Phrases & Expressions

To move your head up and down, usually to show agreement or as a greeting.

• He nodded his head in agreement.
• Just nod your head if you understand.

Exactly at the specified time; punctually.

• He arrived at 7 on the dot.
• Please be there at 9 on the dot.

Travelling from place to place, or busy and active all the time.

• Their job keeps them on the move for most of the year.
• She's always on the move, traveling for work.

Not working.

• The elevator is out of order.
• The vending machine is out of order.

To choose something from a group.

• She spent an hour picking out a dress for the party.
• Pick out any three cards from the pack.

To gather into a heap.

• Snow piled up overnight.
• Work is piling up.

To move a vehicle to the side of the road and stop.

• The driver pulled over to check the map.
• The police pulled him over.

To place something inside something else; to install something.

• Did you put in the new battery?
• They are putting in a new heating system this week.

Used to say that one thing is preferred or happens instead of another.

• I'd walk rather than drive.
• She decided to study rather than watch TV.

To arrive somewhere, often unexpectedly.

• He didn't show up to the party.
• She showed up an hour late.