eyed, so today I have a headache

Main culprit

Example

When it comes to skin ageing, sun is the main culprit

In fits and starts

Example

His career was punctuaded by fits and starts clouded by questions about his ability

Crack up

Example

That prank was so good it really cracked me up

Lie down with dogs, wake up with fleas

Example

Going around with George worsened his attitude, lie down with dogs, wake up with fleas