English Vocabulary for ESL learners
EVERYDAY PHRASES
Short phrases and expressions regularly used in everday conversations.
| After all (considering what has happened) |
“We don’t have to invite them to our wedding. After all, they didn’t invite us! |
| As a matter of fact (actually, in fact) |
“I keep in touch with Carla. As a matter of fact we had lunch together today.” |
| At any rate (anyway, anyhow) | Nobody was aware of the problem. At any rate noone in our department was. |
| By all accounts (from what people say) | I made some enquiries and, by all accounts, this is the best hotel. |
| By no means (not at all) | It's by no means easy to adapt to a new country. |
| By the way (incidentally - I've just thought of something else...) |
By the way, parking is free in the town centre after 7 p.m. |
| Come to think of it (incidentally - I've just realized something ...) |
“Come to think of it, it would be much simpler to pay by bank transfer.” |
| In other words (to put it/to say it another way) |
“I see. In other words you’ll come if Jack can come too – is that it?” |
| If you ask me (If you want my opinion) |
“If you ask me, she’s looking for a compliment!” |
| If all else fails (if nothing else succeeds) |
“If all else fails we can stay here and order a pizza.” |
| So to speak (in a manner of speaking) |
“The new recruit has passed his entry test so to speak.” |
| That reminds me (something (said) makes me think of…) |
“That reminds me … it’s time to start sending out the invitations.” |
| With one thing and another (I’ve had so many things to do) |
“Sorry. With one thing and another I completely forget to call you back.” |
Please note that British English spelling is used on this website.