Everyday expressions

Vocabulary in this set

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

1. break the ice

   Phrase

   start a friendly conversation and reduce tension

   A simple question can break the ice at a new event.

2. take a rain check

   Expression

   decline an invitation but suggest doing it later

   Can I take a rain check and join you next week?

3. call it a day

   Expression

   stop working on something for the day

   We finished the main task, so let us call it a day.

4. hit the road

   Phrase

   begin a journey or leave a place

   We should hit the road before the traffic gets busy.

5. break a leg

   Phrase

   wish someone good luck before a performance

   Break a leg in your presentation this afternoon.

6. pull someone's leg

   Phrase

   joke with someone by saying something untrue

   Do not worry—I was only trying to pull someone's leg.

7. spill the beans

   Phrase

   reveal secret information

   Please do not spill the beans about the surprise.

8. raining cats and dogs

   Expression

   raining very heavily

   It is raining cats and dogs, so take an umbrella.

9. cost an arm and a leg

   Expression

   be extremely expensive

   A hotel near the stadium can cost an arm and a leg.

10. be in hot water

    Expression

    be in trouble

    You may be in hot water if you ignore the deadline.