The Telltale Head

An exclamation of surprise or delight, mild and family-friendly in tone. Used to express amazement without any vulgarity.

Literally means shrimp. When directed at a person, it dismisses them as small, unimportant, or naive. Tone is contemptuous rather than affectionate.

Literally means spark. When said of a person, it is a compliment meaning they are quick-witted, lively, or have nerve. Positive and warm in tone.

A fixed expression meaning to strike someone directly, either physically or figuratively as a perfect, well-aimed hit. The full literal image is what gives it force; the meaning is not immediately obvious from the individual words alone.