Phrases & Expressions

To do something unimportant to make time pass while waiting.

• I read a book to kill time.
• Let's play a game to kill time.

To be very skilled or knowledgeable in a particular subject or job.

• Steve has been an auto mechanic for 25 years — he really knows his stuff.
• When it comes to cooking, Kristen knows her stuff — she trained at the Culinary Institute of America.

The idea that simplicity and having less can be more effective or satisfying.

• In interior design, less is more.
• He believes less is more when it comes to his writing.

A great feeling of relief after worry or stress is removed.

• When Amber called Ted to say she'd arrived home safely, it was a big load off his mind.
• Finishing her English essay was a load off Nicole's mind.

Used to say that you are telling the main points of a long story, without giving all the details.

• Long story short, we decided to move to another city.
• So, long story short, I got the job!

A longer route or method than the most direct one.

• We took the long way around to see the sights.
• That's the long way around to get there.

Falling in love with someone the very first time you see them.

• It was love at first sight for them.
• Do you believe in love at first sight?

To use an opportunity when it is available.

• We should finish the project now; let's make hay while the sun shines.
• The sale is on this week, so make hay while the sun shines.

To stop something at an early stage before it becomes a bigger problem.

• We must nip this problem in the bud.
• She decided to nip the argument in the bud.

To be unable to sleep at all, often because of worry or other reasons.

• Ted was so nervous about the chemistry test that he didn't sleep a wink the night before.
• It's not surprising Jill didn't sleep a wink last night — she drank a large coffee before bed.