Phrases & Expressions

To respond calmly to an insult or injury instead of reacting angrily or seeking revenge.

• Instead of arguing back, she decided to turn the other cheek.
• It is not easy to turn the other cheek when someone is rude to you.

To enter a room unexpectedly and see or interrupt something private.

• I accidentally walked in on my parents arguing.
• He walked in on a private conversation.

To surrender or admit defeat in a conflict or competition.

• After hours of fighting, they finally waved the white flag.
• He refused to wave the white flag, even when things got tough.

A radio signal that is not clear or strong enough to be understood.

• The radio transmission was weak and broken.
• I can barely hear you; your signal is weak and broken.

Used to indicate that an activity will happen only if the weather conditions are favorable.

• Weather permitting, we will have the party outdoors.
• We plan to hike tomorrow, weather permitting.

To make food or something else very quickly.

• Can you whip up a quick lunch?
• She whipped up a delicious cake in less than an hour.

A system using a wick to draw water to plant roots.

• The wick system keeps the soil moist.
• This is a simple wick system for houseplants.

Very wise and full of good judgment.

• My grandfather is as wise as an owl and always gives good advice.
• Everyone in the village thought the old woman was wise as an owl.

Used to say that something is the right or sensible thing to do.

• You ought to apologize for your behavior.
• We ought to leave soon.

A situation in sports where one team has one more player than the opponent due to a penalty.

• They scored during the 6-on-5 power play.
• The team is skilled at playing 6-on-5.