Phrases & Expressions

In serious trouble or difficulty.

• He's in hot water with the boss.
• I'll be in hot water if I'm late.

In a way that is easy to understand, avoiding technical terms.

• Can you explain that in plain English?
• The report is written in plain English.

Not in front of other people; without others knowing or hearing.

• Let's talk in private.
• He told me in private.

Used to summarize something in a few words.

• In short, we failed.
• In short, it was a disaster.

Used to introduce a statement that follows logically from what was just said.

• It's snowing? In that case, you'd better take the bus to school today.
• You forgot your wallet at home today? In that case, you can borrow five bucks from me for lunch.

Used to say that doing something is useful or will bring a good result.

• It's worth checking the weather before you leave.
• The tickets are expensive, but it's worth it.

A person who has many different skills and can do many types of work.

• He's a real jack of all trades, fixing plumbing and electronics.
• We need a jack of all trades for this project.

To start a football or rugby match by kicking the ball; (of a match) to begin.

• The match kicks off at three o'clock.
• Our team kicked off and attacked straight away.

To achieve two good results with a single action.

• Let's kill two birds with one stone.
• By walking to work, I kill two birds with one stone.

A superstitious phrase said to ward off bad luck after mentioning good fortune.

• My car hasn't broken down yet, knock on wood.
• I've never been sick this year, knock on wood.