Phrases & Expressions

Honest and direct conversation between people.

• Open communication is key in a healthy relationship.
• We encourage open communication within the team.

Not aware of what is happening or what is currently popular.

• Don't ask Susan for fashion advice — she's really out of it; she wears sneakers with everything.
• Betsy has never even heard of Harry Potter — she's really out of it.

Appearing or happening very suddenly and unexpectedly, without any warning or clear reason.

• A small dog ran out of nowhere into the street.
• He started laughing out of nowhere during the quiet meeting.

To search someone by passing your hands over that person's clothes.

• Security staff patted down every fan at the stadium entrance.
• He patted down his pockets to check for his keys.

To visit a person or place.

• We paid a visit to our grandparents.
• He paid us a short visit yesterday.

To eat only small amounts of food, often because you are not hungry or do not like the food.

• She just picked at her food all evening.
• He picked at his salad but didn't eat much.

Something that is very easy to do or achieve.

• The exam was a piece of cake for me.
• Don't worry, fixing this will be a piece of cake.

To choose the option with least risk, even if it's less exciting.

• Let's play it safe and stay home tonight.
• He decided to play it safe with his investment.

Used in an email to indicate that a document or file is attached.

• Please find attached the requested document.
• Please find attached my resume for your review.

(Of a vehicle or its driver) to stop, often for a short time, especially next to something.

• The taxi pulled up right in front of the hotel.
• A police car pulled up beside us and stopped.