Phrases & Expressions

To remain cheerful and hopeful, even when facing difficulties.

• Keep your chin up; things will get better soon.
• Despite the setbacks, she kept her chin up.

To remain calm and composed, especially in a difficult or stressful situation.

• She managed to keep her cool despite the chaos.
• Please keep your cool and listen to me.

To achieve two good results with a single action.

• Let's kill two birds with one stone.
• By walking to work, I kill two birds with one stone.

An order to stop doing something annoying or unnecessary.

• Knock it off! You're disturbing everyone.
• The teacher told the students to knock it off.

A superstitious phrase said to ward off bad luck after mentioning good fortune.

• My car hasn't broken down yet, knock on wood.
• I've never been sick this year, knock on wood.

To learn the basic procedures or skills needed for a job or activity.

• Mark learned the ropes of the restaurant business by working as a cook.
• It takes time to learn the ropes in a new company.

Said when you meet someone you have not seen for a long time.

• Long time no see! You look great.
• Well, long time no see! What have you been up to?

To focus on the positive aspects of a difficult or unpleasant situation.

• My flight was canceled, but I'm trying to look on the bright side.
• It's a tough situation, but let's look on the bright side.

To lose control of one's emotions, especially anger.

• He lost it when he saw the damage.
• I almost lost it with the bad service.

To become crazy or extremely upset.

• Have you lost your mind?
• I'm going to lose my mind if this continues.