Advance English Phrases Flashcards
1
Q
Throw caution to the wind
A
to act without considering the potential risks
- With a mischievous smile, he threw caution to the wind and jumped off the cliff into the crystal-clear waters below.
- Feeling trapped by routine, he decided to throw caution to the wind and quit his job to pursue his passion for photography.
2
Q
By no means
A
something is absolutely not the case
- The hike is by no means easy; it involves steep slopes and rugged terrain
- His success was by no means accidental; it was the result of years of hard work and dedication
3
Q
Plain sailing
A
a situation without any difficulties
- The first few months of their marriage were filled with joy and harmony, making it seem like their relationship was going to be plain sailing.
- Although there were concerns about the upcoming event, the meticulous planning and preparation ensured that the day went off without a hitch, making it a day of plain sailing.
4
Q
A close shave
A
a narrow escape from danger.
- He had a close shave with a car while crossing the busy intersection, but luckily he managed to jump out of the way just in time.
- The company experienced a close shave with bankruptcy, but a last-minute investment saved them from financial ruin.
5
Q
In the nick of time
A
at the last possible moment.
- She submitted her assignment in the nick of time, seconds before the deadline, avoiding a late submission penalty.
- The doctor administered the life-saving medication in the nick of time, preventing further complications and stabilizing the patient’s condition.
6
Q
To run out of (something)
A
to use up or deplete something
- We ran out of milk, so I need to go to the grocery store to buy some more.
- I have to refill the ink cartridges for my printer because they are running out of ink.
7
Q
To let go of staff
euphemism
A
being dismissed or laid off.
- Due to budget cuts, the company had to let go of several staff members, resulting in a smaller workforce.
- Unfortunately, the company’s financial struggles forced them to let go of a significant portion of their staff in order to reduce costs.
8
Q
Rough patch
A
a temporary period of hardship.
- Jane and Mark’s relationship hit a rough patch after a series of disagreements, but they are committed to resolving their issues and rebuilding their bond.
- After losing his job and experiencing financial difficulties, John went through a rough patch, but he managed to bounce back stronger than ever.
9
Q
For the best part of a (time period)
A
for the majority of that time period
- For the best part of a decade, she dedicated herself to mastering the art of classical piano.
- For the best part of a century, the historic building stood as a symbol of the city’s rich architectural heritage.
10
Q
To ride it out
A
to wait out a difficult situation
- Despite the storm brewing outside, they decided to stay indoors and ride it out, patiently waiting for the weather to improve.
- The stock market experienced a sudden downturn, but seasoned investors knew better than to panic and chose to ride it out, trusting that the market would eventually recover.
11
Q
In retrospect
A
…gaining a new perspective on what has happened since that time.
- In retrospect, I should have studied harder for the exam instead of procrastinating until the last minute.
- In retrospect, I see that our disagreement was fueled by misunderstanding, and I wish I had approached the situation with more empathy and open-mindedness.
12
Q
The upshot is
A
this is used to highlight a positive incident to a negative situation
- Despite the initial setbacks and challenges we faced, the upshot is that our team successfully completed the project ahead of schedule, exceeding all expectations.
- After considering all the options and weighing the pros and cons, the upshot is that we should proceed with the plan that offers the most long-term benefits.
13
Q
To pick (something) up
A
to learn a new skill or information.
- Attending workshops and seminars can be a great way to pick up new strategies and techniques in business and enhance your professional skills.
- Learning a musical instrument requires dedication and practice, but with consistent effort, anyone can pick up the skill and become proficient over time.
14
Q
to go out on a limb
A
an action that is daring or risky
- Despite the lack of concrete evidence, she decided to go out on a limb and support her friend’s unconventional business idea.
- The scientist was willing to go out on a limb and propose a groundbreaking theory that challenged the existing scientific paradigm.
15
Q
one thing after another
A
series of negative occurences in quick succession
- It feels like one thing after another keeps going wrong today.
- I thought the day would improve, but it’s just been one thing after another.
