keep up with

nothing to speak of

twin lotus flowers on one stalk (symbol of a loyal couple)

be of little account(cut no figure)

unstable as water(be most changeful)

lack any sense of gratitude

(of lotus stems) neither spreading about nor branching out

Be just like a fire

clear away confusion and foster what is correct

change one's countenance

half-raw, half-ripe

in one's shirtsleeves

do something unthinking(blunder out)

Feel helpless

act according to circumstance

happen without looking for

half tract of territory

be clad in simple gowns and eat simple meals

by halves(with half a heart)

have a slight skill by oneself