Phrases & Expressions

Used to say that believing something is unrealistic and shows a lack of experience or judgement.

• It would be naive to think that every review you read online was written by a genuine customer.
• Although the new law is a step forward, it would be naive to think it will end discrimination overnight.

Said when details of something you had forgotten are returning to your memory.

• Wait, the hotel with the broken lift and the tiny pool? Yes, it's all coming back to me.
• Now that I'm reading my old diary again, it's all coming back to me: the exams, the friendships, the stress.

Used to say that something is reasonable and the right thing to do in a situation.

• Since everyone benefits from clean air, it's only fair for the biggest polluters to pay the most to protect it.
• You paid for dinner last time, so it's only fair that I pay tonight.

A very large quantity or number of something.

• There were masses of people at the festival, so it took ages to find our friends.
• I've got masses of reading to do before Monday's seminar.

Used to say that something is quite likely to happen or be true.

• Take an umbrella – judging by those dark clouds, it may well rain later this afternoon.
• Apply anyway – the company may well decide that your experience matters more than your degree.

Used to show that a comment which may sound critical is meant kindly.

• I mean this in the nicest possible way, but your essay needs a lot more work before you submit it.
• When I call you a perfectionist, I mean it in the nicest possible way.

Used in conversation when adding a comment that balances or explains what you have just said.

• The hotel was rather expensive. Mind you, the view from our room was absolutely amazing.
• Public transport here is quite slow. Mind you, it's much cheaper than in most European cities.

There is not much money available, so spending has to be carefully controlled.

• Money is tight for many international students, so most of them work part-time while they study.
• When money is tight, families often cut back on fresh fruit and vegetables first.

Used to show that what you are saying is also true of you, the speaker.

• Many students, myself included, find it hard to concentrate when studying at home.
• A lot of people, myself included, have started cycling to work since fuel prices went up.

An informal way of saying that something is not important or not a problem.

• I missed the bus, but it's no biggie because another one comes soon.
• Thanks for giving me a ride home, it was really no biggie.