Phrases & Expressions

To create a new possibility or opportunity for someone.

• This new job will open the door to many possibilities.
• Her success opened the door for other women.

Completely unconscious or fast asleep, often due to exhaustion or illness.

• After the marathon, he was out cold.
• The ball hit him on the head and knocked him out cold.

In a safe place, away from any danger or risk.

• The children were moved out of harm's way.
• Make sure everyone is out of harm's way before starting.

Suddenly and unexpectedly.

• She called me out of the blue.
• Out of the blue, he proposed.

Not having a job.

• He's been out of work since the factory closed.
• Many people are out of work due to the recession.

A feeling of calm and freedom from worry.

• Insurance gives parents peace of mind.
• He paid extra for the peace of mind of a guarantee.

To understand what is happening or likely to happen by looking at the facts.

• He's been acting strangely; I put two and two together.
• You can put two and two together and see the problem.

A signal, like a traffic light, that means stop.

• The traffic light turned red.
• The project got the red light.

To sound familiar; to make you remember something you once knew.

• Her name rings a bell but I can't remember where I heard it.
• Does the name "Mr. Davis" ring a bell?

To describe the situation, place, or time before starting a story or event.

• The book begins by setting the scene in ancient Rome.
• Let me set the scene for you before the movie starts.