Phrases & Expressions

To try to remember something from the past.

• Think back to your childhood.
• He thought back to the day they first met.

To say your thoughts aloud as you are thinking them.

• Sorry, I was just thinking out loud.
• Let me think out loud for a moment.

To include something extra, often for free, with a purchase or offer.

• The shop will throw in a free gift with every order.
• They threw in some extra snacks.

To make or assemble something quickly and without much planning.

• I threw together a quick lunch.
• Let's throw together a presentation for tomorrow.

To adjust a musical instrument so it sounds correct.

• He spent an hour tuning up his guitar.
• The car needs to be tuned up.

To enter a room unexpectedly and see or interrupt something private.

• I accidentally walked in on my parents arguing.
• He walked in on a private conversation.

Used to indicate that an activity will happen only if the weather conditions are favorable.

• Weather permitting, we will have the party outdoors.
• We plan to hike tomorrow, weather permitting.

To make food or something else very quickly.

• Can you whip up a quick lunch?
• She whipped up a delicious cake in less than an hour.

Used to say that something is the right or sensible thing to do.

• You ought to apologize for your behavior.
• We ought to leave soon.

A sudden, unexpected event or piece of news.

• Her promotion was a bolt from the blue.
• The announcement was a bolt from the blue for everyone.