General English
Speak More Naturally
Learning path assembled from 180 accepted global collection with regional notes candidate(s).
Path assembled from accepted regional English collection candidates. Mode: Global collection with regional notes. Regions: Global English. Items: 180.
Section 1
High-Value Collocations
Review these linked dictionary entries in Wagtail before publishing. Source v2 learning-path job: 335. Module focus: Common word partnerships.
Collocation
Make sense
To be logical, reasonable, or understandable; to have a clear meaning.
Example: Her explanation helped to make sense of the complex theory.
Collocation
Take a break
to stop working or doing an activity for a short time to rest
Example: Let’s take a break and get some fresh air.
Collocation
Get started
To begin doing something; to make a start on an activity or task.
Example: Let's get started on the project right away.
Collocation
Keep going
to continue doing something despite difficulty, fatigue, or interruptions
Example: Even when you feel tired, keep going.
Collocation
Come up with an idea
To produce or think of a new idea, plan, or solution, often creatively or after some effort.
Example: She always manages to come up with great ideas for our team projects.
Collocation
Figure out a problem
To understand or solve a difficult situation, puzzle, or issue.
Example: We need to figure out a problem with the new software before its launch.
Collocation
Look into an issue
To investigate or examine a problem, concern, or situation to discover the facts and find a solution.
Example: The manager promised to look into the issue of late deliveries immediately.
Collocation
Bring up a topic
To introduce a subject for discussion or consideration.
Example: I didn't want to bring up such a sensitive topic during dinner.
Collocation
Point out a mistake
To draw attention to an error or flaw; to show someone an error they have made.
Example: The teacher had to point out a mistake in my essay.
Collocation
Set aside time
To dedicate a specific period or duration for a particular purpose or activity, often implying careful planning or reservation.
Example: She always tries to set aside time each day for her hobbies.
Collocation
Run into trouble
To experience difficulties, problems, or a problematic situation.
Example: If you don't follow the rules, you might run into trouble with the authorities.
Collocation
Catch up with someone
To meet someone you know, especially someone you have not seen for a long time, in order to find out what they have been doing; or to reach the same level or standard as someone who is ahead of you.
Example: I need to catch up with my sister to hear all her news after her trip.
Collocation
Go ahead with a plan
To proceed with or implement a plan or project, usually after consideration or approval.
Example: After careful consideration, the board decided to go ahead with the new expansion plan.
Collocation
Hold on a moment
To wait for a very short period of time, often used when asking someone to pause during a conversation or task.
Example: Could you please hold on a moment while I check the schedule?
Collocation
Hang out with friends
To spend time relaxing or socializing informally with friends, often without a specific plan or agenda.
Example: After school, they love to hang out with friends at the park.
Collocation
Get along well
To have a friendly relationship with someone; to live or work together without problems.
Example: The new student quickly got along well with her classmates.
Collocation
Turn out well
To result in a positive or successful outcome; to end in a good way.
Example: Despite the initial challenges, the project eventually turned out well, exceeding all expectations.
Collocation
End up doing something
To eventually find oneself in a particular place or situation, or to eventually do something, especially when one did not intend or expect to.
Example: I didn't plan to stay long, but I ended up talking for hours.
Collocation
Work out a solution
To find a way to solve a problem or deal with a difficult situation, often through effort, thought, or discussion.
Example: The team had to work out a solution to the unexpected technical issue before the launch.
Collocation
Take over a task
To assume responsibility for a task or job from another person or entity.
Example: After the manager left, Sarah had to take over a crucial task for the team.
Collocation
Give up too soon
To stop trying or pursuing something prematurely, before a reasonable time or effort has been expended; to quit before success is likely or possible.
Example: Don't give up too soon; you're almost there!
Collocation
Put off a decision
To delay or postpone making a choice or judgment; to defer deciding something.
Example: The committee decided to put off a decision until they had more information.
Collocation
Carry on working
To continue to do work; to persist in working, often despite difficulties or interruptions.
Example: Despite the late hour, the team decided to carry on working to meet the deadline.
Collocation
Show up late
To arrive after the scheduled or expected time; to be tardy.
Example: She tends to show up late for everything, even her own appointments.
Collocation
Calm down quickly
To become less agitated, upset, or excited in a short amount of time; to regain composure swiftly.
Example: After the alarm, everyone managed to calm down quickly.
Collocation
Open up to someone
To share one's feelings, thoughts, or personal experiences honestly and vulnerably with another person, often about something difficult or intimate.
Example: It takes a lot of trust to really open up to someone about your deepest fears.
Collocation
Back down from an argument
To withdraw from a confrontation or dispute, often admitting defeat, conceding a point, or avoiding further conflict.
Example: Despite her strong convictions, she eventually had to back down from the argument with her colleague.
Collocation
Bring back memories
to make someone remember past events or experiences again, often with emotion
Example: That old song always brings back memories of our summer road trips.
Collocation
Cut down on something
To reduce the amount or frequency of something; to consume or use less of something.
Example: I need to cut down on sugar if I want to lose weight.
Collocation
Fill in a form
To complete the empty spaces or sections on an official document, questionnaire, or application with the required information.
Example: Applicants must fill in the form carefully and submit it by Friday.
Collocation
Find out the truth
To discover the facts or reality about something, often after investigation or effort.
Example: After weeks of investigation, the detective finally managed to find out the truth about the missing jewels.
Collocation
Get over a problem
To successfully deal with a difficulty, recover from a setback, or overcome an obstacle.
Example: It took her a long time to get over the problem with her old computer.
Collocation
Go through a change
To experience a significant alteration, transformation, or period of transition.
Example: The city is going through a massive change due to the new development projects.
Collocation
Look forward to a trip
To feel excited and pleased about an upcoming journey or vacation.
Example: We're really looking forward to our trip to Italy next month.
Collocation
Make up for lost time
To compensate for a period of inactivity or delay by working extra hard or quickly.
Example: After being sick for a week, she had to work extra hours to make up for lost time.
Collocation
Put up with noise
To tolerate or endure unpleasant sound without complaining.
Example: It's hard to put up with noise from the construction site all day.
Collocation
Run out of time
To no longer have enough time available to complete something or do what is needed.
Example: If we don't hurry, we'll run out of time to finish the project.
Collocation
Take care of someone
To look after someone; to provide for their needs and well-being; to be responsible for someone.
Example: She had to take care of her sick mother after the surgery.
Section 2
Essential Phrasal Verbs
Review these linked dictionary entries in Wagtail before publishing. Source v2 learning-path job: 335. Module focus: Frequent spoken phrasal verbs.
Phrasal verb
Figure out
To figure out something means to understand it or find an answer by thinking.
Example: I can’t figure out why my phone won’t connect to the Wi‑Fi.
Phrasal verb
Come up with
To come up with something means to think of or produce an idea, plan, or solution.
Example: I came up with a new slogan for the school play.
Phrasal verb
Look into
To look into something means to investigate it or try to find out the truth about it.
Example: I’ll look into the missing package and get back to you.
Phrasal verb
Put off
To put off something is to delay it until a later time.
Example: I put off cleaning the kitchen until tomorrow.
Phrasal verb
Catch up
To catch up means to reach the same level or position as someone or something that is ahead.
Example: I need to catch up with the rest of the class before the test.
Phrasal verb
Get along
To get along means to have a friendly relationship and not argue much.
Example: I get along with my neighbors, so we often chat in the hallway.
Phrasal verb
Hang out
To hang out means to spend time relaxing or socializing, usually informally.
Example: I usually hang out with my neighbors on the porch after dinner.
Phrasal verb
Turn out
To turn out means to happen or end in a particular way.
Example: The trip was stressful at first, but it turned out great.
Phrasal verb
End up
To end up means to finally be in a particular place, situation, or state, often unexpectedly.
Example: I took a wrong turn and ended up in a quiet neighborhood.
Phrasal verb
Work out
To work out means to exercise or to find a solution by thinking or calculating.
Example: I work out before breakfast when I have time.
Phrasal verb
Show up
To show up means to arrive at a place or event, often unexpectedly or after being expected.
Example: I showed up a few minutes late because the bus was delayed.
Phrasal verb
Open up
To open up means to start talking more honestly about your feelings or thoughts.
Example: I didn’t open up until I knew I could trust them.
Phrasal verb
Back down
To back down means to stop opposing someone or to withdraw from a demand after pressure or disagreement.
Example: I won’t back down just because the room gets loud.
Phrasal verb
Cut down
To cut down means to reduce the amount, size, or frequency of something.
Example: I’m trying to cut down on coffee in the afternoons.
Phrasal verb
Get over
To get over something is to recover from it or stop being strongly affected by it.
Example: I finally got over the flu and went back to work.
Phrasal verb
Go through
Go through means to experience or endure something difficult or to examine something step by step.
Example: I don’t want to go through that argument again.
Phrasal verb
Look forward to
To feel pleased and excited about something that is going to happen.
Example: I really look forward to my vacation next month.
Phrasal verb
Make up for
To make up for something means to compensate for a loss, mistake, or disadvantage by doing something positive.
Example: I’ll make up for the mistake by double-checking everything today.
Phrasal verb
Put up with
To put up with something means to tolerate it, even if it is unpleasant or annoying.
Example: I can’t put up with this constant buzzing from the old refrigerator.
Phrasal verb
Run out
To run out means to use all of something so that none is left.
Example: I ran out of coffee, so I stopped at the store on my way to work.
Phrasal verb
Take care of
To look after someone or something, or to deal with a task or problem.
Example: My neighbor promised to take care of my plants while I'm away on holiday.
Phrasal verb
Fill in
“Fill in” means to complete missing information on a form or document.
Example: I need to fill in this application before the office closes.
Phrasal verb
Find out
To find out means to discover information or learn the truth about something.
Example: I need to find out what time the meeting starts.
Phrasal verb
Point out
To point out means to draw someone’s attention to something by showing it or mentioning it.
Example: I pointed out the shortcut on the map before we left.
Phrasal verb
Bring up
To bring up something is to introduce it in conversation.
Example: I didn’t want to bring up the delay during dinner.
Phrasal verb
Give up
To give up means to stop trying or to stop doing something because it is too difficult or you no longer want to continue.
Example: I won’t give up, even if it takes me another week to learn this.
Phrasal verb
Carry on
“Carry on” most commonly means to continue doing something.
Example: We’ll take a short break and then carry on with the meeting.
Phrasal verb
Take off
To take off means to remove something or to leave the ground and begin flying.
Example: I took off my jacket because the room was warm.
Phrasal verb
Break down
To break down means to stop working properly or to fail.
Example: My car broke down on the way to work.
Phrasal verb
Take on
To take on means to accept or start doing a task, role, or responsibility.
Example: I can’t take on any more work this week.
Phrasal verb
Look back
To look back means to think about or remember the past.
Example: I look back on that trip and smile.
Phrasal verb
Sort out
To sort out means to organize or resolve something so it becomes clear or works properly.
Example: I need to sort out my notes before the meeting.
Phrasal verb
Deal with
To deal with something means to handle it or take action to solve it.
Example: I can deal with the repairs this weekend.
Phrasal verb
Get through
To get through means to successfully finish something difficult or manage to survive a tough period.
Example: I got through the last chapter before midnight.
Phrasal verb
Mess up
To mess up means to do something badly or make a mistake that causes problems.
Example: I really messed up the presentation by skipping an important slide.
Phrasal verb
Talk over
To talk over something is to discuss it with someone in order to make a decision or understand it better.
Example: I need to talk over the schedule with my manager before I confirm it.
Phrasal verb
Come across
To come across someone or something means to find or notice them by chance.
Example: I came across an old notebook while cleaning my desk.
Phrasal verb
Get away with
To do something wrong or illegal without being caught or punished.
Example: The student tried to cheat on the exam, hoping to get away with it, but the professor caught him.
Section 3
Conversation Chunks
Review these linked dictionary entries in Wagtail before publishing. Source v2 learning-path job: 335. Module focus: Multiword units used in spontaneous speech.
Collocation
The thing is
Used to introduce an explanation, a problem, a reservation, or a clarification.
Example: The thing is, I've already made plans for Saturday.
Collocation
To be honest
Used to introduce a statement that expresses your true opinion, even if it is critical or difficult to say.
Example: To be honest, I didn't enjoy the movie very much.
Collocation
As far as I know
Used to say that you think something is true, but you are not completely certain, or that you are reporting all the information you have.
Example: As far as I know, the library closes at 7 PM on weekdays.
Collocation
At the end of the day
Ultimately; when everything is considered; in the final analysis.
Example: We can argue all we want, but at the end of the day, it's the customer's decision that matters most.
Collocation
If you ask me
Used to introduce a personal opinion, often one that is not explicitly requested, or to emphasize that it is merely one's own view.
Example: That movie was terrible, if you ask me.
Collocation
That said
Used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or qualifies something that has just been mentioned, often signaling a slight shift in perspective or a counterpoint.
Example: The new policy has some strong advantages. That said, it also presents several challenges we need to address.
Collocation
Having said that
Used to introduce a statement that contradicts, qualifies, or presents a contrasting point to what has just been said; nevertheless or however.
Example: The hotel room was small and a bit noisy; having said that, the view from the window was absolutely stunning.
Collocation
By the way
Used to introduce a new topic, often tangential, or to add information that wasn't previously mentioned.
Example: Oh, by the way, did you remember to lock the door?
Collocation
Speaking of which.
Used to introduce a new topic that has just been brought to mind by something previously said.
Example: We were just talking about the new cafe. Speaking of which, have you tried their coffee yet?
Collocation
Long story short
Used to say that you are going to tell the main facts of something in a quick way and not include all the details; to summarize.
Example: Long story short, I ended up missing my flight.
Collocation
What I'm trying to say
The main point or clarification one is attempting to communicate, often after some difficulty or preamble.
Example: Look, what I'm trying to say is that we need to reconsider our approach.
Collocation
In other words
Used to introduce a different, often simpler or clearer, way of saying the same thing; to rephrase or explain something more simply.
Example: The project is over budget; in other words, we've spent more money than we planned.
Collocation
For what it's worth
Used to introduce a piece of information or an opinion that you are not sure is very important or useful, but you are offering it anyway.
Example: For what it's worth, I think you made the right decision.
Collocation
As it happens
Used to introduce a piece of information that is true, often surprising, or relevant to what has just been said; coincidentally.
Example: Are you going to the market today? As it happens, I was just about to leave for there myself.
Collocation
Funnily enough
Used to introduce a surprising, ironic, or coincidental fact or situation, often with a slight touch of amusement.
Example: Funnily enough, I was just thinking about you when you called.
Collocation
On the other hand
Used to introduce a contrasting fact, idea, or situation.
Example: Studying abroad can be expensive; on the other hand, it offers invaluable cultural experiences.
Collocation
In a way
partly true, or true to some extent; used to soften a statement or express hesitant agreement.
Example: In a way, his argument makes sense, even if I don't fully agree.
Collocation
More or less
approximately; almost; to a certain extent; somewhat
Example: The project is more or less finished, we just need to review the final details.
Collocation
At least
Used to specify a minimum quantity, amount, or condition; or to introduce a positive point or partial compensation for something negative.
Example: You should drink at least eight glasses of water a day.
Collocation
Fair enough
Used to acknowledge or accept a statement, reason, or outcome as reasonable, understandable, or acceptable, even if one doesn't fully agree.
Example: You want to leave early? Fair enough, you've worked hard today.
Collocation
No wonder
Used to say that you are not surprised by something because there is a clear and obvious reason for it.
Example: No wonder you're tired after working all day.
Collocation
Go for it
To pursue an opportunity, goal, or challenge with enthusiasm and determination, especially when facing a decision or hesitation.
Example: If you really want that promotion, you should go for it!
Collocation
I'm with you
To understand or agree with what someone is saying, or to support them.
Example: When you explain it like that, I'm completely with you.
Collocation
That's the thing
Used to introduce the most important fact, problem, or explanation in a situation. It often implies a contradiction or a complicating factor that changes the listener's initial assumption.
Example: We could go hiking tomorrow, but that's the thing – the weather forecast is terrible.
Collocation
Here's the thing
Used to introduce an important point, often a problem, a clarification, or an explanation, especially one that might be slightly difficult or unexpected.
Example: I know you want to go to the concert, but here's the thing: tickets are completely sold out.
Collocation
It depends.
The answer to a question or the outcome of a situation is not fixed but varies according to circumstances or other factors.
Example: When will you arrive? It depends on the traffic.
Collocation
I guess
Used to express a feeling of uncertainty, reluctant agreement, or a mild assumption. It often softens a statement or indicates a slight lack of conviction.
Example: I guess I'll just stay home tonight.
Collocation
I suppose
Used to express a belief, opinion, or concession, often with some hesitation, uncertainty, or reluctance; to assume something is true.
Example: I suppose it's true, but I still have some doubts.
Collocation
So basically
Used to introduce a summary, a simplified explanation, or the main point of what has just been said or is about to be said.
Example: We talked for an hour, so basically, we decided to postpone the project.
Collocation
You know what I mean
Used to check if the listener understands the speaker's implied meaning or sentiment, or to clarify a somewhat vague statement without having to explain it further.
Example: She's always so particular about her coffee, you know what I mean?
Collocation
All in all
Considering everything; on the whole; when all is taken into account.
Example: All in all, it was a successful event despite the initial technical glitches.
Collocation
As it were
An idiom used to qualify a statement, indicating that it is perhaps not entirely accurate, literal, or precise, but serves to convey the intended meaning in a metaphorical or suggestive way. It means 'so to speak' or 'in a manner of speaking'.
Example: He became, as it were, the father figure of the group.
Collocation
To cut a long story short
Used to say that you are going to tell the main points of something without including all the details; to summarize.
Example: To cut a long story short, we decided to sell the house and move to the countryside.
Section 4
Softening and Emphasis
Review these linked dictionary entries in Wagtail before publishing. Source v2 learning-path job: 335. Module focus: Sounding tactful, confident, and expressive.
Collocation
I was wondering if
A polite and indirect way to introduce a question, request, or suggestion.
Example: I was wondering if you could lend me a hand with this heavy box.
Collocation
Would you mind
A polite way to ask someone to do something, often followed by a gerund (verb-ing).
Example: Would you mind closing the window?
Collocation
I'm afraid
Used to politely introduce bad news, express regret, or state a negative fact. Can also indicate a mild feeling of fear or concern about something.
Example: I'm afraid I won't be able to join the team for lunch today.
Collocation
To be fair
Used to introduce a statement that presents a balanced or mitigating perspective, often after a critical or negative comment, acknowledging another side of the argument or excusing someone's behavior.
Example: The movie wasn't great, but to be fair, the acting was pretty good.
Collocation
If I'm honest
Used to introduce a personal opinion or assessment, often one that might be slightly critical, surprising, or unwelcome, implying the speaker is being frank and truthful.
Example: If I'm honest, I didn't really enjoy the party last night.
Collocation
Maybe we could
Used to introduce a polite, tentative suggestion or a potential idea for an action involving the speaker and others.
Example: Maybe we could grab some dinner after the meeting.
Collocation
It might be better to
Suggesting an alternative action or course, often implying a preference or a more advantageous, prudent, or polite option. It introduces a recommendation.
Example: Given the heavy traffic, it might be better to take the subway instead of driving.
Collocation
I don't want to be rude, but
This phrase is used to politely introduce a direct or potentially critical statement, disagreement, or an uncomfortable truth.
Example: I don't want to be rude, but your fly is open.
Collocation
Just so you know
Used to give someone a piece of information, often as a heads-up, a gentle warning, or to clarify something. It implies the information might be helpful or relevant to them, often in an informal context.
Example: Just so you know, the store closes in ten minutes.
Collocation
I should mention
Used to introduce an additional piece of information, often an important one, that might otherwise be forgotten or overlooked. It signals that the speaker is about to add something relevant to the conversation.
Example: Oh, I should mention that the meeting has been rescheduled for tomorrow morning.
Collocation
I can't stress enough
To emphasize very strongly how important, true, or good something is; to highlight the utmost significance of something.
Example: I can't stress enough how vital it is to save water.
Collocation
By all means
Certainly; yes; definitely. Used to give permission or express strong agreement or to indicate that something should be done in every possible way.
Example: If you want to come along, by all means, join us.
Collocation
I'd rather
To express a preference or what one would prefer to do or have happen.
Example: I'd rather stay home tonight than go out.
Collocation
I'd prefer
A polite way to express a choice or desire; a contraction of 'I would prefer'.
Example: I'd prefer to stay home tonight rather than go out.
Collocation
It would be great if
A polite way to express a strong wish, suggestion, or a desired positive outcome, often implying a benefit to the speaker or others. It introduces a hypothetical or conditional situation.
Example: It would be great if you could send me the report by the end of the day.
Collocation
I'm not entirely sure
To express a degree of doubt or uncertainty, indicating that one is not completely confident or fully informed about something.
Example: I'm not entirely sure if that's the best approach for our team.
Collocation
Not at all
Used to emphasize a negative statement, meaning 'absolutely not' or 'definitely no'. It can also be used as a polite response to 'thank you' or to say 'no' to a request.
Example: Are you tired? No, not at all.
Collocation
Pretty much
almost entirely; very nearly; to a great extent
Example: The project is pretty much finished.
Collocation
Far too
Significantly more than is acceptable, desirable, or necessary; excessively.
Example: The movie was far too long; I almost fell asleep.
Collocation
A bit
A small amount or degree; somewhat.
Example: I'm a bit tired today.
Word
Slightly
To a small degree; a little.
Example: The door was slightly ajar, letting a sliver of light into the dark room.
Word
Actually
Used to refer to what is true or real, often in contrast to what has been said or what might be expected.
Example: I thought the movie was long, but it was actually only 90 minutes.
Collocation
I do think
Used to emphasize one's opinion or belief, often in response to, or in anticipation of, disagreement or doubt.
Example: I do think that's a brilliant idea, despite what others might say.
Word
Absolutely
Completely, without doubt, or used to express strong agreement.
Example: The new security system is absolutely necessary for our building's protection.
Word
Totally
Completely; to the fullest extent.
Example: I am totally exhausted after working twelve hours straight.
Word
Perhaps
Used to express possibility or uncertainty about something.
Example: Perhaps we should bring an umbrella; it looks like it might rain.
Collocation
No offense, but
Used to introduce a potentially critical, impolite, or disagreeable remark, indicating that the speaker does not intend to cause insult or hurt feelings.
Example: No offense, but your new haircut doesn't really suit your face shape.
Section 5
Idioms Worth Learning
Review these linked dictionary entries in Wagtail before publishing. Source v2 learning-path job: 335. Module focus: Common, useful, non-obscure idioms.
Idiom
Break the ice
To break the ice means to do or say something that helps people feel more relaxed and start talking in an awkward or new situation.
Example: I tried to break the ice by asking everyone where they were from.
Idiom
Get the ball rolling
To get an activity, project, or process started and moving forward.
Example: Let’s get the ball rolling with a quick overview of the plan.
Idiom
Call it a day
To decide to stop working or doing an activity for the remainder of the day.
Example: After twelve hours of intense coding, Sarah decided to call it a day and get some rest.
Idiom
Learn the ropes
To learn the ropes means to learn how to do a new job or activity by understanding the basic rules and routines.
Example: I’m still learning the ropes at my new job.
Idiom
On the same page
To agree or share the same understanding about a plan, idea, or situation.
Example: Before we start coding, let’s make sure we’re on the same page about the requirements.
Idiom
Under the weather
If you are under the weather, you feel slightly ill or not at your best.
Example: I’m feeling under the weather today, so I’m going to stay home.
Idiom
Cut to the chase
To stop giving extra details and talk about the most important point immediately.
Example: Let’s cut to the chase—are you accepting the offer or not?
Idiom
Hit the nail on the head
To hit the nail on the head means to say or do something that is exactly right.
Example: You really hit the nail on the head when you said the team needs clearer goals.
Idiom
Piece of cake
A piece of cake means something is very easy to do.
Example: The math homework was a piece of cake.
Idiom
Once in a while
Infrequently or occasionally.
Example: I enjoy baking, but I only do it once in a while when I have free time on the weekends.
Idiom
Out of the blue
Suddenly and unexpectedly, without any warning.
Example: My old college roommate called me yesterday completely out of the blue; I hadn't heard from her in years.
Idiom
So far so good
Everything is progressing successfully or without problems up to this point in time.
Example: We're halfway through the hiking trail, and so far so good; everyone is still feeling energetic.
Idiom
In the long run
Eventually, over a long period of time, considering ultimate outcomes rather than immediate ones.
Example: Spending a little extra money on a high-quality appliance might save you repair costs in the long run.
Idiom
Miss the point
To fail to understand the most important or essential part of something being discussed or explained.
Example: I tried to explain the new policy, but I think he completely missed the point about its long-term benefits.
Idiom
Keep an eye on
To watch someone or something continuously and carefully.
Example: Could you please keep an eye on my bag while I quickly use the restroom?
Idiom
Read between the lines
To understand the implicit meaning or unspoken message in what someone says or writes.
Example: After reading his resignation letter, I realized I had to read between the lines to understand the real reasons behind his departure.
Idiom
Make ends meet
To earn just enough money to cover one's basic expenses.
Example: After losing her job, Maria struggled to make ends meet for several months.
Idiom
Go the extra mile
To make a special additional effort beyond what is expected.
Example: The customer service representative really went the extra mile to resolve my issue, staying on the phone much longer than expected.
Idiom
Play it by ear
To decide what to do as a situation develops, without making a detailed plan in advance.
Example: We don’t have a schedule for the weekend, so we’ll play it by ear.
Idiom
In a nutshell
“In a nutshell” means in a very brief and clear summary.
Example: In a nutshell, the project is over budget and behind schedule.
Idiom
Get the hang of
To get the hang of something means to learn how to do it well enough to feel comfortable.
Example: It took me a week, but I finally got the hang of using the espresso machine.
Idiom
Bite the bullet
To bite the bullet means to force yourself to do something difficult or unpleasant because you cannot avoid it.
Example: I finally bit the bullet and went to the dentist.
Section 6
Regional Naturalness
Review these linked dictionary entries in Wagtail before publishing. Source v2 learning-path job: 335. Module focus: Widely understood versus region-specific informal English.
Collocation
Catch you later.
An informal way of saying goodbye, indicating that you expect to see or speak to the person again at a later time.
Example: I'm heading out now, but I'll catch you later for dinner.
Collocation
See you later.
A common informal farewell, indicating an expectation to meet again at a later time.
Example: I'm heading out now, but I'll see you later at the party.
Word
Cheers
An informal expression used as a toast, a thank you, or a goodbye.
Example: Everyone, raise your glasses! Cheers to a fantastic year ahead!
Collocation
Thanks a lot
A common informal expression of strong gratitude, meaning 'many thanks' or 'thank you very much'.
Example: Thanks a lot for your help with the project.
Collocation
You guys
An informal way to address or refer to a group of people, equivalent to 'you all' or 'everyone.'
Example: Hey, what are you guys doing tonight?
Collocation
You lot
An informal, often British English, way of addressing a group of people, meaning "all of you."
Example: Right, listen up, you lot! We need to get this done by lunchtime.
Collocation
I'm knackered
Feeling extremely tired; exhausted.
Example: After a long shift at work, I'm absolutely knackered and just want to go to bed.
Collocation
I'm exhausted
Feeling extremely tired or completely drained of energy; utterly worn out.
Example: After working 12 hours straight, I'm completely exhausted.
Collocation
Queue up
To form or stand in a line (a queue), typically while waiting for something.
Example: We had to queue up for an hour to get into the concert.
Collocation
Wait in line
to stand in a queue, usually for a service or product, while expecting to be served or to pass through
Example: We had to wait in line for an hour to get tickets to the show.
Collocation
No worries
An informal way of saying 'you're welcome,' 'no problem,' or 'it's alright.' It indicates that something is not a problem or concern and serves as a common response to thanks or apologies.
Example: Thanks for your help! - No worries at all!
Collocation
That's rubbish.
Used to say that something is of very poor quality, not true, or completely unacceptable. (Primarily British English)
Example: He tried to convince me with his arguments, but honestly, that's rubbish.
Collocation
That sucks.
An informal expression used to indicate that something is very bad, unfortunate, unfair, or unpleasant.
Example: Oh, your flight was canceled? That really sucks.
Idiom
Rain check
A rain check is a promise that you can do something later because it cannot happen now.
Example: I can’t make dinner tonight—can I take a rain check?
Idiom
Bob's your uncle
Used to say that something will be easy or will happen exactly as expected after a simple step.
Example: Add the attachments, hit send, and Bob's your uncle.
Idiom
Over the moon
Extremely happy or delighted about something.
Example: She was over the moon when she got the job offer.
Idiom
Gutted
If you are gutted, you feel extremely disappointed or upset.
Example: I was gutted when I didn’t get the job.
Idiom
Take the mickey
To take the mickey means to mock someone or tease them in an unkind or cheeky way.
Example: Are you taking the mickey out of me, or did you really forget again?
Idiom
Bits and bobs
A variety of small, miscellaneous items or tasks that are not very important on their own.
Example: I spent the afternoon sorting out bits and bobs in the kitchen drawer.
Idiom
Take it with a grain of salt
To take it with a grain of salt means to not completely believe something and to treat it as possibly exaggerated or unreliable.
Example: Take it with a grain of salt—he tends to exaggerate his accomplishments.
Idiom
Take with a pinch of salt
To take with a pinch of salt means to not fully believe something and to be cautious about accepting it as true.
Example: I’d take with a pinch of salt anything he says about his salary.
Idiom
Chuffed to bits
Very pleased and proud about something.
Example: I was chuffed to bits when I got the job offer.