Browse Chunks

Reframes emphasis by stating something else (Y) is more important or relevant than previously suggested (X).

It is not so much; as

Be fully understood with emotional impact.

hit home

Expresses uncertainty or lack of understanding without sounding abrupt

I'm not sure I follow

used to clarify or rephrase a statement, especially when the speaker wants to add emphasis or soften an otherwise blunt remark

I mean

used to say that something happened by chance, either good or bad, often with a sense of irony or surprise

As luck would have it

Used to single out one person or thing over all others; particularly.

especially

A detailed examination or analysis of a single instance, event, organization, or phenomenon used to illustrate research findings, demonstrate methods, or provide context.

case study

spend time relaxing with others (social); hang clothes to dry (literal)

hang out

To impose a penalty or consequence on someone specifically because they have committed an offence or behaved badly.

punish; for

A polite formula for breaking into a conversation or activity.

I hate to interrupt, but

In preference to; instead of.

Rather than; than

Adapt to circumstances rather than resisting.

go with the flow

Used to return to a previous topic after an interruption or digression, signaling that the speaker is resuming a thought that was cut off

As I was saying

Introduces an explanation or obstacle, often before a refusal or bad news, signaling a reason for something negative.

the thing is

used to acknowledge a point before expressing a differing view, despite what has been said

Be that as it may

especially; to a greater extent than usual

particularly

A structured set of guidelines used to govern decisions, typically referring to an overarching system or structure within organizations, governments, or NGOs.

policy framework

continue persistently or stubbornly; retain something in position (e.g., clothing, employment).

keep on

to make a formal request or official inquiry, typically submitting paperwork or documentation

apply for

A request to speak privately or briefly, often indicating the speaker needs discretion or wants to address something serious.

Could I have a word?

As an alternative suggestion; used when presenting what should be done rather than something that was actually performed.

Instead of; gerund phrase

Return to the starting point with no progress.

back to square one

Used to express uncertainty when recalling information from memory, indicating potential inaccuracy.

If I remember correctly

used to add a contrasting or qualifying point, often as an afterthought

Mind you

when everything is taken into account; overall

All things considered

Specifically; as a special instance.

In particular

a fundamental rule or idea upon which everything else depends

cornerstone principle

To extinguish a flame or smoke; to cause inconvenience by imposing on someone.

put out

to request a person, thing, or assistance

ask for

Polite way to ask if someone is free for a brief conversation.

Do you have a minute?

Used in formal contexts to express purpose, followed by an infinitive verb.

so as to

Attract the most attention and praise in an event.

steal the show

Expresses a minimal gesture of thanks or duty, conveying a sense of obligation and humility.

The least I can do is; It's the least I can do

used to introduce a contrasting idea while acknowledging a previous point

still

taking something into account; bearing in mind

Considering that

Used to draw attention to an important point.

It is worth noting that

an influential expert recognised for innovative ideas

thought leader

Review or examine something thoroughly, often used for checking work, plans, or exceeding a limit (e.g., time).

go over

to search for or try to find

look for

A very polite and indirect way of making a request.

I was wondering if; could

In order to express purpose; introduces a clause explaining the goal of the preceding action.

so that

A final option to turn to when all other possibilities have been exhausted.

the last resort

A polite way to ask someone to inform or update you when a specific condition occurs, such as a schedule change or status update.

Let me know if

Used to concede a point while maintaining one's position, despite what has been said.

Even so

used to indicate an initial impression or surface appearance while acknowledging that deeper truth might differ

On the face of it

Adds emphatic contrast or additional information, often used in formal writing to stress that both points hold true.

Not only; but also

A system in which outputs influence subsequent inputs, creating a circular cause-and-effect relationship.

feedback loop

to politely refuse an offer or request, or to reduce the volume or temperature of something

turn down

to carefully examine or investigate in order to find something or someone

search for

A polite way to ask someone to do something or to seek permission, literally meaning 'would it trouble you if...?'

Would you mind; if I