Phrases & Expressions

Open all day and all night, every day.

• This pharmacy is open 24/7.
• The convenience store is open 24/7.

Used to apologize for a minor mistake or accident.

• Pardon me, I didn't mean to bump into you.
• Pardon me, I think I stepped on your foot.

To express admiration or praise about someone.

• Professor Russo paid Jennifer a compliment, saying she had a beautiful smile.
• Isn't it wonderful to pay someone a compliment? It makes them feel good.

Fifteen minutes past the hour.

• The train leaves at quarter past two.
• It's quarter past five now.

Fifteen minutes before the hour.

• The meeting is at quarter to ten.
• It's quarter to midnight.

A lit sign in an aircraft toilet telling passengers to go back to their seats.

• The return to seat sign came on while I was in the toilet.
• When the 'Return to seat' sign lights up, leave the lavatory quickly.

A motto meaning that safety is the most important consideration.

• Remember, safety first on the job.
• Our company motto is 'Safety first'.

To refuse a request or invitation.

• It's important to learn to say no sometimes.
• She had to say no to the extra work.

A common way to say goodbye at the end of a year.

• It was fun! See you next year!
• Goodbye everyone, see you next year.

serving yourself food or drinks.

• Self service buffet.
• This cafe is self service.