Phrases & Expressions

To get on a vehicle quickly, or to join a call or game.

• Just hop on the next bus and come over.
• Can you hop on the video call?

Used to say that you think something is true or likely to happen.

• I reckon it will be a difficult task.
• I reckon he'll be here soon.

To be in trouble or out of favor with someone because you have done something wrong.

• He forgot their anniversary and is now in the doghouse.
• After breaking the vase, the child was in the doghouse.

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.

Used to express approval when someone finally suggests something good or agreeable.

• You want to offer me free tickets to the concert? Now you're talking!
• You'd like to offer me a $10,000 raise and a corner office? Now you're talking!

Acting or working without conscious thought or effort.

• I was so tired that I drove home on autopilot.
• After years in the job, she does most tasks on autopilot.

Not aware of what is happening or what is currently popular.

• Don't ask Susan for fashion advice — she's really out of it; she wears sneakers with everything.
• Betsy has never even heard of Harry Potter — she's really out of it.

Something that is very easy to do or achieve.

• The exam was a piece of cake for me.
• Don't worry, fixing this will be a piece of cake.

To say something embarrassing, tactless, or foolish by mistake.

• I really put my foot in my mouth when I asked about her ex-husband.
• He put his foot in his mouth at the meeting.

Continuing to work or function, often when tired, by drinking a lot of coffee.

• I'm running on coffee and sheer willpower today.
• He was running on coffee after staying up all night.