Phrases & Expressions

Used to ask people to keep a date free for a future event.

• Please save the date for our wedding on June 10th.
• Save the date: our school concert is on Friday, May 3rd.

An informal way to ask someone to repeat what they said, or to express surprise.

• He failed the exam? Say what?
• Say what? I thought you were going.

To think hard about something because it is puzzling or difficult to understand.

• The strange results left the scientists scratching their heads.
• She scratched her head, unsure of the answer.

Said to show that you agree with what someone has just suggested.

• "I think we should leave now." "I second that!"
• He suggested a short break, and everyone said, "I second that."

A request at a restaurant for each person to get an individual bill.

• Could we have separate checks, please?
• The waiter asked if we wanted one bill or separate checks.

To enter or step into a place.

• He never set foot in that building again.
• She had never set foot on a plane before that trip.

To begin a journey by sea.

• The ship set sail at dawn.
• They set sail for new lands.

A phrase used to ask someone to demonstrate their abilities or products.

• Okay, I'm ready, so show me what you got.
• You've practised all week, so now show me what you got!

To stay seated without moving.

• Please sit still while I take your picture.
• The child found it hard to sit still for long.

A polite but firm refusal of a request or offer.

• Can I borrow your car? Sorry, but no.
• I'd love to come, but sorry, but no.