Phrases & Expressions

Used when saying something that might upset someone, to show that you do not mean to be rude.

• I'm only trying to help, so no offence intended if my comments on your essay sound harsh.
• When I said the office looked old-fashioned, it was just an observation – no offence intended.

Said to make a group of people listen before you start a new topic or give instructions.

• Now then, before we start the meeting, I'd like to introduce our two new colleagues.
• Now then, let's look together at the results of last week's practice test.

To seem likely to be a particular thing, judging by what is known now.

• This summer promises to be one of the hottest on record, according to the national weather service.
• The final between the two best teams in the league promises to be an exciting match.

Without being affected or influenced by something.

• Every child should have access to a good education, regardless of their family's income.
• The festival will go ahead regardless of the weather, so bring a raincoat just in case.

To discuss an idea again in a later part of a talk or piece of writing.

• Funding is clearly a central concern, and I will return to this point in the final section of the essay.
• The lecturer mentioned the ethical problems briefly and promised to return to this point next week.

Something similar to what has just been described.

• The company is planning a new loyalty scheme – discounts for regular customers or something along those lines.
• She called it a 'learning opportunity' or something along those lines, but really it was just extra work.

A situation in which every seat is taken and any extra people have to stand.

• Commuter trains are so overcrowded at rush hour that it is often standing room only from the first stop.
• By eight o'clock it was standing room only in the café, as everyone had come to watch the final.

To understand a remark or action as praise, even if it may not have been meant that way.

• When my colleague said I was too honest, I decided to take it as a compliment.
• If other companies copy your designs, you should take it as a compliment because it shows your work is influential.

Said, often sarcastically, when one more piece of bad luck is added to your troubles.

• Oh great, the printer has run out of ink an hour before the deadline — that's all we need!
• The car broke down on the way to the airport, and then it started to rain. That's all we needed!

Said when you receive news that is exactly what you were afraid of.

• “Your flight has been cancelled, I'm afraid.” “Oh no, that's the last thing I want to hear!”
• My dentist says I need three fillings — that's the last thing I want to hear just before my holiday.