Phrases & Expressions

according to plan

• Everything went as planned.
• As planned, we left at 8.

At the planned time.

• The flight left as scheduled.
• The meeting will go ahead as scheduled on Monday morning.

In the beginning, before something changes.

• Nicole didn't like Don Quixote at first, but after 200 pages she got into it.
• Don't get discouraged if you don't succeed at first — just keep trying.

At a specific level or number, or lower than that level or number.

• Keep the temperature at or below 20 degrees Celsius.
• You must be at or below the weight limit.

To support someone or say that someone is right.

• I'll back you up at the meeting.
• My friends always back me up when I need help.

To be available and supportive, especially emotionally.

• Thank you for always being there for me.
• My friends are always there for me.

Beer served from a keg through a tap.

• What beer is on tap tonight?
• We have local beers on tap.

A polite way to ask someone to repeat something, or to apologize.

• I beg your pardon, I didn't hear you.
• Beg your pardon, that was rude of me.

In a way that the public does not see or know about.

• Many people worked behind the scenes to make the event a success.
• Talks between the two companies are going on behind the scenes.

Used before saying something surprising or hard to believe.

• Believe it or not, I've never had pizza.
• Believe it or not, he won.