Useful English Phrases 1
Today, I would like to share some everyday English phrases that are not widely used in Hong Kong but can be useful for enriching your oral English. You may have heard these if you are a fan of the western YouTube videos or drama. In fact, I have taken some of the below out from when I was enjoying them personally.
1. head over heels This phrase can mean physically head over heels as in a somersault, just the phrase inside out and upside down. However, on a more colloquial note, it means madly in love. Example sentences:
- Just look at her face! She’s all blushed whenever she’s around him. She is head over heels for him. Should she ask him out? - I am for the new Fenty beauty makeup brought out by Rihanna. There are 40 shades in the foundation and the finish is per-fect.
2. on a whim This phrase means caused by a sudden decision, usually impulsive. Example sentences: -I went to the hairdresser’s on a whim yesterday. I have been looking at the mirror and it looks awful. I should have thought about it twice before going. Something bad is bound to happen when you have a haircut. It just never turns out right.
- Have you come up with an answer yet?I didn’t ask you to marry me on a whim. It was the plan all along, to pretend that it was a casual date and to surprise you. Well, I guess you could call it a success in that sense.
3. take a blow This phrase with to be able to withstand difficult situations. Another similar phrase is to take a hit, which means to suffer from damage or loss.
Example sentences: -I need to hide the misery from my face, telling people that I am a strong person who can take a blow, no matter how hard is it. - The retail industry took a hit from the low rate of Chinese tourists visiting Hong Kong.
4. cut to the chase This expression here means to go straight to the point. Example sentences: - Let’s cut to the chase. I don’t want to hear all your ramble. Do you want money from me again? - I know you are very straightforward people. I will cut to the chase then. Our company is suffering from a financial crisis. We need to lay a few people off in order to sustain this period of hardship. I hope I have your understanding.
I hope this is helpful!