Phrases & Expressions

At the planned time.

• The flight left as scheduled.
• The meeting will go ahead as scheduled on Monday morning.

In the beginning, before something changes.

• Nicole didn't like Don Quixote at first, but after 200 pages she got into it.
• Don't get discouraged if you don't succeed at first — just keep trying.

Beer served from a keg through a tap.

• What beer is on tap tonight?
• We have local beers on tap.

In a way that the public does not see or know about.

• Many people worked behind the scenes to make the event a success.
• Talks between the two companies are going on behind the scenes.

Instruction to mix ingredients until they are smooth and without lumps.

• Blend until smooth, then serve.
• Blend until smooth for best results.

To put out a flame by blowing air on it.

• She closed her eyes and blew out all the candles on her cake.
• Please blow out the candle before you leave the room.

To care for a child until he or she is an adult.

• She brought up three children alone.
• I was brought up by my grandparents in a small village.

To mention a topic or problem so that it can be discussed.

• We need to bring up the issue of budget cuts.
• She decided to bring up the matter at the next meeting.

To destroy completely by fire.

• The barn burned down.
• They burned down the building.

To destroy something completely by fire, or to be destroyed this way.

• The fire burned up all the old letters in the box.
• The meteor burned up before it reached the ground.