Useful English Phrases 4

1. right up one's alley

The phrase means that something is to someone's taste and s/he will like it.

Example sentence:

If you like to relax by an infinity pool and enjoy the sunshine, this five-star resort will be right up your alley.

2. join the bandwagon

This means to join some activity that has been popular.

Example sentence:

I have heard many good reviews about the new Dyson hair dryer. Maybe it's time for me to join the bandwagon and try it out.

3. bucket list

A bucket list is a list of things one plans or wants to do before s/he dies.

Example sentence:

I am sure that travelling around the world is on everyone's bucket list.

4. that/the ship has sailed This phrase means that the opportunity has already passed and you have missed it, or that the situation can no longer be changed.

Example sentence:

I know how much you wanted to go on working holiday, but that ship has sailed. Don't you know that the age requirement is below 30? You have just passed it. You could have had a chance if you had applied a few months ago.

5. from scratch

From scratch means to start or work on something from the very beginning without any external help.

Example sentence:

Isn't he a talented artist? He finished the wooden drawer all by himself from scratch. He started by getting the wood pieces, cutting them, sticking them together and finished it off with polishing the surface.