Phrases & Expressions

To make a sharp sound by quickly bringing your thumb and one finger together.

• He snapped his fingers to get the waiter's attention.
• Don't snap your fingers at me like that.

Extremely busy with a large amount of work or tasks.

• I can't go out tonight, I'm snowed under with reports.
• She's been snowed under since the new project started.

To speak smoothly without pauses.

• She speaks English fluently.
• He hopes to speak fluently soon.

To divide the cost among people.

• Let's split the bill.
• We split the bill four ways.

To end a relationship or partnership.

• The couple decided to split up after ten years.
• Her parents split up when she was five.

To cover a large area, or to be placed far apart.

• The city continues to spread out into the countryside.
• The village is spread out along the river.

To defend or support someone or something you believe is right.

• Stand up for what you believe in.
• She always stands up for her friends.

To begin a new company.

• They started a business together.
• He wants to start his own business.

To begin an activity or event.

• Let's start off with a brief review.
• She started off her speech with a question.

To begin something again from the beginning.

• The project failed, so we have to start over.
• After the mistake, she decided to start over.