Phrases & Expressions

Said when you think something bad has continued for too long and must stop now.

• After the third flood in five years, one farmer told reporters, "Enough is enough — we need proper flood defences now."
• Okay, enough is enough — I'm switching off the TV until you both finish your homework.

To fall suddenly and completely in love with someone.

• While studying abroad in Spain, Emre fell head over heels in love and decided to stay on after graduating.
• Within a week of meeting her, Daniel had fallen head over heels in love and was talking about marriage.

To feel extremely happy and confident, usually because things are going well.

• Getting a place at my first-choice university, after months of waiting, made me feel on top of the world.
• Regular exercise doesn't just improve your health; on a good day it can make you feel on top of the world.

A humorous reply meaning that nice words will not persuade you to do what someone wants.

• 'You're the best teacher in the school!' 'Thank you, but flattery will get you nowhere – the deadline is still Friday.'
• When my son praised my cooking and then asked for money, I laughed and told him flattery will get you nowhere.

To go somewhere peaceful so that you can forget about work and everyday pressures.

• More and more city dwellers are renting rural cottages to get away from it all at the weekend.
• I just want to switch off my phone and get away from it all for a week.

To start organising yourself and doing something positive to achieve what you want.

• If I don't get it together soon, I'll never finish my dissertation on time.
• After failing two exams, Emre finally got it together and started studying every evening.

To deal with a problem or arrange something so that it is no longer a worry.

• It took three phone calls and two emails, but I finally got my visa problem sorted.
• I need to get my accommodation sorted before I start university in September.

To tell someone that they have done something well, in order to encourage them.

• The manager gave the whole team a pat on the back for finishing the project ahead of schedule.
• You passed your driving test at the first attempt? You should give yourself a pat on the back!

To keep talking about something for a long time in a boring or annoying way.

• My uncle always goes on about how cheap houses were when he was young.
• The lecturer went on about referencing rules for an hour, and half the class stopped listening.

(of prices or amounts) to rise very fast to a very high level.

• House prices in the capital have gone through the roof, making it almost impossible for young people to buy.
• Energy bills went through the roof last winter, and many families struggled to heat their homes.