Phrases & Expressions

To describe the situation, place, or time before starting a story or event.

• The book begins by setting the scene in ancient Rome.
• Let me set the scene for you before the movie starts.

To arrange or organize a time and place for people to meet.

• Can you set up a meeting for next week?
• We need to set up a meeting to discuss this.

Very intelligent and quick to understand things.

• Jay scored 100% on his science test; he's as sharp as a tack.
• Anna won a scholarship to a top university; she's as sharp as a tack.

To visit several shops or compare prices before buying something.

• It's worth shopping around before you buy a new laptop.
• I always shop around for the best deals.

To try to impress people by showing your abilities or possessions in an annoying way.

• Stop showing off and be more modest.
• He's always showing off in front of his friends.

Next to each other.

• They walked side by side.
• We sat side by side.

To formally agree to a contract by signing.

• They signed a two-year contract.
• I'll sign the contract tomorrow.

To sign a document, especially a contract or agreement.

• Please sign on the dotted line to accept the offer.
• He signed on the dotted line without reading the contract.

A setting on a mobile phone that turns off all sounds, including rings and notifications.

• My phone is on silent mode.
• Please put your phones on silent mode.

A positive aspect of a difficult situation.

• Every cloud has a silver lining.
• The silver lining is that I have time to read.