Phrases & Expressions

A fairly large number of people or things, often more than expected.

• It took me quite a few attempts to pass my driving test.
• The survey found that quite a few employees would accept lower pay in exchange for working from home.

To feel sorry or sad about something you did, or about something you did not do.

• Many graduates regret not taking a gap year to travel before starting their careers.
• I regret spending so much money on clothes when I was a student instead of saving some.

To rest and let your mind become calm after a period of stress or hard work.

• Spa hotels market themselves as the perfect place to relax and unwind after a stressful week.
• After my exams, I usually spend a few days at the seaside to relax and unwind.

To make someone think of a person, place or event from their past.

• Walking along the seafront reminded her of the holidays she had spent there with her parents.
• Whenever I walk past the old cinema, it reminds me of the films I watched there as a teenager.

To go back over work you have studied before so that you are ready for a test.

• Most teachers advise students to start revising for their final exams at least a month in advance.
• Instead of going out with friends tonight, I really need to stay in and revise for my maths exam.

Sea conditions with large, choppy waves, often caused by strong wind.

• The ferry was delayed because of a rough sea.
• Fishermen avoided going out in a rough sea.

Used when pouring a drink or serving food, asking the other person to stop you at the right amount.

• 'Would you like some milk in your tea? Say when,' my host said as she began to pour.
• 'Say when,' the waiter said as he began grating fresh cheese over my pasta.

To move down through posts on a social media app, viewing them one by one.

• She scrolled through her feed before getting out of bed.
• He scrolls through his feed during the commute.

To add a document, photo or other file to an email so the recipient can open or save it.

• Please send your CV as an attachment rather than pasting it into the body of the email.
• The teacher asked us to send our essays as attachments so she could add comments directly to the text.

Significant harm caused to something.

• The storm caused serious damage to the roof.
• The accident caused serious damage to both cars.