Summary
Highlights
This is part 146 of the American Idioms series, presenting five new idioms from number 726 to 730. Viewers are encouraged to guess the meaning of each idiom before the answer and an additional example are provided.
To 'tinker with something' means to attempt to repair or improve something, usually by an amateur rather than a professional. An example is trying to fix an old car engine. Another example is an uncle who loves to tinker with mechanical things, especially old clocks.
'On the downside' refers to the negative or adverse aspects of a situation. For instance, a new high-paying job might have the downside of requiring weekend work. Similarly, a beautiful new home might have the downside of a longer commute.
If something 'doesn't pass the smell test,' it means it doesn't seem trustworthy or credible. An example is an unbelievable excuse for being late to class. Another instance is a stock broker's suggestion that doesn't seem credible after research.
In this context, 'to knock something out' means to produce or complete something quickly. For example, a son might 'knock out' his homework in an hour. Another example is writing a book quickly due to inspiration.
'An answer to one's prayers' refers to something or someone that provides exactly what was hoped for or needed. A new job that allows someone to buy a car is an example. Another is a scholarship that enables a student to attend university.