Phrases & Expressions

Something you have done so often that you now do it easily without thinking.

• After years of practice, typing without looking is second nature to her.
• With practice, riding a unicycle becomes second nature.

A sudden return of strength or energy after a period of exhaustion.

• After a short rest, she got her second wind.
• The runners found their second wind in the last mile.

To view life or a situation in an overly optimistic or positive way, ignoring potential problems.

• He thinks everything will be fine, but he sees the world through rose-colored glasses.
• Don't see the world through rose-colored glasses; be realistic.

Said when parting before a difficult experience, meaning "I'll see you when it is over.

• Good luck with your exams, and see you on the other side!
• The surgery takes three hours, so see you on the other side.

To present or explain something clearly, such as a plan or idea.

• He set forth his arguments logically.
• The travellers set forth at dawn.

To move the thrust levers forward to the go-around power setting when abandoning an approach.

• The captain quickly set go-around thrust when the decision was made.
• It is crucial to set go-around thrust without delay.

To set the altimeter to standard pressure (1013 hPa) above the transition altitude.

• Passing the transition altitude, the crew set standard on both altimeters.
• The first officer reminded the captain to set standard during the climb.

To establish a business or start operating in a particular place.

• They decided to set up shop in the city center.
• He set up shop as a freelance writer.

To stop a relationship or connection with someone or something completely.

• They decided to sever ties with the organization.
• He had to sever ties with his old friends.

To tremble with fear or be extremely afraid.

• Brianna is scared of her French teacher; whenever he speaks to her, she starts shaking in her shoes.
• During the storm, Billy was hiding under the kitchen table, really shaking in his shoes.