Conditionals
Conditionals are concerned with what happens when something else happens. They usually have two clauses: a main clause and a subordinate ‘if’ clause. There are four main types of conditionals. They are known as:...
Graham's Grammar Posts
Phrasal verbs
A phrasal verb consists of a verb and a preposition and/or adverb. They are used together to create a new meaning which is often very different from that of the original verb. Some phrasal...
To have a run-in
“To have a run-in” (with someone or something) is to have a disagreement, row, confrontation or argument with them. Examples: She had a run-in with her neighbour about the noise from her television. I’m...
What does “splash out” mean?
“To splash out” is a phrasal verb. It means “to spend a lot of money”. Examples: • It’s his birthday tomorrow so I’ve decided to splash out on a nice meal. • She splashed...
To carry the can
“To carry the can” is an idiom meaning to be blamed or held responsible for something even if you might not be at fault. A person might: choose to carry the can, be forced...
“Incredible” or “incredulous”?
“Incredible” and “incredulous” are similar words that have different meanings. They are often confused, even by native speakers of English. “Incredible” means that something is unbelievable. “Incredulous” means that someone doesn’t believe something. Examples:...
Don’t hold your breath
When you tell someone not to hold their breath, you’re advising them that what they expect or want to happen won’t happen soon, or ever. Examples: I know you want a new dress, but...
Button your lip
“To button your lip” is an idiom meaning to keep quiet about something. Examples: Similar idioms include:
In the sticks
“In the sticks” means in the countryside, in a remote place, or a long way from anywhere else. Examples: I used to live in the city but now I enjoy being in the sticks....
To bang on about
“To bang on about” is an idiom meaning to talk about something continuously, repeatedly and at length. Someone who bangs on about something can often become annoying. Examples: She’s always banging on about her...