reviewReviewchevron down
Headway - Intermediate /

Everyday English (Unit 12)

1 / 19
Exit
1-
to bust a gut
2-
all in a day's work
3-
you can say that again
4-
time will tell
5-
after one's own heart
6-
live and learn
7-
live and let live
8-
it takes all sorts to make a world
9-
you win some, you lose some
10-
you learn something new every day
11-
to be all talk (and no action)
12-
the end of the world
13-
to face a (brick) wall
14-
great minds think alike
15-
to have one's feet on the ground
16-
rather somebody than me
17-
never mind
18-
(it is) alright for some
19-
it could have been worse
to [bust] a gut
To bust a gut
[ phrase ]
uk flag
/bˈʌst ɐ ɡˈʌt/
Spelling
Close
Sign in

to try one's best to do or achieve something

example
Example
Click on words
She busted a gut trying to finish the project on time.
The team worked tirelessly and busted a gut to deliver the report on time.
all in a day's work
All in a day's work
[ phrase ]
uk flag
/ˈɔːl ɪn ɐ dˈeɪz wˈɜːk/
Idiom
Informal

something that is a typical or normal part of a person's job

What is the origin of the idiom "all in a day's work" and when to use it?

The idiom "all in a day's work" originated in the world of work and describes a situation or task that is considered routine or typical for a particular person or profession. It can be used to describe a range of scenarios, such as when someone responds to an emergency situation, handles a difficult customer, or completes a challenging project.

you can say that again
You can say that again
[ sentence ]
uk flag
/juː kæn sˈeɪ ðæt ɐɡˈɛn/
Idiom
Informal

used to express one's complete agreement with someone's statement

What is the origin of the idiom "you can say that again" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "you can say that again" is not precisely documented, as it is a common and informal expression used to affirm strong agreement with something that has just been said. It has been in common use for many years as a way to affirm and emphasize agreement.

time will tell
Time will tell
[ sentence ]
uk flag
/tˈaɪm wɪl tˈɛl/
Idiom

used to mean that by passing time it will be proved if something is true, valid, or effective

What is the origin of the idiom "time will tell" and when to use it?

While the exact origin of the idiom "time will tell" is difficult to trace definitively, it can be attributed to the natural progression of language and the common human experience of waiting for the passage of time to reveal outcomes or truths. It is commonly used when there is uncertainty, speculation, or skepticism about the future, allowing for time to provide clarity. This phrase is often used in discussions of relationships, business ventures, investments, or any situation where the final result or consequences are uncertain.

after {one's} own heart
After one's own heart
[ phrase ]
uk flag
/ˈæftɚ wˈʌnz ˈoʊn hˈɑːɹt/
Idiom

used to describe someone or something that perfectly matches one's tastes, values, or preferences

What is the origin of the idiom "after one's own heart" and when to use it?

The idiom "after one's own heart" originated during the Middle Ages in English language usage. It draws upon the metaphorical concept of the heart as the center of one's emotions, desires, and character. The idea behind the expression is that when someone is "after one's own heart," they possess qualities, preferences, or values that resonate deeply with the individual. The idiom is used to describe someone who shares the same qualities, preferences, or values as the person being referred to. It is typically used to express approval, admiration, or affection for the individual. It signifies a strong sense of connection and compatibility based on shared characteristics or beliefs.

Live and learn
[ interjection ]
uk flag
/lˈaɪv ænd lˈɜːn/
Proverb

used to imply that making mistakes is a natural part of the learning process, and that one should not be discouraged by failure but instead use it as an opportunity for growth and improvement

What is the origin of the proverb "live and learn" and when to use it?

The origin of the proverb "live and learn" is uncertain, but it has been used in English-speaking cultures for centuries. This proverb encourages a mindset of resilience and continuous improvement, reminding individuals that every experience, whether successful or not, contributes to wisdom and understanding. It also carries a subtle reminder to embrace challenges and remain open to learning throughout life.

Live and let live
[ sentence ]
uk flag
/lˈaɪv ænd lˈɛt lˈaɪv/
Proverb

used to promote tolerance and acceptance of different lifestyles, opinions, or beliefs

What is the origin of the proverb "live and let live" and when to use it?

The origin of the proverb "live and let live" is unclear, but it has been widely used for centuries to advocate for peaceful coexistence and respect for diverse perspectives. It suggests that people should focus on their own lives while allowing others to live as they see fit, without judgment or interference. This proverb serves as a reminder that mutual respect and understanding are key to maintaining harmony in society.

It takes all sorts to make a world
[ sentence ]
uk flag
/ɪt tˈeɪks ˈɔːl sˈɔːɹts tə mˌeɪk ɐ wˈɜːld/
Proverb

used to imply that diversity and individual differences among people are necessary for the world to function and thrive

What is the origin of the proverb "it takes all sorts to make a world" and when to use it?

The origin of the proverb "it takes all sorts to make a world" is unclear, but it is a sentiment that has been expressed in various forms over the centuries. The saying emphasizes the importance of accepting and appreciating the differences among people, as they bring various strengths and solutions to life's challenges. It serves as a reminder that the world would not progress and succeed without the variety of contributions from all types of people.

You win some, you lose some
[ sentence ]
uk flag
/juː wˈɪn sˌʌm juː lˈuːz sˌʌm/
Proverb

used as a reminder that life is full of successes and failures, and it is important to be resilient and maintain a positive attitude in order to learn and grow from both

What is the origin of the proverb "you win some, you lose some" and when to use it?

The origin of the proverb "you win some, you lose some" is believed to date back to the early 20th century, with its roots in the language of sports and gambling. It highlights the reality that not every effort will result in a victory, but each experience offers something valuable to learn. This proverb serves as a reminder not to become discouraged by setbacks or overly boastful in moments of success. It emphasizes the importance of resilience and maintaining perspective through life's ups and downs.

You learn something new every day
[ sentence ]
uk flag
/juː lˈɜːn sˈʌmθɪŋ nˈuː ˈɛvɹi dˈeɪ/
Proverb

used to say that on any given day, there are opportunities to acquire new knowledge or gain new insights

to [be] all talk (and no action|)
To be all talk (and no action)
[ phrase ]
uk flag
/biː ˈɔːl tˈɔːk ænd nˈoʊ ˈækʃən/
Disapproving
Idiom

used to describe someone who continuously talks about what they are planning to do, but they never do or achieve much

What is the origin of the idiom "be all talk" and when to use it?

The idiom "be all talk" originated from the concept of someone who talks or boasts about doing something but fails to follow through with action. It is used to describe individuals who lack action or substance behind their words, often indicating a tendency to exaggerate or engage in empty talk.

The end of the world
[ phrase ]
uk flag
/ðɪ ˈɛnd ʌvðə wˈɜːld/
Idiom
Informal

a situation that is an absolute disaster or is the worst thing that could possibly happen

What is the origin of the idiom "the end of the world" and when to use it?

The idiom "the end of the world" originates from the idea of a catastrophic event or apocalypse that marks the total destruction of the Earth. It is used to signify a situation that is perceived as an absolute disaster or the worst possible outcome.

to [face|come to|hit] (a|the) (brick|) wall
To face a (brick) wall
[ phrase ]
uk flag
/fˈeɪs ɔːɹ kˈʌm tʊ ɔːɹ hˈɪt ɐ ɔːɹ ðə bɹˈɪk ɔːɹ wˈɔːl/
Idiom
Informal

to reach a point where it is unlikely or too difficult to make any progress

What is the origin of the idiom "a brick wall" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "a brick wall" can be traced back to the early 20th century. It comes from the analogy of running into or hitting one's head against an actual brick wall, which is immovable and impenetrable. In modern usage, it can refer to any situation where a person or group is facing a significant obstacle or challenge that seems insurmountable.

Great minds think alike
[ sentence ]
uk flag
/ɡɹˈeɪt mˈaɪndz θˈɪŋk ɐlˈaɪk/
Proverb

used to suggest that intelligent or creative individuals often come up with similar ideas or solutions, especially when faced with a particular problem or challenge

To have one's feet on the ground
[ phrase ]
uk flag
/hæv kˈiːp wˈʌnz fˈiːt ɑːnðə ɡɹˈaʊnd/
Idiom

to be practical, realistic, and down-to-earth in one's thinking or approach to life

Rather somebody than me
[ sentence ]
uk flag
/ɹˈæðɚ ˌɛsbˈiː ðɐn mˌiː/

used to say that one is feeling relieved or grateful that a situation or fate is happening to someone else instead of oneself

Never mind
[ interjection ]
uk flag
/nˈɛvɚ mˈaɪnd/

used to indicate that something is not worth worrying about or paying attention to

(it is) alright for some
[ sentence ]
uk flag
/ɪt ɪz ɔːlɹˈaɪt fɔːɹ sˌʌm/

used to express jealousy, envy, or resentment towards someone who appears to be in a favorable or privileged situation

It could have been worse
[ sentence ]
uk flag
/ɪt kˌʊdɐv bˌɪn wˈɜːs/

used sarcastically to say that the situation is already quite bad or that the outcome is disappointing, despite the attempt to find a positive spin on it

Congratulations! !

You learned 19 words from Headway Intermediate - Everyday English (Unit 12). To improve learning and review vocabulary, start practicing.

review-disable

Review

flashcard-disable

Flashcards

spelling-disable

Spelling

quiz-disable

Quiz

practice