English is a powerful language with many nuances and subtleties. It can be difficult to always get the right expression, but with a little work, you can learn some of the most common phrases. This article will provide 15 common English phrases including examples of sentences in which they are used. Not only will this help improve your vocabulary, but you’ll also get a better understanding of how native English speakers use these expressions in their everyday language.
Common English Phrases With Sentences
1. Break a leg: used to wish someone good luck, especially before a performance or presentation.
Example: I’m so nervous about my audition tonight. Don’t worry, break a leg!
2. Bite the bullet: to face a difficult or unpleasant situation with courage.
Example: I know it’s going to be hard, but we just have to bite the bullet and get through it.
3. Cutting corners: to do something quickly or with less effort, often resulting in a lower quality outcome.
Example: I don’t want to cut any corners on this project, let’s make sure we do it right.
4. Keep your chin up: stay positive and optimistic, especially during difficult times.
Example: I’m really struggling with this breakup. Keep your chin up, things will get better.
5. Barking up the wrong tree: to pursue the wrong course of action or to make a mistaken assumption.
Example: I thought I could find the answer on my own, but it turns out I was barking up the wrong tree.
6. Ball is in your court: it’s someone else’s turn to take action or make a decision.
Example: I’ve sent in my application, and now the ball is in their court to decide if they want to hire me.
7. Piece of cake: something that is easy to do.
Example: Don’t worry, this assignment will be a piece of cake for you.
8. Hit the nail on the head: to accurately identify the problem or issue.
Example: You hit the nail on the head: that’s exactly what’s causing the issue.
9. Spill the beans: to reveal a secret or information that was meant to be kept confidential.
Example: Come on, spill the beans: what’s going on?
10. Don’t count your chickens before they hatch: don’t make assumptions about something before it has happened.
Example: I’m pretty sure I’m getting that promotion. Don’t count your chickens before they hatch: wait until you hear back.
11. The ball is rolling: things are starting to happen or progress.
Example: I’ve submitted my proposal and had a positive response, so the ball is rolling now.
12. Raining cats and dogs: raining very heavily.
Example: I don’t want to go out today, it’s raining cats and dogs out there.
13. Stab in the dark: to make a guess or estimate without much information to go on.
Example: I don’t know what the answer is, but I’ll take a stab in the dark and say it’s option B.
14. The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree: children often inherit traits or qualities from their parents.
Example: You’re just like your dad: the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.
15. The early bird catches the worm: being proactive and starting early can lead to success.
Example: I always start studying for exams weeks in advance: the early bird catches the worm.
List of 15 Common Phrases
Below are 15 phrases:
- Help yourself!
- I know, right?
- This is not good at all.
- We should get out of here.
- Not even close.
- OMG, that’s hilarious!
- You’re making me very mad.
- That’s odd.
- I’m already there.
- What a surprise!
- This is so amazing!
- Let’s go eat something.
- I had no idea!
- I’m not taking sides.
- What the hell are you doing?
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