Idioms and Phrases
(Part 3 of 3)

Never Mind

Never mind cooking dinner for me, will I be home too late?

It's Nothing

No need to thank me. It's nothing.

My Pleasure

It was my pleasure to work with you.

It's a Deal

Sounds good. It's a deal.

Good for Nothing

That guy is good for nothing.

Get a Life

Would you stop bothering me and get a life?

Just Name It

We can do whatever you want, just name it.

It's a Piece of Cake

That test we took was it’s a piece of cake.

It's a Long Story

We used to be friends but it's a long story.

Behave Yourself

Behave yourself when you're at school.

No Sweat

No sweat, it's not that big of a deal.

You Made It Big

You made it big! Your parents will be proud of you.

That's Easier said than done

I want to quit smoking but that's easier said than done.

You Never Know

You never know, he still could change his mind.

Just My Luck

Just my luck, I got a speeding ticket on the way home.

Keep Me in the Loop

Thanks for the update. Keep me in the loop.

* * * End * * *

Idioms and Phrases
(Part 2 of 3)

  

Piece of cake

It's not that difficult. Actually, it's a piece of cake.

Sooner or later

He'll come to his senses sooner or later.

Put oneself in one's place

If you put yourself in my place, you would understand why I did that.

Read between the lines

Abdullah isn't very good at reading between the lines. You have to tell him exactly what you want.

Rings a bell

I can't put my finger on it, but it definitely rings a bell.

Play it by ear

Should we plan something for this Saturday or should we play it by ear?

Speak of the devil

I was at a party last night, and I saw Rehan play the guitar in front of an audience... speaks of the devil, there's Rehan right now.

Take it easy

Take it easy man. You're putting too much pressure on yourself.

Under the weather

My wife is feeling under the weather, so I need to get home early today.

Keep Your Cool

Here she comes, keep your cool.

Good for You

I heard you got married recently, good for you.

Big Deal

He thinks he is such a big deal.

What's going on?

What's going on with your job?

Good Thinking

Good thinking to call ahead and reserve tickets.

Nothing Matters

Nothing matters more than being happy.



  Continuing . . .

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms and Phrases are the set expression of two or more words that means something other than the meaning of its individual words.

Some useful Idioms and Phrases with an explanation or examples: (Part 1 of 3)

Bored to death

I hate it when I'm bored to death

Sick and Tired

I'm sick and tired of eating the same thing for lunch every day.

Call it a day

It's already 9 o'clock. Let's call it a day.

Read one's mind

I was going to suggest that. You must have read my mind.

Get foot in the door

I need to find a way to get my foot in the door.

Make up one's mind

If you don't make up your mind, I'll choose for you.

Throw in the towel

I was ready to throw in the towel, but I stayed with it.

Stay in touch

I hope you stay in touch with me. I'll give you my contact information.

Rain or Shine

I don't care about the weather. I'm going golfing rain or shine.

Easier said than done

Ali thinks everything is so easy. He doesn't realize it's easier said than done.

Keep an eye on

You can keep an eye on my daughter while I go get the car.

Give someone a hand

Are you going to have time to give me a hand tomorrow?

Now and then

It's not something I can do all the time, but I do it every now and then.

Keeping my fingers crossed

Their team is not favored to win. But I hope they do. I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

Over one's head

Don't bother explaining it to him. It's way over one’s his head.

  Continuing . . . 

Matrix Clause

In terms of function, a matrix clause determines the central situation of a sentence.

Example:

The man that the child kicked in the shins winced in pain.

Noun Clause / Nominal Clause

This is a dependent clause that functions as a noun (that is, as a subject, object or complement) within a sentence.

Example:

How do I know what I think, until I see what I say?

Relative clause

A clause that generally modifies a noun or noun phrase and is introduced by a relative pronoun (which, that, who, whom, whose), a relative adverb (where, when, why).

Example:

It is not the employer who pays the wages. Employers only handle the money. It is the customer who pays the wages.

* * * End * * *

CLAUSE  is a Grammatical Unit at a level between a phrase and a sentence.

  

Type of Clauses:

Adjective Clause

An adjective clause usually begins with a ‘Relative Pronoun’ (which, that, who, whom, whose), or a 'Relative Adverb' (where, when, why), after a noun or pronoun.

Example:

 

Anyone who is afraid of doing too much will end up doing too little.

Adverb Clause

An adverb clause begins with a subordinating conjunction (such as if, when, because, or although) and includes a subject and a predicate.

Example:

 

Keep hitting the ball until I tell you to stop.

Comment Clause

A short word group start (such as: you see, I think, I must say, you know etc.) that adds a parenthetical remark to another word group.

Example:

 

I guess / think this will take some thought, but he won’t it.

Comparative Clause

A type of subordinate clause that follows the comparative form of an adjective or adverb and begins as, with as, than, or like.

Example:

 

No other president ever enjoyed the presidency as I did.

Complement Clause

A subordinate clause that serves to complete the meaning of a noun  or verb in a sentence.

Example:

 

He said he was approaching 40, and I couldn't help wondering from what direction.

 

  to be continued . . .
 

 

 

 

PROVERBS are well-known sayings that either refer to common knowledge or give advice. They are phrases that are based on the lessons mankind has learned and are so well-known because they contain truth and can be applied to activities and events in our daily lives.



Common English Proverbs with its Message:




'A fool and his money are soon parted' . . . If someone is foolish or silly, he will lose his money very soon.

'An apple a day keeps the doctor away' . . . If you eat healthy food, you will stay healthy.

'All that glitters is not gold' . . . Be careful not to be fooled by appearances.

'Better safe than sorry' . . . One shouldn’t take unnecessary risks - it is better to be cautious and safe, than to regret something bad that has happened.

'A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush' . . . It is better to keep what you have instead of risking it by trying to get something better.

'Never look a gift horse in the mouth' . . . Looking a gift horse in the mouth.

'Take care of the pence and the pounds will take care of themselves' . . . If you are careful about how you spend your pence or pennies, you won’t have money problems.

'There’s no point crying over split milk' . . . When something has happened, it has happened.

'When in Rome, do as the Romans do' . . . To behave in the same way as those around you.

'Where there is a will, there is a way' . . . Anything is possible when you really want it.

'A spark can start a fire that burns the entire prairie' . . . A small problem can snowball into a huge problem that can cause major damage.

'Fine words butter no parsnips' . . . No amount of talking can replace action.

'A friend in need is a friend indeed' . . . Someone who helps you when you are in trouble is a real friend.

'Necessity is the mother of invention' . . . The need for something forces people to find a way of obtaining it.

'A rising tide lifts all boats' . . . Refers to something that will be helpful to all.

'A stumble may prevent a fall' . . . Correcting a small mistake may help you to avoid making a bigger one.





 



 


 

 
 

 











 

Lesson 22

81. Here's to + (noun)!

'Here's to' is used in a way of celebrating or identifying a person, place, or thing of significance.
It is usually said while toasting someone at dinner, or signaling to someone or something after an event.

Examples:

Here's to your marriage!
Here's to great friends!
Here is to a wonderful day!

82. It's no use + (verb 1st form + ing) + objects

By stating 'it's no use' you are saying that what you or someone else is doing is not recommended or uncalled for.

Examples:

It's no use talking to her.
It's no use arguing about it.
It's no use checking on it yet.

83. There's no way + (subject + verb + objects)

By stating 'there's no way' you are relaying a thought of doubt about an event taking place now or in the future.

Examples:

There's no way you finish on time.
There's no way he can handle the news.
There is no way he missed it.

84. It's very kind of you to + (verb 1st form) + objects

When saying it is 'kind of you' you are saying that what someone has done or said was very appreciated.

Examples:

It's very kind of you to offer me the job.
It's very kind of you to invite us.
It is kind of you to double my salary.

85. Rumor has it that + (subject + verb + objects)

'Rumor has it' is an expression used when suggesting you might have heard something or read about something that is taking place now or in the future.

Examples:

Rumor has it that she cheated on him.
Rumor has it that they are going to get married.
Rumor has it that he will not return.


 Note: This was last lesson of " Learn English with simple Patterns "

Learn to English with Easy Patterns

Lesson-1

Lesson-2

Lesson-3

Lesson-4

Lesson-5

Lesson-6

Lesson-7

Lesson-8

Lesson-9

Lesson-10

Lesson-11

Lesson-12

Lesson-13

Lesson-14

Lesson-15

Lesson-16

Lesson-17

Lesson-18

Lesson-19

Lesson-20

Lesson-21

Lesson-22

Lesson 21

77. Let's not + (verb 1st form) + objects

Here you are requesting that something not take place at this moment or that what is happening needs to be contained or lessened. The word 'let's' is formed from the words 'let us.'

Examples:

Let's not stay here too long.
Let us not worry too much.
Let us not interrupt them when two elders are talking.

78. Let's say that + (subject + verb + objects)

You are suggesting to someone that you should both agree on what you will communicate to someone else. The word 'let's' is formed from the words 'let us.'

Examples:

Let's say that we had a good time.
Let's say that we have to go.
Let's say that the tour was really good.

79. There's no need to + (verb)

The word 'there's' is a contraction of the words ' there is ' or ' there has.'
When expressing 'no need' you are stating that the action does not need to take place.

Examples:

There's no need to talk now.
There is no need to run away.
There's no need to be upset.

80. Please make sure that + (subject + verb + objects)

In this pattern, you are asking someone to make sure that a particular thing happens or takes place.

Examples:

Please make sure that she wakes up on time.
Please make sure that dinner is ready when we get home.
Please make sure that we leave on time.



   to be continued . . .

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Lesson 20

73. How much does it cost to + (verb 1st form) + objects ?

You are simply asking how much you would need to pay to do something.

Examples:

How much does it cost to play a round of golf ?
How much does it cost to repair my shoes?
How much would it cost to rent a car?

74. How come + (subject + verb + objects) ?

When using 'how come' you are asking why a particular thing has or had to take place.

Examples:

How come you are so upset?
How come you stayed out so late?
How come you always question me?

75. What are the chances of + (verb 1st form + ing) + object ?

By asking ' what are the chances of ' you are wondering how often or in what case would a particular thing happen.

Examples:

What are the chances of that happening?
What are the chances of it raining today?

 If you replacing the word 'the' with 'your' or 'our' (in above pattern), you can ask what the chances 'personally' that the topic will happen.

Examples:

What are your chances of you staying home today?
What are our chances of working together?
What are your chances of getting the job?

76. There is something wrong with + (a subject + noun)

You are informing someone that there is something ' not right ' or ' out of the ordinary '.

Examples:

There is something wrong with my laptop.
There is something wrong with your way of thinking.
There is something wrong with our relationship.



   to be continued . . .

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Lesson 19

69. The point is that + (subject + verb + objects)

By the stating 'the point is that' you are stating in your opinion the meaning about what is actually happening.

Examples:

The point is that he does not understand the situation.
The point is that snakes can be dangerous.
The point is that we need to work together.

70. How was + (subject + a noun + objects)?

By using the words ' how was ' you are asking someone a question about something that happened or something they did in the past.

Examples:

How was your doctor's appointment?
How were your parents?
How were people acting after what happened?

71. How about + (verb 1st form + ing) + objects ?

You're asking someone their opinion on something or if they would like to do something.

Examples:

How about folding the laundry for me?
How about exploring new ideas?
How about comparing prices before we buy it?

72. What if + (a subject + verb 2nd form) + objects ?

Here you are asking a question about 'in the event of' or 'in the event that.' Usually you are looking for an answer at the time of the question that is being asked.

Examples:

What if I were late to dinner?
What if I called her tomorrow?
What if we introduced ourselves first?



   to be continued . . .

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Lesson 18

66. It looks like + (noun)

You could be describing how something is similar or appears to be by the way it looks.

Examples:

It looks like a balloon.
It looks like a jellyfish.

 You can use this pattern, 'it looks like' to describe something that might be (sense) in the future.

Examples:

It looks like it's going to rain.
It looks like it's going to be a long day.

 You can also use it to describe something in the present tense.

Examples:

It looks like they are all to leaving.
It looks like he is lost everything.

67. That's why + (subject + verb + objects)

Here you are telling someone 'because of this' or 'therefore.'
' That's ' is short for ' that is.'

Examples:

That's why you fail to understand.
That's why people admire you.
That is why you lock your doors when you leave home.

68. It's time to + (verb 1st form) + objects

You are letting someone know that something is required to be done at / in the present time.

Examples:

It's time to collect our money.
It's time to change the clocks.
It's time to join a cricket club.



   to be continued . . .

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Lesson 17

62. What do you think about + (verb 1st form + ing) + objects ?

This pattern tell the question asks someone their opinion about a topic.

Examples:

What do you think about working overtime next day?
What do you think about staying here another day?
What do you think about living in a new city?

63. It's too bad that +  a subject + objects

' Too bad ' means regrettable or unfortunate. When using it in a sentence you are expressing a concern or regret for what has taken place. The topic being discussed could have happened to you, the person you are talking to, or someone or something else.

Examples:

It's too bad that you have to go.
It's too bad that it is supposed to rain.
It's too bad that you do not understand.

64. You could have + (verb 3rd form) + objects

Using 'could have', you are speaking about something that was, should be or would be. You are stating that they had other options that could have been chosen.

Examples:

You could have blown your chance.
You could have given me more time to get ready.
You could have thought of something to do.

65. If I were you, I would + (verb 1st form) + objects

In this pattern, you are giving an example of what decision YOU would do given the circumstances. This can be in past tense or in a conditional present.

Examples:

If I were you, I would enjoy my vacation.
If I were you, I would continue working until it is done.
If I were you, I would answer the question.

 If you use 'have' after the word 'would', you are talking about something in the past tense.
So, the above pattern is changed to as:

If I were you, I would have + (verb 3rd form) + objects

Examples:

If I were you, I would have enjoyed my vacation.
If I were you, I would have answered the question.


  to be continued . . .

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Lesson 16

58. Do you like + (verb 1st form + ing) + objects ?

With this question you are asking someone what they prefer.

Examples:

Do you like watching baseball on TV?
Do you like spending time with me?
Do you like jogging with me?

59. How often do you + (verb 1st form) + objects ?

When asking this question you are inquiring how often or how frequent someone does a particular thing.

Examples:

How often do you help out at school?
How often do you receive your magazine in the mail?
How often do you change your password?

60. Do you want me to + (verb 1st form) + objects ?

To 'want' is to feel or have a desire for. When saying 'Do you want me to' you're asking someone if there is anything you can do for them or assist them with.

Examples:

Do you want me to fix your flat tire?
Do you want me to remind you?
Do you want me to pick up the kids?

61. I want to be + (adjective) + objects

The word ' want to be ' can be used to express something you would like someone else to do or that something you personally would enjoy.

Examples:

I want to be better at swimming.
I want to be more involved in this matter.
She want to be fine in math.



  to be continued . . .

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Lesson 15

54. You'd better + (verb 1st form) + objects

' You'd ' is a contraction of 'you had' or 'you would.' You are making a suggestion to someone for a particular action.

Examples:

You'd better invite your big brother.
You had better not come home late.
You would do well at Chemistry.

55. Are you into + (verb 1st form + ing) + objects ?

Here you are asking a question about an interest they might have or something they might enjoy doing.

Examples:

Are you into playing games?
Are you into fixing cars?
Are you into trying new things?

56. Are you trying to + (verb 1st form) + objects ?

You are asking someone if they are attempting to do something. This can be something physically.

Examples:

Are you trying to offer your help?
Are you trying to remember her name?
Are you trying to manage your money?

57. Don't + (verb 1st form) + objects

The word 'don't' is a contraction of the words 'do not.' It is said to convey a message of what NOT should be done.

Examples:

Don't allow this to happen.
Don't cause any more trouble.
Do not arrive late for your meeting.



  to be continued . . .

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Lesson 14

50. I wish I could + (verb 1st form) + objects

You are expressing a desire to do something.

Examples:

I wish I could remember his name.
I wish I could write better.
I wish I could own my own business.

51. You should + (verb 1st form) + objects 

In this pattern, you are suggesting an obligation or duty that needs to take place either now or in the near future.

Examples:

You should do your homework before going outside.
You should stop smoking.
You should trust what they say.

52. You're supposed to + (verb 1st form) + objects

'You're' is a contraction of the words 'you are.' When using 'You're' with the words 'supposed to' you are making a suggestion that something you strongly believe ought to happen.

Examples:

You're supposed to let me know when you leave.
You're supposed to return the movies you rent on time.
You are supposed to invite all your friends.

53.  You seem + (an adjective) + objects

When stating 'you seem' you're referring to the person you are talking to and expressing that they are giving the impression of or appear to be.

Examples:

You seem unhappy with the results.
You seem confused about the rules of the game.
You seem embarrassed about what happened.



   to be continued . . .

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Lesson 13

46. I'm not sure if (a subject) + verb + objects

' I'm not sure ' expresses a feeling of uncertainty or lack of confidence on a particular matter.

Examples:

I'm not sure if she'll return my call.
I'm not sure if I understand your question.
I am not sure if they will offer me the job.

47. Do you mind if I + (verb 1st form) + objects ?

You are asking someone in present tense if they object to something you are asking.

Examples:

Do you mind if I ask your father ?
Do you mind if I excuse myself ?

You could also use the word ' would ' instead of ' Do '

Examples:

Would you mind if we went out to eat?
Would you mind if I opened the window?

48. I don't know what to + (verb 1st form) + objects

You are letting someone know that you are not sure about what is being asked. When you may also have no knowledge or opinion on a topic.

Examples:

I don't know what to buy you for your birthday.
I do not know what to do to make you happy.
I don't know what to say.

49. I should have + (verb 3rd form) + objects

'Should' is the past tense of the word 'shall.' When using the words 'should have' you are talking about something in the past that you 'ought to' or 'might have' done.

Examples:

I should have studied more for my test.
I should have eaten breakfast this morning.
I should have listened to your advice.



   to be continued . . .

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Lesson 12

42. Let me + (verb 1st form) + objects

' Let me ' is suggesting that you are asking for permission or an opportunity to do something.

Examples:

Let me offer to help you.
Let me welcome you to the neighborhood.
Let me open the door for you.

43. Thank you for + (verb 1st form + ing) + objects

Saying 'thank you' is telling someone you appreciate what they have done. This can either be something they did for you or for someone else.

Examples:

Thank you for helping me move.
Thank you for working so hard.
Thank you for informing me about the job opening.

44. Can I + (verb 1st form) + objects ?

When ending a sentence with a question mark (?) you are asking the person or people you are talking to a question for which you would like an answer. Here you are asking permission to do a particular action.

Examples:

Can I attend the event?
Can I help you with your homework?
Can I introduce you to my co-workers?

45. Can I get + (noun) + objects ?

The phrase 'Can I get' can be used in a couple different ways. You can use it to ask a question.

Examples:

Can I get a cup of water?
Can I get sugar in my coffee? 

You can also use it when offering to help someone or do something for them.

Examples:

Can I recommend a good place to eat?
Can I help you finish your project?
Can I recommend a cup of water?



 
  to be continued . . .

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Lesson 11

39. I think I should + (verb 1st form) + objects

In this pattern, you are telling someone that you feel strongly about doing a particular action.

Examples:

I think I should practice my reading.
I think I should join a study group.
I think I should explain myself.

  By adding the word ' don't or do not ' you have changed what you are conveying from something you are thinking of doing, to something you are against.

Examples:

I do not think I should decide until later.
I don't think I should attend that event.
I do not think I should explain myself.

40. I've heard that + (a subject) + verb + objects

You are letting someone know that you are aware of something or that you have been informed of something that is taking place. This could be something that has already happened or something happening in the near future. 

' I've ' is a contraction of the words ' I have '

Examples:

I've heard that you want to leave your job.
I've heard that you fix computers.
I have heard that there is no school next week.

41. It occurred to me that + (a subject) + verb + objects

The word 'occurred' informs someone that something has come to mind or has been found.
You are letting someone know that you suddenly have thought or remembered about something.

Examples:

It occurred to me that I forgot your birthday.
It occurred to me the / that price for homes are more expensive here.
It occurred to me that eating healthy makes me feel better.

  In above, using the word ' had or has ' can change what you are saying to represent something remembered in a past time. 

Examples:

It has occurred to me I forgot my daughter's birthday.
It had occurred to me I might need to change my email ID.



   to be continued . . .

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Lesson 10

35. I'm dying to + (verb 1st form) + objects

When using the word 'dying' in this manner you are referring to wanting or desiring to something greatly.

Examples:

I'm dying to pick some fresh fruit.
I'm dying to find out if I got the job.
I'm dying to move to a bigger house.

36. It's my turn to + (verb 1st form) + objects

The word 'It's' is a contraction of the words 'it is.' When stating 'my turn' you are telling someone that it is time to change position or position focuses on to you.

Examples:

It's my turn to walk you home.
It's my turn to choose where we eat.
It is my turn to provide an answer.

37. It's hard for me to + (verb 1st form) + objects

When saying that something is 'hard for me' you are informing someone that what you are talking about is difficult or challenging for you.

Examples:

It's hard for me to accept what you are telling me.
It's hard for me to balance my check book.
It's hard for me to depend on you.

38. I'm having a hard time + (verb 1st form + ing) + objects

By stating you are having a hard time you are letting someone know you are having difficulty with something. This could be something physical or mental and something that could be overcome with effort.

Examples:

I'm having a hard time writing.
I'm having a hard time understanding you.
I'm having a hard time answering your question.

  With the addition of an adverb you can express in more detail just how difficult something is for you.

Examples:

I'm having an extremely hard time trusting you.
I'm having an extremely hard time with my wife.
I'm having a very hard time finding a job.




  to be continued . . .

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Lesson 9

31. I'm working on + objects

'I'm' is a contraction for the words 'I am.' The phrase 'working on' relays a physical or mental effort towards an accomplishment.

Examples:

I'm working on a big project.
I'm working on my website.
I'm working on educating myself.

32. I'm sorry to + (verb 1st form) + objects

Saying you are 'sorry to' expresses a feeling of sympathy or regret.

Examples:

I'm sorry to be so late.
I'm sorry to hear about your sick mother.
I'm sorry to waste your time.

33. I'm thinking of + (verb 1st form + ing) + objects

'Thinking' refers to a process of thought, forming an opinion or judgment. When expressing ' I am thinking of ' you are letting someone know what you are personally thinking.

Examples:

I'm thinking of increasing my work load.
I am thinking of introducing myself to him.
I'm thinking of launching a new website.

34. I'll help you + (verb 1st form) + objects

This lets you inform someone that you are willing to provide assistance. This could refer to something physical or mental, like helping someone to 'think' or 'remember' something.

Examples:

I'll help you cook dinner tonight.
I'll help you raise money for your charity.
I will help you register for your class online.


  to be continued . . .

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Lesson 8

27. I'm here to + (verb 1st form) + objects

You are informing someone that you are at a particular place to accomplish something.

Examples:

I'm here to apply for the job.
I'm here to take a test.
I'm here to receive my gift.

28.  I have something to + (verb 1st form) + objects

When using the expression 'I have something' you are communicating that you possess something or need to do something that is unspecified or undetermined.

Examples:

I have something to complete. 
I have something to share with you.
I have something important to tell you.

29. I'm looking forward to + (verb 1st form + ing) + objects

When telling someone that you are 'looking forward to' you are saying that you are waiting or hoping for something, especially with pleasure.

Examples:

I'm looking forward to meeting you.
I'm looking forward to talking with you.
I'm looking forward to spending time with my family.

30. I'm calling to + (verb 1st form) + objects

When using the words 'I'm calling' you are stating that you are actually using the phone to call and relay information.

Examples:

I'm calling to accept your invitation.
I'm calling to answer your question.
I'm calling to support your decision.



  to be continued . . .

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