There are many expressions commonly used in English to express similarity.
There is no magic rule to help you remember them. You just have to learn them. Sorry!
Take a look at the examples below.
To play (someone) like a fiddle.
If you play someone like a fiddle, you are able to successfully and skillfully manipulate them into doing what you want.
E.g. His kind words and compliments are totally insincere. He doesn’t mean any of it. He’s playing you like a fiddle.
To come up/out smelling like roses.
If a person comes up/out smelling like roses, he/she continues to have a good reputation or success despite having been involved in a scandal or negative circumstances.
E.g. As a result of the financial scandal many board members had to resign but she somehow came up/out smelling like roses.
Have fun learning English!
Louise