Phrases & Expressions

To suspect that something is wrong or dishonest.

• The offer sounds too good to be true; I smell something fishy.
• He's acting strangely, and I smell something fishy.

To make something more interesting, exciting, or lively.

• Let's spice things up with some music.
• They added new games to spice things up.

To tell people about something, especially a new event or idea.

• Can you spread the word about the meeting?
• We need to spread the word quickly.

To begin something again, often after a failure or problem.

• The project failed, so we have to start fresh.
• Let's forget the past and start fresh with this new opportunity.

To start talking to someone, especially someone you do not know.

• He struck up a conversation with the woman next to him.
• It's easy to strike up a conversation at a party.

To take action at the most favorable time.

• The offer is good now, so strike while the iron is hot.
• He applied for the job at once to strike while the iron was hot.

Something that is certain to happen or succeed.

• He thought the lottery win was a sure thing.
• This contract is a sure thing for our company.

To not appreciate someone or something, assuming they will always be there.

• Don't take your health for granted.
• He took her help for granted.

To feel encouraged and more confident.

• Take heart; we are making progress.
• She took heart from the positive feedback she received.

To be offended by something that wasn't meant to offend.

• Please don't take my advice the wrong way; I only want to help.
• He took her comment about his weight the wrong way.