Phrases & Expressions

to accept that you caused something

• He took responsibility for the mistake.
• You need to take responsibility.

Used to give a balanced view or consider another side of an argument.

• To be fair, he tried his best.
• To be fair, it wasn't her fault.

Experiencing stress or difficulty due to demands or expectations.

• He works well under pressure.
• I'm under pressure to finish this report.

Not yet decided or settled; uncertain and subject to change.

• It might rain later, so our picnic plans are up in the air.
• Our trip to Russia is up in the air — we're not sure we'll get our visas.

A small lie told to avoid hurting someone's feelings or to be polite.

• It was just a white lie.
• I told a white lie to spare her feelings.

Used to strongly agree with what someone has just said, often because it is very true.

• "This exam was really hard." "You can say that again!"
• "The weather is so nasty today." — "You can say that again! I don't even want to go outside."

To do something unpleasant bravely.

• Just bite the bullet and tell her.
• I bit the bullet and went to the dentist.

A nervous, fluttering feeling in your stomach before something important.

• I had butterflies in my stomach before the interview.
• She gets butterflies before every performance.

Small, hidden parts of a plan or agreement can cause problems.

• The devil is in the details.
• Watch out — the devil is in the details.

Do not risk all your efforts or resources on one thing.

• If you invest, don't put all your eggs in one basket.
• Diversify — don't put all your eggs in one basket.