Phrases & Expressions

A lifestyle characterized by luxury, wealth, and pleasure.

• She moved to Monaco to experience the high life.
• He always dreamed of the high life, with fast cars and fine dining.

A saying meaning that more people make an event more enjoyable.

• Can I bring my cousin? Sure, the more the merrier!
• The invitation said 'the more the merrier'.

The next important new product, idea, or trend that will be very popular.

• Many believe nanotechnology is the next big thing.
• Is this new app the next big thing?

A point in a process or journey beyond which it is impossible to return or change course.

• Once we launch the product, we reach the point of no return.
• Signing the contract was the point of no return.

The true value or quality of something can only be known after it has been tested or used in practice.

• The proof is in the pudding.
• They say it's a great system, but the proof is in the pudding.

Very close and friendly, often sharing secrets.

• They've been friends since childhood and are thick as thieves.
• The two sisters are thick as thieves.

To make ambitious plans or set very high goals for oneself.

• Why run for Governor of New York? Think big — run for President of the United States!
• Ken and Sandra hope to sell their house for $3 million — they always think big.

To think creatively and unconventionally, not limited by traditional ideas or rules.

• We need to think outside the box to solve this problem.
• Her ideas showed she could think outside the box.

Said when remembering a past time with fondness and nostalgia.

• We used to play outside all day. Those were the days!
• He looked at old photos and sighed, 'Those were the days.'

To perform a very delicate or precise task with great care.

• The new plan tries to thread the needle between cutting costs and keeping staff happy.
• This maneuver requires you to thread the needle.