Phrases & Expressions

To invite others to speak, ask questions, or share their opinions.

• Now I'd like to open the floor to questions.
• The moderator opened the floor for comments.

To be very careful with money and spend as little as possible.

• We're pinching pennies until we can afford a vacation.
• Stop pinching pennies and buy yourself something nice.

To start something that will develop and grow over time, often an idea or a future event.

• He planted the seeds of doubt in their minds.
• This decision planted the seeds of future conflict.

To argue against an idea or opinion, not because you disagree with it, but to help explore it further.

• I'll play the devil's advocate to challenge your idea.
• She likes to play the devil's advocate in meetings.

To taste good to someone, especially food or drink.

• The chef's new dish aims to please the palate.
• This wine will surely please the palate.

To stay awake all night to study or finish a task.

• Ted pulled an all-nighter studying for his chemistry test and ended up falling asleep in class.
• I have a 20-page paper due tomorrow and haven't even started — I guess I'll be pulling an all-nighter.

To go beyond the usual limits of what is possible or known.

• The new engine design really pushes the envelope.
• Scientists are constantly pushing the envelope of discovery.

To reduce the enthusiasm or enjoyment of a situation or person.

• The bad weather put a damper on our outdoor plans.
• His criticism put a damper on her excitement.

To stop something from increasing or spreading, or to prevent it from continuing.

• We need to put a lid on the rising costs.
• The school tried to put a lid on the rumours.

To present information in a way that makes it seem more favorable or less negative.

• They tried to put a positive spin on the bad news.
• Can you put a spin on this to make it sound better?