by hook or by crook

1. 用各种手段, 不择手段

The construction company had to get the contract, by hook or by crook.

那家建设公司欲得契约, 不择手段。

I'll finish this work by hook or by crook.

我要用一切方法来完成这一工作。

off the hook

1. 【口】脱身, 摆脱危境

The teacher let him off the hook with a warning this time.

这一次老师放过他, 只给了一个警告。

He is off the hook because his alibi checked out.

他已经脱身了, 因为他的不在场证明已证实无误。

As soon as he saw her smile he knew he was off the hook.

他一看到她的微笑, 就知道没事了。