Commonly Used Phrases
Are you kidding?
Meaning:
Used when someone says something surprising or that seems as if it could not be
serious or true “The test is tomorrow.”
Are you serious?
Meaning:
A question asked in disbelief with an extremely sarcastic tone
questioning someone’s actions or statement. It is a way to point out someone’s
stupidity in the form of a question.
Total disbelief or disappointment in how
someone did or said something.
Fender Bender.
Meaning: a minor collision
between motor vehicles.
"he was
involved in a fender bender while driving without a license"
Don’t tell me!
Meaning:
used to request that someone not give one information because one wants to
guess what it is “I know the answer.” “Don't tell me. I want to guess.” 2
informal —used to show that one already knows what someone is going to say
especially because he or she often says such things “I have a favour to ask of
you.”
Goose bumps.
Meaning:
A prickly feeling related to having bumps on one's skin due to fear,
excitement, or cold. (*Typically: get ~ have ~ give someone ∼.) When I hear that old
song, I get goose bumps. I never have goose pimples, but my teeth chatter
when it's cold.
Stay/ Be/ Keep in touch.
Meaning:
1.In communication with someone I'm sorry we haven't been in touch over the
past few years. We stay in close touch with the New York office. How can I get
in touch with your sister?
2.
Having recent knowledge about something I try to keep in touch with the latest
developments in the music scene. A president must stay in touch to know what
citizens want or need.
Easier said than done.
Meaning:
something that you say when something seems like a good idea but it would be
difficult to do. The doctor says I should stop smoking but that's easier said
than done.
Keep an eye.
Meaning:
to watch someone or something; to monitor someone or something closely. I have
my eye on the apple tree. When the apples ripen, I'll harvest them. Please keep
an eye on the baby. Will you please keep your eye on my house while I'm on
vacation?
Who cares!
Meaning:
Does anyone really care?; It is of no consequence. John: I have some advice for
you. It will make things easier for you. Bob: Who cares? John: You might. Sue:
You missed a spot shaving. Fred: Who cares?
Know in & out / Know inside out.
Meaning:
The detailed or complicated facts of something:
I
know how to use computers, but I don't really understand the ins and outs of
how they work.