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Most of these phrases are used in works of art, films, television programs. Also, some expressions will come in handy if you decide to visit a country on business or go on a tourist trip to relax. To communicate with service personnel, taxi drivers, sellers, you will need knowledge of English colloquial phrases.
How to learn colloquial phrases?
Some sites serve English popular expressions simply alphabetically, without categorizing them by topic. In my opinion, it is more difficult to learn them this way. It is much easier to learn English idioms if you divide them by topics and situations where they are used: Greetings, Farewell, Politeness, The Road, Emergencies, and others. Therefore, on our site I made a thematic selection with translation.
Stable English expressions must be repeated every day, try to think in English, and use them often in communication. Also, to help you remember these phrases and words faster, review or re-read them before going to bed. It is better to start with the simplest constructions, gradually work your way up to more complex ones and increase the pace. Step by step learning is most effective.
English colloquial phrases, expressions and words are very concise. With what phrases to start training, it's up to you. I recommend choosing based on which area you need to tighten. It is better to learn with translation. You can start, for example, with the phrases of greeting and goodbye:
- Of course, words like Hello, Goodbye, Hi and Bye Are the legitimate leaders in terms of frequency of use. Without them, nowhere. But in order to diversify my speech at least a little, I recommend using other expressions:
Phrase | Translation
And finally universal idioms-bundles for all cases:
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Everyday English phrases for tourists- this is a necessary baggage of knowledge if you are going abroad. You will feel quite comfortable abroad if you have and can understand the interlocutor. But what about those who have English from scratch?
I love commuting between languages just like I love commuting between cultures and cities.
I love to switch from one language to another as much as I love to travel between cultures and cities.
In this article, we have collected the most necessary and basic phrases and expressions in English with translation into Russian, which you must know abroad.
100 useful conversational phrases in English will be able to help you explain your wishes and needs, as well as help to formulate a question.
Basic everyday expressions in English
Being friendly and polite is one of the main rules of a tourist.
Are you a tourist who loves to travel? Are you going on a short vacation for a few days? Or are you planning to travel to different countries during the month?
If you want to ask or ask something, then it is advisable to start your dialogue with a greeting, use polite words and do not forget to say goodbye.
Important!
Right now you can sign up for the first one at our online school to improve your English in two weeks.
Methods of greeting, goodbye and courtesy in English
Always be polite when communicating on English language... Certain phrases can help you start a conversation, say hello, refuse, or agree.
How to better understand the interlocutor and be understood yourself in English
And it would also be nice to try your luck and ask if your interlocutor speaks the right languages and explain what problem you are worried about. It is important in this situation to be understood and to understand your interlocutor yourself.
| Phrase | Translation |
|---|---|
| Do you speak English (Russian)? | Do you speak english (russian) |
| I don’t understand | I do not understand |
| What is your name? | What is your name? |
| My name is ... | My name is... |
| I am from Russia | I am from Russia (name any country) |
| Can you help me, please? | Can you help me? |
| Can you speak slowly? | Can you speak more slowly? |
| Can you repeat it, please? | Can you repeat it, please? |
| How do you call this? | How does is called? |
| Write it down, please | Please write down |
| What time is it? | What time is it now? |
| Who (What) is it? | Who (What) is this? |
| I'm hungry (thirsty, cold, hot) | I'm hungry (thirsty, I'm cold, hot) |
| I feel bad | I feel bad |
| Let’s go to ... (café, theater, museum) | Let's go to ... (cafe, theater, museum) |
| Now | Now |
| Later | Later |
Phrases for communication in English at the airport
All signs, announcements and timetables at international airports are in English
We all know that upon arrival in any other country, you can often face the need to ask a question, since neither the area, nor the situation, nor other details may be unknown to you.
Important!
English is a recognized international language, spoken by 1,100,000,000 inhabitants of our planet, for 400 million of them it is their mother tongue.
Having a certain vocabulary and being even in the USA, Greece, Turkey, Thailand, Great Britain, Japan or China, you have much more opportunity to enjoy the trip, explain yourself or ask for help from strangers.
Phrases in English at the airport
Naturally, before you arrive at the resort, you will need to go through the airport and customs. In this section, pay attention to all the most important phrases at the airport and offers that will be needed when flying or departing from a foreign country!
Below is a table of phrases with translation to help you!
| Phrase | Translation |
|---|---|
| I want to book / cancel a ticket | I want to book / return a ticket |
| My flight itinerary | My flight route |
| When is the next flight to… (London, Berlin)? | When is the next plane to ... ... (London, Berlin)? |
| When does the plane arrive in… (London, Berlin)? | When will you arrive in ... (London, Berlin)? |
| Will food be served? | Will they be fed on the plane? |
| Is the flight direct / nonstop? | Is this a direct flight / no stopover? |
| May I carry this on board? | Can I take this on board? |
| Luggage / baggage reclaim | Receipt of baggage |
| Hand luggage | Hand luggage |
| Check-in counter / desk | Reseption |
| Delay | Delay |
| Custom | Customs |
| Immigration control | Immigration control |
| Departures | Departure |
| Aisle / Window seat | Aisle / window seat (on an airplane) |
| Departure lounge | Waiting room (before departure) |
| Which gate does my flight leave from? | What gate will I board my flight from? |
| Here is my boarding pass | Here is my boarding pass |
Frequently asked questions at the airport at customs in English.
Upon arrival, you will also need a specific list of questions and phrases. Whatever situation you find yourself in, the data phrases at the airport help you feel more confident and at ease.
And remember, if you don't know a single word, it's okay! Explain as best you can, use synonyms and gestures.
English in a hotel or hotel
In any hotel abroad, you will be asked to fill out a form for checking into a hotel in English
One of the highlights of the trip is the place where you will relax after the rich and amazing events of the past day. You always want to find something decent and affordable during your trip.
Phrases in English at the hotel
In this section, you will get to know the English phrases at the hotel. They are related to hotel check-in, room reservation, stay and check-out.
| Phrase | Translation |
|---|---|
| I need a suite / another room (a soap, towels, a pillow, a blanket) |
I need a suite / another room (soap, towels, pillow, blanket) |
| I have a reservation for a single / double room | I have booked a single / double room |
| I'd like to check in / out | I would like to check in |
| Is there a restaurant in the hotel? | Does the hotel have a restaurant? |
| When is breakfast served? | When is breakfast served? |
| Is there an air conditioning in the room? (heating, bathroom, shower, TV, hot water, Wi-Fi) |
Is there air conditioning in the room? (heating, bathroom, shower, hot water, internet) |
| I like it / I don’t like it | I like / I don't like |
| Where is the reception? (bar, restaurant, elevator, beauty parlor, pool) |
Where is the registration? (bar, restaurant, elevator, beauty salon, swimming pool) |
| How can I get there? | How do I get there? |
| All inclusive | All inclusive |
| Please wake me up at 8 o'clock | Please wake me up at 8 |
| Do not disturb | Do not disturb |
Useful English phrases for tourists in the city
Sometimes the map is not enough and you need to ask the locals how to get there in English.
Agree, sometimes it can be difficult to navigate even in small towns. Traveling by public transport is almost inevitable and it is very important to choose the right direction of travel, so as not to leave in the wrong direction. Sometimes it is even important not only to ask for directions, but even to suggest (if you are well-versed in the area).
Remember that you can order a transfer around the city without leaving your home, while you will know in advance the rates for the carrier's services, which will turn out to be just another bonus for you.
Phrases how to find out the way in English
The following questions and phrases will help you start a dialogue in the city and get to the desired place.
| Phrase | Translation |
|---|---|
| How do I get to the ..? (shop, bus stop, museum, embassy, hotel, square ...) |
How do I get to…? (shop, bus stop, museum, embassy, square) |
| Where can I find a ...? (café, souvenir shop,) |
Where can I find … ? (cafe, souvenir shop) |
| How long will it take to get there? | How long does it take to get there? |
| Where does this bus / train go? | Where is this bus going? |
| How far is the…? (airport, train station, bus station, subway) |
How far …? (airport, railway station, auto station, metro) |
| Turn right / left | Turn right / left |
| Go straight ahead / pass / across / into / out of ... | Go straight / past / through / in / out ... |
| This / that way | On this / on that road |
| What street is it? | What street is it? |
Basic signs and signs in English
It is also important to be guided by the signs. The table shows the most basic signs and signs abroad.
Phrases in English for communication in a store or cafe.
You can bargain and knock down the price if you know the English phrases in the store.
We are all alive and love something tasty or beautiful. The need to buy something never disappears. These can be souvenirs or, finally, ordinary products, so it will not be superfluous to know how to ask about the cost of a particular product and how you can pay for it.
Important!
It is advisable not to carry cash, as a rule, in large amounts, and the problem of withdrawing cash may appear by itself, if you do not remember what the "ATM" will be in English.
In contact with
You can use the following live phrases in English to make your speech more accurate and authentic:
1. I have been toying with a couple of ideas.
(I've played with two ideas here.)
Wed: I have a couple of ideas; I have a couple of thoughts.
2. It brings back fond memories.
(This brings back fond memories.)
Wed: It fills with pleasant memories; it brings back pleasant memories; it brings up nostalgic memories.
3. Of course, it goes without saying.
(This needs no explanation, of course.)
Wed: Of course, it goes without saying; yes, there is no doubt about that; tough and there is nothing to say.
4. Her money was running low.
She was running out of money.
Wed: Her money was melting.
5. You should have sounded me out earlier.
(You should have signaled me earlier.)
Wed You should have informed me earlier; you should have let me know earlier.
6. I won’t keep you very long.
(I won't keep you long.)
Wed: I won't take much of your time; I won't take much of your time.
7. The drinks are on the house.
(Drinking at the house's expense.)
Wed: Free drinks; I am treating; I am paying for everyone.
8. If it is not too much of a bother.
(If it's not very troublesome.)
Wed: If it doesn't bother you.
9. You take my breath away.
(1. You are breathtaking. 2. You amaze me!)
Wed: Well, you give!
10. I don’t see much of her.
I don't see her often.
Wed I don't often come to her company.
11. Not asked for 100 bucks but I knocked him down to 80.
(He asked for 100 bucks, but I forced him to lower it to 80.) I bargained and lowered the price from 100 to 80.
12. I will escort you to your car.
I will walk you to the car.
13. I have been partying so hard.
I attended one party after another.
Wed: I did not get out of the guests; I was a party goer; I had a stormy social life.
14. You aggravate me, man.
(You, old man, burden me.) Old man, you annoy and upset me.
Wed: Well, why are you loading me; don't burden me; don't piss me off.
15. So that settles the issue.
This settles the matter.
Wed: This decides everything; well, then what!
16. Don’t try to get fresh with her.
Don't try to be too casual with her. (Do not be impudent, arrogant, impudent with her.)
Wed Do not be impudent with her; do not let go of your hands, do not be familiar with her.
17. You come on too strongly with the girls.
You chase girls too much.
Wed You do not know the restraint in amorous affairs; well, you are a womanizer.
18. Don't cracked up with laughter.
(He burst out laughing.)
Wed: He laughed until he dropped; he laughed uncontrollably.
19. Have you lost your mind?
(Have you lost your mind?) Are you out of your mind? Wed: Are you crazy, crazy? Have you lost your roof?
20. No, you have done nothing out of turn.
No, you haven't done anything inappropriate.
21. I will talk to you later when you are in a civil mood.
(I'll talk to you later when you're in a more civilized mood.)
Wed: Let's talk later, when you behave yourself, when you pull yourself together.
22. Beyond a shadow of doubt.
(There is no shadow of a doubt.)
Wed: Without a doubt.
23. It's raining cats and dogs.
It is raining heavily.
Wed: Pours like a bucket; it is pouring rain.
24. Things were at sixes and sevens.
The situation was very vague.
25. Didn't have no idea what was in store for him.
(He had no idea what was in store for him.) He did not know what difficulties he would have to face.
Wed: He had no idea what awaited him; he had no idea what was in store for him.
26. Don't saw through me.
(He saw right through me.)
Wed: I did not manage to carry it out; he got me through.
27. Was I ever in luck?
(Have I ever had any luck?)
Wed: Poor me, unhappy! I'm always unlucky!
28. Are you daft?
(Are you a fool?)
Wed: What are you, an idiot? Are you sick?
29. This money will see me through college.
(This money will look after me until the end of college.) This money will be enough for me to go to college.
30. I will make him see sense.
(I will make him see the meaning.) I will explain everything to him so that he behaves sensibly.
Wed: I'll make him come to his senses; I will force him to take up his mind; I will enlighten him.
31. What is holding you back?
(What's holding you back?) What's stopping you from doing this?
32. You have to place more value on our friendship.
(You should value our friendship more.) You should respect our friendship with due respect.
33. How will you earn the living?
(How will you earn a living?) Wed: Where will you get your livelihood? How will you earn your daily bread?
34. Don't talks through his hat.
(He speaks through his hat.) He speaks nonsense; he speaks without thinking.
Wed: He is talking nonsense; he smacks nonsense.
35. That's top it all.
To top it all off.
36. I will do this in double-quick time.
I'll do it twice as fast. Wed: I will do it in no time.
37. Didn't know his position was impossible.
(He knew that his position was impossible.) He knew that he had no chance of success, of winning.
Wed: He knew that his position was awful, hopeless, worse than ever.
38. Not shot his bolt.
(He fired an arrow from his crossbow.) He was exhausted.
Wed: He did everything he could, but in vain; all his efforts are down the drain.
39. Was not smarting from the humiliation.
(He was in great pain from the humiliation he had endured.)
Wed: The insult inflicted severely wounded him.
40. The boss ticked him off roundly.
(The chief scolded him sharply.)
Wed: He received a severe scolding from the chief.
41.Can I have a civil word with you?
Can we talk to you as civilized people?
42. Have faith, I won’t rat on you.
(Trust me, I won't report you.)
Wed: I will not drip.
43. You sing grossly off key.
(You are out of tune.) You sing badly and out of tune.
Wed: You let the rooster go.
44. Stop braying like an ass.
(Don't scream like a donkey). Don't raise your voice.
Wed: Stop bawling.
45.It seems the work of a lunatic.
(The impression is that it was done by a madman).
Wed: This is bullshit.
46.I don’t know him a great deal.
I don't know him very well.
Wed: We are nodding familiar with him.
47. Get her out of your system.
(Remove it from your body.) You will have to forget it completely.
Wed: Erase it from your memory; cross it out of your life.
48. A promotion seems to be on the cards.
(Maps show promotion is possible.) Promotion is highly probable.
Wed: You are expected to be promoted.
49. Can I count on your support?
Can I count on your support?
50. My contacts have all gone cold.
(All my connections, acquaintances have cooled down.) I no longer maintain relationships with people I knew before.
Wed: I have lost my friends and acquaintances.
51. Scotch flowed freely like water.
(Whiskey poured abundantly like water.) Wed: Whiskey poured like a river.
52. Here relaxing is usually not on the menu.
(Relaxation is usually not on the menu at this place.) You have to work hard and not take it too lightly.
Wed: No time to lie on the stove, let's work!
53. This bugs me no end.
This annoys me greatly.
Wed: It got me.
54. Let’s start afresh.
Forget what happened before and let's start over from the beginning.
Wed: Let's start all over again; let's start all over again.
55. Doesn't get my vote.
(He gets my vote.) I will support him in the vote; I'm for him.
56. It was one hell of a day.
(It was a hell of a day.) It was a day full of excitement and excitement.
Wed: It was a very difficult and eventful day; well, a day!
57. There were streaks of gray in her temple.
(Streaks of gray hair appeared on her temples.) She had gray hair on her temples.
Her whiskey was silvery gray; gray hair appeared on her temples.
58. The file landed on my desk.
(The dossier landed on my desk.) This case was transferred to me.
59. It goes over my head.
(It's over my head.) I don't get it.
Wed: This is beyond my understanding; I cannot comprehend this.
60. I wish I could turn it around.
(How I wish I could turn everything in the opposite direction.) How I wish I could change everything for the better.
Wed: How I would like to return everything, fix it.
61. Not pushed his staff day and night.
(He urges his subordinates day and night.) He made his subordinates work hard.
Wed: He makes his subordinates work up to the seventh sweat.
62. We will bump into each other more often.
(We will bump into each other more often.) We will meet more often.
Wed: We will intersect more often.
63. I don’t see eye to eye with him.
(I don't see the way he does.) I don't agree with him; I can't get along with him.
Wed: We disagree with him; we look at many things differently; we do not find a common language with him.
64. I will play my part as per your wishes.
I will behave the way you want.
Wed: I will play along with you; I will obey you.
65. If your hunch turns out to be right.
(If your premonition turns out to be correct.)
Wed: If your intuition does not deceive you.
66. We must catch up on old times.
(We have to make up for the past.) Wed: Shake the old days.
67. If I pull off this one.
(If I can handle it.) If I can get the job done.
Wed: If I master; if I do it.
68. With this, he’s home and dry.
(Despite this, he is at home and warm.) Despite this, he is safe and sound.
69. Do you get me?
Do you understand what I'm saying?
Wed You see? Can you get it? Are you catching up?
70. It will be over within a matter of months.
(This will be finished in a few months.) It will take several months to do this.
Wed: To do this work is a matter of several months.
71. A real shouting match followed between the two.
(There was a real match between them, dedicated to whoever shouted whom.) They continued to shout at each other.
Wed: Between them there was a loud quarrel, an altercation, an altercation; they continued to bark.
72. Rita and her husband had a slanging match.
(There was a competition between Rita and her husband in the use of abusive language.) For a while, Rita and her husband continued to insult each other.
Wed: Rita and her husband threw mud at each other.
73. Don’t digress from the issue.
Don't stray from the topic.
Wed: Get to the point.
74.Don't goofed up.
He made a gross mistake.
Wed: He screwed up; he made a mistake, made a blunder, thwarted the job, failed the case.
75. Do be serious for once.
Please, at least this time, be serious. Wed: At least for a change, be serious.
76. It would be hard for you to comprehend.
It will be difficult for you to understand.
Wed: You will not understand this.
77. Are you up to it?
You can do that?
Wed: Can you handle it? Are you taking it?
78. Is she cut out for this task?
(Is she made for the job?) Is she the right person for the job?
79. I am at your service, Sir.
I'm at your service, Sir.
80. It is about time we leave.
It's time for us to leave.
81.We will give it a go.
We will work on this and will try to do our best.
Wed: We will force, press.
82.Don’t pull a fast one on me.
Don't try to fool me.
Wed: Don't fool me; do not expect to cheat me, cheat me; It's not easy to fool me.
83. I am deluged with work.
(I'm flooded with work.) I have a lot of work to do. Wed: I plunged into work; I'm overwhelmed with work; I have work head over heels.
84. I grew on it.
I grew up with it.
Wed: I absorbed it with my mother's milk.
85.Will you stop being a spoilsport?
Stop spoiling people's pleasure.
86. Let’s face it.
(We'll have to face it.) We'll have to come to terms with this.
87. Don’t drive me up the wall.
(Don't make me climb the wall.) Don't annoy me, don't annoy me.
Wed: Don't make me mad; do not drive me to white heat; don't take me to the extreme.
88. I would rather not talk about it.
(I'd rather not talk about it.)
Wed: It was terrible, I have no words; there is nothing to talk about; enough about that.
89.Not the boss's blue-eyed boy.
(He is the boss's blue-eyed boy.) The boss is very fond of him.
Wed: He is the boss's favorites.
90.She gave me the brush off.
She gave me a turn from the gate.
Wed: She kicked me off; she gave me my resignation.
91.Marketing is not my cup of tea.
(Trading is not my cup of tea.) Trading is not my forte and I don't like it.
Wed: Trade is not my element.
92.You are a tubelight.
You don't immediately understand everything.
Wed: Everything is hard for you; you are slow-witted.
93.Should I read out the riot act to them?
(Maybe I should read them the Law on the Protection of Public Order and Peace?) Maybe I should seriously warn them?
Wed: Maybe I should give them a stern warning? Maybe I should scare them?
94.You are slow to catch on.
(You grasp everything slowly.)
Wed: Everything slowly reaches you; you are slow-witted; everything comes to you like a giraffe.
95.I am through for the day.
I have finished the work scheduled for today and now I am free. (I'm done for today.)
Wed: That's all for today; enough for today; for today I have shot.
96.Let’s call it quits.
(Let's assume that's enough for today.)
Wed: That's it, period, that's enough for today.
97.The boss gave him some seed money.
(The boss gave him some seed money.)
Wed: The boss financed his project at the initial stage of its implementation; the boss lent him start-up capital.
98.Not is now off the hook.
(He's already off the hook.) He is no longer in trouble, he is no longer in trouble.
Wed: He got out of the trap; he is out of danger now.
99.If anything goes wrong you have had it.
(If anything goes wrong, you get it.) If things go wrong, you are in trouble.
100.If you don’t watch your step you will get what’s coming.
(If you are not careful in every step you take, you will get hurt.) If you are not careful, you will surely get into trouble.
Wed: If you are not careful, you are covered; if you are not careful, you will be in trouble.
101. I am glad I ran into you.
(It's good that we ran into each other.) I'm glad we met.
102. We will be in double trouble.
(We'll be in double trouble.)
Wed: We won't get around the hassle.
103. Mum's the word.
Shut up! Quiet!
Wed: Not a word to anyone! Keep your mouth shut about it.
104. You have no hope in hell.
(There is nothing to hope for in Hell.) You have absolutely no chance.
105. Can't be trusted as much as a rattlesnake.
You can trust him no more than a rattlesnake.
106. Good luck! I will be rooting for you.
Good luck! I will support you.
Wed: Success to you! I will cheer for you.
107. I've had my fill.
I am completely full.
108. She decided to quit for the day.
(She decided to wear out of the game.) Wed: She decided to take a day off; she decided to take time off for a day.
109. I need a shoulder to cry on.
(I need a shoulder to cry on.)
Wed: I need someone to whom I can cry into my waistcoat.
110. Your guess is as good as mine.
(Your guess (guess, hypothesis) is no better than mine.)
Wed: I know (I know) no more than you do.
111. You could not have come a day too soon.
You came just in time, and if you came a day later, you would have lost a lot.
112. The day began on the wrong foot.
(The day started on the wrong foot.) The day started badly.
Wed: The day was not good.
113. Don’t be so snooty.
Don't be so arrogant.
114. Time is fast running out.
(Time is running out quickly.) There is very little time left.
Wed: Time is rapidly running out.
115. I decided to snoop around a bit.
(I decided to sniff out a little, look out.) I decided to scout out what's what.
116. Don’t lose your nerve at any cost.
(Don't lose your temper no matter what happens).
Wed: Don't drift!
117.The two boxers squared up against each other.
The two boxers got ready for the fight.
118. She will keep the press off your back for some time.
(She will cover your back from the press for a while.) For a while, she will be able to save you from the press.
Wed She can protect you from journalists for a while.
119. I don’t swing much clout here.
(I can't swing and hit hard here.) I don't have much influence here.
Wed: Little depends on me here.
120. Don’t be such a sucker.
Don't be such a fool.
121.I will make coffee in a jiffy.
(I'll make coffee in no time.)
Wed: I'll make coffee in a moment.
122. Can I take you on your word?
(Can I use your word?) Can I rely on you for this?
Wed: I take you at your word.
123. Will not pull the plug on you.
(He will plug you in.) He will let you down.
124. My mom spoiled me rotten.
(My mom spoiled me completely.) My mom indulged me in everything and spoiled me.
125.Cut the crap out and come to the point.
(Stop this nonsense and speak to the point.) Stop talking nonsense and get straight to the point.
126.We went our own ways in the business.
(In business, each of us went our own way.) In business, our paths went our separate ways.
127. You have Yankee written all over you.
(Yankee is written everywhere on you.) Anyone will recognize you as an American.
Wed: It is written on your face that you are a Yankee.
128. A top minister on the take! What a shame!
The minister takes bribes! What a shame! (What a disgrace!)
129.What you here?
What kind of wind brought you here?
130.The day was at its fag end.
It was the very end of the day.
131. I have made a new life here.
I started a new life here.
132. Not snatched a few hours of sleep.
He snatched a few hours to sleep.
133.Don't dropped off in sheer exhaustion.
Completely exhausted, he fell asleep.
134.Didn't grow in confidence with every word he spoke.
With every word, his self-confidence increased.
135.Don’t beat about the bush.
(Don't wander through the thickets.) Don't waste your time. Get to the heart of the matter.
Wed: Do not go around the bush; do not be blunt.
136.Don't slept like a baby.
He slept like a child.
137.You will get bored stiff.
(You are stiff with boredom.) You will be extremely bored.
Wed: You will die of boredom.
138. Thanks, but no thanks!
(Thank you, no.) Thank you, but I'm not interested in this; I do not need it.
139. Your contribution has been zilch.
(Your contribution is zero.)
Wed: You didn't hit your finger.
140. Didn't give her short shrift.
(He pronounced her a quick sentence.) She was unsympathetic to him.
141. His heart tripped.
(His heart sank.) He experienced a slight shock.
Wed: His heart skipped a beat.
142. She has a short fuse.
(Her plugs burn out quickly.) She is very hot-tempered.
Wed: She starts up with a half turn.
143. Keep things to yourself.
(Keep this to yourself.)
Wed: Don't talk about it; keep quiet about it.
144. Would you like a peg or two?
(Would you like to have a glass or two of gin and soda?)
Wed: Let's drink a little! Would you like to have a glass?
145. Was not all ears.
(He was all listening.) He listened very attentively.
146. The house looked a little run down.
The house looked somewhat unkempt.
147. Didn't give it straight from the hip.
(He fired straight from the hip.) He revealed the facts as they are.
Wed: He spoke bluntly.
148. I curbed my tongue.
(I curbed my tongue.) I managed to remain calm and silent.
Wed: I restrained myself and bit my tongue.
149.Don't dotes on her.
He loves her soul.
150. Take your pick and have anything you fancy.
Choose and take whatever you like.
151. Count me out.
(Don't count me.) Don't include me in this.
Wed: I do not participate; I pass.
152.The cheek of you!
What impudence of you!
Wed: How dare you!
153.I can't thank you enough.
(I cannot thank you properly.)
Wed: I am immensely grateful; I owe you a lot.
154. I drank myself silly at the party.
(I got drunk at the party like a fool.)
Wed: At a party, I got drunk until I lost my pulse; at the party I got drunk and did something stupid.
155. May I have a word with you?
Can I talk to you?
Wed: Can I have a few words with you; can I have a word with you?
156. Was not harried round the clock.
All day he was harassed, annoyed.
Wed: He was pestered and pulled all day long, around the clock.
157. Let’s make up for lost time.
We must make up for lost time.
158. I have been working flat out since last night.
(Over the last day, I was so exhausted that I became like a flat tire.) I've worked hard since last night.
Wed: For this day I gave my all, be healthy.
159. This calls for some celebration.
This is the case when you need to arrange a celebration.
Wed: This should be noted.
160.Has not crossed all norms of propriety.
(He violated all norms of behavior and morality.)
Wed: He crossed all the boundaries of decency.
161.As soon as he was out of earshot.
Once he was out of earshot.
162.I got caught in my own agenda.
I cannot get distracted from my own problems at work.
163. There is light at the end of the tunnel.
(A light is visible at the end of the tunnel.) It is hoped that everything will turn out well in the end.
164.Don’t hit a raw nerve.
(Do not touch the sensitive nerve.) Do not provoke me by touching the sensitive area.
Wed Do not step on my pet corn; do not rash salt on the wound.
165. Don't cares two hoots for her.
(He doesn't give her a dime.) He doesn't care about her at all.
Wed: He doesn't give a damn about her.
166.Let’s quit when the going is still good.
Let's get out of the game while things are still going well for us.
Wed: You must be able to leave on time.
167.It really took a load off.
(It really took the load off me.)
Wed: I have a mountain off my shoulders.
168.That question really took me hard.
I took this question very personally.
169.You must do whatever it takes.
You must do whatever it takes.
170.Let your creative juices flow.
(Let your creative powers work.) Let yourself be creative.
Wed: Give free space to your creative imagination ..
171.Don’t go off track.
(Don't get off the treadmill.) Don't get distracted.
172.If I pull this one off I will be a millionaire.
If I can handle this, I'll be a millionaire.
173.Every drop in the ocean counts.
(In the ocean, every drop counts.) Every effort, even the smallest effort, is useful in business.
174.How are things?
How are you?
175.They failed to see the writing on the wall.
(They didn't see the writing on the wall.) They didn't realize they couldn't get away with it anymore.
Wed: They did not understand the explicit warnings.
176.Doesn't have loads of patience.
He is a very patient person. (He has a lot of patience.)
177.Don’t pull your punches.
(Do not strike just for appearance.) Do not work haphazardly and see it through to the end.
Wed: Do not hack, work with full dedication.
178.I am one with you on this.
(I'm with you in this matter at the same time.) I completely agree with you on this issue.
Wed: I'm on your side.
179.Don’t spring a surprise.
Don't do anything unexpected.
Wed: Do not present any surprises.
180.Don't caught me stifling a yawn.
(He caught me suppressing a yawn.) He noticed how I tried to cope with the yawning.
181. His venture failed to take off.
(His venture didn't even take off.) Compare: His undertaking failed before it even started; his case was burned out.
182.Not is incommunicado.
(He is cut off from the outside world; he is in solitary confinement.) He does not communicate with anyone.
Wed: He closed in on himself (context).
183.I want to catch up on the latest.
(I want to catch up with what has happened recently.) Summarize what has happened recently.
Wed: Lead me up to date.
184.Don’t give me all that jazz.
Don't tell me all this nonsense.
Wed: Do not powder my brains.
185.Let’s go back to the drawing board.
(Let's go back to the drawing board. ^ Let's analyze the situation from the beginning.
Wed: Let's get back to basics; let's look for the reason.
186.Not an armchair traveler.
(He travels without getting up from his chair.) He loves to read travel descriptions.
187.Didn't go around the bend.
(He went around the bend.) He lost his composure.
Wed: He reached the point; he has reached the limit.
188.It was a backbreaking.
(This is work that will break your back.) It was very hard work.
Wed This is grueling, overwhelming work; it's a hell of a job.
189.Keep this project on the back burner.
(Hold this project on the far burner.) Don't start this project now, but wait with it. Wed: Freeze your project for a while.
190.It is a different ball game altogether.
(This is a completely different ball game.) This is a completely different matter.
Wed: This is a completely different calico.
191.I won’t take this baloney.
(I disagree with this nonsense.) I will not tolerate this nonsense.
Wed: Stop this chatter.
192. I developed a beer belly.
I've grown a beer belly.
193. Hasn't got a bee in his bonnet.
(He has a bee in a cap.) He is obsessed with something.
194.Will not bend over backwards to please you.
(He leans over his back to please you.) He will do everything to please you.
Wed: He will break into a cake to please you.
195.Will not be a bench warmer.
(He will warm up the bench.) He is a substitute and will not play.
196.We have no benchmarks.
(We have no leveling marks; we have no baseline data for a comparative assessment.) We have no benchmarks.
Wed: We have nothing to start from.
197.Not a big fish.
(He's a big fish.) He's a very important person.
Wed: He's a big shot.
198.Not a bad apple in the basket.
(He's a rotten apple in a basket.)
Wed: He's a black sheep in the flock.
199.When the chips are down.
When the progress towards the goal is not going smoothly.
200.She is quite chirpy.
She's in a lively mood.
201.Not keeping talking nineteen to the dozen.
He still talked a lot.
Wed: He cracked incessantly; you say to him - he's ten for you.
202.Was not completely cleaned out at the casino.
He was completely robbed at the casino.
203.I had a close shave.
(I was shaved very shortly.) I barely escaped danger.
Wed: I was in the balance of death.
204.They took him to the cleaners.
(He was taken to the dry cleaner.) He was deceived and robbed.
Wed: He was robbed.
205.Come hell or high water, I will do it.
(I will do it even in hell or during a flood.) I will do it, no matter what obstacles I meet.
Wed: I will do it at any cost; nosebleed, but I will; I will do it, nothing can stop me.
206.The project came to a screeching halt.
(The project slowed down with a creak). Work on the project suddenly stopped.
Wed: The project stalled.
207.We completed the project under the wire.
(We finished the project right at the finish line.) The project was finished at the last moment.
Wed: We finished the case at the last minute.
208.It is a cooked-up story.
(This is a concocted story.) This is a false version.
Wed: All this gossip, vain; these are trumped-up charges.
209.Didn't begin to fire questions at her.
(He started shooting questions at her.)
Wed: He bombarded her with questions; he bombarded her with questions.
210.Will crack under pressure.
Under pressure, it will crack.
Wed: If you press him, he will tell everything.
211.There has been a mix-up.
An unintended error has occurred. (There is some kind of confusion, confusion).
212.It's not a cushy job.
This is hard work. (This is not an easy and well-paid job for you.)
Wed This is not a lukewarm place, not a sinecure; this job is not dusty.
213.I suggest you cut a deal with him.
I advise you to find mutual understanding with him. (I advise you to come to an agreement with him.)
Wed: I advise you to find a common language with him, to come to a common denominator.
214. There is no cut-and-dried solution.
There is no ready-made solution here.
215.It is a dandy joint.
This is a gorgeous establishment.
216.Will not be as dead as dodo.
(He will be dead like a dodo.) He will die.
217. This is a dead giveaway.
This is a terrible betrayal.
218. Don’t worry, he has got deep pockets and will see the project through.
(Don't worry, he has deep pockets and will see the project through.) He has a lot of money and can complete the project.
Wed: Do not be afraid, he is a money bag and he will carry out the project.
219. These are available dime a dozen.
(This can be bought for ten cents a dozen.) It can be bought very inexpensively.
Wed: It costs three kopecks a kilometer.
220.For donkey’s years I have been doing donkey’s work.
For very long years, I have done hard work.
Wed: I've been playing for ages.
221. We will go Dutch.
Everyone pays for themselves.
222. Didn't drop her like a hot potato.
(He threw it like a hot potato.) He threw it hard.
223. If she is not good, ease her out.
(If she is not good, gradually remove her from work.)
224. Delighted to make your acquaintance.
Happy to meet you.
225.We share a good rapport.
We understand each other perfectly and maintain good relations.
226. Not is driving in the fast lane.
(He rides in the fast lane.) He leads a risky life.
227. Not is an egghead.
(Lit .: He has an egg-shaped head.) He is a very educated person, an intellectual.
Wed: He is a highbrow scientist.
228. It is enough to choke a horse.
(This is enough to choke the horse.) This is a very large number.
229. In the end things will even out.
(In the end, everything will align, balance.)
Wed: In the end, everything will be settled.
230. Your eyes will pop out.
(Your eyes will pop out of your sockets.)
Wed: Your eyes will climb onto your forehead.
231. Is not living on the edge.
(He lives on the very edge.) He leads a very dangerous, risky life.
Wed: He walks on the wire; he walks on a razor blade.
232. It was just a fender-bender car accident.
(This is a minor collision.) It was a minor car accident.
Wed: The machines just “kissed” a little.
233. Fill me in with the details.
(Fill me with details.) Tell me all in detail.
234. Not flexed his muscles and that was that.
(He flexed his muscles, and that was enough.) He demonstrated his power, and then everything worked.
235. We should be on the same wavelength.
(We should be on the same wavelength.) We should have the same worldview.
Wed: We must understand each other perfectly.
236. Didn't keep gawking at her.
(He continued to stare at her.)
Wed: He stared at her like a ram at a new gate.
237.Have you got his nod?
(Did you get his nod?) Did you get his approval (consent)?
Wed: He gave the go-ahead?
238. All his plans went up in smoke.
(All his plans went up with the smoke.) All his plans have failed.
Wed: All his plans were dispelled like smoke.
239. She was caught in the act.
She was caught committing this act.
Wed: She was caught red-handed; she was caught by the hand.
240. They were caught in a compromising position.
They were caught in a compromising position.
241. Don't thinks he is a big shot.
(He thinks he is a good shooter.) He considers himself a VIP.
242. Don't have egg on his face.
(They hit him in the face with an egg.) He was in an uncomfortable position.
Wed: He sat in a puddle; he got into a mess.
243. Doesn't have hot pants.
He is full of longing desire; he is lustful.
244. I ran hell for leather.
I ran very fast.
Wed: I rushed at full speed, at all I could, that was strong.
245. Now there will be hell to play for him.
The consequences for him will be catastrophic.
246. You must face the music.
(You have to endure all this music.) You have to answer for the consequences.
Wed: You have to clean up the porridge; you will have to pay for it.
247. Has not hit the bottle.
He began to drink heavily.
Wed: He is addicted to the bottle.
248. Doesn't seem to have hit the jackpot.
(Looks like he hit the jackpot.) Looks like he got a lot of money.
Wed: He seems to have hit the jackpot, broke the bank.
249. It is all hogwash.
(This is all slop.) This is all nonsense.
Wed: This is nonsense.
250. His work is just ho-hum.
(His work is just “um.”) His work is very mediocre, very low quality.
Wed: His work is very gray, so-so.
251. It is all hoopla and nothing else.
All this is vanity and nothing else.
252. His book sold only because of all the hype created before the launch.
(His book sold out only because of the hype before it was published.)
Wed: The book was sold out only due to good promotion.
253. I just horsed around a bit.
(I had a little frolic, like a young stallion.) I just made a little noise, played the fool.
254. Relax, don’t get hyper.
(Calm, don't overreact.) Don't worry so much.
Wed: Calm down, do not boil.
255. I kid you not, this is the truth.
I'm not kidding, trust me, it's true.
256. I will be damned if I go back to her.
(I'll be damned if I return to her.)
257. The project is in cold storage.
(The project is in storage in a cold place.) No work is being done on this project.
Wed: The project is frozen.
258. The venture has been shelved for the time being.
(At the moment, the undertaking has been shelved.) At this time, work on the project has been discontinued.
Wed: The project has been shelved.
259. As things now stand.
The situation is as follows ...
Wed: Things are as follows ...
260.We must act in concert.
We must act in harmony.
261.Not is in the doghouse.
(He is in a dog kennel.) He has completely lost his disposition (of his superiors).
Wed: He fell out of favor; he was in disgrace.
262.Not is in the driver's seat.
He is in complete control of the situation. (He is driving.)
263. It takes two to tango.
(It takes two to do the tango.) You were equally involved.
Wed: Both of you are good!
264. She thinks she is the Queen of Sheba.
(She fancies herself the Queen of Sheba). She overestimates herself.
Wed: She has delusions of grandeur.
265.Don’t jive me.
Don't tease me.
266. She acted a bit jumpy.
She was a little nervous.
Wed: She twitched a little.
267. She is just another pretty face.
(She's just another pretty face.) Apart from her pretty appearance, she has no positive qualities and skills.
268. Not is trying to keep up with the Joneses.
(He tries to keep up with the Joneses.) He lives beyond his means to be as good as his neighbors.
Wed: He goes out of his way to be no worse than others.
269. Will soon kick the bucket. He will die soon.
Wed: Soon he will play in the box; stretch your legs; will give an oak; will bend.
270. You think this is kid stuff?
(Do you think these are children's toys?) Do you think it is very easy and anyone can do it?
Wed: Do you think this is a trifling matter?
271. It was kinky stuff.
It was very strange and unnatural.
272. The government reacted in a knee-jerk manner.
(The government responded at a knee-jerk level.) The government responded in a hurry, without thinking carefully.
Wed: The government's reaction was hasty.
273. Doesn't run a very lean organization.
(He runs a very skinny organization.) He runs an organization that has a small number of employees.
Wed: He runs a modest organization.
274. His company is obese.
(His company is obese.) His company has too many employees.
Wed: In his company, the states are inflated.
275. I will give him no margin for error.
(I will not give him any room for error.) I will not let him down on any mistake.
Wed: No mistake, no mistake he can get away with.
276. She is such a lovely-dovey person.
(She's just darling.) She's a very nice and lovable person.
Wed: She's such an angel.
277. Not made a pass at her.
He tried to court her.
Wed: He knocked her wedges.
278.Not made overtures to her.
He flirted with her.
279.Don’t speak with innuendoes.
(Do not speak in indirect hints.) Do not speak in riddles, get to the heart of the matter.
Wed: Talk directly, talk about the case.
280. I hold all the aces.
(I have all the aces.) I have the advantage.
Wed: I have all the trump cards.
281. She will make mincemeat of him.
She uses it to her advantage. (She will make minced meat out of it.)
282. You must make things snappy.
You have to do everything quickly.
Wed: Fast! Alive! Get moving!
283. It will make my day.
This will make my day good; this will keep me in a good mood all day long.
284. You have been taken for a ride.
(They took you for a ride.) You were deceived.
Wed: You were fooled, fooled; you got a ride.
285. Will he be able to make the grade?
(Will he be able to take the ascent?) Will he be able to meet these criteria?
Wed: Will he succeed in this? Will he get his way? Will he be up to the mark?
286. She is already making waves in music circles.
(She's already generated excitement in music circles.) She's already being noticed in music circles.
Wed: She has already made an impression in musical circles.
287. Not is a maven.
He's a connoisseur.
288. Not an all-rounder.
(He is a decathlete.) He can do many things.
Wed: He is a versatile person; he is an all-round gifted person.
289. Didn't give us merry hell.
(He provided us with a gay hell.) He made our life very difficult.
Wed: He made us a fun life.
290. It's easy on the pocket.
(It won't affect the pocket much.) It's inexpensive.
Wed: It won't hit your pocket hard.
291. I bought it for a song.
(I bought this for the song.) I bought this for a very low price.
Wed: I bought it for a pittance; I bought this for a song; they gave it to me for beautiful eyes.
292. You have missed the boat, sorry.
You are late and you won't get a chance. (Sorry, but you missed the ship.)
Wed: You missed your chance; alas, your train has already left.
293. Not a pseudo-intellectual.
(He's a pseudo-intellectual.) He's playing an intellectual.
Wed: He pretends to be intelligent.
294. She started calling me names.
She started calling me names.
295. The name of the game.
(The name of the game is as follows.) The essence of the matter is as follows.
296. It is a nine day’s wonder.
(This will surprise nine days.) This is something that won't last long.
Wed: This is a short-term sensation.
297. It is a 9 to 5 job.
(This is a nine-to-five job.) This is a routine work without pleasure; it's an office job.
Wed: This is clerical work; this is a job from now until now.
298. Not is sold on her.
(She bought it.) She completely bewitched him. Wed: She completely confused his head; she bought it with giblets.
299. They fought no-holds barred.
(There was no ban on clinching in their fight.) They fought without any rules and used a variety of techniques.
Wed: It was a fight without rules; prohibited techniques were used; blows were used below the belt.
300. I don’t give a damn.
I don't care, I don't care.
301. I have no clue.
(I have no clue.) I don't understand anything about this.
302. All the fingers point towards his involvement in the crime.
(Bee's fingers indicate his involvement in the crime.) All indications are that he is involved in the crime.
Wed: All the facts are against him.
303. Don't yaps a little too much.
He talks too much.
Wed He yap.
304. Was not out of his depth.
(This was beyond the depth of his understanding.) He could not cope with the situation because he did not have enough knowledge.
Wed: It was too tough for him.
305. Not is out of sync with his boss.
(His actions and those of his boss are out of sync.) He doesn't get along well with his boss.
306. She is in the zone.
She's within reach.
Wed She's in the access zone.
307. Keep me in the loop.
(Keep me in the loop.) Keep me informed of how things are developing.
Wed: Keep me informed.
308. Not is out on a limb.
He was in trouble.
309. Not is over a barrel.
(He lies on the barrel.) He is in a very difficult position.
Wed: He is completely helpless.
310. Not is over the hill now.
(He's already over the hill.) He's not what he used to be.
Wed: He has everything behind him; he has already left the stage; his song is sung.
311. Being a blabbermouth will get you nowhere.
Chatting will not lead to anything good.
312. I will eat crow if you can do this.
(I'll eat the crow if you do it.) I'll admit defeat if you do it.
Wed: I'll eat my hat if you do.
313. Was not pissed out at the party.
He was very drunk at the party. Wed: At the party he was dead drunk.
314. Didn't give her a light peck.
(He pecked her slightly.) He gave her a quick kiss on the cheek.
315. She is a peppy girl.
She is a very lively, cheerful and energetic girl.
Wed: She is a spicy girl; it has a twist.
316. I will give a piece of my mind to her.
(I will express my opinion to her.) Wed: I will tell her everything that I think about her; I'll tell her a couple of gentle ones.
317. Didn't do a bit of pillow talk with her.
He spoke to her in an intimate setting.
318. I was pissed off at her presence.
Her presence angered me. Wed: Her presence pissed me off.
319. Doesn't keep things close to his chest.
(He keeps everything close to his chest.) He keeps his plans secret and does not devote anyone to them.
Wed: He is a very secretive, reserved person; he's on his mind.
320. I don’t like to play second fiddle.
(I don't like playing second fiddle.) I like to be in control myself; I don't like anyone giving me directions.
Wed: I don't like to be on the sidelines; I do not like to be secondary.
321. Not poker-faced.
(He has the face of a poker player.) You can't tell anything from his face.
Wed: He has a dispassionate, impenetrable, stone face.
322. Not is a wooden actor.
(He is a wooden actor.) He cannot act and he lacks expression.
323. Not is randy as hell.
He's as lustful as hell.
324. Didn't behaved out of line.
He misbehaved.
Wed: He went beyond the bounds of decency; he behaved in an out-of-the-way manner.
325. She called it quits.
She said it was time to finish the work.
Wed: Enough for today, it's time to round off, it's time to put an end.
326. Don’t have pipe dreams.
(Don't give in to visions like an opium smoker.) Don't make grandiose plans that you can't accomplish.
Wed: Don't chase pipe dreams; do not build castles in the air.
327. All hell broke loose when we lost the match.
When we lost the match, people reacted very violently to it. (Hell opened up when we lost the match).
Wed: When we lost the match, serious riots began.
328. The door is always open for you.
(The door is always open for you. You can always contact me.
329. I am not at your back and call.
(I don't stand behind you and don't wait for instructions.) Don't take it for granted that I will do whatever you want.
Wed: I'm not your servant; I won't run errands for you.
330. At least I have a roof over my head.
I at least have a roof over my head.
Wed: Thank God, I have where to lay my head.
331. Has won many laurels.
(He won many laurels.) He received a lot of recognition and did a lot.
Wed: He received many prizes; it was crowned with laurels; he was gaining fame.
332. Hasn't made his mark and won the boss over.
(He distinguished himself and won the boss's favor.) He made a big impression on the boss with his work.
333. Will not be where the action is.
He is always in the thick of things.
334. I thought you were a man of action.
I thought you were a man of action.
335. Not is a bit hard-nosed.
1. He is adamant, categorical, stubborn. 2. He is practical, he is pragmatist.
336. Not is just like a mule.
(He's just like a mule.) He's very stubborn by nature.
Wed: He is a stubborn donkey.
337. Has not become a junkie.
He is addicted to drugs.
Wed: He is addicted to drugs, to a needle.
338. Presently he is top of the line.
(Currently, he is the first in the line.) Currently, he is the best in this business.
339. Will not spill his guts with her.
(He will not splash what is inside him in front of her.) He will not reveal his secrets to her.
340. Not is nuts about her.
He's crazy about her.
341. I think he is having a fling with her.
I think he has an affair with her. Wed: They have an affair; they have a connection.
342.They are seeing each other.
(They meet.) They are having an affair.
343.Don’t get onto the bandwagon.
(Don't climb onto a car platform for a demonstration.) Don't do something just because others are doing it.
Wed: You should not follow the principle "where everyone is, there you are."
344. Not a big boozer.
He drinks heavily.
Wed: He is a bitter drunkard.
345. Not is quick on the uptake.
He quickly understands everything.
Wed: He catches everything on the fly.
346. She is a man-eater.
(She is a devourer of men.) She enjoys romance with men.
347. It was mind-blowing action.
This is an amazing, mind-blowing act.
348. Not got badly roughed up.
He was severely beaten.
Wed: He was beaten to a pulp.
349. This is just what the doctor ordered.
This is what the doctor ordered.
350. You have got a habit of locking horns with me.
(You have a habit of grabbing your horns with me.) You have a habit of arguing with me.
351. I got mugged.
I got robbed.
352. Will not get stumped when he sees it.
(He will be dumbfounded when he sees this.)
Wed: He will be taken aback when he sees this.
353. No sweat, this job will fall into my lap.
No problem, I can easily get this job. (No need to strain, this work itself will fall into my lap.)
Wed: No need to move a finger, this work is in my pocket.
354. It's straight from the horse's mouth.
(This is news straight from the horse's mouth.) This news came directly from a person in authority.
Wed: This is news from a reliable source.
Idioms are stable expressions (phrases), the meaning of which is not determined by the meaning of the individual words included in it. For example, To let the cat out of the bag. - Speak it out.
Learning idioms is not only useful but also very exciting - nothing reflects the mentality of native speakers of the target language more than idioms... In addition, it will help to understand live speech and unadapted literature.
Idioms - set expressions
It is impossible to translate idioms literally, since they are indivisible lexical splices that can be translated either by meaning or by the corresponding equivalent in the target language. Idioms reflect the realities of the language and even history. For example, the idiom "Work carelessly" due to the fact that in ancient times Russian clothing had long sleeves, that is, it was impossible to work well in this state. And, in turn, some English idioms will be incomprehensible to a Russian person. For example, “To pull someone’s leg” does not mean "to pull someone by the leg", but "to make fun of, fool your head." This is also related to history. The origin of this expression dates back to the 18th century, when the streets of the cities were very dirty, and the British "jokingly" substituted a stick with a hook under the feet of the object of such unpretentious humor.
The meaning of some idioms is easy to understand, since they are similar to Russian
I can’t believe my ears. - I can't believe my ears. That is, I do not believe what I hear.
Many idioms have a similar meaning, but they are embodied in the language in different ways, other images and associations are used, related to the peculiarities of the culture of different countries. For example, A carrot and stick- literally this combination is translated "carrot and stick", that is, the method of encouragement is carrots, and punishment is a stick. In our language, this idiom sounds - "the carrot and stick method." In this case, in the first place is the punishment - the whip, and then the encouragement - the carrot.
Like two peas in a pod. - Like two peas in a pod, that is, they are very similar. Our language also has a similar idiom, but the comparison occurs between two drops of water - "Similar as two drops of water" .
Such idioms are the most difficult for an inexperienced translator, since the literal translation will simply lose the meaning.
There are idioms, the meaning of which is simply difficult to guess.
For example:
The bee's knees - premium
All thumbs - clumsy. (He spilt his coffee again, he’s all thumbs - that is, literally, all fingers on the hand are big).
Also ran is a loser. (The idiom came from horse racing - literally - also ran, but did not receive a prize).
An arm and a leg is a huge amount of money. (That car cost him an arm and a leg.)
Make a pig's ear - doing something really bad.
Let's highlight the main groups of idioms
Idioms based on comparison with animals
Pigs might fly - What does not happen in the world!
Will a duck swim! - Still would!
To flog a dead horse - Waste energy.
Straight from the horse’s mouth - Firsthand.
A big fish in a small pond - Big bump out of the blue (local scale).
There isn’t enough space to swing a cat - The apple has nowhere to fall.
To make a monkey out of someone - Make a fool out of someone.
Fixed expressions associated with food
A bad egg - Scoundrel.
To go bananas - Go crazy.
To spill the beans - Give out a secret.
To be full of beans - Be very energetic.
It's a hot potato - It's a touchy subject.
A second bite of a cherry - Second attempt.
It’s as good as a chocolate teapot - from this sense, like a goat of milk.
Idioms related to body parts
To get cold feet - Feel weak, drift, get scared.
To be up in arms - Fully armed, to be ready to fight.
He’s twisting my arm - He presses on me.
To keep an eye on something - Keep your eyes on something.
I'd give my right arm to do it! - I would give anything to do it.
To have eyes on the back of one’s head - Have eyes on the back of the head.
An old head on young shoulders - Being wise beyond your years.
To have someone's head in the clouds - Float in the clouds.
To let someone’s hair down - Relax, behave relaxed.
Idioms by the principle of associations with flowers
It's like a red rag for a bull - It's like a red rag for a bull.
It's black and white - It's obvious.
To catch someone red-handed - Catch someone red-handed.
To paint the town red - Go on a spree.
Once in a blue moon - For once. Very rarely.
To give a green light - Give good. Give a permission.
There are unimaginably many stable expressions in the English language (there are even!), And learning them is a sheer pleasure!
So - roll up your sleeves, and go ahead - gnaw the granite of science!
To help - special dictionaries and lists of the most used idioms and idiomatic expressions!
Also, you will learn a few idioms of the English language from the video:
If you find an error, please select a piece of text and press Ctrl + Enter.
Hello my dear readers!
This morning, sitting with a cup of coffee on the balcony and reading the latest news on BBC World News, I once again wondered: why do most of us learn a foreign language for so long, but still cannot perfect it? Why, from childhood, we spend our days learning new rules, writing out new words, and news in English, but when faced with real spoken language, we fall into a stupor. Why do we feel like our vocabulary is as thick as a toothpick at times like this?
And now, asking myself more and more questions, I found the answer in another question: how do you generally learn new vocabulary in English? Statistically, two-thirds of language learners learn just single vocabulary words. And you among them? I suggest that today you try to start doing everything in a completely different direction together with me. Namely: to learn exactly colloquial phrases in English with translation.
Content:
Everything you need for everyday conversation
Yes, no matter how much I would like to fit everything I want into this short article, alas, I will have to choose only the best. And only then, my dears, you will have to go on a journey on your own using useful expressions of English (of course, on this journey I will be happy to become your fellow traveler).
I provide you with the following interesting expressions on various topics for you to study:
Sorry for being late
... - Sorry for being late.
Sorry for interrupting you ...
- Forgive me for interfering ...
It turned out to be ...
- It turned out ...
I meant well
... - I wanted the best.
It didn’t work out
... - It didn't work.
He backed out.
- He backed up.
Let us clean everything up.
- Let's find out everything.
It is none of your business.
- That is none of your business.
Make up your mind.
- Make up your mind.
What is the use?
- What's the point?
Don’t take rush steps.
- Do not take hasty steps.
I see.
- I realized).
There is no use
…- It's useless…
Sooner or later
... - Sooner or later.
Time is up.
- Time is over.
Play for time
... - To play for time.
In no time.
- Instantly.
Frоm time to time.
- Occasionally.
From now on.
- From now on.
Take your time.
- Do not rush.
Many of these phrases sound a little familiar, which means you should only use them with people you know well. But most of them are general, which are suitable for completely different situations.
By the way, about situations ... Soon I will begin to publish precisely "situational" materials that you can immediately apply in your practice. Be sure to click on the "subscribe" button under this article or in the sidebar on the right, if you do not want to miss the most interesting;).
Travel phrases
We all love to travel without a doubt. Modern reality asserts: on any trip, be it a one-day visit to a granny in another country or a full-fledged trip to the other end of the world, you cannot get by with a primitive set of phrases, such as: "Thank you", "Where is the museum?", and "How much does it cost?"... At least in addition to the greetings, you will have to learn the most popular expressions for tourists: about checking into a hotel, about food, about shopping and, of course, about local attractions.
Some of them are presented below:
I need your help.
- I need your help.
I'm hungry \ thirsty.
- I'm hungry / thirsty.
I am feeling sick.
- I feel bad.
I have a headache \ stomachache.
- I have a headache / stomach ache.
Useful phrases when checking into a hotel:
I need a double \ single room.
- I need a double / single room.
I have a room reserved.
-I booked a room.
What time is breakfast served?
- What time is breakfast served?
The most useful expressions when walking around the city:
Tell me, please, where is the underground station \ supermarket \ currency exchange office?
- Can you please tell me where is the bus stop \ supermarket \ currency exchange?
What bus should I take to get to ...?
- What bus can I get to ...
I want to buy a monthly metro pass \ bus pass.
- I would like to buy a metro / bus pass for a month.
I want to pay by a credit card \ in cash.
- I want to pay by credit card / cash?
May I have the bill, please?
- May I get the bill?
If the topic of tourism is not indifferent to you, please visit, where you will find comprehensive knowledge for traveling abroad.
Business phrases
As any ambitious person, you will certainly pay attention in running your business to foreign suppliers, or foreign buyers (with whom it is possible). And in order not to look ridiculous, even if there is a professional translator at the negotiations, knowledge of the basic expressions of business topics is simply vital. By the way, you will find even more business expressions and words.
So here are some useful business phrases:
Give me, please, your name and number ...
- Please give me your name and phone number ...
Thank you for enquiring \ interest in…
- Thank you for your interest…
Answering your question ...
-Answering your question about ...
I look forward to ...
- I am looking forward…
Our company deals with producing ...
- Our company is engaged in the production of ...
Our company confirms \ approves
... - Our company confirms ...
According to the agreement ...
- According to the contract…
We would be glad to cooperate \ collaborate with you ...
- We will be glad to cooperate with you ...
We are interested in your business offer
... - We are interested in your commercial proposal ...
I would like to pay your attention to
... - I would like to draw your attention to the fact that ...
Many more topical words, phrases and expressions in different business sectors - you can find in!
Want some more goodies? Then to summarize all of the above, I leave a few notes for you:
- Always learn ready-made expressions, not individual words. Once you have learned just the words, you will never have the slightest idea how to use them.
- Learn basic phrases like "Our Father" and use them whenever possible.
- Break up the vocabulary for study according to different topics so that a complete and vivid picture forms in your head.
- Teach them in the most appropriate form for you: make mindmar and tables, watch movies and listen to audio, in online programs and in the form of games. Anything that helps you learn new vocabulary faster and better will be welcome.
- Always learn new words and phrases along with pronunciation. And it is advisable (but not necessary) to listen to direct recordings of the media.
As I said at the very beginning, my dears, I cannot fit into this article all the richness of English speech that has been accumulating over the centuries. But I tried to squeeze all the best especially for you. I sincerely hope that these expressions will only serve as a starting point on the path of your language learning.
So, for all your best wishes, the best base is to memorize basic expressions, not words! And on my blog I am ready to help you at any time and give you the most necessary and timely information.
Read my new articles, subscribe to the most delicious materials and be always up to date.
And for today I tell you "goodbye";)
