Phrases & Expressions

To become too excited or enthusiastic, losing control of your actions or feelings.

• Don't get carried away with the celebrations.
• He got carried away and spent too much money.

To talk about something that has been worrying you, in order to feel better.

• I had to get it off my chest.
• Tell me what's wrong; you'll feel better once you get it off your chest.

To understand the situation or how things really are.

• After his explanation, I finally got the picture.
• Do you get the picture? We need to leave now.

To gain experience, knowledge, or an achievement that you can rely on.

• Kristen had three years at a large law firm under her belt before starting her own practice.
• Ernie needs to get an MBA under his belt to land the job he wants.

To make an attempt at doing something.

• I've never tried making wine in my bathtub, but maybe I'll give it a shot.
• You can't open that jar? Let me give it a shot.

To help someone.

• Can you give me a hand with this?
• He gave me a hand moving the sofa.

To call someone on the telephone.

• Give me a ring tomorrow so we can plan the weekend.
• If you're free Saturday, give me a ring and we'll catch a movie.

To allow other traffic to go first.

• Give way to pedestrians at the crossing.
• You must give way to traffic coming from the right.

Ready and prepared to start or proceed.

• Everyone is good to go for the trip.
• Is the car good to go?

To have an honest, private talk about personal feelings or problems.

• My mother and I had a long heart-to-heart last night.
• I think it's time we had a heart-to-heart about our future.