B1–B2 English Vocabulary: Habits, Media, and Opinions

Comprehensive vocabulary flashcards covering B1–B2 English expressions for habits and frequency, descriptive terms for films, books, and music, and polite opinion-sharing phrases.

tend to

To regularly or usually behave in a particular way; to have a natural disposition or tendency toward something.

used to

A phrase used to describe past habits, routines, or states that were true in the past but no longer occur in the present.

would (I'd)

A modal verb structure used to describe repeated habitual actions or typical behavior in the past.

now and again

A frequency expression meaning occasionally or from time to time.

as a rule

A frequency idiom meaning usually, generally, or in most normal circumstances.

once in a while

An idiom indicating that something happens infrequently or only on rare occasions.

be glued to

To look at something with complete and undivided attention, such as watching a screen without looking away.

be addicted to

To be compulsively dependent on or unable to stop engaging with an activity, habit, or media.

be into something

To be strongly interested in, enthusiastic about, or deeply involved with a specific hobby or subject.

gripping

Holding one's interest and attention completely; so exciting that you cannot stop watching or reading.

catchy

Instantly memorable, appealing, and easy to recall (especially describing a melody or tune).

hilarious

Extremely funny and provoking loud laughter.

moving

Evoking strong emotional feelings such as sadness, sympathy, or tenderness.

disturbing

Causing emotional distress, worry, discomfort, or shock.

thought-provoking

Stimulating deep reflection, serious thoughts, or debate about important themes.

over-the-top

Exaggerated, excessive, or too extreme to feel believable or realistic.

low-budget

Produced with a limited or minimal amount of financial investment.

compelling

Captivating and convincing; commanding attention through sheer fascination or narrative power.

immersive

Creating an all-encompassing experience that fully absorbs the audience into its world or environment.

suspenseful

Full of anticipation, uncertainty, and nervous excitement about what will occur next.

heartwarming

Inspiring feelings of genuine happiness, comfort, and emotional warmth.

haunting

Poignantly beautiful, sad, or eerie in a way that lingers long in the memory.

underwhelming

Disappointing; failing to meet expectations or create an impressive impact.

overrated

Regarded as better, more successful, or more important than it truly deserves to be.

underrated

Not given the praise, recognition, or high rating that it genuinely deserves.

character-driven

A narrative focused predominantly on the depth, psychology, and personal evolution of its characters.

plot-driven

A narrative focused on external events, rapid pacing, and action rather than character psychology.

character development

The psychological, emotional, and moral growth or change of a character throughout a story.

plot twist

An unexpected, radical shift in the direction or outcome of the narrative.

cliffhanger

A dramatic ending to an episode or chapter that leaves characters in a precarious situation and the audience in suspense.

page-turner

A book whose plot is so engrossing that the reader feels compelled to keep reading quickly.

pacing

The rhythm and speed at which the plot and scenes of a narrative unfold.

soundtrack

The collected musical score and recorded songs accompanying a film, series, or video game.

upbeat

Cheerful, lively, energetic, and optimistic (commonly used to describe music).

mellow

Smooth, soft, gentle, and pleasantly relaxed (commonly used to describe musical tone).

atmospheric

Evoking a distinct, immersive emotional tone, mood, or ambiance.

a must-read

A literary work so exceptional or essential that it is strongly recommended for everyone to read.

a must-watch

A film, television series, or broadcast that is essential viewing due to its exceptional quality.

to be honest

A conversational phrase used to signal candid, sincere opinion, often when offering criticism.

for my liking

A phrase used to qualify an opinion according to individual taste, often indicating an excess of a certain trait.

I'm not that keen on

A polite, understated way to express that one does not particularly like or enjoy something.

it's not really my kind of thing

A diplomatic expression indicating that a genre, style, or activity does not appeal to one's personal tastes.

it didn't do much for me

An informal statement signifying that a piece of media or work failed to make an impression or evoke an emotional response.

I don't really get the hype

A critical phrase indicating that one does not understand why something is receiving extensive widespread praise or excitement.