Phrases & Expressions

Used to add a final, often negative or surprising, piece of information to a series of events.

• To top it off, we missed the flight.
• And to top it off, it started raining.

To contact someone briefly to give or get the latest news about something.

• Let's touch base next week to discuss the project.
• I just wanted to touch base about the new proposal.

To try to understand someone's feelings or situation by imagining you are them.

• You should walk a mile in their shoes before judging.
• Try to walk a mile in their shoes; it's not easy.

To relax after a period of activity or excitement.

• I like to wind down by reading a book.
• After a busy day, he winds down with a hot bath.

To start sweating, usually from physical effort or heat.

• We were working up a sweat during the hike.
• Running fast makes you work up a sweat.

Informal way to strongly agree.

• Want to come? — You bet!
• You bet I'm tired after that long walk!

Used to say that you don't know the answer to a question any better than the person who asked it.

• Will we ever find intelligent life on other planets? Your guess is as good as mine.
• Will Ted graduate on time? Your guess is as good as mine!

A strong instinct or intuition, not based on logic.

• I have a gut feeling about this.
• Trust your gut feeling.

Remaining calm and relaxed, even in a difficult or stressful situation.

• She stayed as cool as a cucumber during the crisis.
• He was as cool as a cucumber before his big presentation.

To be in charge and make all the important decisions.

• In this house, my grandmother calls the shots.
• Who calls the shots here?