Phrases & Expressions

Used to admit that you have done something wrong and should say sorry to someone.

• I was rude yesterday; I owe you an apology.
• I owe you an apology for not telling you the truth.

To decide to forget past arguments or disagreements and move on.

• We had a fight, but let bygones be bygones.
• It's time to let bygones be bygones.

To deliberately overlook wrongdoing, as though you hadn't seen it.

• The authorities looked the other way when the crime happened.
• He decided to look the other way and avoid trouble.

Something serious that should not be treated as a joke.

• When the tornado hit the town, it was no laughing matter.
• Jim may have been fooling around when he hit John, but he really hurt him — it was no laughing matter.

A colloquial way of saying that someone is dead and buried.

• I heard he died last year. He's six feet under now.
• Grandpa says he'll keep working until he's six feet under.

To express your opinions or complaints loudly and forcefully.

• He likes to sound off about politics whenever he gets the chance.
• Fans sounded off online about the new ticket prices.

To be extremely attractive or impressive.

• Her new car is so stylish it could stop traffic.
• The actress looked stunning; she could stop traffic.

Used to say that something is not certain and people could disagree about it.

• She says the plan will save money, but that's debatable.
• He's the best player ever? That's debatable.

To punish someone as severely as possible.

• When Ted failed his chemistry test for the second time, his teacher really threw the book at him.
• The judge threw the book at Matt for stealing a football — he'll be in jail for six months.

To cross the stage at a graduation ceremony to receive your diploma.

• She will walk the stage next month.
• He was proud to walk the stage.