I was using the phrase “suit yourself” quite often since the equivalent in my native language it is a legitimate way to express “do whatever you consider the best.” However, when I used this phrase in a dialogue with a person from UK, I was told that it is quite impolite. I goggled the phrase … Read more
Is there a difference between the phrase I have no clue… and I haven’t a clue… as well as I am clueless… For instance if someone said: What is wrong with this? Which of these could be used to answer? Answer I’m not a fan of Ngrams, so my answer is based on personal opinion … Read more
In the song, Last Christmas, I heard the phrase “But the very next day.” I’m not sure what it was supposed to mean, but from context I guess it’s the day after Christmas Is it grammatically correct to say “very next”? Something is next or is not next. Can something be ‘more next’ that something … Read more
From time to time I hear the phrase rain check. For instance I have to take a rain check on that. I would say that means I have to get back to you on that issue. How do I use that phrase? What does it mean? Where does it come from? I always think while … Read more
I have heard the phrase ‘I am in’ or ‘I am absolutely in’ (and similar variations) several times. As I understand it, it means I agree with the idea and I will join you in your efforts. Recently, I wanted to use this phrase in a written form and I thought perhaps my understanding was … Read more
Some time ago I was told that use of the expression bunch of people is incorrect. Apparently, bunch should not be used along with people meaning group of people. But the problem is that I can hear that expression from lots of people, especially non-native English speakers. Can you please explain whether bunch of people … Read more
