Phrases

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Everyday expressions

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Understand each item before testing yourself. Choose honestly whether it already feels familiar or needs practice.

1 of 10Phrase

break the ice

Starting a conversation to ease tension or create a more comfortable atmosphere.

Example

To break the ice at the networking event, Alex shared a humorous story, making everyone feel more relaxed.

Vocabulary in this set

Use ten common expressions for plans, social moments, weather, and everyday problems.

  1. break the ice

    Phrase

    Starting a conversation to ease tension or create a more comfortable atmosphere.

    To break the ice at the networking event, Alex shared a humorous story, making everyone feel more relaxed.

  2. take a rain check

    Expression

    Politely declining an invitation with the intention of rescheduling for the future.

    Appreciating the dinner invitation, she had to take a rain check as she already had plans for that evening.

  3. call it a day

    Expression

    Choosing to conclude an activity or work for the day.

    After completing the main tasks, they decided to call it a day and enjoy some well-deserved relaxation.

  4. hit the road

    Phrase

    Embarking on a journey or departing from a location.

    After saying their goodbyes, it was time for the travelers to hit the road and start their cross-country adventure.

  5. break a leg

    Phrase

    Wishing someone good luck before a performance or important event.

    Before going on stage for their play, Sarah's friends wished her to break a leg.

  6. pull someone's leg

    Phrase

    Engaging in playful teasing or joking with someone in a light-hearted manner.

    She thought he was serious about the outrageous story, but he was just pulling her leg and having a good laugh.

  7. spill the beans

    Phrase

    Unintentionally or deliberately disclosing confidential information or a secret.

    Despite the plan to keep it a surprise, Sarah accidentally spilled the beans about the upcoming surprise party.

  8. raining cats and dogs

    Expression

    Describing an intense or heavy rainfall.

    We had to postpone the outdoor event because it started raining cats and dogs.

  9. cost an arm and a leg

    Expression

    Describing something that is overly costly or expensive.

    Getting the latest smartphone may be tempting, but it tends to cost an arm and a leg.

  10. be in hot water

    Expression

    Experiencing problems, challenges, or trouble.

    After missing the deadline, he knew he would be in hot water with his supervisor.

Phrases