Phrases & Expressions

To leave a place untidy or dirty.

• The children made a mess in the kitchen.
• He made a mess while trying to fix the sink.

To put your belongings into a suitcase or bag before traveling.

• She packed her bags the night before the flight.
• He forgot to pack his bags until the last minute.

To make regular payments for services such as electricity, water, or rent.

• She pays the bills online every month.
• They struggled to pay the bills after losing their jobs.

To tell a restaurant or shop what you would like to buy.

• Are you ready to place your order, sir?
• You can place your order online or by phone.

(British English) To turn on the heating system in a building.

• She put the heating on because it was cold.
• They put the heating on early this year.

(British English) To turn on the kettle to boil water, usually for tea.

• She put the kettle on as soon as guests arrived.
• Shall I put the kettle on for some tea?

To turn off the sound on your phone so it doesn't ring or beep.

• Please put your phone on silent during the film.
• He put his phone on silent before the meeting.

To capture an image of what is currently shown on a screen.

• She took a screenshot of the error message.
• He took a screenshot to save the conversation.

To be involved in an activity or event with other people.

• Many students take part in the school play every year.
• Everyone in the neighborhood is welcome to take part in the festival.

To do something one after another so that everyone gets a chance.

• The children take turns on the swing at the park.
• We take turns washing the dishes after dinner.