A ‣ What are fixed phrases?

There are many groups of words which you need to learn as complete phrases, because they often have a meaning which is different from the words on their own. Many of these are called idioms.

They arrived out of the blue [I didn’t know they were coming; it was unexpected].

Does the name Merchant ring a bell [sound familiar]?

You’ll have to make up your mind soon. [make a decision]

Some fixed phrases are easier to understand, but the same idea may be expressed in a different way in your language.

I think we’ll have to get rid of some of this furniture. [remove it, e.g. sell it, throw it away, give it away, etc.]

I’m afraid I can’t talk to you now; I’m (just) about to leave. [I am going to leave very soon]

I don’t know what Martin said, but Natalie burst into tears [suddenly started crying]. She was very upset.

Everyone was there apart from Yasmine. [not including Yasmine; syn except for]

B ‣ Time phrases

He’s leaving in four days’ time [four days from now; also in three weeks’/six months’/two years’ time, etc.].

I got here the week before last [during the week/month, etc. before the previous one].

The course is fine so far [up until now].

I rang our local doctor and fortunately she was able to come at once [now, immediately; syns right away / straight away].

He’s so busy at work; he comes home late night after night [every night; also day after day, etc.].

C ‣ Pairs of words

A number of fixed phrases consist of two words, usually joined by and, and sometimes or.

I go to the theatre now and again [occasionally; syns now and then].

Andy had one or two [a few] suggestions.

I’ve got a house in the country, and I like to go there whenever possible for a bit of peace and quiet [a calm situation without noise].

I’ve been up and down the street, but I can’t find their house. [first in one direction, then the other]

I’ve been to Paris once or twice [a few times].

I’ll finish this report sooner or later [I don’t know when, but I’ll finish it].

D ‣ Introducing advice, opinions, etc.

Many fixed phrases are used to introduce advice, an opinion, an example, etc.

If I were you [in your situation], I’d accept the job they offered you.

In general [usually, or in most situations; syn on the whole] the summers are quite warm in this part of the country.

There were lots of questions. For instance [for example], how much will it cost?

I’m sure you’ll have a great holiday. By the way, what time does the train leave? (used to introduce a new subject to the conversation)

To be honest, I didn’t like her boyfriend very much. (used to say what you really think)