PHRASES

Break the ice: To start a conversation in a social situation and make people feel more comfortable.

Sentence: I was nervous about meeting new people at the party, but telling a funny story helped break the ice.

Bite the bullet: To endure something unpleasant or difficult that you can’t avoid.

Sentence: I know I don’t want to go to the dentist, but I’ll have to bite the bullet and get it over with.

Spill the beans: To reveal a secret or share information that was supposed to be kept private.

Sentence: I can’t believe you spilled the beans about the surprise party!

On the ball: To be quick to understand and react to things; to be very attentive and efficient.

Sentence: She’s always on the ball with her work, so I’m sure she’ll have the report ready by tomorrow.

Cut to the chase: To get to the point, without wasting time.

Sentence: Let’s cut to the chase—what exactly do you need from me?

Jump the gun: To start something too early or before the right time.

Sentence: Don’t jump the gun—wait until we have all the facts before making a decision.

By the book: To do something exactly according to the rules or instructions.

Sentence: The new manager likes to do everything by the book, so we have to follow the procedure carefully.

Face the music: To accept the consequences of one’s actions or decisions.

Sentence: He made a mistake at work, but now he has to face the music and apologize to the team.

On the fence: To be undecided or unsure about something.

Sentence: I’m still on the fence about whether I should accept the job offer. It’s a big decision.

When pigs fly: Something that will never happen.

Sentence: I’ll believe he’ll change his mind when pigs fly. He’s too stubborn.

In a nutshell: To summarize something in a few words.

Sentence: In a nutshell, we need more time to finish the project.

A penny for your thoughts: A way of asking someone what they are thinking.

Sentence: You’ve been quiet for a while. A penny for your thoughts?