Complete the second sentence with TWO to FIVE words using the word given, so that it has a similar

meaning to
the first sentence.

1. He couldn't concentrate on his exam because of the noise. (SO)

It was _________________________________ couldn't concentrate on his exam.

2. I haven't received an answer yet. (STILL)

I _________________________________ an answer.

3. He has always found cooking easy. (GOOD)

He has always _________________________________ cooking.

4. This is the strangest music I have ever heard. (STRANGE)

I have ____________________________________ music before.

5. I have only been to America once before. (TIME)

This is only the _________________________________ to America.

6. Sam would rather not go to the cinema tonight. (FEEL)

Sam _________________________________ to the cinema tonight.

7. She looks just like she did when I last met her. (SAME)

She looks exactly _________________________________ when I last met her.

8. Getting tickets for the concert is harder than I thought. (NOT)

Getting tickets for the concert _________________________________ I thought.

9. My friend said, " You took my schoolbag away from me!" (ACCUSED)

My friend _________________________________ her schoolbag away from her.

10. It's easy for the mayor to speak in public. (DIFFICULTY)

The mayor _________________________________ speaking in public.

11. We have not sat in the garden house since last summer. (LAST)

The _________________________________ in the garden house was last summer.

12. Going home without saying goodbye wouldn't be right. (OUGHT)

I think we really _______________________________________ we leave.

13. I was told that booking in advance wasn't necessary. (WORRY)

I was told that I _________________________________ about booking in advance.

14. My boss always criticises his staff. (TENDENCY)

My boss _______________________________________ his staff.

15. They will ask to see your documents at the border. (SHOW)

You will _________________________________ your documents at the border.

16. At the end of the presentation Allen showed some slides. (FINISHED)

Allen _______________________________________________ some slides.

Complete the second sentence with TWO to FIVE words using the word given, so that it has a similar meaning to
the first sentence.

1. I had not expected to find learning English so interesting. (IN)

I am more ___________________________________________ I had expected.

2. I don't think we need to listen to what he has to say. (POINT)

There's _________________________________________ what he has to say.

3. Joey would rather not go to the ballgame with us. (FEEL)

Joey _________________________________________ to the ballgame with us.

4. When I started my speech I forgot everything I wanted to say. (ANYTHING)

When I started my speech I _________________________________________ I wanted to say.

5. Maria couldn't eat her soup because it was very hot. (TOO)

The soup _________________________________________ Maria to eat.

6. He was the kindest person I had ever seen. (SUCH)

I had _________________________________________ person before.

7. He usually sleeps until noon. (USED)

He _________________________________________ until noon.

8. Computers are much cheaper than they were a few years ago. (USED)

Computers _________________________________________ a few years ago.

9. Famous people are always recognised no matter where they go. (AVOID)

Famous people _________________________________________ no matter where they go.

10. I asked her if she needed more information. (ELSE)

I asked her if _________________________________________ she needed to know.

11. She didn't get many people to sign the petition. (SUCCEED)

She didn't _________________________________________ many people to sign the petition.

12. The teacher said he was sorry he was late for the lesson. (APOLOGISED)

The teacher _________________________________________ for the lesson.

13. He didn't succeed in climbing to the top. (REACH)

He _________________________________________ the top.

14. The office was too small for a meeting of the whole staff. (NOT)

The office _________________________________________ for a meeting of the whole staff.

15. Getting in shape will take longer than you think. (GET)

You won't be able to _________________________________________ as you think.

16. If I were you, I wouldn't buy an expensive camera. (WORTH)

In my opinion, ________________________________________ an expensive camera.

Complete the second sentence with TWO to FIVE words using the word given, so that it has a similar meaning to
the first sentence.

1. I had not expected to find learning English so interesting. (IN)

I am more ___________________________________________ I had expected.

2. I don't think we need to listen to what he has to say. (POINT)

There's _________________________________________ what he has to say.

3. Joey would rather not go to the ballgame with us. (FEEL)

Joey _________________________________________ to the ballgame with us.

4. When I started my speech I forgot everything I wanted to say. (ANYTHING)

When I started my speech I _________________________________________ I wanted to say.

5. Maria couldn't eat her soup because it was very hot. (TOO)

The soup _________________________________________ Maria to eat.

6. He was the kindest person I had ever seen. (SUCH)

I had _________________________________________ person before.

7. He usually sleeps until noon. (USED)

He _________________________________________ until noon.

8. Computers are much cheaper than they were a few years ago. (USED)

Computers _________________________________________ a few years ago.

9. Famous people are always recognised no matter where they go. (AVOID)

Famous people _________________________________________ no matter where they go.

10.I asked her if she needed more information. (ELSE)

I asked her if _________________________________________ she needed to know.

11. She didn't get many people to sign the petition. (SUCCEED)

She didn't _________________________________________ many people to sign the petition.

12. The teacher said he was sorry he was late for the lesson. (APOLOGISED)

The teacher _________________________________________ for the lesson.

13. He didn't succeed in climbing to the top. (REACH)

He _________________________________________ the top.

14. The office was too small for a meeting of the whole staff. (NOT)

The office _________________________________________ for a meeting of the whole staff.

15. Getting in shape will take longer than you think. (GET)

You won't be able to _________________________________________ as you think.

16. If I were you, I wouldn't buy an expensive camera. (WORTH)

In my opinion, _________________________________________ an expensive camera.

Complete the second sentence so that it has a similar meaning to the first sentence, using the word given.

1. Getting over a divorce can take some time. (RECOVER)

It can take a while _________________________ a divorce.

2. I was able to solve the problem with the help of my dad. (SORT)

My dad helped _______________________ the problem.

3. I wanted to buy a brand-new iPhone, but the store didn't have any in stock. (RUN)

The store ________________________ brand-new iPhones so I couldn't buy one.

4. It would be great if someone discovered a way to organise a test for all the classes. (COME)

Someone should ______________________ a way to organise a test for all the classes.

5. Herbie drove a car for the first time this year. (NEVER)

Herbie ________________________ a car before this year.

6. My brother was too young to travel on his own. (ENOUGH)

My brother was __________________________ to travel on his own.

7. After his visit, we would all say good-bye to him at the airport. (SEE)

After his visit, we would all __________________________ at the airport.

8. I don't understand the maths homework the teacher gave us. (FIGURE)

I can't ___________________________ do the maths homework the teacher gave us.

9. The agency promised me the best holiday I had ever had but it was a total disaster. (LIFETIME)

I was promised the _____________________________, but it was a total disaster.

10. The teacher has tolerated the student's behaviour for a long time. (PUT)

The teacher has _________________________ the student's behaviour for a long time.

11. Mary grew up in Cleveland with her aunt and uncle. (RAISED)

Mary ____________________________ her aunt and uncle in Cleveland.

12. Did you discover who invented the computer? (FIND)

Did you _______________________________ of the computer was?

13. In the past, people spent their holidays with their relatives. (USED)
In the past, people __________________________ their holidays with their relatives.

14. We hardly ever think about how technology helps us in daily life. (GRANTED)

We often _______________________________ how technology helps us in daily life.

15. Youngsters under 16 are not allowed into the club. (GET)

You ____________________________ the club if you are under 16.

Complete the second sentence so that it has a similar meaning to the first sentence, using the word given.

1. She wasn’t the least bit surprised to find out that her husband had an affair. (SURPRISE)

It wasn’t ____________________________ to find out that her husband had an affair.

2. People don’t play any board games today. (POPULAR)

Board games _____________________________________.

3. It isn’t my fault that the bus is late. (BLAME)

I’m _________________________________ the bus being so late.

4. It is said that Beethoven wrote that symphony. (CREDITED)

Beethoven has been _____________________________________ that symphony.

5. My uncle was driving the lorry when it crashed. (DRIVEN)

The lorry __________________________________ when it crashed.

6. Ecologists around the world are worried about the problem. (CONCERNED)

Ecologists around the world ____________________________ about the problem.

7. You can try to open the safe with that key, but it won’t work. (POINT)

There’s ____________________________________ the safe with that key.

8. The accused refused to answer questions without his lawyer. (INSISTED)

The accused ________________________________ present before answering any questions.

9. The letter has nothing to do with you (CONCERN).

The letter is ____________________________ to you.

10.The company would benefit from hiring new workers. (INTERESTS)

It would be _________________________________ to hire new workers.

11.John and his wife seem to have no similarities. (COMMON)

John and his wife seem __________________________________ with each other.

12.He doesn’t appreciate anything. (GRANTED)

He takes ___________________________________.
13.When I studied at university, I never had enough money. (SHORT)

When I studied at university, I ____________________________________.

14.Everyone came to the party apart from Cathy. (EXCEPTION)

Everyone came to the party _________________________________ Cathy.

15.They are building some new apartments in the suburbs. (CONSTRUCTION)

New apartments ________________________________ in the suburbs.

Use the word in BOLD print at the end of the line to form a new sentence that has the same meaning. You must use
TWO to FIVE are words and are not allowed to change the key word in any way.

1. I can’t wait to go on holiday (FORWARD)

I’m really _____________________________________ on holiday.

2. Prices may go up next year, so you should buy now. (CASE)

You should buy now _____________________________________ next year.

3. People believe she lives in New York (BELIEVED)

She _____________________________________ in New York

4. Helen hasn’t tried Japanese food before. (TIME)

It’s the _____________________________________ Japanese food.

5. Can’t he do any better than this? (THE)

Is _____________________________________ he can do?

6. I don’t know all the facts. (AWARE)

I _____________________________________ all the facts.

7. Whose fault was the fire at the factory? (BLAME)

Who _____________________________________ the fire at the factory?

8. His father doesn’t want him to drink alcohol. (DISAPPROVES)

His father _____________________________________ alcohol.

9. Most people think that broken homes cause a lot of social problems (THOUGHT)

It _____________________________________ cause a lot of social problems.

10. Why did you insist that I buy this horrible chees? (MAKE)

Why _____________________________________ this horrible cheese.

11. She pays someone to clean the windows every month. (CLEANED)

She _____________________________________ every month.

12. You have to wear safety helmets at all times. (WORN)

Safety helmets _____________________________________ at all times.

13. I’m sure they have worked hard on the project (HAVE)

They _____________________________________ on the project.

14. She locked the gate so that the dog wouldn’t escape (PREVENT)

To _____________________________________, she locked the gate.

15. I do not run as fast as I did when I was younger (USED)

I _____________________________________ I do now.

16. She will probably get the job (LIKELY)

She _____________________________________ the job.

17. She is proud of her beautiful house (PRIDE)

She _____________________________________ beautiful house.

18. She won’t tolerate his rudeness any longer (PUT)

She won’t _____________________________________ any longer.

19. She is scared to be alone in the house at night (AFRAID)

She _____________________________________ in the house at night.

20. Tim will be able to operate the machine but someone must show him (ONLY)

Tim will be able to operate the machine _____________________________________ how.

Use the word in BOLD print at the end of the line to form a new sentence that has the same meaning. You must use
TWO to FIVE words and are not allowed to change the key word in any way.

1. Jack really likes football and never misses a match. (CRAZY)

Jack _________________________________ football and never misses a match.

2. Do you want to watch TV? (FEEL)

Do you _________________________________ TV?

3. John participated in a swimming competition last week. (PART)

John _________________________________ in a swimming competition last week.

4. I played chess almost every day when I was young. (USED)

I _________________________________ chess almost every day when I was young.

5. Volleyball doesn’t really interest me. (IN)

I’m not _________________________________ volleyball.

6. I enjoyed myself at your birthday party. (FUN)

I _________________________________ at your birthday party.

7. Young children like Disneyland. (POPULAR)

Disneyland _________________________________ young children.

8. Karen doesn’t like watching sport on TV. (KEEN)

Karen _________________________________ watching sport on TV.

9. I have got no experience at designing clothes. (KNOW)

I _________________________________ designing clothes at all!

10. Dan couldn’t do his homework on his own, so I’ve been helping him. (HELPING)

I’ve been _________________________________ his homework because he couldn’t do it on his own.

11. No one can learn all that in one day! (CAPABLE)

No one _________________________________ all that in one day!

12. I hope you find a solution to the problem. (SUCCEED)

I hope you _________________________________ a solution to that problem.

13. Did they give you a map of the area? (PROVIDE)

Did they _________________________________ a map of the area?

14. Be careful when you leave the bus. (OFF)

Be careful when you _________________________________ the bus.

15. The beach is close to the hotel so we can walk there. (FOOT)

We _________________________________ from the hotel to the beach because it’s close.

16. Why don’t you drive to Brighton this weekend? (CAR)

Why don’t you go to Brighton _________________________________ this weekend?

17. I like to watch the planes leaving the ground when I’m at the airport. (OFF)

I like to watch the planes _________________________________ when I’m at the airport.

18. I am not interested in what you are thinking! (CARE)

I _________________________________ what you think!

19. Our English teacher and our German teacher are husband and wife. (MARRIED)

Our English teacher _________________________________ our German teacher.

20. After the play, they introduced us to all the actors. (WE)

After the play, _________________________________ to all the actors.

 Writing 1

1. In his recent article, Bob Lee pointed out all the faults in the government’s new transport policy.

→ In his recent artilce, Bob Lee was __________________________________________________________.

2. The company have been reviewing their recruitment policy for the last three months.

→ The company’s __________________________________________________________.

3. I’m absolutely sure he took the money on purpose.

→ He couldn’t possibly __________________________________________________________.

4. He delayed writing his book until he had done a lot of research.

→ Only after __________________________________________________________.

5. They declaired war on the pretext of defending their territorial rights.

→ The excuse __________________________________________________________.

6. I feel that I don’t fit with the people in the new office.

→ I feel like __________________________________________________________.

7. Skysrapers in the USA are on average taller than anywhere else in the world.

→ The average __________________________________________________________.

8. We were very impressed by the new cinema but found it rather expensive.

→ Impressed __________________________________________________________.

9. It’s more than a fortnight snice anyone saw Julian.

→ Julian __________________________________________________________.

10. The deadline for the receipt of complete application forms is 3.00 p.m on Friday, 18th Dcember.

→ Complete application __________________________________________________________.

Writing 2

1. Whoever did that must be very brave person.

→ Only __________________________________________________________.

2. Doris tipoeed up the stairs because she didn’t want to wake anyone up.
→ To __________________________________________________________.

3. Nancy is proud of being a good cook.

→ Nancy prides __________________________________________________________.

4. My protests were ignored by everyone.

→ Nobody __________________________________________________________.

5. Kate is the only real friend that Doris has.

→ Except __________________________________________________________.

6. Rita doesn’t realise how serious her husband’s operation is going to be.
→ Little __________________________________________________________.
7. He decide to repair the things himself and not to take it back to the shop.
→ Rather __________________________________________________________.

8. Offering her more money wouldn’t make any difference.

→ Even if __________________________________________________________.

9. Driving at that speed is dangerous, whether you are an experienced driver or not.
→ However __________________________________________________________.

10. It’s such a wonderfful opportunity that we mustn’t miss it.

→ It is too __________________________________________________________.

Writing 3

1. I can’t often affort to spend my holidays abroad.

→ I’m seldom __________________________________________________________.

2. The minister gave no precise figures about the casvalties.

→ The minister didn’t go __________________________________________________________.

3. Every possible effort was made by orphanage to find the noy’s parents.

→ The orphanage left no stone __________________________________________________________.

4. The company will make a profit next year.

→ I wouldn’t __________________________________________________________.

5. These problems of ours are just the tip of the ice-berg.

→ I’m afraid our problems __________________________________________________________.

6. They have been arguing about the motorway extension for years.

→ The proposed motorway extension has been a bone ____________________________________________________.

7. Please don’t give me an injection.

→ I’d rather __________________________________________________________.

8. Imagine my surprise when a policemen appeared at the door.

→ When a policeman appeared at the door, I was ____________________________________________________.

9. She slept well last night.

→ She had __________________________________________________________.

10. The new musical has taken theatre audiences by storms.

→ The new musical has delighted __________________________________________________________.

Writing 4

1. There is no point in asking Gorge to help.

→ It isn’t __________________________________________________________.

2. I’m sure it wasn’t Mrs Elton you saw because she is in Britol.
→ It can’t __________________________________________________________.

3. Their chances of success are small.

→ It isn’t __________________________________________________________.

4. We left quietly so that we wouldn’t disturb her.

→ So as __________________________________________________________.

5. I wasn’t surprised to hear that Harry had failed his driving test.

→ It came __________________________________________________________.

6. The only reason the party was a success was that a famous film star attended.

→ Had it not __________________________________________________________.

7. My parents find fault with everything I do

→ No matter __________________________________________________________.

8. If the work is finished by the lunch time, you can go home.

→ Get __________________________________________________________.

9. I didn’t realse who he was until later.

→ Only later __________________________________________________________.

10. The fate of the two climbers is unknown.

→ It is a mystery __________________________________________________________.

Writing 5

1. Richard only took over the family business because his father decided to retire early.

→ But for his __________________________________________________________.

2. Mrs Wilson says she’s sorry she didn’t attend the meeting yesterday morning.

→ Mrs Wilson sends __________________________________________________________.

3. We have been trying to sell our house for well over six months.

→ Our house __________________________________________________________.

4. You could be arrested for not giving a breath samole to the police.

→ Refusal __________________________________________________________.

5. Philip’s inability to make decisions dates from his accident.

→ Ever __________________________________________________________.

6. The permit expires at the end of this month.

→ The permit is not __________________________________________________________.

7. As far as I know, There’s no reason for James to be so unhappy.

→ To the __________________________________________________________.
8. The hurricane blew the roof off the house.

→ The house __________________________________________________________.

9. I left without saying goodbye as I didn’t want to disturb the meeting.

→ Rather __________________________________________________________.

10. Simon hadn’t expected that he would feel so weak after the operation.

→ The operation left __________________________________________________________.

Writing 6

1. We can start at either 1 p.m or 2 p.m.

→ It makes __________________________________________________________.

2. The boy was about to cry when he was reprimended by his mother.

→ The boy was on __________________________________________________________.

3. Why don’t you consult your legal advisor about the contract.

→ If __________________________________________________________.

4. Although her leg hurt, she finished the marathon race.

→ In __________________________________________________________.

5. It was such a pity that I couldn’t go to the party.

→ I’d __________________________________________________________.

6. The thief must have come in through the window.

→ The thief almost __________________________________________________________.

7. All of you are likely to be able to enter college.

→ The __________________________________________________________.

8. Alice lost all her hope; she decided to stop her business.

→ Such __________________________________________________________.

9. Let’s eat out this evening.

→ How __________________________________________________________.

10. It was disappointing their son failed the entrance exam to university.

→ Their son __________________________________________________________.

 SENTENCE TRANSFORMATION WITH IDIOMS (1)

1. I don’t think the television’s likely to blow up at any minute. Likelihood

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

2. This car only cost me five hundred pounds. picked

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

3. Someone paid five thousand pounds for the painting. went

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

4. We have made neither a profit nor a loss this year. even

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

5. In 1967 programs began to be transmitted in colours. advent

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

6. I find Harold’s behavior quite incomprehensible. loss

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

7. The severity of the punishment bore no relation to the seriousness of the crime. proportion

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

8. I’m afraid our problems are just beginning. iceberg

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

9. In the area, Thailand is much better than all other countries in football. shoulders

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

10. Thomas was not given details of the company’s new project. Dark

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

11. I was too scared to tell him what I really thought. lacked

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

12. The police ended the fighting between the two gangs by arresting the leaders. stop

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

13. Travelling alone is not just a matter of taking a good guidebook with you. more

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

14. The way he took everything she did for granted really annoyed her. BACK

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

15. She was so anxious while the results were read out. BREATH

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

16. The house shouldn’t be left unlocked for any reason. ACCOUNT
→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

17. A huge investment has been put into the field of solar-electricity. INVEST

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

18. Alice was not a confident person, and that was why she was so shy. DUE

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

19. When I started work, I was so inexperienced that I couldn’t send a fax. CLUE

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

20. What you have been saying is quite irrelevant. BEDISE

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

21. Please stop criticizing everybody! DOWN

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

22. We don’t expect that the missing climbers have survived. HOLD

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

23. Helen’s report is rather unclear in places. LACKING

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

24. Everybody in the audience stood to applaud the actor’s performance. STANDING

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

25. Taxpayers had to pay the cost of the privatization plan. FOOT

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

26. The fact that he will never race again is something he cannot accept. TERMS

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

27. A government official leaked the story to the world press. WIND

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

28. Building societies will have to guard against their rivals. LAURELS

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

29. He is becoming quite famous as an interviewer. NAME

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

30. He makes sure that he isn't associated with policies he disagrees with. DISTANCES

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

31. I really don't know what you're talking about. FAINTEST

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

32. I feel I am not being treated fairly. RAW

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

33. Someone paid five thousand pounds for the painting. WENT

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

34. You can walk to the station easily from the hotel. DISTANCE

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

35. Pauline isn’t one of the people who know the secret. ON

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

36. We don’t expect that the missing climbers have survived. HOLD

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

37. You must accept the fact that she has left you. TERMS

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

38. He was not given details of the company’s new plans. DARK

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

39. Stop criticizing everybody! DOWN

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

40. Terry has just insured her life. OUT

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

41. In the end it was discovered that Joe was the thief. OUT

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

42. I need a calculator to arrive at the total. OUT

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

43. I met your friend David the other day. INTO

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

44. I think you’ve been overcharged, old son! OFF

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

45. I think we should increase the pressure on her to resign. UP

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

46. I won’t allow swearing in my classroom. FOR

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

47. The company was bought up by a large multinational. OVER

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

48. Your story is different from the facts. WITH

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

49. She feels uncomfortable when people tell her how beautiful she is. EMBARRASSES

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

50. Don’t you remember anything about your lifetime in London as a child? RECOLLECTION

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

SENTENCE TRANSFORMATION WITH IDIOMS (2)

1. Any correspondence from the Canberra office must be dealt with before other matters. (PRIORITY)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

2. I advise you not to believe what you read in the papers about me. (RELIANCE)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

3. “I don’t mind where the money goes as long as the people are the real beneficiaries”. (MATTER)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

4. Critics are hoping the new director can bring some positive changes into the French film industry. (BREATH)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

5. The terrorists attack on the Capital Trade Center was very much like the 11-9 attack on the WTO building. (CARBON)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

6. It is very difficult to give the exact value of a table like this, but it’s probably worth about $5000. (FIGURE)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

7. Five boys on a motorbike at the speed of 60mph is very likely to end up in hospital. (RECIPE)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

8. Detectives had stopped working on the Hornsey murders case three years previously. (BOOK)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

9. He is very good at cooking spaghetti. (DAB)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

10. We all want to make him realize that he is not as important as he thinks. (SIZE)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

11. He really disappointed me when breaking the promise to help me out. (TEETH)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

12. He died, having nothing of his own. (NAME)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

13. Have a look at this picture. It may help you to remember something. (JOG)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
14. Motorists are jamming the streets as they slow down to see the wall paintings. (HOLD UPS)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

15. He is becoming quite famous as an interviewer. (NAME)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

16. Social scientists find it hard to accept that the fall in the birth rate is responsible for the old age of our society.
(RESISTANCE)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

17. Every possible effort was made by the orphanage to find the boy’s parents. (STONE)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

18. The minister gave no precise figures about the casualties. (GO INTO)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

19. The new musical has delighted theatre audiences throughout the country. (STORM)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

20. They’ve been arguing about the motorway extension for years. (BONE)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

21. My father doesn’t approve of my borrowing so much money from a person like John. (VIEW)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

22. I like her a lot. (AFFECTION)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

23. You look as if something unpleasant has happened to you. (WARS)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

24. It’s brilliant film – I laughed uncontrollably all through the way. (HEAD)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

25. She finds grammar exercises extremely boring. (STIFF)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

26. I’ll have to wait before I know whether he’ll keep his promise or not. (REMAINS)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

27. He was so worried that his mind couldn’t function normally. (STRAIGHT)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

28. They’ll cause a lot of trouble. (CAT)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

29. Some people say that there’s hardly any difference between love and hate. (LINE)
→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

30. She can buy anything she wants – She’s very rich. (ROLLING)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

31. A rise in temperature in the next century seems likely. (CHANCE)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

32. You must accept the fact that she has left you. (RESIGN)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

33. I just didn’t know what to say. (LOST)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

34. They arrived at the station with only a minute to spare. (NICK)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

35. They sent him to prison for three years. (SENTENCED)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

36. I don’t intend to tell you my plans. (INTENTION)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

37. Tim looks nothing like his father. (TAKE)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

38. He watched videos all day. (ENTIRE)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

39. I don’t think she likes doing other people’s work for them. (OBJECTS)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

40. I didn’t agree with the idea. (FAVOR)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

41. Teaching doesn’t suit her. (CUT)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

42. I never thought of going by train. (OCCUR)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

43. He is very likely to come. (PROBABILITY)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

44. The cause of the explosion is still unknown. (CAUSED)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

45. The train is 5 minutes late in leaving. (DUE)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

46. The rain was coming down in torrent. (DOGS)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

47. Organic vegetables are said to be health. (WONDERS)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

48. He is determined to become a doctor. (HEART)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

49. Mary got married without her parents’ knowledge. (UNAWARE)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

50. John spent all his time working. (DEVOTED)

→ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

SENTENCE TRANSFORMATION WITH IDIOMS (3)

1. The desk was too crowded for him to put his book down. ROOM

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………..

2. There is no hot water because the centre heating has broken down. ORDER

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

3. The young man was very embarrassed because his proposal was turned down. REJECTION

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

4. Find out more about working conditions before you contact the manager. UNTIL

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

5. She stressed the importance of keeping the family together. EMPHASIS

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

6. They share a lot of hobbies and interests. COMMON

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

7. Pandas need a special diet, without which they perish. UNLESS

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

8. It is roughly estimated that some turtles lay 28 thousand eggs a year. AVERAGE

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

9. It is not worth trying to save endangered species. WASTE

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

10. Many species of the wildlife are threatened with extinction. DANGER

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
11. The Prime Minister resigned because of his sudden illness. RESULTED

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

12. The news of the manager came as a complete surprise to the workers. ABACK

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

13. Kate has finally accepted that their friendship is over. TERMS

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

14. William tried to remain impartial in the quarrel between his two cousins. SIDES

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

15. There is a risk that the black rhino will become extinct. THREATENED

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

16. She has always had a good relationship with the children. GOT

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

17. The new plans for the school have been approved by the authorities. MET

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

18. Don’t tell the boss anything about this. BREATHE

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

19. We have more important things to do at the moment. FISH

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

20. The accused became very emotional. OVERCOME

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

21. Naturally, they will deduct points if you arrive late. PENALIZED

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

22. The model’s clothes lay all over the floor. STREWN

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

23. Our new director wants you to call her “Madam”. ADDRESSED

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

24. I can’t say I enjoy it when people tear my writing to pieces in front of me. HAVING

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

25. We’ll have to make up our minds by the end of the week, won’t we? BE

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

26. It’s just possible the hotel may need more staff in the summer. RULED

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
27. Surely nobody likes it when people make fun of them in public. BEING

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

28. Never forget that the customer is always right. BORNE

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

29. This school-leaver’s qualifications are not adequate for such a demanding job, are they? SUFFICIENTLY

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

30. When she left home, she had to do everything on her own. FEND

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

31. I’m afraid I’ll be a bit late because something unexpected has happened. CROPPED

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

32. He’ll probably get here late; he usually does. LIABLE

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

33. It’s not certain whether I’ll be able to pay the bills this month. TOUCH

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

34. It’s impossible to predict how long it will take to do this. TELLING

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

35. When I make my complaint, I hope that you will say you agree with me. BACK

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

36. Many people believe that the death penalty deters criminals. DETERRENT

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

37. She was nervous about going to the doctor’s, so I went with her so that she wouldn’t be alone. MORAL

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

38. He offers them more money to encourage them to do the job quickly. INCENTIVE

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

39. He has always done things to help her in her career. SUPPORTED

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

40. Many customs restrictions within the EC have been abolished. AWAY

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

41. At the moment I can’t afford to buy a new car. QUESTION

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

42. I assume you are hungry. GRANTED

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
43. I know I can convince Dave that I’m right about this matter. BRING

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

44. Students at the school are not allowed to go into the Rainbow Disco. BOUNDS

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

45. He has changed his opinion on the house. HEART

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

46. I treated him in the same way as he had treated me. PAID

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

47. Mr Pat was completely shocked on hearing the bad news. ARMS

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

48. Mrs Smith is on a diet and she eats very little. BIRD

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

49. She was really crazy about him. HEAD

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

50. She began to suffer from irrational fears. PREY

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

SENTENCE TRANSFORMATION WITH IDIOMS (4)

1. Who will inherit the estate? HEIR

→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
2. The final version of the plan was quite different from the initial draft. RESEMBLANCE
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
3. His irresponsible attitude is endangering his career as a doctor. JEOPARDY
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
4. You should excuse his bad manners, he’s only a child. ALLOWANCES
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
5. The candle fell over and made the barn start burning. LIGHT
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
6. City-dwellers often get depressed nowadays. PRONE
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
7. Fortunately, the boat didn’t sink. STROKE
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
8. Bill reckoned that his success was due to incredible luck. PUT
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
9. I’ve considered the advantages and disadvantages and I’ve decided not to go. WEIGHED
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
10. After a while I realized that I’ve made a terrible mistake. DAWNED
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
11. When she left her home, she had to do everything on her own. FEND
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
12. I was not sure whether to go with him or not. MINDS
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
13. Nowadays we often buy goods and pay for them later. CREDIT
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
14. I suffered from obsessive and agonizing thoughts. PREY
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
15. The first sign of the disease is a feeling of faintness. ONSET
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
16. As an antidote to their disappointment, he bought them ice-cream. OFFSET
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
17. I travel by bus only when I have no alternative. RESORT
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
18. Bill reckoned that his success was due to incredible luck. PUT
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
19. Don’t forget those who are at work on this lovely sunny day! SPARE
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
20. The impression most people have of him is that he is an honest person. COMES
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
21. The incident ruined my chances of promotion. PAID
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
22. She began to suffer from irrational fear. PREY
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
23. I can’t understand why they are reluctant to sign the contract. BAFFLED
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
24. There isn’t much that Peter doesn’t know about modern art. GAPS
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
25. Bob has a habit of upsetting people unintentionally. INCLINED
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
26. Martin’s habit of taking risks doesn’t fit in with his image as a family man. COMPATIBLE
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
27. John really must attend the meeting. CRUCIAL
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
28. Sally became known throughout the country as a result of her popular TV series. HOUSEHOLD
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
29. John made his teacher very angry. INCURRED
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
30. He used to be a teacher, so he really knows what it’s like in the classroom. FIRSTHAND
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
31. She writes notes on everything that was said at the meeting. RECORD
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
32. They could not warn people by electronic mail because that might spread the computer virus. FEAR
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
33. Jane is likely to be promoted. CHANCE
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
34. The cost of the excursion is part of the price of the holiday. INCLUDES
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
35. Charles and his brother are exactly alike. LOOK AS
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
36. What are you thinking at the moment? MIND
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
37. What about going to the new film at the Rex tonight? WE
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
38. You will find me waiting outside the station. BE
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
39. Scientists are on the point of making a vital breakthrough. ABOUT
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
40. I work in a factory which has 1,500 employees. EMPLOYEE
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
41. Just after solving one problem I was faced with another. WHEN
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
42. It is my impression that she is enjoying her new job a great deal. SEEMS
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
43. Mary rang hours and hours ago. THAT
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
44. He is so familiar with his wife that he no longer appreciates her full value. GRANTED
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
45. Knowledge without common sense is of little importance. COUNTS
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
46. She is not poor at all; in fact, she is quite rich. MEANS
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
47. A new house is impossible – we can not afford it. QUESTION
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
48. The fact that the judge had been involved in some illegal activities was not revealed until several years after his death.
LIGHT
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
49. Don’t forget those who are at work on this lovely, sunny day! SPARE
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
50. The severity of the punishment bore no relation to the seriousness of the crime. PROPORTION
→ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

Complete the second sentence so that it has a similar meaning to the first sentence, using the word given.
1. Mehmet has a good relationship with his neighbours. (gets)
Mehmet_________________________________________ his neighbours.
2. It was difficult for my mother to set up the new software. (found)
My mother _________________________________________ up the new software.
3. The lift isn’t working; please use the stairs instead. (out)
The lift___________________________; please use the stairs instead.
4. Murat doesn’t mind driving for two hours to work everyday. (used)
Murat _______________________________________________ for two hours to work everyday.
5. “I’m sorry I broke your mug” Janet said. (breaking)
Janet ________________________________________________ my mug.
6. They cancelled the flight because of thick fog. (off)
The flight ______________________________________ because of the thick fog.
7. The summit meeting will be held in Istanbul. (place)
The summit meeting _________________________________ in Istanbul.
8. Roberto took a month to design the concept car. (him)
It ________________________________________to design the concept car.
9. My father took up bowling three years ago. (been)
My father ___________________________________________ three years.
10. They managed to finish the project in time for the presentation. succeeded
They___________________________________ the project in time for the presentation.
11. You must never take your helmet off while you are riding a motorcycle. all
Helmets must be worn ___________________________________________when riding a motorcycle.
12. Magda allows her children to stay up to midnight on Saturday evenings. let
Magda_____________________________________ late on Saturdays.
13. Luckily, Peter wasn't charged with an offence when the police caught him stealing the first time. off
Peter was very lucky because he_________________________________________________.
14. Can I accompany you to the party? mind
Do you___________________________________________________ to the party?
15. I wish you didn't drive so fast. only
If _____________________________________________________so fast.
16. I think Roman needs to see a doctor. His cough is terrible. ought
With that terrible cough, Roman______________________________________________________ a doctor.
17. The authorities said she wasn't responsible for the accident. fault
The accident_________________________________________________________.
18. "Why don't you take a holiday?", said Simon. suggested
Simon ___________________________________________________________a holiday.
19. Marcin didn't come to the meeting yesterday. Perhaps he was ill. might
Marcin__________________________________________________ yesterday.
20. They wanted to apologize for their behaviour: that's why they paid for dinner. order
They paid for dinner _____________________________________ for their behaviour.
21. It isn't necessary to bring skis as they are included in the package. have
You_______________________________________ bring skis as they are included in the package.
22. I thought parking was allowed here. impression
I _____________________________________________that parking was allowed here.
23. Simon said, "I will be playing tennis when you arrive." he
Simon said_____________________________________________________ tennis when I arrived.
24. When I was a child, we would go to the local park every Saturday afternoon. used
When I was a child___________________________________________, the park every Saturday.
25. His daughter continued to cry until he could not be seen any longer. sight
She continued to cry until he_______________________________________________________.
26. I'm afraid that car is just too expensive. means
That car is _________________________________________________.
27. They moved to this village in 1999. lived
They _____________________________________________________in this village since 1999.
28. One other thing before I forget - Donata is coming to visit next weekend. by
______________________________________________, Donata is coming to visit next weekend.
29. I haven't seen Joanna for ages. since
It's been a long time __________________________Joanna.
30. They were still playing cricket after two hours. been
They ___________________________ for two hours.
31. He didn't want to join in the celebrations. take
He didn't want _________________________________ the celebrations.
32. What a shame he wasn't able to come. wish
I wish _________________________________come.
33. I took a jumper but it wasn't necessary. taken
I ______________________________________ a jumper.
34. If you don't know how to spell the word, why don't you check in the dictionary? up
Why don't you _________________________________ in the dictionary?
35. Somebody should tell him. told
He needs _____________________________ by someone.
36. The concert was horrible. time
The concert was a complete________________________________________.
37. He couldn't find me at the exhibition. find
He wasn't able ____________________________________me at the exhibition.
38. She let her son go to Poznan for the weekend. allowed
She___________________________________ to Poznan.
39. I haven't seen her for ages. time
The ____________________________________was 15 years ago.
40. I didn't understand what he was saying because I hadn't read his book. would
If I had read his book I __________________________________ what he was saying.
41. As the class representative I would like to welcome you. behalf
I'd like to welcome you _____________________________________ the class.
42. They believe the students were educated in England. believed
The students _____________________________ educated in England.
43. He escaped using a disguise. means
He escaped________________________________ a disguise.
44. Remind me to call Asia. forget
Don't let _________________________________________ Asia.
45. This pasta is a new experience for me. time
It is __________________________________ I have tried this pasta.
46. She has probably found a new job. likely
It ____________________________________ a new job.
47. I don't agree with prohibiting smoking in bars. favour
I'm not ______________________________________ prohibiting smoking in bars.
48. It doesn't need to be finished this afternoon. finish
It _____________________________________________ this afernoon.
49. You should feel horrible! Why did you say that to Jacek? shame
________________________________________________________! Why did you say that to Jacek?
 45 MOST COMMON PHRASAL VERBS
1. ASK SOMEONE OUT - To invite somebody on a date
Susan asked John out to dinner last weekend.
2. ASK AROUND – To ask different people the same question.
We are asking around to see if anybody knows someone who has a car for sale.
3. BLOW SOMETHING UP - To cause something to explode
The building was blown up with dynamite.
4. BREAK DOWN - To stop working (machine)
My car broke down on the motorway.
5. BREAK UP WITH SOMEONE - To stop having a relationship with someone
He broke up with his girlfriend of 10 years.
6. BREAK IN /BREAK INTO - To enter a place illegally
Someone broke into my house while I was on holidays.
7. BRING A CHILD UP – To take care of someone until they are adults.
Mike was brought up by his grandparents.
8. BRING SOMETHING UP – To start talking about a new subject.
During the course of the conversation, he brought up an interesting idea
9. CALL FOR SOMETHING demand, request that something should happen
The demostrators were calling for a reduction in taxes.
10. CARRY ON WITH SOMETHING - to continue doing something
The alarm went off at 6 a.m, but he carried on sleeping.
11. CALL SOMETHING OFF – To cancel something that was planned
The meeting was called of by management.
12. CATCH ON - To become popular
I wonder if this TV programme will ever catch on with men?
13. CATCH UP ON SOMETHING - do something you had no time to do recently
I want to catch up on my sleep.
14. CATCH UP WITH - To manage to reach someone who is ahead of you.
I had to run faster to catch up with them. /She managed to catch up with the rest of the class.
15. COME UP WITH SOMETHING - To think of an idea, discover of produce.
They came up with a fantastic solution to the problem we had.
16. CUT DOWN ON SOMETHING - To use less of something.
My GP suggested that I should cut down on coffee.
17. DO AWAY WITH SOMETHING - to get rid of something, to eliminate.
We need to do away with unnecessary red tape.
18. FIND SOMETHING OUT - To get information about sth to discover sth
We need to find out when he is available for a meeting.
19. GET BY - manage to deal with a situation, but only just.
I wonder how she can get by on so little money.
20. GET ON WITH SOMEONE - to have a good relationship with
She doesn’t get on with her boss.
21. GET ON WITH SOMETHING - to start or continue doing something (especially work)
I need to get on with booking our flights.
22. GIVE SOMEONE AWAY - show someone's real feelings or true nature
They didn’t know it was you who had done it; but your reaction gave you away.
23. GIVE IN (TO SOMEONE'S REQUESTS) - to agree to what sb wants, after refusing at the beginning
She pestered him so much to go out with her that he eventually gave in.
24. GIVE SOMETHING UP - stop doing something
I gave up smoking 15 years ago.
25. GROW UP - to slowly become an adult
I was born in Ireland but grew up in Spain.
26. HAND SOMETHING OUT - to give something to each one in a group
The teacher handed out the exams at the beginning of the class.
27. LOOK FORWARD TO SOMETHING feel excited about sth that is going to happen
I’m looking forward to my holidays.
28. LOOK INTO SOMETHING - to investigate or examine something
I will look into the problem and come back to you with an estimate for the repair.
29. LOOK UP TO SOMEONE - to admire and respect somebody
As a kid, I always looked up to my grandfather.
30. MAKE SOMETHING OUT - to understand sb or sth with difficulty to decipher
No matter how hard I try, I can’t make out your handwriting.
31. OWN UP TO SOMETHING to accept that you’ve done sth and take responsibility for it.
I made a mistake and I own up to it.
32. PASS OUT - to lose consciousness
While falling down the stairs he hit his head against the wall and passed out.
33. PICK SOMEONE UP - to collect someone from a place
My brother picked me up from the airport and gave me a lift home.
34. PUT SOMETHING OFF - to postpone an event or activity
We decided to put off the meeting until next week.
35. PUT SOMETHING OUT - to make sth stop burning, to extinguish
I put out the candle and went to bed.
36. PUT SOMEONE UP – to accommodate sb temporarily
John is putting me up for a few days.
37. RUN OUT OF SOMETHING - to finish all of something.
We have run out of milk and coffee.
38. SET OFF - to start a journey
The train sets off tomorrow at 8 a.m.
39. TALK SOMEONE INTO / OUT OF SOMETHING - to persuade someone (not) to do something
I didn't want to move abroad but Bill talked me into it.
40. TELL SOMEONE OFF - to scold sb for something they’ve done and you disapprove of.
My teacher told me off for not doing my homework.
41. THROW SOMETHING AWAY – to get rid of sth that you no longer want.
I threw away a bunch of old receipts and letters.
42. TURN SOMEONE / SOMETHING DOWN – to refuse somebody or something
She was disappointed after being turned down for the job
43. TURN UP – to arrive or appear somewhere / to find something unexpectedly
He eventually didn’t turn up at the meeting.
Have you seen my keys? No, but don't worry, they will turn up when you least expect it.
44. WEAR OUT – To deteriorate over time and through use.
It’s high time you got yourself some new trousers, those are really worn out.
45. WORK SOMETHING OUT - to understand something by thinking about it
The police are trying to work out who helped him commit the crime.
46. WORK SOMETHING OUT - to calculate sth
I need to work out how much I will be taxed this month.
45 MOST COMMON IDIOMS
1. AT THE DROP OF A HAT – to do sth without any hesitation; without stopping to think.
They were always ready to start an argument, at the drop of a hat.
2. BE CAUGHT IN THE ACT - be caught doing something illegal or ethically wrong
He was caught in the act of stealing money from the safe.
3. BE CAUGHT RED-HANDED - be caught doing something illegal or ethically wrong
She was caught red-handed in bed with another man.
4. BE LARGER THAN LIFE - To be more exciting than normal
The CEO of the company seemed to be larger than life to the managers.
5. BE ON THE SAME PAGE – have a similar understanding of something.
Before we make a decision, I want to make sure everybody is on the same page.
6. BE OVER THE MOON – To be very happy
He was over the moon when he learned he had won the lottery
7. BE SECOND TO NONE – to be excellent or better than others.
My knowledge of this town is second to none.
8. BE UP IN ARMS – To be angry about something / at someone
My father was up in arms when he found out that I had dented his car.
9. BRING SOMEONE UP TO SPEED - To tell sb the fact about a situation.
Upon my return, I was brought up to speed about the lastest developments.
10. BRING STH / COME TO A HEAD – To reach a critical or crucial stage.
Everything came to a head and the company had to shut down three factories.
11. BUILD A PICTURE OF SB OR STH – To gather information to understand what sth or sb is like
We are trying to build a picture of what needs to be done.
12. BY LEAPS AND BOUNDS – By a lot, to a large degree
Ever since he got that teacher, her English has improved by leaps and bounds.
16. COME TO TERMS WITH STH –To start to accept a situation and deal with it.
Sooner or later you will have to come to terms with the death of your wife.
14. COST AN ARM AND A LEG – to be very expensive
The Audi R8 is a beautiful car, but it costs an arm and a leg.
15. DO STH ON THE SPUR OF THE MOMENT – Do something without stopping to think, without any planning
We got into a heated argument and, on the spur of the moment, I punched him. 38
16. FOLLOW IN SB’S FOOTSTEPS- To do the same job as someone else.
He followed in his grandfather’s footsteps and became a doctor.
17.GET AROUND TO DOING STH – do sth that you’ve been wanting to do for a while…
I still haven’t got round to doing the report. I’ll do it this evening.
18. GET COLD FEET – To become afraid of doing sth you had planned to do
Mary wanted to ask Paul for a date but she eventually got cold feet.
19. GET DOWN TO DOING STH – to take action towards doing something
I need to get down to booking my FCE exam as soon as possible.
20. GET SOMETHING OFF ONE'S CHEST- to tell someone about your worries
I really have to get this off my chest. I don’t like you.
21. GET THE BETTER OF SOMEONE – feel overwhelmed by a feeling
His anger got the better of him, and he punched his boss in the face.
22. GIVE/PAY LIP SERVICE TO SOMETHING – Say or support something insincerely.
He is just paying lip service. He has no intention of helping you with the project.
23.KEEP AN EYE ON STH to take care of something, to watch sth
I'll keep an eye on your luggage while you go to the toilet.
24. KEEP SOMEONE POSTED – to inform sb about new develoments in a situation
Don’t worry, I’ll keep you posted. If anything happens I’ll let you know.
25. LEARN SOMETHING BY HEART- To memorize something.
I learned my speech by heart. I wanted to make sure I remembered everything.
26. LEARN SOMETHING BY ROTE – to memorize without understanding
She learned the formula by rote.
27. MAKE ENDS MEET – to struggle to pay for your everyday needs
John make very little money and finds it hard to make ends meet.
28. MAKE THE MOST OF SOMETHING –take advantage of something while it lasts.
We made the most of our last day in Barcelona, and went to the beach.
29. PLAY SOMETHING BY EAR- to improvise, to do something without a plan.
I didn’t have time to prepare the presentation so I had to play it by ear.
30. PUT ONE’S FINGER ON STH – To remember sth or to discover the reason of sth.
I know I had seen her before but I couldn’t put my finger on where.
31. PUT SOMEONE IN THE PICTURE – To tell sb the fact about a situation.
She put me in the picture about what had happened since my last visit
32. SEE EYE TO EYE WITH SOMEONE ON SOMETHING – To agree with someone
We don’t see eye to eye on how to raise our kids.
33. STOP SHORT OF DOING STH – to not do something, but only just
Her boss told her off for being late and stop short of firing her, but only just.
34. TAKE A FANCY TO SOMEONE / SOMETHING – to begin to like sb or sth
I have taken a fancy to Chinese food of late.
She’s taken a fancy to her new assistant.
35. TAKE SOMETHING AS READ – to accept sth as true without proof
I took it as read that I was invited to your wedding.
36. TAKE SOMETHING FOR GRANTED – to believe sth to be truth without even thinking about it.
I took for granted that you were a doctor.
37. TAKE STH WITH A GRAIN/PINCH OF SALT – to doubt the accuracy of some information.
We need to take his words with a pinch of salt. He was not here when it happened
38. TAKE THE BULL BY THE HORNS – to deal with a difficult situation bravely.
I decided to take the bull by the horns and confronted my neighbours about the noise.
39. TO BE A WALK IN THE PARK – To be very easy
The test was a walk in the park. I put in a lot of work preparing for it.
40. TO BE A PIECE OF CAKE – To be very easy
Winning the fight was a piece of cake. I was extremely well prepared.
41. TO BE EASY AS PIE – To be very easy
The FCE exam was easy as pie. I expect to get high marks.
42. TO BITE THE BULLET – to accept and try to live with sth difficult.
After the scandal the president of the company decide to bite the bullet and resigned.
43. TO FACE THE MUSIC – To accept the consequences for sth you’ve done
After the scandal, the president run away instead of facing the music for his actions.
44. WASH ONE'S HANDS OF SOMETHING - stop dealing with an issue or problem
I’m washing my hands of this problem. You will have to deal with it on our own.
45. WIN SOMETHING HANDS DOWN – To win something with ease.
He was much better than his opponent and won the fight hands down.
45 MOST COMMON SET PHRASES
1. AS FAR AS I AM CONCERNED – in my opinion / to the degree that it affects me.
As far as I’m concerned, you can start tomorrow.
2. AS FAR AS I KNOW – according to the information that I have.
He is French, as far as I know.
3. BE ABOUT TO DO STH – be ready to start doing something very soon.
I was just about to leave when you phoned me.
4. BEAR/KEEP SOMETHING IN MIND – consider sth before doing sth else.
Keep in mind your budget when making arrangements for your holidays.
5. BE ON THE POINT OF DOING STH – be ready to start doing something very soon.
I was on the point of starting my speech when someone’s phone rang.
6. BE ON THE VERGE OF DOING STH – be ready to start doing something very soon.
They were on the verge of getting a divorce after 15 years of marriage.
7. BE OUT OF THE QUESTION – Something cannot happen / it is not possible
It’s raining, so going for a walk with the kids is out of the question.
8. BE UNDER THE (MISTAKEN) IMPRESSION /BELIEF THAT – to think that sth is true usually when that’s no
the case
I was under the impression that I was already hired.
She asked him out because she was under the mistaken belief that he was single.
9. BE UP /DOWN TO SB - Be someone’s responsibility to do sth
It’s up to the president to decide the next course of action.
It’s down to John to make all the arrangements for the meeting.
10. BE WORTH IT – be sth that will give you good results despite difficulties.
It took me eight years to get my black bet in Judo, but it’s been worth it.
11. BE WORTH ONE’S WHILE – be worth the time or effort sb spends doing sth.
It’s not worth my while talking to her. She may be beautiful but she is very boring.
12. BEYOND A SHADOW OF A DOUBT – There is no doubt that sth is true.
He is, without a shadow of a doubt, the best player I’ve ever seen
13. CHANGE ONE’S MIND - change your opinion about something.
I eventually changed my mind and agreed to go to the party with them.
14. DO /TRY ONE’S BEST - – Do sth as best you can.
If you do your best and fail, you can’t have any regrets.
15. FEEL LIKE (DOING) SOMETHING – to want to do sth.
He didn’t feel like (going) clubbing last weekend. 41
16. FEEL / BE DISINCLINED TO DO STH – to not be willing to do sth.
I felt disinclined to invite them to our wedding.
17. FOR THE SAKE OF - With the intention of bringing an advantage to sb/sth.
You’d better tell the truth, for your own sake.
18. FROM HEAD TO TOE - over your whole body.
After the workout, I was sweating from head to toe.
19. GET THE MESSAGE ACROSS - Make someone understand something.
The CEO wanted to get the message across to the staff, that they had to work together.
20. GET / KEEP IN TOUCH - To continue to communicate with someone.
I still keep in touch with some of my high school friends.
21. HAVE A SOFT SPOT FOR SB /STH - to like sb or sth without knowing why.
Mike says that he has always had a soft spot for blondes.
22. HAVE A ONE-TRACK MIND - to think always about one specific thing.
He is very boring; he has a one-track mind and all he ever talks about is football.
23. IT’S NO GOOD – Sth which is pointless because it won’t give you any benefits
It’s no good telling him to help you with the arrangement. He is very lazy.
24. IT’S NO USE – Sth is not useful, sth won’t give you any benefits.
It’s no use waiting for them any longer. They are not going to come.
25. KEEP STH OUT OF SOMEONE’S REACH – Keep sth where sb cannot take it.
Make sure you keep the medicines out of your toddler’s reach.
26. MAKE ALLOWANCE FOR STH – to prepare in case sth happens.
Make sure you make allowance for traffic delays, when you set off for you interview.
27. MAKE ALLOWANCES FOR STH – to consider sth when judging sth.
He made a mistake but we have to make allowances for him. He is new in the job.
28. MAKE AMENDS TO SB FOR STH –
to do sth good to show that you feel bad about sth you’ve done.h.
She broke his favourite glass and wanted to make amends by buying a new one.
29. MAKE AN EXCEPTION- to not apply a general rule to someone.
They don’t usually let people in at 4 a.m. but I knew the doorman, and he made an exception for us.
30. MAKE COMMON CAUSE WITH SB – to cooperate with sb to achieve sth.
The company made common cause with its competitors against the new law.
31. MAKE HEADWAY IN/WITH STH– to make progress.
I’ve been practising a lot and I feel I’ve made a lot of headway with my Spanish.
32. MAKE ONESELF UNDERSTOOD– to succeed in communicating your message.
Can you make yourself understood in Chinese?
33. MAKE UP ONE’S MIND – to decide
I haven’t made up my mind which PC to buy yet.
34. MAKE UP TO SOMEONE – to decide
It’s disgusting the way she always makes up to the boss
35. OUT FOR STH / OUT TO DO STH – with the intention of doing sth.
Be careful this girl is only out to get advantage of you.
You won’t succeed as a businessman if you are only out for the money.
36. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF STH - to be too friendly to sb in order to get sth.
Many people feel that the government is taking advantage of them.
37. TAKE PART IN STH – to be involved in something.
He took part in the competition and, to everybody’s surprise, won.
38. TAKE SOMETHING INTO ACCOUNT – consider sth before doing sth else.
We need to take the price into account before deciding on which car to buy.
39. THERE IS NO POINT IN DOING STH – Sth is not useful, sth won’t give you any benefits.
There is no point in my calling her at her office. She out on a business trip.
40. THERE IS NO TELLING – You cannot possibly guess or know.
There is no telling when she will arrive. Her flight has been delayed.
41. THERE IS NO SUBSTITUTE FOR – Nothing is as good as…
If you want to pass your exam, there is no substitute for studying hard.
42. TO THE BEST OF ONE’S ABILITY – Do sth as best you can.
If you work to the best of your ability, you will succeed.
43. TO (THE BEST OF) ONE’S KWNOWLEDGE/ BELIEF – according to the information that you have.
His latest novel comes out next month, to the best of my knowledge.
I don’t know him very well, but to my belief he is a good person.
44. UP AND DOWN – moving in one direction and the in the opposite.
He started walking up and down the corridor, thinking about what to do.
45. WHEN IT COMES TO STH - in relation to something.
When it comes to picking up women, Peter is an expert.

abstain from
"I'm trying to abstain from drinking alcohol."
"It's easy to abstain from something if you don't feel you're actually missing something."
accuse [someone] of [something]
"He was accused of shoplifting." (Shoplifting is stealing merchandise from a store.)
"She accused me of lying. Can you believe it?"
adapt to
"I'm still trying to adapt to living here."
"Don't quit your job. It takes time to adapt to a new situation."
add to
"Do you have anything you'd like to add to what has been said?"
"Did you remember to add salt to the soup?"
agree on
"We want to go out for dinner, but we haven't agreed on a restaurant yet."
"They always fight and they never agree on anything."
agree with
opposite, see also: disagree with
"I agree with you."
"Patricia, did you agree with the manager's decision?"
apologize for [something]
"I apologized for taking my brother's stapler without his permission."
"You should apologize for that."
apologize to [someone]
"Have you apologized to your sister?"
"I don't want to apologize to you!"
apply for [something]
"You should apply for this job."
"I applied for the manager position."
apply to [somewhere]
"Which universities did you apply to?"
"I've applied to over twenty companies, but I haven't had an interview yet."
approve of
"My dad didn't approve of my husband at first."
"Do you approve of Jim's actions?"
argue about
"My parents argue about everything."
"He's arguing with the waiter about the bill."
arrest [someone] for [something]
"He was arrested for stealing."
"Have you ever been arrested for anything?
arrive at
"We arrived at the store ten minutes before it closed."
"How long is it going to take to arrive at the restaurant?"
arrive in
"What time did you arrive in Montreal?"
"My family arrived in Portugal in 1998. We've been living here ever since."
ask about
"I'd like to ask about your evening classes."
"I saw Karina at the mall. She asked about you."
ask for
"I asked my boss for a raise."
"Have you asked for this before?"
attend to
"I'll attend to the customer. You attend to the emergency in the marketing department."
"I apologize for leaving so early, but I have something important I need to attend to."
believe in
"Do you believe in destiny?"
"You have to believe in yourself if you want other people to believe in you."
belong to
"Does this scarf belong to you?"
"Don't take things that don't belong to you.
care about
"Why do you care about this so much?" "Why don't you care about it?!"
"I don't care about sports."
care for
to be responsible for someone or something; to take care of someone or something
"If we got a dog, who would care for it?"
"My mom always cared for us."
charge [someone] with [a crime]
"She was charged with attempted murder."
"They charged him with reckless driving."
complain about
"Deborah's complaining about her work hours."
"If you want to change something, you can't just complain about it."
concentrate on
similar, see also: focus on
"I can't concentrate on my work. There are too many distractions."
"I'm trying to concentrate on reading more these days."
confide in [someone]
to tell someone personal information because you feel you can trust them
"He confided in me about his mental health struggles."
"I know there are things you don't want to share with me, but you should really find someone you can confide
in."
connect to
"What's the password to connect to the wi-fi?"
"Sorry for the delay. The system is taking awhile to connect to your file."
consent to
"I reluctantly consented to the terms of the contract."
"The police can't force you to let them search your car. You have to consent to it."
consist of
"Her arguments usually consist of angry moral judgments."
"My breakfast usually consists of eggs, toast, and beans."
contribute to
"Social media has contributed to an increase in depression."
"What do you do that contributes to your happiness?"
count on
similar, see also: depend on, rely on
"Can I count on you to do this, or should I ask someone else?"
"You can count on me, boss!"
come from
"Whoa! Where did you come from?" (You are surprised to see someone appear with no warning.)
"A letter came for you from Viet Nam."
convert to
"Brent is thinking about converting to another religion."
"Do you know where I can convert pesos to dollars?"
deal with
"I don't know how to deal with aggressive people."
"How are you going to deal with this?"
dedicate to
"The movie was dedicated to an actor who had passed away."
"I've decided to dedicate myself to a new fitness routine."
depend on
similar: count on, rely on
"You can always depend on me."
"She depends on her parents for money."
disagree with
"The chicken we ate last night really disagreed with my stomach." (idiomatic use)
"Do you think you can still be friends with someone whom you disagree with politically?"
discuss [something] with [someone]
"I'd like to discuss something important with you. Do you have some time tomorrow?"
"I'm the wrong person to ask about this. You should discuss this with Emily."
dream about
typically refers to actual dreams people have while sleeping
"What do you normally dream about?"
"Hey, I dreamt about you last night." "Oh…kay."
dream of
typically refers to ambitions and wishes
"Martin Luther King Jr. dreamt of a better world for his children."
"I dream of a time when people will speak less and listen more."
elaborate on
"Could you elaborate on your last point a little bit?"
"I wish he had elaborated more on his plan. I'm still not sure how this is all going to work."
excel at
"She's not that great at chemistry, but she excels at math."
"I think you would really excel at comic book art."
fear for
similar: be scared of
"I fear for what might happen if we aren't successful."
"I never feared for you. I always knew you were going to be okay."
focus on
similar, see also: concentrate on
"Don't judge other people's lives. Focus on your own."
"I've been trying to focus on writing this email, but I keep getting distracted."
forget about
"I'm so sorry! I completely forgot about your birthday!"
"Did you forget about our lunch plans?"
forgive [someone] for [something]
"He forgave me for lying to him."
"I'll never forgive you for this!"
get sick with [a viral illness]
"She got sick with the flu."
"Wear a mask if you don't want to get sick with Covid."
get tired of
"I got tired of my boss always disagreeing with me, and I decided to quit."
"Do you ever get tired of talking to customers all day?"
go to [a public place or event]
"Sheryl's not home. She went to the library."
"We're going to a basketball game tomorrow night."
graduate from
"She graduated from Stanford University in 2018."
"He graduated from U of T with a Master's degree in Engineering."
happen to
"It was the best things that ever happened to me."
"What happened to you? You used to be so full of life."
hear about
"Did you hear about Ted and Sandra? They're going to have a baby!"
"Hey, I heard about your job. Sorry to hear that." (Meaning, "I heard about you losing your job" or "I heard that
you lost your job.")
hear of
to have prior knowledge or awareness of the existence of someone or something
"I've never heard of that book."
"Have you ever heard of Reiki? It's a Japanese form of energy healing."
help [someone] with [something]
"Could you help me with my homework?"
"He wants to help me with my science project."
hint at
"The CEO has hinted at layoffs."
"What are you hinting at? Just say what you mean to say."
hope for
"They've been hoping for rain for the past two months."
"I'm hoping for some good news soon."
insist on
"Our company insists on transparency with our clients."
"I wanted to pain the walls green, but my roommate insisted on painting them yellow."
interfere with
"They always interfered with my plans."
"I'm sorry, but I can't work more hours. It would interfere with time with my family."
laugh at
to direct one's laughter at a particular source
"Don't laugh at me."
"What are you laughing at? Is that a funny video or something?"
laugh about
"We laughed about our high school years."
"I know this seems like a horrible situation now, but I promise you we'll laugh about it many years from now."
lead to
"Your decision will lead to major financial problems for your department."
"I thought it was a good idea at the time, but it actually led to many problems."
look at
"Look at this!"
"The guy who's sitting at the table in the corner keeps looking at us."
listen to
"What kind of music do you listen to?"
"Most kids don't listen to their parents the first time."
look for
"She's been looking for a job for the past three months."
"Are you looking for anything in particular today, or are you just window shopping?" (To window shop means
to look at products without the intention of buying anything.)
object to
"Over 90 percent of people objected to this proposal."
"Why didn't you object to this? Why did you say you were okay with it when you weren't?"
pay for
"How did you afford to pay for this?"
"My parents helped me pay for university."
point at
"Don't point at people. It's rude."
"Are you pointing at this one? Is this the ring you want?" (Context: at a jewelry store)
pray for
"Good luck with your surgery. I'll pray for you."
"Let us pray for peace and understanding among all nations.
prepare for
"Have you prepared for the exam?"
"We need to be prepared for anything."
prevent [someone] from [something]
"He prevented me from making a huge mistake."
"We were prevented from leaving the arena because of a public emergency."
prohibit [someone] from [something]
"The police prohibited us from entering the building."
"I have been prohibited from eating at that restaurant ever again."
react to
"He reacted poorly to the score he got on his biology test."
"How did you react to the news?"
recover from
"My grandma's still recovering from pneumonia."
"Do you think they'll ever recover from this shame?"
refer to
"Could you refer me to someone who can help me? Thank you."
"I'm sorry, but I don't know what you're referring to right now." (Meaning, "I don't know what you're talking
about right now.")
rely on
similar, see also: count on, depend on
"I rely on my maps app any time I drive somewhere I've never been."
"She relies on government assistance to help her pay for her apartment."
remind of
"You remind me of my sister."
"Every time I walk into a coffee shop, I am reminded of the day we met."
reply to
"Thank you for replying to my email."
"I'll reply (to you) as soon as I can."
respond to
"Did you respond to your aunt's text message?"
"How are you going to respond to such an angry email?"
resign from
to quit a job, company, etc.
"I'm thinking about resigning from my job."
"He resigned from his duties at that company years ago."
smile at
"She always smile at you when she sees you."
"Who are you smiling at?"
specialize in
"Which field did you specialize in?"
"Let me call my sister for advice. She specializes in this kind of thing."
stare at
see also: look at (to stare is to look at something or someone for an extended period of time)
"Why are you staring at me like that?"
"It's not polite to stare at people."
stem from
to originate from / to come from [something]
"Brigitte's self-confidence issues stem from her childhood and her critical parents."
"The movie's popularity stemmed from the fact that it was the first really good comedy in several years."
subscribe to
"Have you subscribed to Mr. Beast channel?"
"I don't subscribe to that school of thought." (A school of thought is a way of thinking or a system of belief.)
suffer from
"He suffers from partial blindness."
"It sounds like you're suffering from depression."
talk about
"We need to talk about your school grades."
"He always talks about other people behind their backs."
talk to
"Do you have a minute? I want to talk to you about something."
"Has Mom talked to you yet? You're in big trouble."
tell [someone] about
"Did you tell your parents about us?"
"She had never told us about her time overseas.”
thank [someone] for
"Thank you for your help." (Or, "Thanks for your help.")
"Tim thanked me for giving him a ride to school."
think about
to consider a thought for a longer period of time
"I thought about what you said last night, and I think you have a really good point."
"I think about you all the time."
think of
to have something enter one's mind; to have an idea or a quick thought
"Joanna has thought of a great idea for your birthday party."
"I can't think of any reason why we shouldn't do this."
travel to
"We've traveled to many places in South America."
"They're traveling to Dubai next month."
vote for
"Who are you going to vote for in the election?"
"If you vote for their party, you're voting for tyranny."
wait for
"The restaurant is really busy today. We've been waiting for a table for over twenty minutes."
"I'm still waiting for the government to make a final decision."
wish for
"We couldn't have wished for a better friend. Thank you for always being by my side."
"What did you wish for?" "I can't tell you or it won't come true."
work for
"She works for a non-profit organization."
"I can't believe your dad is your boss. I could never work for one of my parents."
work on
"Hey. What are you working on?"
"She's been working on a secret project for the past two months."
worry about
"I don't know what you're so worried about."
"I was really worried about you. I'm glad everything worked out." (If things work out, they end well.)
write about
"She usually writes about things that actually happened to her."
"Hey. I heard you started working on your next book. What are you writing about?"
yell at
"Stop yelling at me. I'm not a child."
"He yells at his kids in front of other people. It's really uncomfortable."