Until I started exploring English idioms with the word ‘hand’ I didn’t realise quite how much we use the word in idiomatic phrases and expressions. The word ‘hand’ pops up in so many English idioms (some of which I’ve probably neglected to include!) and quite often, the meaning isn’t as obvious as you’d expect. Amongst other things, we use hand idioms to talk about control, help, fairness, and even sneaky behaviour.
Speaking up in work meetings can be nerve-wracking, especially when English isn't your first language. Maybe you're worried about making mistakes, struggling to find the right words, or feeling like everyone else sounds more fluent. If that sounds familiar, you're not alone. Many people—native and non-native speakers alike—find meetings intimidating. But the good news? Confidence in meetings is a skill you can develop. Here’s how to approach it.
Phrasal verbs are a huge part of everyday English and mastering them can really boost your fluency. So today we’re going to explore 10 common phrasal verbs with ‘play’ that will help you sound more natural and confident when speaking English.
Whether you're playing along with a joke, playing up an achievement, or playing down a mistake, these handy little phrases add richness and depth to your communication. I’ve included clear definitions and real-life examples to help them stick in your mind!
