Phrases & Expressions

To be able to read a clock and say what time it is.

• The child learned to tell the time this year.
• Can you tell the time without looking at your phone?

To pour water on plants to help them grow.

• She waters the plants every morning before work.
• Can you water the plants while I'm on holiday?

A large amount of money paid regularly for a job.

• She turned down the job despite the high salary.
• He was offered a high salary to relocate abroad.

A smell that is very noticeable or intense.

• There was a strong smell of paint in the room.
• The market had a strong smell of fresh fish.

To reach a place at the expected or scheduled time.

• The train rarely arrives on time in winter.
• She left early to arrive on time for the interview.

To get on an aircraft before a flight.

• Passengers began to board the plane at gate twelve.
• They rushed to board the plane before the doors closed.

To clean and tidy the house.

• He always does the housework on Saturday mornings.
• She did the housework before the guests arrived.

To clean floors or carpets using a vacuum cleaner.

• He does the vacuuming every Saturday morning.
• Could you do the vacuuming before dinner?

To open or close the curtains over a window.

• She drew the curtains to block out the morning sun.
• He drew the curtains before going to bed.

To cook something by carefully following written instructions.

• She followed a recipe to bake her first cake.
• He rarely follows a recipe exactly.