Phrases & Expressions

To end a romantic relationship.

• She broke up with her boyfriend.
• Tom broke up with Anna after five years together.

To gradually increase in amount, size, or strength.

• Stress can build up if you never take a break.
• Traffic starts to build up around five o'clock.

To cancel an event or plan that was going to happen.

• They called off the meeting.
• The match was called off because of heavy rain.

To shout something, especially to get someone's attention.

• She called out his name across the crowded room.
• The nurse called out my name, and I went in.

To continue doing an activity or task.

• Carry on with your work.
• They carried on talking for hours.

To do something that you did not have enough time to do earlier.

• I need to catch up on sleep.
• I spent the weekend catching up on my emails.

To relax and calm down, especially after being stressed.

• Chill out! If we miss this train, we'll just take the next one.
• Your dog ate your homework? Chill out, I'm sure your teacher will understand.

To be published or made available to the public.

• Her new book comes out next month.
• The new phone comes out in September.

To happen unexpectedly or to be mentioned.

• Something important came up, so I had to leave.
• The issue came up during the meeting.

To rely on someone or something to do what you expect.

• You can count on me.
• We are counting on good weather for the picnic tomorrow.