[IELTS VOCAB] HOBBIES

when it comes to

(phrase) regarding a particular topic or subject

mixed up

(phrasal verb) confused; unable to think clearly

a bit of a bummer

(informal phrase) slightly disappointing or upsetting

put on a brave face

(idiom) pretend to be cheerful or confident despite difficulties

play along

(phrasal verb) pretend to agree or cooperate with others

fit in

(phrasal verb) feel accepted and belong to a group

fear of judgement

(noun phrase) anxiety about being criticized or negatively evaluated

cultural context

(noun phrase) the social and cultural background influencing behavior or ideas

social norms

(noun phrase) accepted standards of behavior in society

cultural interpretations

(noun phrase) different ways people understand things based on culture

carefree

(adjective) relaxed and free from worries

be bogged down

(phrasal verb) become stuck or overwhelmed by difficulties or responsibilities

climb the career ladder

(idiom) progress to higher positions in a job or career

take a toll on

(phrase) have a harmful effect on someone or something

lighten the mood

(phrase) make an atmosphere less serious or tense

break the ice

(idiom) make people feel more comfortable in a social situation

work things out

(phrasal verb) solve problems or reach an agreement

lift sb's spirits

(idiom) make someone feel happier or more hopeful

face discrimination

(phrase) experience unfair treatment because of identity or background

universal languages

(noun phrase) forms of communication understood globally (e.g. music, art)

show sb's affection

(phrase) express love, care, or fondness towards someone

get recognition

(phrase) receive praise, attention, or acknowledgment

pursue a career

(phrase) work towards long-term professional goals

fight tooth and nail

(idiom) fight or compete with great determination

shape our identity

(phrase) influence who we are and how we see ourselves

hit the books

(idiom) study hard, especially for exams