Phrases
10,000+ English phrases, collocations, and idioms, tagged by the CEFR level of the vocabulary they contain. Start with A1 — phrases built from the most common words.
New
Mastered
Verb + noun (399)
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accept a dare
To agree to carry out a challenge that someone has issued
accept an excuse
to regard a given reason as valid and sufficient
accept an offer
to agree to and take up an offer that has been made
accept cash
to allow payment by physical money
accept the truth
to acknowledge and come to terms with the facts as they really are
address the public
to speak formally or officially to ordinary people as a collective audience
admit a mistake
acknowledge that one has done something wrong
admit fault
to acknowledge that you were wrong or responsible for a mistake
adopt a child
to legally take responsibility for and bring up a child not born to you
answer your cell
To pick up and respond to an incoming call on a mobile phone
apply a fix
to implement a solution or repair to a known problem
apply force
exert physical pressure or strength to something
apply ice
to place ice on an injured part of the body to reduce swelling or pain
apply pressure
to press against something or to exert influence on someone to act
appoint a lawyer
To officially assign a lawyer to a case or role
appoint a president
to formally select someone to serve as president of an organization
appoint a professor
To officially give someone the position of professor
appreciate art
recognise and enjoy the quality of art
appreciate beauty
to recognise and value the beauty of something
arrange a marriage
organize a marriage between two people, typically by their families
attempt a jump
try to jump, especially a difficult or risky one
attempt an escape
try to get away, especially from captivity
attend a course
go to the sessions of a course
attend a party
go to a social gathering
attend a show
go and be present at a live performance
attend a wake
be present at a gathering held after someone's death
attend church
To go to religious services at a church regularly
attend school
to go to school regularly (more formal than 'go to school')
attract attention
naturally cause people to look or focus on something
avoid a question
to deliberately not answer a question
avoid an accident
to successfully prevent an unexpected harmful event from occurring
avoid jail
To escape a prison sentence, usually through legal means or a deal
avoid trouble
to keep away from situations that could lead to problems or conflict
become a victim
to enter the state of being harmed or wronged by someone or something
block a road
to obstruct traffic flow on a road
bow your head
to lower your head as a sign of respect, prayer, or sorrow
break ground
to begin digging a site; to start a new construction project
bring honor
to cause respect or glory to come to someone or something
bring shame
to cause someone or a group to suffer disgrace through one's actions
bring to a stop
to cause something or someone to cease moving or operating
build a business
to develop and grow a company over time through sustained effort
build a relationship
To develop a connection or bond with someone through sustained effort over time
build a team
to create and develop a group of people to work effectively together
build trust
to develop trust in a relationship through consistent, reliable behaviour
bury one's face
to press one's face into something such as one's hands or a pillow, usually in distress
buy shares
To purchase units of ownership in a company on the stock market
call a meeting
arrange for a meeting to take place
cancel a visit
To call off a visit that had been planned
cancel an order
to withdraw a purchase request before it is fulfilled
capture a moment
to preserve a specific point in time in memory, a photograph, or a recording
capture beauty
to record or represent the beauty of something in art or photography
carry a weapon
to have a weapon on one's person
carry out a search
perform a systematic search
carve stone
to cut and shape stone into a sculpture or decorative design
catch the wind
to capture or be propelled by the wind, especially in sailing
cause a drop
to bring about a decrease in a quantity, price, or level
cause pain
produce a feeling of physical or emotional hurt
change sides
to switch one's support to the opposing group or position
change the bed
to remove and replace the sheets and pillowcases on a bed
charge your cell
To recharge the battery of a mobile phone
check the facts
to verify whether information is accurate before acting on it
clean up a mess
To restore order or cleanliness after disorder has occurred
clear a jump
jump successfully over an obstacle
clear land
to remove trees, vegetation, or obstacles from an area of land
close a case
to officially end an investigation or legal matter
close a deal
finalize an agreement successfully
collect thoughts
To settle and organise one's thinking, especially after distraction or stress.
come to an end
to finish or conclude
complete a course
finish all the requirements of a course
compose a piece
to create an original musical composition
compose music
to write and create original musical pieces
conduct a search
carry out an organized attempt to find something or someone
construct a building
build or erect a structure
consult a doctor
seek professional medical advice from a doctor before acting
consult a lawyer
To seek professional legal advice from a lawyer
control the situation
keep a situation under management so it does not get worse
correct a fault
to fix or remedy a defect or error
crane one's neck
to stretch the neck upward or forward to see something
create a mess
To cause a state of disorder or confusion
create art
make or produce artistic works
create space
make more room available, physically or figuratively
crown a king
to formally make someone king in a ceremony
crown a queen
officially invest someone with the title of queen in a ceremony
cut a key
to shape a new key by cutting metal
damage health
to cause harm to one's physical condition
damage the brain
to cause harm to brain function or tissue
darken the sky
to cause the sky to become dark, usually through clouds or smoke
declare war
to formally announce that a state of war exists with another country
deliver a blow
to strike someone or something with force
deliver a talk
to give a prepared presentation
deliver the news
to communicate important information to someone, typically formally or carefully
demolish a building
tear down a building completely
deserve a mention
to be worthy of being noted or acknowledged
design a system
to plan and create a system from scratch
detect a smell
To identify or sense a smell, especially a faint or subtle one
develop a relationship
To allow a connection between people to grow and deepen
develop a sense
gradually build an awareness or perception of something
develop an idea
to work on and expand a concept further
develop land
to build on or improve land for commercial or residential use
direct a film
to be in charge of the creative and technical production of a film
discipline a kid
teach a child to behave correctly through consistent rules and consequences
discover the truth
to find out the real facts about something
discuss the matter
to talk about an issue in detail
do your part
contribute your own share of effort or responsibility toward a shared goal
donate blood
to give blood to a blood bank as a medical donation
draw a gun
to take a gun out of its holster quickly, ready to use
draw attention
cause people to notice something
draw blood
to take a blood sample from a person's vein for testing
drop a weapon
to let a weapon fall to the ground, typically as an act of surrender
dump a girlfriend
To abruptly end a romantic relationship
earn applause
to deserve and receive clapping through a strong performance
earn marks
to accumulate points or grades through effort and performance
earn respect
to gain the respect of others through one's behaviour or achievements
earn trust
to gain someone's trust through one's actions and reliability
ease pain
reduce the severity of pain
elect a government
to choose a government through a democratic vote
elect a president
to choose a president by voting
end a marriage
bring a marriage to its conclusion through separation or divorce
end a relationship
To bring a personal or professional connection to a deliberate close
enforce a law
to ensure a law is obeyed and to punish those who break it
enforce a rule
to ensure that a rule is obeyed and applied consistently
ensure security
to make certain that adequate security is maintained
escape prison
to break out of prison without authorisation
establish contact
To successfully create a line of communication, especially in a formal or difficult situation
evacuate a building
remove all occupants from a building in an emergency
exchange a kiss
kiss each other mutually
exchange rings
give and receive rings as part of a marriage ceremony
expect a child
to be pregnant; to be waiting to become a parent
expect a return
to anticipate profit or repayment for an investment or favor
express a wish
to state or communicate a desire formally
express feelings
to communicate emotions through words or actions
express hope
to state one's optimism about a future outcome
express pleasure
show or communicate that one is pleased
express thanks
to convey gratitude, especially in a formal context
express thoughts
To put one's ideas or opinions into words.
extend a stay
lengthen the period of time one spends somewhere
face a fear
confront something you are afraid of directly
face a problem
to be confronted with a difficulty that must be dealt with
face a situation
confront and deal with a situation directly
face arrest
be at risk of being detained by the police
face death
be in a situation where dying is a real and immediate possibility
face jail
To be in a situation where imprisonment is a likely outcome
fear death
have a strong and persistent fear of dying
feel pain
experience a sensation of physical or emotional hurt
feel shame
to experience the painful emotion of shame
feel the beat
to sense and respond physically to the rhythm of music
file a report
to officially register or lodge a report with an authority
fill a position
appoint someone to an open role
fill the air
to be strongly and widely present throughout the surrounding air, said of a smell, sound, or atmosphere
fill with wonder
to cause someone to feel deep amazement
find a fix
to discover a solution to a problem
find a reason
to identify or come up with a justification for something
find an excuse
to come up with a reason to justify or avoid something
find evidence
to discover evidence of something
find fault
to criticize or point out mistakes in someone or something
find pleasure
discover or experience enjoyment in something
find the cause
to identify the reason something happened
fire a professor
To dismiss a professor from their position
fire a shot
to discharge a weapon once
fit a kitchen
install the units and appliances of a kitchen
fix a date
to arrange and confirm a specific date for something
follow advice
to act in accordance with guidance that has been given
form a government
to establish or constitute a government after an election
found a company
to formally establish a company as its original creator
furnish an apartment
put furniture and fittings into an apartment
gain control
to obtain authority or power over something that was previously unmanaged or held by another
gain experience
to acquire practical knowledge or skill through doing something
gain power
to acquire political or social authority
gain speed
to gradually become faster
gain trust
to gradually obtain trust from others, often over a period of time
gather evidence
to collect evidence systematically from multiple sources
gather information
to collect information from various sources
gather thoughts
To collect and organise one's ideas before speaking or writing.
get a laugh
To cause others to laugh with a joke or remark
get a mention
to be briefly referred to
get hold
to obtain or grasp something
give notice
formally inform someone in advance of your intentions, especially before leaving a job
give thought to
to deliberately consider or reflect on something
handle a case
to manage and deal with a particular investigation or legal matter
handle a situation
manage and deal with a situation effectively
handle pressure
to manage stress or demanding situations effectively
hang a picture
fix a picture to a wall
hang curtains
put curtains in place on a rail or rod
hang laundry
put washed clothes on a line or rack to dry
hang up the phone
to end a phone call
have a guess
to try guessing, often when invited to do so
have a laugh
To share laughter and amusement with others
have a shot
to make an attempt at something
have first pick
to have the right to choose before anyone else
have sex
engage in sexual intercourse
hide fear
conceal one's fear so others cannot see it
hide feelings
to conceal one's emotions from others
hide one's worry
to conceal feelings of anxiety from others
hide the truth
to deliberately conceal facts from others
hire a professor
To recruit someone into a professorial role
hire a teacher
employ someone as a teacher
hold a conversation
to sustain a coherent spoken exchange
hold a position
keep or maintain a job, role, or stance
hold a record
to currently possess or be the holder of a record
hold a wake
organize a gathering to mourn and remember a deceased person
hold attention
keep someone focused and interested over time
hold office
to occupy an official position or post, especially a political one
hold power
to possess and exercise authority over a country or organization
hold the line
to wait on a telephone connection without hanging up
host a show
present or compere a television or live show
hunt a killer
to actively search for a murderer who has not yet been caught
identify a killer
to determine who is responsible for a murder
improve security
to make security measures more effective
increase the number
make a quantity larger
inform the public
to provide ordinary people with facts or news they need to know
inspire wonder
to cause a feeling of admiration and amazement in someone
involve the police
to bring the police into a situation to deal with it
issue a pass
officially provide someone with a permit or access ticket
keep a date
to honor a previously arranged appointment
keep a record
to maintain a written or stored log of information over time
keep count
to track a running total of something
keep hold
to maintain a grip on something
keep one's place
maintain one's position in a queue or one's position in a text
keep the beat
to maintain a steady rhythm while playing or performing
lack experience
to not have enough practical knowledge or skill in an area
lack grace
to be without elegance or dignified tact
launch a drive
to begin an organized campaign or effort toward a particular goal
launch a search
officially begin a search operation
lead a life
to live in a particular way
lead a team
to be in charge of and guide a group of people
leave a mark
to create a visible stain, impression, or trace on a surface
leave jail
To be released from or walk out of prison
leave office
to end one's term or tenure in an official position
leave prison
to be released from prison after serving a sentence
leave the church
To cease being a member of a church or religious denomination
limit the number
set a maximum on a quantity
line a street
be arranged in a row along both sides of a street
load a gun
to put ammunition into a gun so it is ready to fire
lose a bet
to fail in a wager
lose one's father
To experience the death of one's father
lose one's voice
be unable to speak due to illness or overuse of the vocal cords
lose power
to cease to have authority or control
lose respect
to forfeit the esteem others previously held for you
lose trust
to no longer be trusted, usually due to an action that damages credibility
lower one's voice
speak more quietly
maintain contact
To keep in regular communication with someone
maintain control
to keep authority or command over a situation despite pressure or challenges
maintain health
to keep one's health in good condition over time
make a bet
to agree to a wager with someone
make a date
to arrange to meet someone at a specific time
make a decision
to choose between options and commit to a course of action
make a difference
to have a significant effect or produce a noticeable change
make a move
to take an action or step toward achieving something
make a save
to stop a ball from entering the goal, as a goalkeeper
make a start
to begin a task or activity
make a trip
to carry out a journey to a particular place, often a practical or purposeful one
make an arrest
officially detain a person suspected of a crime
manage a team
to organize and direct the work of a group over time
mark the beginning
To signify or officially represent the start of something
mark the end
to represent or signify the conclusion of something
need care
To require assistance, attention, or medical support.
notice a difference
to become aware that something has changed or that two things are not the same
obey the law
to act in accordance with the law
offer a course
make a course available for students to enroll in
offer a service
to make a service available to potential customers
offer support
to make help or assistance available to someone
offer thanks
to present one's gratitude to someone
open a case
to officially begin an investigation or legal proceeding
operate a machine
work or control a machine
operate a system
to run or manage a system on a day-to-day basis
overcome a fear
gradually stop being afraid of something through effort
own a bar
to possess and be the proprietor of a bar
own land
to possess land as property
own shares
To hold units of ownership in a company as an asset
pass a bill
officially approve a piece of legislation
pass a law
to formally approve and put into force a new piece of legislation
patrol a street
walk up and down a street in order to guard or monitor it
pay a visit
To go to see someone or a place, often in a somewhat formal or deliberate way
perform a dance
carry out a dance in front of an audience
perform a piece
to give a formal public performance of a musical or artistic work
perform in a play
to act as a cast member in a theatrical production
perform magic
to carry out magic tricks or illusions as a performance
pick up speed
to begin moving noticeably faster; to accelerate
place a bet
to wager money on an outcome
place an order
to formally request goods or services from a seller
polish the floor
buff the floor surface to make it smooth and shiny
pollute the air
to contaminate the air with harmful or unpleasant substances
predict rain
to forecast that rain will occur
present evidence
to formally show or submit evidence to an audience or authority
prevent an attack
stop an attack from happening
prevent crime
take steps to stop illegal acts from happening
prevent death
stop someone from dying, especially through medical or safety intervention
propose marriage
formally ask someone to marry you
protect animals
to keep animals safe from harm or exploitation
protect health
to prevent harm to one's physical wellbeing
prove a point
demonstrate that something is true, often to settle a dispute
prove your worth
to demonstrate that you are capable or valuable
provide a service
to supply or perform a service for customers or users
provide an answer
to supply a response or explanation, especially formally
provide care
to give medical or personal support to someone who needs it
provide evidence
to supply evidence in support of a claim or argument
provide security
to offer protection or a sense of safety
provide support
to give or supply assistance, often as a formal or organised service
publish a book
to prepare and release a book for public distribution
publish a report
to make a report available for public reading
quote a figure
to state a specific number, especially an estimated cost or amount
raise a child
to bring up and care for a child through to adulthood
raise hopes
to increase the expectation that something good will happen
raise one's voice
speak more loudly, especially in anger or to be heard
receive a mention
to be formally acknowledged or referred to
receive an honor
to be given a formal award or distinction
receive an offer
to be given a formal offer by someone
receive applause
to be greeted with clapping from an audience
receive care
to be looked after by another person or organisation
receive notice
be formally informed about something
receive support
to be given help or assistance by others
record a win
to achieve a victory, especially as one of a series in a competition
reduce speed
to slow something down
reduce the number
make a quantity smaller
refuse a dare
To decline a challenge that someone has issued
refuse an offer
to decline an offer that has been made
release a film
to make a completed film available to audiences
release a fix
to issue a solution or patch publicly, especially in software
release figures
to make statistical data publicly available
relieve pain
remove or lessen a painful sensation
relieve pressure
to reduce or remove stress or physical force
renovate the kitchen
improve or update a kitchen through building or remodelling work
repeat a mistake
do the same wrong thing a second time
request leave
to formally ask for permission to be absent from work
resist arrest
physically oppose or refuse to comply with being detained
return a favor
repay a kind act that someone did for you
reveal your age
disclose how old you are
run a bar
to manage the day-to-day operations of a bar
run a company
to manage and operate a business organization
run a hotel
manage and operate a hotel as a business
run a shop
To manage and operate a shop on a daily basis
save a marriage
prevent a marriage from ending through effort or counseling
scan the sky
to look carefully and systematically across the sky in search of something
schedule a visit
To arrange a visit for a specific time
secure a win
to ensure or guarantee a victory, often by decisive late action
see a drop
to observe or record a decrease in a quantity or level
seek advice
to actively look for guidance from someone knowledgeable
seek cover
to look for a place of shelter or protection
sell shares
To transfer ownership of company shares in exchange for money
serve the public
to work in a way that benefits ordinary people in society
set a record
to establish a new best performance or highest figure for the first time
settle a bill
pay the full amount owed, especially at a restaurant or hotel
settle the matter
to resolve or decide an issue conclusively
shade your eyes
to cover your eyes with your hand to block strong light
share a story
recount a personal narrative with an audience
share an experience
to tell others about something you went through, or to undergo something together
share feelings
to tell others about one's emotions
share one's thoughts
to express one's opinions or ideas with others
share one's worry
to tell someone else about one's anxieties
share thoughts
To tell others what one thinks or feels about something.
show grace
to behave with poise, dignity, or generosity, especially under pressure
show respect
to demonstrate deference, consideration, or regard toward someone
show wear
to display visible signs of deterioration from use
signal the beginning
To indicate that something is about to start
skip a step
to omit a stage in a process or set of instructions
solve a case
to find the answer or resolution to a crime or problem under investigation
speak your mind
to say honestly what you think or feel
spoil a kid
give a child excessive gifts or freedom in a way that harms their development
spoil the fun
ruin an enjoyable situation for others
spoil the moment
to ruin the atmosphere or feeling of a special time
spot a difference
to identify a specific point where two things are not the same
spread hate
to cause feelings of hostility to reach more people
start an engine
to activate or switch on an engine
state a reason
to clearly express a justification, especially in a formal context
stop an engine
to switch off or halt the operation of an engine
strike a blow
to hit someone forcefully, or to achieve a meaningful impact against something
submit a paper
to hand in an academic document for grading or peer review
submit a report
to formally hand in a completed report to someone in authority
suffer a blow
to experience a painful physical strike or a significant setback
suffer a burn
to receive an injury caused by heat, fire, or a corrosive substance
support a family
to earn enough money to cover a family's needs
survive an accident
to remain alive after being involved in an accident
survive an attack
remain alive or undefeated after being attacked
take a dare
To accept and act on a challenge from another person
take a guess
to try to answer by estimating or guessing
take a position
adopt a clear stance or viewpoint on an issue
take advice
to act upon guidance that has been received
take cover
to move to a sheltered position to protect oneself from danger or bad weather
take leave
to be absent from work, especially on official authorized grounds
take notice
pay attention to something
take office
to begin officially performing the duties of an elected or appointed position
take sides
to support one person or group in a dispute rather than remaining neutral
take someone's name
to officially record someone's name
take up singing
to begin singing as a hobby or pursuit
take up walking
begin walking as a regular habit or hobby
take your pick
to freely choose from several available options
teach a course
deliver a structured programme of instruction to students
train a teacher
give professional training to someone to teach
train the brain
to improve cognitive ability through regular mental practice or exercise
treat a burn
to provide medical care for a burn injury
undergo a change
experience or go through a significant transformation
use a service
to make use of a service that is available
waste a year
to spend a year without achieving anything productive
win a bet
to succeed in a wager
wind a watch
to tighten the mainspring of a mechanical watch to keep it running
withdraw cash
to take cash out of a bank or ATM
write a paper
to compose a formal academic or research document
write a piece
to produce a piece of writing, such as an article or essay
write a play
to compose the script and dialogue for a theatrical work
Adjective + noun (454)
-
a branch office
a secondary location of a company, separate from the main headquarters
a brisk walk
a walk done at a fast, energetic pace
a civil war
an armed conflict between opposing groups within the same country
a clean shot
a well-aimed, accurate shot with nothing obstructing the path
a government office
a building or department where public administration is carried out
a head office
the main administrative centre of a company or organisation
a leisurely walk
a relaxed, unhurried walk with no time pressure
a market town
a town that holds a regular market, particularly in Britain
a valid reason
a justification that is acceptable and logically sound
a winning shot
a shot that decides the outcome in favour of the scorer
absolute mess
Complete and unqualified disorder with no redeeming order
abstract art
art that does not depict recognisable reality directly
academic year
the annual period of teaching and study at a university or college
acting president
a person temporarily performing the duties of president
additional charge
an extra fee beyond the original price
advanced course
a course at a higher level, for those with prior knowledge of the subject
agricultural land
land used for farming and food production
alphabetical order
an arrangement that follows the sequence of letters in the alphabet
an elderly couple
two older people who are in a long-term relationship
annual leave
the paid holiday time an employee is entitled to each year
annual meeting
a meeting that takes place once a year
annual report
a document published once a year summarising an organisation's activities and finances
anxious wait
a period of nervous, worried waiting
armed police
police officers who are carrying firearms
arranged marriage
a marriage set up by the families of the couple rather than by the couple themselves
average speed
the mean rate of travel calculated over a given distance
awkward position
an uncomfortable or difficult situation
background music
quiet music played in a setting to create atmosphere, not intended as the main focus
backup plan
an alternative strategy prepared in case the main plan fails
bare rock
exposed rock with no soil or vegetation covering it
bare tree
a tree that has lost all its leaves
beloved queen
a queen who is greatly loved by her people
big top
the large main tent of a circus
black ice
a thin, nearly transparent and invisible layer of ice that forms on road surfaces and is extremely dangerous
black magic
the use of supernatural powers for evil or harmful purposes
blank face
a face that shows no emotion or reaction
blockbuster movie
a film that is extremely commercially successful and widely watched
blood cell
A cell found in blood, either a red cell carrying oxygen or a white cell fighting infection
bold move
a brave or daring action
boy king
a king who ascended the throne at a very young age
breaking news
urgent news that is being reported as it happens
brief conversation
a short talk lasting only a few minutes
brief mention
a short, passing reference to something
brief stay
a short visit or time spent somewhere
brief visit
A visit that lasts only a short time
bright idea
a clever or inventive thought
brilliant mind
an exceptionally intelligent or talented intellect
brilliant save
an exceptional stop made by a goalkeeper
brisk walking
walking at a quick, energetic pace
brutal attack
a savage and extremely violent attack
budget hotel
an inexpensive hotel offering basic, no-frills accommodation
business trip
a journey made for work-related purposes
calendar month
a month as defined by the conventional calendar, from its first to its last day
casual conversation
informal, relaxed talk about everyday topics
catchy song
a song with a memorable tune that stays in your head
central government
the national government, as distinct from regional or local authorities
childlike wonder
a quality of open, enthusiastic amazement of the kind a young child shows
clean kill
A swift, precise kill that causes immediate death with minimal suffering.
clear evidence
evidence that is unambiguous and straightforward to interpret
clear message
a message that is unambiguous and easy to understand
climate change
long-term shifts in global temperatures and weather patterns, largely driven by human activity
close attention
careful, thorough concentration
close finish
a race or competition decided by a very small margin
close game
a game decided by a very small difference in score
close relationship
A connection marked by intimacy and strong mutual understanding
cold front
a mass of cold air advancing and displacing warmer air, typically bringing rain or storms
common sense
sound practical judgment based on experience rather than theory
complete mess
Total, utter disorder or a situation that has gone entirely wrong
complete rest
total inactivity prescribed for recovery from illness or injury
complete stop
a total, absolute halt with no remaining motion
complete trust
full, total confidence in someone or something
complex machine
a machine with many interacting parts
constant fear
a fear that is present all the time without relief
constant pain
pain that is continuous and unrelenting
constant pressure
continuous, unrelenting stress or force
constant worry
a persistent and unrelenting source of anxiety
costly mistake
an error that results in a significant loss or disadvantage
country house
a large, often elegant house set in a rural area, typically with surrounding grounds
county jail
A local detention facility run by a county authority, typically for short sentences
cozy feel
a quality of being pleasantly warm, comfortable, and intimate
creative play
imaginative, unstructured play that encourages inventiveness
creative thinking
the capacity to generate original and inventive ideas
criminal act
an action that is against the law
criminal lawyer
A lawyer who specialises in criminal defence or prosecution
criminal record
an official list of a person's past criminal convictions
critical thinking
the ability to analyse and evaluate information objectively and logically
current president
the person holding the office of president at the present time
current situation
the existing or present state of affairs
current state
the condition that something is in at the present time
dangerous situation
a situation that poses a serious risk of harm
daring escape
a bold, courageous escape from captivity or danger
dark beer
beer with a deep brown or black colour, typically with a rich, roasted flavour
dark joke
A joke that treats a serious or disturbing subject with humour
dead cell
A cell that is no longer alive or functional
dead end
a road or passage that is closed at one end; a situation with no further progress possible
deadly weapon
a weapon capable of causing death
deep fear
a strong, intense, and often long-held fear
deep respect
a profound and strong degree of admiration and deference
deep sea
the part of the ocean at very great depth
deep shame
a strong and intense feeling of shame
deep thought
serious, intense thinking
deep trouble
a very serious or difficult situation that is hard to escape
defense lawyer
A lawyer whose job is to defend the accused in a criminal case
deliberate act
an action done intentionally, not by accident
deputy chief
the second-highest-ranking leader in an organization
designer bag
a high-fashion bag made by a luxury brand
desperate cry
a cry expressing urgent need or hopelessness
detached house
a house that stands alone and is not joined to another building
detailed information
information that is thorough and covers many specifics
detailed plan
a plan that includes specific, thorough information at every stage
devoted father
a father deeply committed to caring for his children
diamond ring
a ring set with one or more diamonds
diesel engine
an engine that runs on diesel fuel rather than petrol
difficult decision
a choice that is hard to make
direct contact
Communication or physical proximity without any intermediary
direct hit
an impact that strikes exactly on the intended target
disabled person
a person who has a physical or mental condition that limits their activities
documentary film
a non-fiction film recording real events or subjects
domestic cat
A tame cat bred as a household companion, as opposed to a wild cat
double dare
A challenge that intensifies an original dare by daring someone twice as boldly
dramatic change
a sudden or strikingly large transformation
dramatic scene
a scene marked by high emotion, tension, or striking action
dry ice
solid carbon dioxide used for refrigeration or for creating swirling vapour effects
dry throat
a throat that feels parched or uncomfortably lacking in moisture
due date
the date by which something must be submitted or a baby is expected
duplicate key
an exact copy of an original key
educational system
the organised network of schools and institutions providing education in a country
elderly woman
an older woman, typically in her sixties or beyond
eldest daughter
the firstborn female child in a family
emergency meeting
an urgent, unplanned meeting called to deal with a crisis
emotional state
the condition of a person's feelings at a particular moment
endangered animal
an animal of a species at risk of extinction
engagement ring
a ring given as a symbol of a promise to marry
excellent service
service of very high quality that meets or exceeds expectations
experienced teacher
a teacher who has a lot of practice and skill from years of work
expert advice
guidance from someone with specialist knowledge in a field
extended family
a family group that includes grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins beyond the immediate household
extended stay
a visit that is longer than originally planned or that covers several weeks
failed marriage
a marriage that ended in divorce or separation
fair chance
an equal and reasonable opportunity
fair fight
a conflict in which both sides have equal conditions or chances
fair play
behaviour that follows the rules and treats everyone equally
fair share
The portion that is reasonable and just for one person to contribute or receive
fallen tree
a tree that has come down from its standing position
false hope
an optimistic belief that is unlikely to be realized
familiar face
a person one has seen or met before; a recognizable person
far end
the most distant point of a space or object
farewell kiss
a kiss given when saying goodbye
fatal accident
an accident that results in one or more deaths
feature film
a full-length film intended for cinema release
federal government
the national government in a federal system, as opposed to state or provincial governments
fertile land
land that is productive and well suited to growing crops
film shoot
a period of time during which scenes for a film or television production are recorded on location
final decision
a decision that is definitive and will not be changed
financial security
a stable and reliable financial situation without risk of hardship
financial support
money given to help a person or organisation meet their costs
fine art
visual art considered to have high aesthetic value, such as painting and sculpture
fire chief
the head of a fire department or brigade
firm hold
a secure, unyielding grip
fitted kitchen
a kitchen with built-in cupboards and units
folk dance
a dance rooted in a community's rural or cultural tradition
formal dinner
an official or ceremonial evening meal with dress code and etiquette
formal wear
clothing appropriate for formal occasions such as weddings or ceremonies
former president
a person who held the office of president in the past
former queen
a woman who was queen in the past
frank talk
an open and direct conversation
free trial
a period during which a product or service may be used at no cost
freight train
a train used to carry goods rather than passengers
fresh start
a new beginning after a difficult period or change
full attention
complete, undivided focus on something
full bar
a bar stocked with a complete range of spirits, wines, and mixers
full house
a performance or event with every seat occupied
full marks
the maximum possible score on a test
full speed
the greatest possible speed
full support
complete and unconditional backing or agreement
general public
ordinary people as a whole, not specialists or officials
general rule
a principle or rule that applies in most, but not necessarily all, cases
generous offer
an offer that gives more than strictly necessary or expected
good hearing
a sharp or fully functioning ability to perceive sounds
good laugh
A genuine and satisfying bout of laughter
gradual change
a transformation that happens slowly and in stages over time
grand hotel
a large, impressive, historically prestigious hotel
great care
a high degree of attention and caution
great hurry
a state of extreme urgency or haste
great respect
a high level of admiration and regard for someone
great shame
a considerable degree of shame or regret
grizzly bear
a large, powerful North American subspecies of brown bear
group singing
singing done together by a number of people
growing fear
a fear that is increasing in intensity or prevalence
growing number
an increasing quantity of people or things
guard dog
a dog kept to protect property or people from intruders
guide dog
a dog trained to assist visually impaired people
happy marriage
a marriage characterized by contentment and mutual satisfaction
heartfelt thanks
deeply felt gratitude
heavy blow
a powerful physical strike or a major setback
heavy wear
intensive or very frequent use that causes significant deterioration
helpless victim
a person who is unable to defend themselves or prevent the harm done to them
high court
a superior court of law above lower courts
high hopes
a strong expectation that something will succeed or go well
high-street bank
a major retail bank with branches in town centres available to ordinary customers
hit show
a very popular and commercially successful show
honest mistake
an error made without bad intentions
humble beginnings
A modest or difficult start in life, before later success
important decision
a decision with significant consequences
independent movie
a film made outside major studio systems, typically with a smaller budget
innocent victim
a person who suffers harm despite having done nothing wrong
inspiring teacher
a teacher who motivates and excites learners
intense pressure
very strong, extreme stress or force
intensive care
continuous close monitoring and treatment for seriously ill patients
intensive course
a course that covers a lot of material in a concentrated period of time
job offer
a formal proposal of employment from a company to a candidate
junior officer
an officer of lower rank, often newly appointed
key figure
an important or highly influential person in a field or movement
key point
the most important or essential aspect of something
kind word
a gentle or encouraging remark
leading company
a company that is among the most important or successful in its field
leading figure
one of the most prominent or distinguished people in a particular field
leading position
a first-place or dominant standing
leap year
a year with 366 days, including February 29, occurring every four years
legal system
the body of law and the courts that enforce it in a given country
limited space
a small amount of available room
loaded gun
a gun that has ammunition in it and is ready to fire
local call
A telephone call made to a number within the same area or region, typically at a lower rate.
local prison
a prison located near the area where an offender was tried
logical thinking
reasoning that follows clear and consistent principles
long-distance call
A telephone call made to a number in a different city, region, or country, often at a higher cost.
long-term relationship
A romantic or professional connection that has lasted for a significant period
loose ball
a ball not in any player's possession during play
loving husband
a husband who shows genuine affection and care
luxury hotel
a high-end hotel offering premium services and facilities
major change
a significant and far-reaching alteration
major fault
a significant or serious defect
major hit
a very successful song, film, or other commercial production
major part
the largest or most influential portion of something
major problem
a large and important difficulty
master key
a single key that opens multiple different locks
maternity leave
time off work granted to a mother after the birth of her child
medical care
professional health treatment provided by doctors or nurses
mental picture
an image formed in the mind
mental state
the condition of a person's mind at a given time
middle age
the period of life between youth and old age, roughly 40 to 65
middle class
the social group between the upper and working classes
minor burn
a small, superficial burn injury that does not require hospital treatment
minor crime
an illegal act considered to be of low severity
minor fault
a small or unimportant mistake or defect
modern dance
a style of dance developed in the twentieth century that emphasizes free, expressive movement
mountain pass
a route through or over a mountain range
much-needed rest
a period of relaxation that is greatly required after strain or fatigue
mutual friend
a friend that two people share in common
narrow win
a victory achieved by a very small margin
national security
the protection of a country from external and internal threats
native country
the country where someone was born or raised
native land
the country or region where a person was born and raised
natural death
death from illness or old age rather than from violence or an accident
natural feel
a quality that appears unforced or resembles an organic texture
natural grace
elegance of movement or manner that appears innate rather than learned
natural state
the original, unaltered condition of something
natural wonder
an extraordinary, awe-inspiring phenomenon of the natural world
natural world
the living environment of plants, animals, and ecosystems
nuclear family
a family unit of two parents and their children living together
nuclear weapon
a weapon that derives its destructive force from nuclear reactions
official count
a formally recognized, authoritative tally
official visit
A formal visit made by someone in an official capacity
online security
measures taken to protect personal and organisational data on the internet
open bar
a bar at an event where drinks are provided at no extra cost to guests
open house
an event where a property is shown to prospective buyers or renters
open letter
a letter addressed to one person but published for all to read
open sea
the part of the sea well away from land, without sheltering coastlines
ordinary person
a typical member of the public, not famous or exceptional
outdoor play
physical recreational activity that takes place outside
outside world
the wider society beyond a closed or isolated environment
outstanding bill
a bill still owed and not yet cleared
overnight train
a train that travels through the night, typically offering sleeping facilities
paid leave
authorized absence from work during which one continues to receive salary
pay phone
a public telephone that requires coins or a card to make a call
peak hours
the period of the day when demand, traffic, or activity is at its highest
permanent fix
a lasting, definitive solution that does not need to be revisited
permanent mark
a mark that cannot be easily removed or erased
personal care
assistance with an individual's basic daily tasks such as washing and dressing
personal contact
A direct, face-to-face or individual relationship rather than a formal or digital one
personal experience
something you know or have felt from your own life, not from books or others
personal favor
a kind act done on the basis of a personal relationship rather than duty
personal matter
an issue relating to someone's personal life
personal space
the physical area around a person that they regard as their own
photo finish
a finish so close that a photograph is needed to determine the winner
physical force
force applied through direct bodily strength
plain paper
paper with no lines, patterns, or printed letterhead
pocket watch
a watch designed to be carried in a pocket rather than worn on the wrist
police chief
the senior commander of a police force
polite applause
restrained clapping given out of courtesy rather than genuine enthusiasm
political party
an organized group of people sharing political beliefs who contest elections
political power
authority and influence within government or society
political system
the institutions and processes by which a country is governed
poor excuse
a weak, unconvincing, or inadequate reason
poor hearing
a reduced or impaired ability to perceive sounds
poor service
service of low quality that fails to meet basic expectations
positive step
an action that moves things in a constructive or beneficial direction
powerful engine
an engine that produces a large amount of force or speed
powerful machine
a machine with a lot of power or processing capability
powerful message
a message with strong emotional or persuasive impact
practical advice
guidance that can be directly and easily applied to real situations
premature baby
a baby born before the full term of pregnancy
private club
a club restricted to members only, not open to the public
private company
a company whose shares are not traded on a public stock exchange
private conversation
a talk intended only for the people directly involved
private detective
a detective who works independently for private clients rather than for the police
private joke
A joke understood only by a small group who share a common reference
private life
personal affairs not shared with the public
private matter
an issue that concerns only certain individuals and is not for public discussion
private plane
an aircraft owned or chartered by an individual or organisation, not a commercial airline
professional advice
guidance from a qualified specialist in a particular field
professional team
a team whose members are paid to play or work
proper care
The correct, appropriate level of attention needed to maintain something in good condition.
public building
a building accessible to or owned by the general public
public figure
a well-known person who plays a prominent role in public life
public health
the health and wellbeing of the general population as a concern of government
public service
a service provided by the government or a public body for the benefit of all citizens
pure luck
success or outcome determined entirely by chance, with no skill or intention involved
pure pleasure
complete, unmixed pleasure with no drawback
qualified teacher
a teacher who holds official certification to teach
raging fire
a fire burning violently and out of control
random act
an action done on impulse without planning, most commonly used in the phrase 'random act of kindness'
rare bird
a bird species that is uncommon or seldom seen in a given area
rare case
an unusual or infrequent instance of something
rare honor
a distinction that is infrequently given
real trouble
genuine, significant difficulty as opposed to minor inconvenience
recent study
a study carried out or published not long ago
recorded history
the period of the past documented in writing
recycled paper
paper manufactured from reprocessed used materials
reference book
a book used for consulting specific information rather than reading from cover to cover
regular beat
a consistent, even rhythm, especially of the heart
regular contact
Communication that happens frequently and consistently
reigning queen
the queen who is currently ruling
relevant information
information that directly relates to the matter at hand
remote island
An island that is far from the mainland and difficult to reach
remote village
A village that is far from towns, roads, or urban infrastructure
restless sleep
interrupted or troubled sleep
retirement age
the age at which a person is expected or required to stop working
right decision
the best or most appropriate choice in a given situation
roaring fire
a large, vigorous, and audibly crackling fire
romantic relationship
A loving or sexual connection between two people
rough count
an approximate, imprecise estimate of a total
round trip
a journey to a destination and back to the starting point
routine check
a regular, standard inspection carried out as a normal procedure
rural area
a region in the countryside, away from cities
safe sex
sexual activity using precautions against disease or unwanted pregnancy
scientific evidence
evidence produced by systematic scientific investigation and peer review
scientific study
a study conducted using rigorous scientific methods
second cousin
the child of one's parent's first cousin
second-hand clothes
clothes that have been previously owned and used by someone else
senior officer
an officer of high rank in a military or police organization
serial killer
a person who murders multiple victims over a period of time, typically with a signature method
serious boyfriend
a boyfriend with whom one has a committed relationship
serious fault
a significant error or flaw with important consequences
serious matter
an issue of significant importance or gravity
serious mistake
a significant error with important consequences
serious problem
a problem that is important and causes significant concern
serious thought
Genuine, sustained consideration of something important.
serious trouble
a situation involving significant or dangerous problems
severe blow
a very serious or damaging setback that is hard to recover from
severe pain
intense, extreme pain
sharp cry
a brief, sudden, high-pitched cry
sharp drop
a sudden and significant decrease
sharp knock
a quick, firm knock
sharp mind
a mind that is quick, perceptive, and intelligent
sharp pain
a sudden, piercing pain
short notice
very little advance warning
silent film
a film from the early era of cinema that had no synchronised dialogue
similar situation
a situation that closely resembles another in its key features
simple fact
a plain, straightforward piece of information
sincere thanks
genuine, heartfelt gratitude
sleepless night
A night during which one cannot sleep, typically due to worry, illness, or a newborn
sliding door
a door that moves horizontally rather than swinging open
slight difference
a small or barely noticeable contrast between two things
slight drop
a small, minor decrease
smart move
a wise or cleverly judged action
smoked fish
fish that has been preserved and flavored by exposure to smoke
smooth finish
an even, polished surface quality on a material
social club
a club organized for socializing and leisure activities
solo singing
singing performed by one person alone, without a group
spacious apartment
an apartment with plenty of room to move around
spare cash
money left over after essential expenses
spare part
an extra component kept in reserve to replace a worn or broken one
special agent
a law-enforcement or intelligence officer with broad investigative powers
special attention
extra care or focus given to something particular
special care
Particular attention given to specific or unusual needs.
special mention
particular recognition given to someone or something noteworthy
stained glass
Coloured glass used in decorative windows, especially in churches
starry sky
a sky filled with many visible stars
starting gun
a pistol fired to signal the beginning of a race
steady beat
a regular, unvarying rhythm
steady hand
a hand that does not tremble, implying skill or calm under pressure
steady rain
rain that falls at a continuous, constant rate
straight face
a serious facial expression maintained when one is trying not to laugh
stray dog
a dog with no owner that wanders loose on the streets
strict control
firm, rigorous supervision or authority, allowing little deviation
strict law
a law that allows very little flexibility and is firmly enforced
strict rule
a rule that must be followed rigidly and without exception
strong beat
an emphasized, prominent rhythmic pulse
strong evidence
evidence that is convincing and difficult to dispute
strong finish
a powerful or impressive ending to a race, competition, or project
strong position
an advantageous or powerful situation
strong sense
a deep and clear feeling or conviction about something
strong support
a high level of backing or approval from others
strong voice
a powerful, projecting, confident voice
sudden drop
an unexpected and quick decrease
sudden jump
an unexpected rapid increase in a quantity or level
support group
a group of people who meet to help each other through shared problems
supreme court
the highest judicial court in a country or state
surprise hit
something that becomes unexpectedly popular or successful
surprise visit
An unannounced visit that the recipient does not know about in advance
surrounding area
the region immediately around a central point
technical fault
a malfunction in a machine, system, or piece of technology
temporary fix
a solution intended to last only a short time until a proper repair is made
terrible hurry
a very urgent or pressing need to move or act fast
terrible mess
A very bad state of disorder or an extremely difficult situation
thorough search
a search that examines every part carefully
three-course dinner
an evening meal consisting of three separate dishes: starter, main, and dessert
tight control
close, strict management or authority over something
tight hold
a very close, strong grip
tight security
strict and thorough security measures in place
top pick
the most preferred or highly recommended choice
top speed
the maximum speed that something is capable of reaching
total mess
An unqualified state of confusion or disorder
tough fight
a conflict that requires great effort to win
tragic death
a death that is very sad, often because it was unnecessary or came too soon
training course
a structured programme designed to build specific practical or professional skills
unpaid bill
a bill that has not yet been paid
upbeat song
a lively, cheerful song with a fast or positive feel
upcoming birthday
a birthday that is soon to occur
upper class
the highest social class, typically with inherited wealth and status
urban area
a region that is a city or densely populated town
urban park
a park located within a city or town, providing green space for residents
urgent call
A phone call that requires immediate attention or conveys pressing information.
urgent message
a message that requires immediate attention
vague idea
an unclear or imprecise notion
valid excuse
a legitimate and acceptable reason for something
valuable experience
experience that is especially useful or informative
violent attack
an attack involving physical force or brutality
violent crime
a crime that involves physical harm or threat to a person
violent scene
a scene in a film, book, or real life that involves physical force or aggression
viral video
a video that spreads rapidly and widely across the internet
volcanic rock
rock formed from cooled lava or other volcanic material
wall hanging
a decorative textile or artwork designed to hang on a wall
warm applause
friendly and appreciative clapping
warm feel
a quality of comfort or friendliness in an environment or material
warm feeling
a pleasant sense of comfort, affection, or goodwill
warm thanks
friendly, genuine gratitude
warning sign
a sign indicating danger or a potential problem
weak excuse
a reason that is unlikely to be believed because it lacks conviction
work experience
time spent working in an organization, especially to learn about a profession
working class
the social group of people employed in manual or industrial work
working mother
a mother who holds paid employment outside the home
worst case
the most unfavorable possible situation or outcome
Verb + preposition/particle (16)
-
agree on
to reach a shared decision or consensus about something
agree to
to accept or consent to a proposal or plan
decide against
to choose not to do something after deliberation
decide between
to make a choice when comparing two or more options
decide on
to make a choice about something after considering the options
die from
to die as a direct result of an injury or external cause
hear back
to receive a reply or response from someone you contacted
hear of
to have knowledge that someone or something exists
help through
to support someone in getting through a difficult period or situation
listen for
to pay alert attention in order to hear something expected or hoped for
put into
to invest resources, energy, or thought into something
remember as
to be recalled in the role or identity of a particular kind of person or thing (typically in passive constructions)
run for
to compete as a candidate for an elected position
sit on
to be a member of an official body such as a committee, board, or jury
sit through
to remain seated and endure something from beginning to end, especially something long or dull
try for
To make an attempt to obtain, win, or gain entry to something competitive.