affair

have an affair (with someone)

to have a love affair with someone. When I was 20, I had an affair with a rock star, and really made a fool of myself.

See also: have

pretty state of affairs and fine state of affairs

an unpleasant state of affairs. This is a pretty state of affairs, and it's all your fault. What a fine state of affairs you've got us into.

See also: pretty, state

settle someone's affairs

to deal with one's business matters; to manage the business affairs of someone who can't. When my uncle died, I had to settle his affairs. I have to settle my affairs before going to Mexico for a year.

See also: settle

There is a tide in the affairs of men.

Prov. If you have a favorable opportunity to do something, do it, or you will lose your chance. (From Shakespeare's play, Julius Caesar.) I think that this is the best possible time to start our own business. We shouldn't hesitate. There is a tide in the affairs of men.

See also: men, tide

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a sad state of affairs (spoken) also a sorry state of affairs

a bad situation that you find upsetting It's a sad state of affairs when schools don't provide a basic education for their students.

Usage notes: sometimes used in the form a sad state: Things have reached a sad state when you have to pay a bribe to get something done.

See also: sad, state