Phrases & Expressions

To wait patiently and not take any action or move from your place.

• Nicole must sit tight; colleges won't reply until April.
• Sit tight — the doctor will be with you in a few minutes.

To apply the brakes very suddenly and forcefully.

• He had to slam on the brakes to avoid the deer.
• The taxi driver slammed on the brakes when the light turned red.

To support or help someone, especially in a difficult time.

• I'll stand by you no matter what.
• Her family stood by her throughout the long illness.

To be independent, especially financially, and able to manage without help.

• After college, she wanted to stand on her own two feet.
• He's old enough to stand on his own two feet.

A strong liking for sweet foods, especially candy and desserts.

• Amber's got a real sweet tooth.
• If you have a sweet tooth, try the chocolate cake here.

At the exact time something happens, or immediately after it.

• The moment that I saw her, I knew.
• The moment that he spoke, I left.

Used to say that you will say something in a few words.

• To be brief, we need help.
• To be brief, the plan worked.

Used to say that you are going to tell only the main point of a story, without all the details.

• To make a long story short, we missed the train.
• To make a long story short, she said yes.

Used before a simple explanation.

• To put it simply, it's broken.
• To put it simply, we failed.

To relax after a period of activity or excitement.

• I like to wind down by reading a book.
• After a busy day, he winds down with a hot bath.