Phrasal verbs are verbs that consist of two or three parts. They are made up of a main verb plus one or two additional words (usually a preposition or an adverb). These additional words completely change the meaning of the original verb.
We focus on listing the most common and useful phrasal verbs here. Our list is constantly being updated, so be sure to check back regularly!
- add up
add up means to increase in number, amount or similar.
Reading a lot of books added up a lot to my knowledge.
We also use it to describe the process of calculating.
Some people can't add up properly and therefore they loose a lot of money.
This phrasal verb is mostly used in negative sentences when talking about something that doesn't have sense or isn't logical or lies.
Mike didn't add up much to his previous story. And police think, he's cheating them. His story doesn't seem reasonable.
- bring it on
bring it on means to be confident to meet some challenge.
A new more complicated but well paid project from that customer? OK, just bring it on! The person is willing to work hard to achieve good results on a new project.
- keep an eye out
keep an eye out - to look out for something with particular attention, to be watchful for something.
We were warned by local police to keep an eye out for the escaped prisoner.
Every time I go picking mushrooms in our local forest, I need to keep an eye out for vipers.
Keep an eye out for the postman. This package has to be delivered today.
- to back (somebody) up
to back (somebody) up means to support. It could be verbal or financial support or similar.
My parents always back me up when I need any help or advice.
We have decided to buy a new car and both our parents have decided to back us up.
- to bank on
to bank on - to expect something to happen, may be count on it.
You can bank on our project financing.
He can always bank on his sister. She always keeps her promises.
Our government is banking on public support in this matter.
- to be in for
to be in for - you are about to have or experience something, possibly unpleasant.
We believe that our business is in for the hard time next your due to European sanctions.
I'm sure that in a few minutes we are in for a heavy rain.
- to blow up
to blow up means to explode.
The technician over pumped the tire and it blew up.
It also means to become angry, may be even depressed.
Mike promised her some help with accommodation but forgot about it and she blew up, as she had nowhere to stay in London.
- to bring up
to bring up means to begin talking about, discuss something. May be it's better to avoid it.
He brought up finances into their conversation and immediately regretted it, his colleague understood topic much better and everyone saw it.
It also means to raise and care for a child.
They brought him up in a small village close to Brighton.
We often use it in a passive form.
She was brought up by her elder brother as her parents died in a car accident when she was only four.
- to brush up (on)
to brush up (on) - to improve your knowledge or skills in something, that you did some time ago, but have partly forgotten.
I need to brush up on my Spanish before going to Malaga.
He's brushing up on his software skills before applying for a new job in this company.
- to buckle down
to buckle down - to start working hard with determination.
They have to buckle down and study hard if they want to pass their exams well.
You have to buckle down and find the solution to this recurrent problem.
- to bump into
to bump into - to meet someone by chance/accident.
While walking along Oxford Street we bumped into my old friend George. We never expected to meet him in London.
- to call off
to call off means to cancel something.
The decided to call off the convention, as only several people applied for it.
Calling off classes at the last minute is bad policy.
- to calm down
to calm down means not to worry.
Please, calm down, don't be so angry.
I'm very excited and I need to calm down to avoid mistakes.
- to catch up
to catch up means to arrange a meeting with someone you haven't seen for some time.
I'd like to meet John to catch up, last time we met two months ago.
Would you like to meet at the cinema and catch up?
I'd like to catch up on what's happening and changing in his life. Sometimes we add on.
We also use it to describe making up for the lost.
It's not always possible to catch up later if you get behind.
- to check in
to check in - to register at a hotel.
The first thing you do when arrive at any hotel, you need to check in. It means, they ask your details, check your passport, give you your keys, etc.
- to check out
to check out is the opposite of check in.
When you leave your hotel and move home or to another city, you need to check out. It means, you say that you're leaving, give back you your keys, pay them the rest of money if necessary.
But also it means to try or see something new.
I told my brother to go and check out new cinema in the shopping mall.
- to chip in
to chip in - to contribute something as a share of a joint gift, activity or similar.
My children have decided to build a new shelter and I'd like to chip in. It means, I'll either pass them some money or help them with the building work.
But it also means to join or interrupt some conversation.
The stranger chipped in with an unexpected question. In this case, may be we were walking and talking along the way, and some stranger interrupted us with his question when we didn't expect it.
- to close down
to close down - to stop business, usually completely and forever.
He decided to close down his company because of a shortage of funds and very slow sales.
When talking about stopping traffic on roads and motorways.
All lanes in the motorway were closed down because of a huge snowstorm.
- to come down with
to come down with - to become sick, but usually not seriously.
I'm feeling really bad, I think, I'm coming down with a cold. Usually we talk this way about some sickness at the beginning, when we don't know what it is.
- to come up with
to come up with - to find or suggest some idea or plan, or produce something especially when under pressure.
The whole department was under pressure, and finally my colleague came up with a great idea how to increase our market share.
- to cut back on
to cut back - reduce consumption of something or do something less often.
I need to cut back on KFC meals, as I'll never loose any weight.
They were running out of money and they had to cut back on their daily expenses.
I've been watching you a few days, you aren't having milk. I'm trying to cut back, I'm allergic to it.
- to cut off
to cut of - to end something abruptly, often when talking about driving, speaking or supplying. But there are a lot of other meanings.
I was cut off by the car in front, and I almost crushed into it.
The owner cut off the money flow to our project, as it didn't meet his expectations.
Please, don't cut me off when I'm talking.
- to drop by/in
to drop by/in - to meet, to visit somebody for a short time.
Enid, I'm close to your house, can I drop by?
You could drop in any time you want. You are always welcome.
- to end up
to end up - to be finally in some particular place or situation, to reach something eventually.
We were walking along the main street, choosing a suitable restaurant, and ended up in some small and authentic Indian one.
Vitaly has travelled all over the world and ended up in Beijing teaching maths in English to Chinese students.
I do not want to end up in a position of a junior developer, I want to be promoted.
- to figure out
to figure out - to understand the problem and, find the solution and, may be, solve it.
I spent half the day and finally figured out what was wrong with my bike.
I've tried to figure it out and haven't succeed. Could you help me, please? I try, try to figure it out, but can't and need some help.
- to figure out
to figure out - to find the solution to something, to find the answer to the question.
We hope to figure out the solution to the problem to the staff shortage, we are currently experiencing.
- to fill in
to fill in - to provide with some information that was missed, may be to complete some drawing with some final touches.
I was sick yesterday and missed that final lecture. Could someone fill me in? Usually we talk about spoken information.
I guess he needs just a few final strokes to fill it in.
- to fill out
to fill out - to add some information in an application form or something, we are talking only about written information.
I need to fill out this application form to apply for a British visa. A few your ago it was a paper document, now it's only online.
When you go to your GP, you could be asked to fill up some forms. You need to write information on some forms.
- to find out
to find out - to learn something that you didn't know.
I found out that the fuel consumption of this car is much higher than stated in the manual.
By the end of the detective novel, we'll find out who the culprit is.
Finally we have find him out. It means, that somebody was doing something dishonest. And now we know who this this person is.
- to get along (with)
to get along (with) - to have good friendly relationships with some people.
I'm getting along with my new classmates.
It's very important to get along with your neighbours, especially here in American Alaska.
My friend Julia and I get along really well.
- to get around
to get around (to it) - to delay doing something; to do something you wanted to do for a long time, but didn't.
May be by the end of the week I'll get around to refurbishing my shelter, but I'm not sure.
I'll get around to that later. or: I'll get around to it later. A typical structure with this phrasal verb.
You don't believe me, but I finally got around to refurbishing my shelter. Finally, after some delay you did the job.
- to get back at
to get back at - to take revenge on someone, to punish someone if he/she did something wrong to you.
I want to get back at him for what he did to my car.
He punctured my car's tire to get back at me, because I took his parking space.
Are you going to get back at me for taking your parking space?
- to get on with
to get on with - to start or continue to do something.
'Our government is just talking about lower taxation.' 'I'm sure, they finally need to get on with it.'
'I'm doing my maths homework.' 'Just get on with it, I'll be waiting.'
- to get round to
to get round to - to do what you have long wanted to do, and only now, finally, are going to.
I've got round to fix my car. Otherwise, it could break any minute.
I really want to build a small house in the village, but I haven't got round to it.
- to give up
to give up - to stop finally doing or having something, do admit defeat.
John gave up driving after crashing his car for the third time.
I advice you to give up smoking, you are coughing all the time.
After trying to fix his laptop for a couple of days, John finally gave up and threw it in the trash, because it was cheaper to buy a new one.
Don't give up learning languages, it's gonna help you one day.
- to grow up
to grow up - to gradually become an adult, to become older; to behave like an adult, to mature.
My sister and I grew up in a small village on the east cost of the country.
There are some students in our group who need to grow up, they are still acting childish.
That isn't funny, grow up! Someone behaves as a child, but he/she is an adult, and I want them to change their behaviour.
- to hang on
to hang on - to wait for a short time; to pause a conversation; to hold tightly.
Maria, could you hang on for a minute, I'll check whether he's at home or not.
Just hang on, I don't think, it's truth what you're talking about.
Everyone, hang on tight! The road in front is very winding.
- to hang out
to hang out - to spend time with someone, may be in a night club or a cafe, even at home. We do not plan anything specific, just spend our time together.
I invite you to come over to my house and hang out.
What did you do yesterday? Nothing special, just hung out. You don't really want to say what you did.
- to hold on
to hold on - to stop someone from doing something or from leaving you, to wait, plus more..
He's holding on to hope that some day covid-19 will be over and he'll be able to move everywhere without wearing a musk.
Just hold on, I'll be available in five minutes.
Please, hold on it tight, don't drop. We don't want to loose something on the ground.
We can't hold on our children forever, they grow up and leave the parental home.
- to keep on
to keep on - to continue doing, practising something.
Just keep on coming to our School of English and you will improve greatly.
He retired, but he still keeps on working, he just needs money to pay his mortgage.
She keeps on keeping on. Such phrase is possible if she just doesn't stop doing something.
- to knock off
to knock off - to stop working.
They knocked off at around 3am, two hours earlier than usual.
Also: to make something quickly and without much effort.
She knocked off her next software module in half a day, I couldn't believe it.
- to knuckle down
to knuckle down - to start focussing on, to pay more attention to your work, study; to start working really hard.
It's time to knuckle down, your exams are in three days.
We have to knuckle down, the customer collects his car in the evening.
- to lay off
to lay off - to dismiss an employee because of shortage of work.
Our company laid off 30 percent of employees after we had lost the contract in Namibia.
Also: to stop touching or criticizing you or some other people.
He quite rude advanced the girl on a bus, but her friend told him to lay off.
- to look for
to look for - to search for something; hope to find something, you need.
I'm looking for my new tie, and can't find it anywhere. Could you help me, please.
- to look forward to
to look forward to - to await something or somebody eagerly, to be exited about something that is going to happen.
I'm really looking forward to meeting my old friends again. We always use -ing form of the verb after this phrasal verb.
She's looking forward to visiting that sunny coast again.
I don't know people who look forward to tax time. Most people are not happy about paying taxes.
We use this phrasal verb in official letters.
We look forward to hearing from you.
I look forward to receiving a cheque from you.
- to look out
to look out - to be vigilant and take notice, to watch out.
Look out! The car is coming.
You have to look out for water bikes when swimming along that cost.
In British English it also means to search for.
I'll look that coin out in my collection.
- to look up
to look up - search for information in a book or database; to get better, to improve.
If I don't know the meaning of a word, I normally look it up in an online dictionary.
I've found a new job, and hope things will start to look up.
- to mull over
to mull over - to think about something for a long time before making a decision.
'We can help you with a loan if you decide to buy a car.' 'I need to mull it over, as I need to repay a debt. And now I'm looking for a job.'
I've been mulling over this idea of changing location for a long time.
- to pan out
to pan out - to develop something successfully, to be successful.
Most of his ideas have panned out, and he's a holder of many patents.
What are your expectations about our company goals this quarter? I don't think, they are going to pan out, too many mistakes.
- to pull over
to pull over - to steer your car to the side of the road and stop, and may be wait for the weather to change to drive again.
The weather changed drastically, and I had to pull over and wait for the storm to pass.
I was driving fast, but saw a police car in front of me and pulled over as I forgot my driving license home.
The police officer pulled me over as there was a car accident in front and the road was blocked.
He got pulled over on the way home. We do not say directly about police here, but it always means police in this typical phrase.
- to put off
to put off - to postpone, to delay something.
He put off computer study for a long time, and it was a mistake.
He can't put it off any longer, it's now or never.
It also means to cause someone to lose interest in something.
She dreamt of being a pilot, but her marriage and a small child put her off.
- to put up with
to put up with - to tolerate or endure something even if it's unpleasant.
I don't know how she puts up with his constant sneezing.
I do not want to put up with that terrible running and shouting upstairs anymore.
I see that she puts up with him. I don't know why. He's such a stubborn guy.
I can't put up with you anymore. We can only use this phrase in a very strong situation.
- to run away
to run away - to leave or escape from a place, person, or situation.
I never wanted to run away from home as a child, I had a very happy childhood.
My dog always wants to to run away when we are in the local park and she notices much bigger one.
- to run into
to run into - to meet unexpectedly someone, to collide with something or somebody.
I ran into Peter while walking down Oxford Street. It wasn't planned in any way, just unexpected.
Guess who I ran into at the cinema today?
He ran into a lamp post while riding his bike in the morning. Fortunately, no serious injuries.
The company's debt ran into millions after the stock market collapsed. A bit different meaning of this phrasal verb.
- to run out (of)
to run out (of) - to have nothing left; we can't use or sell something, because nothing is left.
Our car stopped because we ran out of petrol.
Have we got any coffee left? Sorry, we ran out yesterday.
Our factory was forced to shut down as we ran out of some important parts.
- to run up against
to run up against - to meet a difficulty or a challenge with a desire to overcome it, to face difficult situations.
Our MPs, I'm sure, will run up against many problems, we are facing this year.
I hope, she will run up against the difficult time, she's about to experience.
- to slip out
to slip out - to slide out.
The tool slipped out of his hands.
Also: to leave the place when no one noticed it.
We managed to slip out the military police cordon.
Also: to say something by mistake.
I didn't want to mention his resignation. It just slipped out.
- to stick with
to stick with - to stay close, to be loyal to someone; or to continue to do something.
I always stick with people I know and trust.
He has tried different sports but stuck with swimming.
- to stumble upon
to stumble upon - to discover something by chance, or to meet someone by chance.
While walking along Oxford Street, we stumbled upon George. We never expected to meet him in London. Sometimes I read on the internet that we don't use this phrasal verb with people, only with things. They advice to use to bump into instead. But it sounds absolutely normal to me.
Henri Becquerel stumbled upon radioactivity in 1896.
- to take after
to take after - to resemble (someone) in features, build, character etc.
Anya is a daughter who takes after her mother.
I guess I could say who is this boy. He's Roger's son, he takes after his father, I recognize all these traits.
- to think over
to think over - to consider something seriously before making a decision.
Mike, just think over buying a new car, your current one runs well.
Just think it over before you make the decision.
I need to think it over, maybe this is a life-changing decision in my life.
- to turn down
to turn down - to reject, refuse something offered; to reduce the volume or level on a device.
His offer to buy the company was turned down.
I had my coffee and some cake, but turned down ice cream. I wanted to lose some weight.
Mike proposed to Alex, but she turned him down. This means that Alex rejected his offer to get married.
Lyso turned the volume down when Angela came in. He couldn't understand what she was talking about.
- to turn off
to turn off - to stop the operation or flow of something by means of a switch, or similar; to leave one road in order to join another.
Please, don't forget to turn off your mobile before going to bed.
We were driving for two hours, but decided to turn off the motorway into a smaller one.
- to turn out
to turn out - to happen in a certain way, especially an unexpected one.
We all expected losses this quarter, but it turned out well. We have a small, but profit, for the first time this year.
It was a difficult interview, but in the end everything turned out great. I've got a job.
- to turn up
to turn up - to appear suddenly, unexpectedly; to be found by chance, after being lost.
I turned up home unannounced after a two years absence.
My cat turned up from nowhere. She disappeared one month ago, and I thought she was lost forever.
My missing passport turned up, I was about to apply for a new one.
- to warm up to
to warm up to - to begin feeling affection for someone, to start liking someone or something.
Ii took me long time to warm up to my new classmates.
My friend suggested me to go skating, at first I didn't like that, but then I warmed up to the idea.
- to watch out
to watch out - to be careful of something.
Watch out - there is a pedestrian crossing ahead.
Watch out, I guess there is a hornet's nest in the attic, it was there last summer.
- to wear off
to wear off - to loose some qualities or effectiveness; to fade away.
Painkillers usually wear off after a couple of hours.
The energy of my brunch starts to wear off in a couple of hours, just in time for lunch.
Most of my markers have worn off, I need to buy a new set.
- to while away
to while away - to spend time relaxing because you have nothing to do.
I like to while away the time in this armchair when we stay in our country house.
Most of her free time she whiles away in front of her TV.
- to work (something) out
to work (something) out - to plan something in details, to find a solution based on a compromise.
Next summer I want to go to Sochi, my wife prefers Alushta. We need to work something out.
My partner was having trouble communicating with his parents and came to me for advice. I could only offer to work something out himself.
The Board of Directors met earlier today to work out a compromise.
- to speak up/down
to speak up - to speak louder or to express your opinion openly, especially when defending yourself or others.
Please speak up; I can’t hear you in the back of the room. (speak louder)
If you disagree with the decision, you should speak up and let them know. (express your opinion)
Usage: Often used in situations where someone needs to be more vocal or assertive.
to speak down - to talk to someone in a condescending or patronizing way, as if they are inferior.
The manager spoke down to the interns, making them feel unimportant.
Don’t speak down to me — I understand what you’re saying.
Usage: This has a negative connotation and is often used to criticize someone’s tone or attitude.
- to bank on
to bank on - to rely on or trust someone or something to happen; to count on.
We’re banking on the weather being nice for our outdoor event tomorrow.
You can bank on Sarah to finish the project on time — she’s very reliable.
Usage: Often used when you depend on something or someone for a specific outcome.
Synonyms: depend on, count on.
- to show off
to show off - to display something or someone proudly, often to attract attention or admiration. It can also mean to boast or act in a way that draws attention to yourself.
He loves showing off his new car to his friends. (displaying proudly)
She’s always showing off in class, trying to prove she’s the smartest. (boasting or seeking attention)
Usage: Can be positive (proudly displaying something) or negative (boasting or seeking attention).
Advanced verbs.
Advanced verbs are more complex or sophisticated verbs that are often used in formal, academic, or professional contexts. Unlike basic verbs, which are simple and commonly used in everyday language, advanced verbs tend to convey precise meanings and nuances. They can help you express ideas more effectively and elevate the quality of your writing or speech.
We focus on listing advanced verbs that are particularly useful for academic, professional, or formal communication. Our list is regularly updated, so make sure to check back for new additions!
- to alter
to alter - to change something, usually slightly; to make somebody/something different.
I have altered my trousers slightly, so they look much better now.
I guess, I do not need to alter my appearance.
There's no choice, we have to alter our vacation plans.
Moving to the countryside has radically altered our lifestyle.
- to amend
to amend - to make minor changes, usually in a document, to correct some mistakes or to improve it.
Would you mind amending a couple of e-mails, I've just sent to you?
We advise you to amend your soil with compost.
Until the constitution is amended, all power in the country will remain with the president.
- to amplify
to amplify - to add some details to a story, to increase effect of something.
Live concert always amplifies my feelings compared to a recorded one.
We need to amplify our report.
Even if you amplified your story, no one would believe you.
- to balloon
to balloon - to get bigger, to increase or expand rapidly.
Prices for petrol ballooned last month.
Unemployment ballooned to 13 percent.
Android software has ballooned recently.
- to blab
to blab - to reveal information that should be kept secret; or just to talk too much.
Someone must have blabbed to the police because they started searching in the right direction.
He's always blabbing too much, I hate it.
- to brief
to brief - to give a person some instructions about a job or a task, and after that he/she is better prepared.
The tourist manager briefed them on what to expect at this hotel.
When he returned from vacation, the head of the department briefed him on previous week's decisions.
- to capture
to capture - to film, to shoot, to paint somebody or something; to take someone as a prisoner.
The car accident was captured on CCTV cameras. We usually use passive form of the verb.
I guess, his face impression was captured in this picture.
Two of our soldiers were captured by enemy forces.
The thief was captured when trying to steal a purse from her bag.
- to clasp
to clasp - to hold something tightly in your hand, to grasp tightly.
She clasped his arm.
He clasped his hands together, and it was clear to me that he was nervous.
He clasped his son in his arms.
- to clutch
to clutch - to hold somebody or something tightly, usually in fear, worry, or pain.
He nearly collapsed of pain, clutching his stomach.
She clutched into his shoulder because she couldn't stand any more.
I was so anxious and nearly fainted that I clutched a chair for support.
- to collide
to collide - to disagree strongly; to hit by accident when moving.
My partner and I often collide over the further development of our business.
They often collide due to different cultural backgrounds.
His motorbike collided with a tree, but he got only minor injuries.
- to command
to command - to tell somebody what to do, to give someone an order.
The boss commanded the release of a new product.
The colonel commanded the troops to open fire.
- to cover
to cower - to crouch down in fear; to bend low and trying to hide in fear.
A shot rang out, the dog whimpered and cowered at her feet.
The children cowered in terror as gunfire erupted nearby.
- to crave
to crave - to feel a powerful desire for something.
He always craved of having his own house.
If only she showed her daughter the love she craves.
Most kids crave attention.
- to dash
to dash - to move very quickly; to break, to ruin something.
I must dash - Mike is coming in five minutes.
When she noticed that her dog had run away, she dashed after him.
She angrily dashed his bouquet of flowers against the wall.
- to detect
to detect - to discover or identify the presence or existence of something that is not easy to see, feel, etc.
I hope that soon cancer can be detected at its earliest stages.
British researchers have recently detected a very unusual object in our galaxy.
- to deviate
to deviate - to do something in a different from the usual or common way of behaving.
My suggestion was not to deviate from the original idea.
We won't deviate from the planned schedule for any reason.
Covid-19 deviates all the time and in a way no one expected.
- to discern
to discern - to recognize, to see or hear something, usually with difficulty.
First it was just a feeling, but then I could discern her voice somewhere in the crowd.
Officials were keen to discern how much public support they had.
- to dismantle
to dismantle - to take something (a machine or structure) into pieces.
I have dismantled the front wheel of my bike in order to replace the bearings.
His car looked completely dismantled. I'm not sure he can get everything back.
- to eavesdrop
to eavesdrop - to listen to other people's private conversation without them knowing.
The butler was caught eavesdropping at her door and immediately fired.
Her mother eavesdropped most of her phone calls.
- to escort
to escort - to go with a person or a vehicle, especially to make sure their journey is safe; or just to show them the way.
Let me escort you to our office. You are here for the first time and the building is quite complex.
His bodyguard escorted him all the way to the airport.
- to expose
to expose - to say the true facts about a person or a situation, that could be immoral, illegal or something; to reveal the true nature of something or someone.
He was exposed as a liar, no one expected this.
Low pensions exposed the ministers' lies a year ago.
- to glare
to glare - to look directly and continuously at someone or something in an angry way; to shine too brightly.
She said no word, just glared at him, her cheeks flushing.
He glared at everyone in the office after being compromised.
The sun was glaring right on the new roof of the house.
- to gravitate
to gravitate - to be attracted to a person or thing.
Half of Britain gravitates to London in search of work.
People gravitate towards things they like.
All planets gravitate to the Sun.
Most people gravitate towards natural food.
- to gush
to gush - to express too much praise that doesn't look sincere, to speak with exaggerated enthusiasm.
Everyone came up to me and gushed about how honest and generous I was.
My business partner is always gushing about how much he respects my knowledge of the subject.
- to hobble
to hobble - to walk with difficulty, usually due to pain from some injury.
After the recent car accident, he is hobbling around on crutches.
He was hobbling along the side walk to greet us.
Also: to tie or strap together to prevent it from straying (the legs of some animal for example).
They hobbled his hind legs while making an injection.
- to hover
to hover - to wait uncertainly, to be in a state of uncertainty.
He was hoover near her not knowing what more to say.
Many African countries hover on the brink of famine.
Also: to remain suspended in the air above some objects.
Military helicopters hovered above the trenches.
- to ignite
to ignite - to start burning, to make something burning.
Tempers ignited when the final winner was announced.
The fuel in the engine ignites due to high temperature and pressure.
- to intertwive
to intertwine - to be or to become connected so as it's difficult to separate.
Their businesses are very closely intertwined.
The prosperity of this small village is intertwined with the fortune of the only small business there.
- to lurk
to lurk - to wait somewhere secretly, you are a bad guy.
Some stranger lurked behind his wallet when he was paying at the cash register, and he decided to put it back in an inner pocket.
Why are you lurking around in our shop?
- to mimic
to mimic - to look or behave similar to someone/something, especially in order to entertain.
She mimicked his every move, and everybody was laughing.
She is used to mimicking many people in our office, and it's funny.
- to oppress
to oppress - to make a person think only about sad or worrying things; to govern people in a cruel way.
He confessed me that lately he has been oppressed by nightmares and bad dreams.
I was oppressed by his office surroundings.
In this African country people have been oppressed by a ruthless dictator for many years.
- to peer
to peer - to look closely, to concentrate at something or someone, especially if you can't see it properly.
She peered through the door window, trying to recognise who it was.
She peered closely at the picture in the paper, but still couldn't recognise the person in it.
- to pinpoint
to pinpoint - to explain exactly what something is, or to give the exact reason for something.
In his report, he was not able to pinpoint the source of the problem.
He pinpointed the tall man in an orange t-shirt. He was the person we were looking for.
She pinpointed the exact position of the boat on the map.
- to prune
to prune - to cut out parts of something, to make smaller by removing parts.
In your speech I want you to prune out everything related to our financial difficulties.
This spring we need to prune all the plum trees in our garden.
- to recoil
to recoil - to quickly move your body away if something is frightening or unpleasant.
She recoiled in horror. She didn't realise it was a prank.
He took the frying pan with his bare hands and immediately recoiled, it was very hot.
- to reverberate
to reverberate - to have continuing and serious effects on people for a long time or over a large area.
The bankruptcy of this financial company reverberated through the city of London.
Also: when talking about a loud noise that was repeated several times as an echo.
The drum roll reverberated throughout the camp.
- to saunter
to saunter - to walk in a slow, relaxed manner.
He sauntered along the central park alley as if time never stopped.
Helen sauntered into the room. I even thought, she was sleepwalking.
- to seize
to seize - to take hold of someone/something suddenly and using force.
He seized hold of her hands and handcuffed them. She was under arrest.
She walked over to him and seized his arm.
- to shatter
to shatter - to break something suddenly and violently into pieces, to upset somebody greatly.
She was shattered by his last words.
Unfortunately, he was too clumsy and the vase fell out of his hands and shattered.
He got so furious that he shattered the bottle against the wall.
- to shrivel
to shrivel - to wrinkle and shrink due to loss of moisture or due to age.
This long hot shower is shrivelling my fingers and toes.
His whole body was shrivelled, and I thought he was a hundred yeas old.
- to slump
to slump - to fall in price, value, or amount by a large amount and in a short time.
Shares of most financial companies have slumped this week.
It was unexpected, but land prices slumped.
Also: to sit, to fall heavily and limply.
He was exhausted after a long journey and just slumped into a chair.
- to struggle
to struggle - to try hard, to proceed with difficulty and when there are a lot of problems.
He has been struggling to make a living all his life.
She's currently struggling with the problem but can't find a solution.
- to stumble
to stumble - to walk in an unsteady way; to step awkwardly and fall or begin to fall.
I stumbled in the dark as couldn't turn on the light in the room.
While walking along the shore, she stumbled upon a large stone and almost fell to the ground.
- to trim
to trim - to make something better or of the required size by cutting away unwanted parts.
I need to trim grass on my small lawn and I can only do it with a sharp mower.
He decided to trim his hair a little.
Also: to decorate something, usually with contrasting items.
She was wearing a nice woollen jacket trimmed with leather cuffs.
- to upstage
to upstage - to divert attention from (someone) towards oneself by doing or saying something.
I hope, you won't upstage me at my birthday.
They were totally upstaged by the invited guest, all attention was riveted on her.
- to withdraw
to withdraw - to remove or take away (something) from some place or situation, to leave some place or situation.
Unless you pay within two business days, our offer will be withdrawn.
American troops have been withdrawn from Afghanistan.
Her candidacy was withdrawn from the list of applicants.
- to wrestle
to wrestle - to struggle with a difficulty or problem; to take part in a fight.
I have been wrestling with this problem for two weeks already, but I still see no light tunnel ahead.
He wrestled with the intruder and managed to defeat him.
- to yank
to yank - to pull with a jerk, usually quickly and suddenly.
The boy yanked her hair so as she screamed.
He yanked the door open and let her in.
- to yearn
to yearn - to want something very much and it's hard to get; to have an intense feeling of longing for something.
She always yearned to emigrate to Australia.
He yearned for just one look at her after she had moved abroad.
- to zap
to zap - to do something very fast; to move suddenly and rapidly; to destroy.
I'll zap through the book and return it to you tomorrow.
The car without license plates zapped past us, it was dangerous.
They managed to zap the enemy's tanks.
Advanced adjectives describing personality.
These are some advanced adjectives. We are updating them all the time.
- adventurous
adventurous - fun people, they are full of excitement, willing to take risks and try out something new.
An adventurous person never misses an opportunity to try something new in life. Scuba diver is one of them.
This canyon attracts adventurous travellers.
- ambitious
ambitious - they have a strong desire and are determined to achieve their goals.
I see that Zoe is determined to become the head of our department, she is so ambitious.
Nicholas is the most ambitious person I've ever met. Sometimes I think he can move mountains.
- astute
astute - smart people, who can accurately assess a situation or a person and benefit from it.
People, who invested in cryptocurrencies early on, are astute.
My partner is an astute businessman, our business is mostly growing thanks to him.
- charming
charming - friendly people, they are very pleasant to deal with.
Charming people can talk to anyone, they are interesting and easy to communicate with.
My sister Lauren is a charming girl. Everyone smiles and is happy when meeting her.
- chirpy
chirpy - cheerful and lively people.
He looks really chirpy at this party, he likes it here.
Unfortunately, she wasn't chirpy on her way home from work, as usual, it was a hard day.
- compassionate
compassionate - understanding people, they feel or show pity, sympathy and concern for others; it's similar to considerate.
My mum is an incredibly compassionate person, I always feel her support in any troubles.
Sometimes it seems to me that we have forgotten how to be compassionate.
- considerate
considerate - kind people, they show concern for others, try not to cause harm or inconvenience to other people.
My mum is in the hospital, and I'm so grateful to Mike. He is so considerate to my situation, I just feel his support all the time.
Our neighbour seems considerate. He offered to pick up our kid from school on his way home while our car was being repaired.
- diplomatic
diplomatic - such people say or do things carefully without offending other people.
My business partner is very direct, but I always try to be more diplomatic.
Please talk to him nicely, try to be diplomatic.
- efficient
efficient - hard-working people, they work or operate quickly and effectively, and they are very well organized.
Our new head of department is very efficient. All our projects are completed ahead of a schedule, so we have a higher profit.
Moscow's transport system is one of the most efficient in Europe.
- empathetic
empathetic - understanding people, they show the ability to understand and share the feelings of other people.
In these rough times I need Michael's support, he is so empathetic.
- generous
generous - kind people, ready to share their time, help with money if necessary, etc.
My friend Tom is a generous person, he always shares his homemade cakes with me.
Until recently, no one new that our boss is a generous benefactor to the university, he graduated from.
- organised
organised - hard-working people, they plan their work and activities efficiently and in advance, everything is always neatly arranged and in order.
My wife is a well-organised person. I can always rely on her wherever we go.
Our department needs well-organised and determined managers.
- reliable
reliable - hard-working people, they can be trusted, they do what you expect them to do and in the way you expect from them.
Anytime I need help with my kids, I call Nadia. She is so reliable.
My car has broken down, I need to fix it in a short time. My choice is Mike's workshop. He is a reliable mechanic.
- resourceful
resourceful - they are able to find a quick and smart way to solve a difficult problem with minimal resources.
Glen is a resourceful engineer. He managed to launch the project using a minimum of electronic components.
My partner is so resourceful because he spent half of his life in Eastern Europe, where everything was always in short supply.
- sociable
sociable - they like communicating with other people, talk to them and engage in different activities, they are friendly and thrive in a conversation.
My brother Boris is a sociable person. He likes going to different parties and clubs.
She's so sociable. Whatever event or party I go, I always meet her accompanied by friends.
- thoughtful
thoughtful - kind people, they show consideration for the needs of people around them, they think of what they might need or want.
The thoughtful expression of his face told me that he was still analysing the situation.
I want Laura to organize my party. She is so thoughtful. I'm sure, she will predict the expectations of my guests.
- welcoming
welcoming - they are polite and friendly people to someone arriving somewhere, so you feel at home from the moment you enter the room or house.
Joanna is so welcoming, I felt happy and accepted in her home from the first minute.
I saw a welcoming smile on her face.
- witty
witty - fun people, with a great sense of humour, they use words cleverly and funny.
Eugene is a witty, ironic person, and the same I can tell about his music.
He left a witty remark about her book.
quick-witted is a synonym for witty.
Sometimes she was quick-witted and full of joy, especially when Mark was around.
- cocky
cocky - overconfident, arrogant, and often disregarding others' opinions or feelings.
John was so cocky after winning the game that he bragged about it for weeks, despite his teammates' contributions.
Her cocky attitude made it difficult for her to build meaningful relationships with her colleagues.
Synonym: arrogant
Michael's arrogant demeanour made him come across as unapproachable and self-centred.
- emphatic
emphatic - expressing something forcibly and clearly, with strong emphasis.
The coach was emphatic in his instructions, leaving no room for misunderstanding among the players.
She gave an emphatic "no" when asked if she would attend the event, making her position very clear.
Synonym: forceful
His forceful argument convinced everyone in the room of the importance of the new policy.
Idioms.
What is an idiom? An idiom is a group of words that has a unique meaning, often different from the literal meanings of the individual words. These meanings have developed over time and are deeply rooted in the culture and history of the language. Because of this, it’s usually hard - or even impossible - to guess the meaning of an idiom by looking at the words alone.
There are thousands of idioms in English, and learning them can be fun and rewarding. My advice is to learn just one or two a day, and always try to understand them in context. However, be careful not to overuse them in conversation, as this can sound unnatural.
We’re constantly adding new idioms to our list, so check back often to expand your knowledge!
- a blessing in disguise
We use this one to describe that something bad happened to someone, or that something seemed bad at first. But later we found out it was good.
I failed my medical university entrance exams. But later I entered Moscow University and will soon be a software engineer, and I really like it. What a blessing in disguise.
- a dime a dozen
We use this one what talking about something that is very common.
Junior software engineers are a dime a dozen, but it's hard to find and employ a superb senior one.
- beat around the bush
It means that you avoid saying what you mean, you avoid or delay coming to the point by some reason.
I want you to stop beating around the bush and go directly to the subject.
- better late than never
It means that you better come somewhere or to do some work, then vice versa: not to come or not to do it at all.
I really expected my brother to come to my party, but it was too late, and I lost my patience. I decided that he wouldn't come at all, but unexpectedly saw his figure in the door frame, finally. It's better late than never.
I lent Mike some money ages ago and didn't already expect it back. But yesterday he popped in and paid me back in full. I'm happy, it's better late than never.
- bite the bullet
To do something under pressure because it is inevitable, to force yourself to do something unpleasant or to be brave in a difficult situation.
Our house was mortgaged, not paid back on time and finally confiscated by the bank. We had to bite the bullet and move to the council flat.
- break a leg
To wish somebody good luck, usually in a theatrical context.
The clown is going on stage and you wish him good performance by telling, 'Break a leg!'
- call it a day
To stop working on something because you don't want to do it any more.
We have done too much today, let's call it a day.
I'm too tired today, it's time to call it a day.
- cut somebody some slack
Not to judge someone severely because they are having problems at the present time, not to be so critical as usual.
'Mike failed his last exam.' 'Cut him some slack, he's only recovered from a severe illness.'
This job is new for me and I'm grateful to my colleagues for cutting me some slack.
- cutting corners
To do something in the easiest, cheapest way or similar, it's not usually the best way.
Please don't cut corners on this project, our future depends on it.
I don't want to invite Craig to refurbish my flat, he's always cutting corners.
- easy does it
To advise someone to slow down, to do something slowly and carefully.
I've been driving for five hours already, and feel tired, it's becoming dangerous driving so fast. So easy does it.
'It's time to put all the details back in place.' 'Yes, but easy does it, there are a lot of fragile elements.'
- get out of hand
To lose control on something/somebody.
She just graduated from the university and her first job was a teacher at a primary school in Kentish Town. At the beginning, her kids started getting out of hand, but a few months later she felt much more confident.
It was a shortage of parts because of covid-19, and we got out of hand with our assembly line.
- get something out of your system
To do or say something you've been wanting to do for a long time, so you are prepared and can move on.
Visiting Australia is the only thing you are talking about for ages. I think you just need to buy a ticket and get it out of your system.
Also: to do something that helps you get rid of unpleasant strong feelings.
I was driving, only five miles left, I was late, but the car broke down. So I left it and walked to get it out of my system.
- get your act together
To work better, to organize your life in order to achieve what you want.
Lately everything has been falling out of his hands. I wish he'd get his act together.
- give someone the benefit of the doubt
To trust what someone is saying, even if you are in doubt that it's true.
He told us that he was late because his car had broken down, and we gave him the benefit of the doubt.
- go back to the drawing board
To start something over because you failed.
We failed with our re-marketing strategy, sales dropped drastically. It was time to go back to the drawing board.
- hang in there
Do not give up, persist in a difficult situation.
I know, it's a serious illness. But, please, hang in there, we have the best doctors.
It's already six months you've been on a diet. Hang in there, please. You still need to lose minimum eighty.
- hit the sack
To go to sleep.
It was a sleepless night at work, and coming home, he hit the sack without even having any sandwich.
- I can take it or leave it
We use this one talking about something that we don't like a lot but also we don't dislike.
What do you think of that dress over there? I can take it or leave it.
I know you've got a job offer. Are you going to accept it? I can take it or leave it.
- I can't get my head around it
We use this one when we are confused, we don't understand something, it confuses us.
What do you think of Malevich's Black Square? I can't get my head around it.
What is your opinion about the infinity of the universe? I can't get my head around it.
- I can't make head or tail of it
We use this one when we are confused, we don't understand something, it confuses us.
What is your opinion about any kind of life on the Moon? I can't make head or tail of it.
What do you think of this new operating system? I can't make heads or tails of it, it's not my topic at all. In America they use plural forms.
- I think the world of
We use this one when talking about something/somebody that we really like, they are very good in our opinion.
What do you think about her new book? I don't really think the world of it.
How about going to the movies to watch this new film? I think the world of it.
- I'm in two minds
It's one more opinion idiom. We use it when we are in doubt about something, our opinion is not final.
Ok, Mark. What can I say, I'm in two minds about your decision. On the one hand, you love each other. On the other hand, you are still too young. And family is too serious.
- I'm on the fence
It's one more opinion idiom. We use it when we are in doubt about something, our opinion is not final.
What do you think about buying a new car. I think I'm on the fence, my BMW still runs and doesn't break too often.
- is a cut above the rest
We use this one when talking about something/somebody that we really like, they are very good in our opinion.
Natasha is a cut above the rest student in our group.
I think Ronald Reagan is a cut above the rest president in American history.
In my opinion, Marbella is a cut above the rest place to live in Andalusia.
- is hands down the best
We use this one when talking about something/somebody that we really like, they are very good in our opinion.
Natasha is hands down the best student in our group.
I think Ronald Reagan is hands down the best president in American history.
In my opinion, Marbella is hands down the best place to live in Andalusia.
- is second to none
We use this one when talking about something/somebody that we really like, they are very good in our opinion.
Natasha is second to none student in our group.
I think Ronald Reagan is second to none president in American history.
In my opinion, Marbella is second to none place to live in Andalusia.
- it can't hold a candle to
We use this one when talking about places or people that are not so good.
Did you like Nancy's new house? It can't hold a candle to ours.
I think his newest novel is fine, but It can't hold a candle to the very first one.
- it's not a patch on
We use this one when talking about places or people that are not so good.
What is your opinion about his latest book? It's not a patch on the previous one.
The film and the play are both based on the same novel. But I think the film is not a patch on the play.
- it's not my cup of tea
We use this one when we dislike something.
Are you going to buy those trainers? It's not my cup of tea.
How about going to the local Indian restaurant? It's not my cup of tea.
- it's not rocket science
It's not too complicated, not too difficult, but quite easy to do or understand. It's used a bit ironically.
You have more three tasks to fulfil. I hope, you'll do it yourself. Third grade maths is not rocket science.
- it's the bees knees
This one is about likes and dislikes, and we use it with singular nouns.
How about going to Burger King and having a double whopper. Oh, it's the bees knees. I guess, one isn't enough for me. It means, that double whoppers are the best, I really like them.
I play soccer for our local team, and every time we win, it's thanks to my friend Peter. He's the bees knees.
- let someone off the hook
To let someone get out of a difficult situation, not to make someone responsible for something; to avoid doing something that you don't want to do.
The police let me off the hook, they found the real suspect.
My biology teacher let me off the hook, I no longer need to stay at school after classes.
- make a long story short
To explain what happened in a few words, without unnecessary details and words.
Mike, please, make a long story short, we don't need so many details.
- miss the boat
To lose the chance or opportunity to do something because you/someone else is slow to act.
We could invest in bitcoin as you advised us to do, but we missed the boat by taking too long to evaluate the possible profit.
We could buy cheap ballet tickets one month in advance, but we missed the boat and prices have skyrocketed by now.
- my take on this
My take on this is similar to my opinion about it. My take = my opinion.
For example, you are discussing something and you need to know your partner's opinion on this matter. And you hear, 'My take on this is it's not a bad idea, but we still need to work on it.'
- no pain, no gain
You have to work hard to achieve something.
No pain, no gain. It's like a Russian proverb: "To catch a fish from the pond, you need to make an effort."
I could explain you, why you lost last competition. No pain, no gain, you spent too much time in front of your screen and not in the gym.
- none other than
We use this one when introducing new people, and it's gonna be a surprise for the rest.
I'd like to introduce you a new member of our team, he's none other than my old friend.
The possible new candidate for this position in our team is none other than Donald's girlfriend. Nobody expects this.
- on the ball
People on the ball are alert and aware of what is happening, and they are quick to react.
This conference is due tomorrow, and we usually have a lot of difficult questions from our partners. We need to bring Jason there, he's always on the ball and will help us a lot.
- pull someone's leg
To joke with someone, to tease someone, to trick or lie someone as a joke.
Stop pulling her leg, she's not your girlfriend.
'Lillian just said, she's getting married.' 'She's just pulling your leg, I know.'
- pull yourself together
To calm down and control your emotions after you get very upset, angry etc.
I crashed my car and tried to pull myself together. I remained unharmed, and that was the most important thing.
Please pull yourself together, you've got two weeks to retake your exam.
- run-of-the-mill
We use this one while talking about things or people that are just normal, nothing special about them.
How about going to the local cafe? It's a run-of-the-mill cafe, let's go to the city centre.
I've bought a new device. It's a run-of-the-mill laptop, but at least I haven't spent all my money on it.
- so far so good
Something is going well without major problems up to now.
'How is your home renovation going?' 'So far so good, hope to finish in two weeks.'
- speak of the devil
You are talking about somebody, and at the same moment this person appears when no one is expecting him/her.
'Have you heard the latest news about Mark's newest project?' 'Oh, speak of the devil, he's coming.'
- that's the last straw
Something I can no longer endure, my patience is over.
This is the last straw, your gambling is unbearable, we will stay moneyless.
This is the last straw, you have promised so many times to go on vacation and failed.
- the best of both worlds
An ideal situation, when you can enjoy the benefits of two very different things at the same time.
I live in the mountains and work in the city, so I get the best of both worlds.
When buying a new car, they wanted the best of both worlds - sport and ecology.
- time flies when you're having fun
You just do not notice how long an event lasts while it's fun, time seems to pass more quickly when you are engaged in something enjoyable.
It's true, time flies when you're having fun. We came to Rosa's party early and didn't notice that it was late night and time to go home.
- to boil down to
We use this idiom (it's also a phrasal verb) when talking about something very important to us at the moment.
We talk too much about this topic, but it boils down to one thing: we are really short in funds. Can we afford this investment?
It boils down to time, the train can't wait any longer. Five more minutes and he gonna miss it.
- to get bent out of shape
To become very angry or upset.
I'm getting bent out of shape every time my opinion is not listened to. May be I'm getting too old.
Angela finally left him, and he got bent out of shape. He needed his family support.
- to make matters worse
To make a problem worse, or the situation more unpleasant or difficult.
First we lost market in Nigeria and then, to make matters worse, the bank cut our lending.
Please, stop assembling this gearbox, you'll only make matters worse. Let's call a professional mechanic.
- to my way of thinking
We use it when we want to express our opinion about something.
To my way of thinking, it's the right decision.
To my way of thinking, you should stop investing money in this project. It doesn't yield profit and you will stay moneyless.
- under the weather
It means that somebody slightly sick or in a bad mood.
'I haven't heard from Graham for a couple of days.' 'He's under the weather. Hope, be back in a short time.'
She's under the weather after losing the race.
- we'll cross that bridge when we come to it
This means that we don't have to worry about a possible problem in the future, we will solve it when the time is right. There's no reason to talk about it now.
'I don't know, how often we'll be able to meet if we move to Brighton.' 'Just don't worry, we'll cross that bridge when we come to it.'
- wrap your head around something
To understand something difficult, complicated.
It's already two hours I've been wrapping my head around this engine, and still can't understand the problem.
- you can say that again
You trust what people tell you, you completely agree with them.
'This steak is the best, I've ever had.' 'You can say that again!'
- your guess is as good as mine
It means, that you don't understand something, me too. We both have no idea about something.
'Eric, could you help me, please. I'm having trouble operating this petrol saw.' 'Your guess is as good as mine. Better ask George, he's got the same saw.'
- to break the ice
To do or say something to relieve tension or awkwardness, especially when meeting someone for the first time.
At the networking event, Sarah told a funny story to break the ice, and soon everyone was laughing and chatting.
- to save the day
To do something that resolves a difficult situation or prevents a disaster.
The power went out during the wedding, but the generator saved the day and kept the party going.
- raining cats and dogs
Raining very heavily.
We had to cancel the picnic because it was raining cats and dogs all afternoon.
- fish out of water
Someone who feels uncomfortable or out of place in a particular situation.
At the fancy gala, John felt like a fish out of water because he wasn’t used to such formal events.
- Groundhog Day
A situation that feels repetitive or monotonous, like reliving the same day over and over.
'Working the same routine every day feels like Groundhog Day - I need a change!'
- computer says no
A humorous way to say that a decision or outcome is rigidly determined by rules or systems, leaving no room for flexibility.
'I asked for a refund, but the manager just shrugged and said, ‘Computer says no.’'
- bury the hatchet
To make peace or end a conflict with someone.
After years of arguing, the two brothers finally decided to bury the hatchet and move on.
- kick the bucket
A humorous or informal way to say someone or something has died.
My old car finally kicked the bucket, so I had to buy a new one.
- throw in the towel
To give up or admit defeat.
After hours of trying to fix the broken computer, I threw in the towel and called a technician.
- on the ropes
In a difficult or vulnerable position, often used in sports or competitive contexts.
The team was on the ropes after losing three games in a row, but they managed to turn things around.
- ducking and diving
Avoiding responsibilities or difficult situations, often in a clever or evasive way.
He’s been ducking and diving to avoid paying his bills, but he can’t keep it up forever.
- play hardball
To act aggressively or ruthlessly to achieve a goal.
The company decided to play hardball in the negotiations, refusing to compromise on any terms.
- slam dunk
Something that is very easy to achieve or a sure success.
With her experience and qualifications, getting the job was a slam dunk.
- dead caffing
(British slang) To be completely out of energy or enthusiasm.
After working a double shift, I was dead caffing and just wanted to sleep.
- stay off the beaten track
To avoid well-known or popular routes or methods; to explore less common or unconventional paths.
When travelling, I like to stay off the beaten track and discover hidden gems that tourists usually miss.
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