Practical English Guide: Idioms, Slang, and Business Vocabulary

A comprehensive set of flashcards covering idioms, youth slang, and business English terms from the Practical English Guide.

What does the idiom 'Bite the bullet' mean?

To face a difficult situation or do something difficult.

When would someone use the expression 'Break a leg'?

To wish someone good luck, especially in theater or for a project.

What is the meaning of 'Cost an arm and a leg'?

To be extremely expensive.

What does it mean to 'Hit the nail on the head'?

To be exactly right or find the perfect answer/analysis.

How does someone feel if they are 'Under the weather'?

They feel unwell, indisposed, or slightly ill.

What frequency is implied by the phrase 'Once in a blue moon'?

Very rarely or once in a long time.

What does the idiom 'Piece of cake' describe?

Something that is very easy to do.

What does it mean to 'Burn the midnight oil'?

To stay up very late working or studying.

What is the difference between 'Let the cat out of the bag' and 'Spill the beans'?

'Let the cat out of the bag' is to reveal a secret accidentally, while 'Spill the beans' is to reveal a secret deliberately.

What does the slang 'Understood the assignment' mean?

That someone understood perfectly what they needed to do.

How is 'Main character energy' defined in youth slang?

Having high confidence or the attitude of being the protagonist/star of the situation.

In modern slang, what does it mean to 'Spill the tea'?

To share gossip or details about a situation.

What does the phrase 'No cap' mean?

No lie, seriously, or for real.

What is a 'Glow up'?

A notable physical or mental transformation and improvement.

What does the verb 'Ghost' mean in a social context?

To disappear or suddenly stop responding to messages.

What does it mean to 'Slay'?

To do something brilliantly or to look spectacular.

How is the term 'Flex' used as slang?

To show off or boast about achievements or possessions.

What does it mean if something is 'Renting space in my head'?

To be obsessed with something or unable to forget it.

What does it mean to describe a reason or point as 'Valid'?

That it is understandable, acceptable, or logically sound.

In Business English, what does 'Touch base' mean?

To contact someone briefly to get an update on a situation.

What does it mean to 'Circle back' in a corporate setting?

To return to a topic or follow up on a discussion at a later time.

What does it mean to 'Get the ball rolling'?

To set a project in motion or initiate an action.

What are 'Low-hanging fruit' tasks in a professional context?

Goals or tasks that are simple and can be achieved quickly.

What is the meaning of 'Think outside the box'?

To think in a creative and innovative way.

What does it mean for a team to be 'On the same page'?

To be in agreement or in total sync with the team.

What does 'Bandwidth' refer to regarding employee capacity?

The capacity, time, or energy available to take on new work.

What does it mean to 'Bring to the table'?

To contribute value, skills, or resources to a group or project.

What does it mean to be 'In the loop'?

To be informed and included in the decision-making flow.

What is a 'Best practice' in an industry?

The recommended or most efficient method validated by the industry.