This time, we'll introduce a few simple English phrases to use when you want to reduce or avoid attention you receive. Then we'll wrap up with some useful vocabulary and a short list of quotes related to modesty.

What Is Modesty?

Merriam-Webster defines modesty as "the quality of not being too proud or confident about yourself or your abilities." Basically, modest people do not brag about themselves, what they have or what they can do.

If you want to sound modest when speaking English, try using one of the following phrases in the appropriate situations.

Common Modesty Phrases

I dabble.

“Dabble” is an informal word that means "to do something lightly or not seriously." It’s often used when someone wants to suggest that they aren't very skilled at something — even if that isn't always true.

I dabble in photography, but I’m not great at it.

A

Do you cook?

B

Well, I dabble.

You’re too kind.

You can use this short phrase after receiving a compliment. It has a slightly formal feeling and is sometimes said in a joking way.

A

You look great tonight.

B

Oh, you’re too kind.

Thank you for the applause, everyone. You're too kind.

I do OK. / I’m comfortable.

These phrases are common when someone wants to avoid speaking about money or salaries directly.

A

Do you make a lot of money at your new job?

B

I do OK.

My small business isn't making me rich, but my wife and I are comfortable.

It’s nothing (really).

This is a classic modest response to praise. But be careful: The other person may interpret it as you saying something was easy for you to do — which can make you seem arrogant!

Adding “really” helps this to sound more modest.

A

Your piano performance was excellent.

B

Thank you, but it was nothing, really.

You can also use this phrase when someone thanks you for something you've done for them. In this case, the meaning is closer to "No problem" or "It's no big deal."

A

Thanks for helping me move this sofa upstairs. I couldn't have done it alone!

B

It's nothing. I was happy to do it.

Remember that while these phrases are useful for sounding modest, your body language, facial expressions and tone of voice also communicate to the people around you. If you use these phrases with no feeling, it may seem like false modesty, so use them carefully.

Other Vocabulary Related to Modesty

Modest

"Modest" isn't only for describing people; we also use it to talk about things that aren't flashy or luxurious.

They have a cozy, modest home on the edge of the town.

Jesse has a modest sense of style, so she doesn't wear bright clothes or wild designs.

Humble

"Humble" is an adjective meaning "not thinking too highly of one's own achievements, qualities, etc."

Even after a long and successful career, she has remained humble.

The noun form is "humility."

Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it's thinking of yourself less.

-C.S. Lewis (UK writer and scholar)

Down-to-earth / Grounded

These terms are often used to describe someone who thinks practically and realistically. But they're also useful for talking about people who are modest despite their success.

He was down-to-earth and very easy to talk to.

It's rare to meet celebrities who are still grounded even after years in the entertainment industry.

Play up/down

When you "play something up," you try to enhance its appeal or make it seem more interesting. For example, companies want to play up their products to customers, and politicians want to play up themselves to voters.

The politician took advantage of the opportunity to play himself up in front of the TV cameras.

The opposite of this expression is “play down," which is to make something seem less important than it actually may be.

Although he’s very successful, he always tries to play down his achievements. 

It can be used for modesty but also for information people want to keep secret.

After winning the lottery, Joe tried to play down how much his life had changed.

Quotes on Modesty

We’ll end this article by sharing a few related quotes from well-known or historical people. We hope you find something useful and interesting here!

"It’s far more impressive when others discover your good qualities without your help."

-Judith Martin (US writer and etiquette expert)

"He who speaks without modesty will find it difficult to make his words good."

-Confucius (Chinese philosopher)

"Modesty should be typical of the success of a champion."

-Major Taylor (US cyclist and writer)

"False modesty can be worse than arrogance."

-David Mitchell (UK novelist and screenwriter)

"Modesty and unselfishness: These are the virtues which men praise — and pass by."

-André Maurois (French author)

Wrap-up

Modesty is a tricky thing: Having either too much or too little of it can be negative. Regardless, hopefully this article has prepared you to speak about it with a little more confidence — but not too much!

Want to practice? Try these words and expressions out in a private lesson with an Engoo tutor!

The post "It's Nothing, Really": How to Sound Modest in English 😌 appeared first on Engoo Blog.

This article will introduce 11 that all English learners should know. Let's begin! 

Famous Names That Became Common Words

Einstein

Albert Einstein was a physicist from Germany who became world famous because of his scientific theories. 

Today, an "Einstein" is a genius or very intelligent person. 

You should ask Ron. He's a real Einstein when it comes to programming.

Scrooge

Ebenezer Scrooge is the main character of the 1843 novel A Christmas Carol, written by Charles Dickens. 

Scrooge begins the story as a cold-hearted businessman who only cares about money. That's why a "Scrooge" today is someone who isn't generous or friendly, especially during the Christmas season. 

Ben used to be a real Scrooge, but he offered to pay for everyone's lunch today. He's really changed!

Grinch

The Grinch is the main character in Dr. Seuss' 1957 children's story How the Grinch Stole Christmas. He's a fuzzy green monster who hates Christmas so much that he takes all the toys and decorations away from a town called Whoville.

Grinches are similar to Scrooges, but there's one big difference: A Scrooge might be greedy, hate Christmas or both, but a Grinch simply hates Christmas — there is no connection to money.

Janet is such a Grinch. She never comes to any holiday parties.

Romeo

Shakespeare's famous tragedy Romeo & Juliet is about a couple who fall in love while their families are at war — and it shows how far people will go for love.

Today, a "Romeo" is a man who is in love and perhaps has lost control of himself because of it. It's often used sarcastically, as in the following example:

A

She's the girl of my dreams…

B

Calm down, Romeo. You've only been on one date with her!

This isn't the only way "Romeo" is used, however. Sometimes its meaning is similar to the next name on our list.

Don Juan

The fictional character Don Juan first appeared in written stories in the 1600s. He's famous for being a womanizer, or someone who has casual sexual relationships with many different women.

While "Romeo" sometimes refers to a playboy, that nuance is much stronger with "Don Juan."

Kerry's a bit of a Don Juan. He's with a different woman every time I see him.

Hercules

Hercules is a legendary character from Roman mythology, famous for his amazing strength. Just like some other names on this list, he's appeared in many books and films throughout the years. 

Naturally, calling someone "Hercules" today means they're very strong.

I exercise only to keep healthy; I don't need big muscles like Hercules.

Sherlock Holmes

The brilliant detective Sherlock Holmes is the main character of a series of books by British author Arthur Conan Doyle. 

Holmes is very good at noticing small details that most people miss. This skill helps him solve difficult and mysterious criminal cases around England.

Calling someone "Sherlock" today is like complimenting them on their cleverness or ability to quickly solve problems. But it's often said as a joke when someone does not seem very intelligent.

A

I think we're lost.

B

Great job, Sherlock. We've been lost for the last 30 minutes!

Houdini

Harry Houdini was a famous illusionist, a special kind of magician who tricks the eyes of the audience. In some of his most famous performances, he escaped from locked boxes and underwater containers while being tied with rope or handcuffs.

When we call someone "Houdini" today, it's because they too are good at escaping difficult situations or because they have disappeared suddenly — like magic!

Let's do a Houdini and get out of here before they see us!

Barbie

Barbie is an American fashion doll created by Ruth Handler and first released in 1959. Since then, she has become an icon and a favorite toy for generations of girls.

But although she has many fans, others criticize Barbie; they say she isn't intelligent and has an unrealistic body, which could be harmful to girls who compare themselves to her.

These negative points are what people refer to when they call someone a "Barbie." Typically, it's a woman who is beautiful but shallow.

People treat her like a Barbie, so she works extra hard to prove that she isn't.

Barbie's boyfriend Ken often receives the same criticisms as Barbie. So a Barbie and Ken couple are seen as "perfect" in a fake way.

Ugh, those two are like Barbie and Ken in their Instagram posts. I can't stand it.

Rambo

John Rambo is the main character in a series of action films that started in the 1980s. He is a tough, deadly soldier who can complete extremely dangerous missions by himself.

A strong, violent person might be called "Rambo," but you may also hear it used sarcastically, so listen carefully to understand the nuance. 

Mark tries to act like he's Rambo, but he's not so tough.

Frankenstein

In Mary Shelley's 1818 novel Frankenstein, Dr. Victor Frankenstein builds a man from the parts of dead bodies. When his creation comes alive, it begins a horrible series of events that affect everyone around him.

Although the monster doesn't have a name in the story, it's often called "Frankenstein's monster" or simply "Frankenstein." 

We use this name today in two different ways. 

1. (noun) • a creation that becomes dangerous to its creator

Some people are worried that AI will become a Frankenstein's monster that we can't control. 

2. (verb) • to make something from the parts of other things

I Frankenstein'd this radio out of some old equipment I found in my garage.

You may also hear "Franken-" as a prefix referring to something created from other things, as in the example below.

I had lots of different ingredients in my refrigerator, so I put them all into the pot and made a Franken-stew! Want to try it?

Wrap-up

Most people in English-speaking countries will know these names even if they don't know details about the people behind them.

For English learners, using them will add color to your conversations and make you sound much more like a native speaker, so be sure to give them a try!

The post 11 Names That Became Common English Words appeared first on Engoo Blog.

Mastering this powerful word is important for English fluency, so this article will introduce the many uses of "thing" and give you some example sentences to use as a guide.

Ways to Use "Thing"

A "thing" can be:

A physical object

Use "thing" to talk about something you can see and touch.

What's that thing over there?

I can't lift these heavy things on my own. Can you help me?

An idea or concept

Ideas with no physical form can also be called "things."

The new CEO has some big things planned for the company.

"Things" here refers to plans. You can't see or touch plans, but they're still things!

I have a lot of things on my mind right now.

In this sentence, "things" might be anxiety about a test or confusion over a problem.

An activity

I did a lot of things on my vacation, but I mostly just took it easy.

There aren't many things to do in this town.

Like ~ / Similar to ~

"Thing" can be used casually to say that the subject of a sentence is similar or related to something else.

A

What's this?

B

It's a massage thing for my back.

In the dialogue above, instead of specifically saying what the item is, B simply says that it's related to massages. This usage is common for communicating ideas quickly without giving detailed information.

When speaking casually, people sometimes say "thingy" instead of "thing."

Could you pass me that blue thingy over there, please?

There's also the strange word "thingamajig"! This is only used in very casual contexts.

"Thingamajig" usually refers to a machine or device that is difficult to explain.

John is an inventor, so he has strange thingamajigs all over his workspace.

Related article: The Longest English Words That Actually Exist — What Do They Mean?

Idioms With "Thing"

Next, let's look at some idioms that use "thing." There are quite a few!

The thing is … / Here's the thing …

This expression means "Actually ~" and is often used to introduce information, especially if that information is sensitive or unfortunate.

A

Why didn't you join us for the movie last night?

B

The thing is, I had an urgent project to finish at work.

A

Are you coming to the party tonight?

B

Well, here's the thing … I promised my grandmother that I would help her clean her house.

A thing or two

This is a casual way to talk about knowledge or experience. 

Jeff knows a thing or two about motorcycles.

I know a thing or two about Jazz music.

Have a thing for

If you "have a thing" for something or someone, it means you like it/them.

Jess has a thing for Italian food.

I think he's got a thing for Millie.

Related article: 7 Alternatives for "Love" to Use on Valentine's Day

Do one's own thing

This idiom expresses the attitude of doing what you want without worrying about the opinions of others. Depending on the situation, it can have a positive or a negative nuance.

Troy always does his own thing, and it frustrates his teammates.

I admire her for having the courage to do her own thing.

Sure thing

This is an informal way of saying "Of course."

A

Can you help me move these boxes upstairs, please?

B

Sure thing. I'll take some up now.

My thing / Our thing

This refers to something that you are good at or that you enjoy.

A

Are you joining us for the hiking trip next week?

B

Thanks for the invitation, but hiking isn't really my thing.

Related article: 5 Tips on Saying "No" to Invitations in the Nicest Way Possible

"Our thing" refers to a regular activity that people share.

A

Remember how we used to go to the movies every Friday?

B

Yeah, that was our thing back in college.

Additional Uses of "Thing"

A trend or fad

If something is "a thing," it's very popular. Don't forget the "a"!

Podcasting has really become a thing in the past few years. There are so many shows to choose from.

It can also mean that something is common.

Unlike in many Western countries, tipping isn't a thing in Japan.

A romantic relationship

If a couple are in a relationship, you can say they are "a thing."

A

Are those two a thing now?

B

Yeah, they've been dating since the summer.

Wrap-up

Did you know that "thing" could be used in so many ways?  

Focus on mastering one usage at a time and you'll gradually get used to using them all naturally. If you'd like some practice, try them out in a one-on-one lesson with an Engoo tutor!

To learn more uses for simple vocabulary, check out our post all about super English words.

The post How Many Ways Can You Use "Thing"? appeared first on Engoo Blog.

In this article, we'll explore some useful phrasal verbs and idioms using "run." Let's go!

Phrasal Verbs With "Run"

Run low on ~

When your supply of an item or resource is almost gone, you're "running low on it." You can use this phrasal verb to talk about both literal and figurative things.

We're running low on gas, so let's stop at the next gas station we see.

Our client is running low on patience; we need to finish this project soon.

Run out of ~

If a resource is completely gone and there's no more of it, you've "run out" of it.

I ran out of time before I could answer every question on the test.

Make sure you have your credit cards in case you run out of cash.

Run across

When you "run across" something, you notice it even though you weren't searching for it.

I was shopping for pants, but I ran across some nice shirts for a good price.

Run by/past (someone)

You "run something by" (or "past") someone when you ask for their opinion or to get their approval.

We need to run this by our manager before we can approve the project.

If I want to make a big purchase, I always run it by my wife first.

Run into 

Meaning 1: to meet someone by chance or without a plan

I ran into an old friend from high school this afternoon. We haven't seen each other in years!

Meaning 2: to hit, to collide with

The car lost control and ran into a pole on the side of the road.

Run along

"Run along" is used in the imperative form to tell someone to leave.

Note that this is normally only said to children; saying it to an adult would be very rude.

Run along and play outside, kids. We'll come get you when it's time to go.

Run around with

This casual phrasal verb means "to hang out with" or "to spend time with." It often has a negative nuance.

I'm worried about the kids my son is running around with after school.

Run off

Someone "runs off" when they leave quickly or suddenly.

A

Where's Connie?

B

She ran off a few minutes ago. She said she was late for a meeting. 

Other Common Expressions With "Run"

Run down

"Run down" is an adjective that means "in poor condition."

We bought a run down house for really cheap. If we work hard, we can turn it into a great place to live.

You can also use this expression to talk about people who are exhausted or stressed.

Meg had been feeling run down for weeks, so she decided to take a vacation to relax.

On the run

Someone "on the run" is trying to avoid being captured by police or other authorities!

The bank robbers were finally caught after being on the run for several weeks.

Run errands

An errand is a small job or task; think of it like a chore you must leave your home to do. However, instead of saying "do errands," we say "run errands."

I have to run a few errands this afternoon, but I'll be free later.

Run one's mouth

This expression is a negative way to refer to someone who talks too much. For example, you might say that someone who often gossips is "running their mouth."

Jackie's always running her mouth and spreading rumors about people. I wish she'd shut up!

This is similar to the expression "big mouth," which is a noun.

Run something into the ground

This phrase refers to leading or controlling something in a way that leads to its destruction.

The CEO was pressured to resign after his controversial decisions ran the company into the ground.

Runaway success

Something that becomes very successful very quickly is said to be a "runaway success."

The animated film KPop Demon Hunters became a runaway success when it was released in June 2025. 

Wrap-up

If this article was helpful for you, we have good news: There are many more just like it! For more useful phrasal verbs, check out this post.

Finally, don't forget to book a 25-minute English lesson with an Engoo tutor to try these expressions in a real conversation!

The post 14 Phrasal Verbs and Idioms With "Run" appeared first on Engoo Blog.

But if you want to talk about movies in English, you'll need to know some special vocabulary. This article is the second in our series on essential words for movie fans; if you haven't yet, you can read the first part here.

Now, it's showtime!

(Even More) English Movie Vocabulary

Spoiler

One meaning of the verb "spoil" is "to go bad or become rotten" (so that something is no longer good to eat or drink).

But you can also "spoil" a movie for others if you reveal important information about it before they've seen it.

Warning: This review contains spoilers. If you haven't watched the film yet, stop reading now!

It can also be used as a verb.

James has a bad habit of spoiling movies. Luckily, spoilers don't bother me much.

Teaser / Trailer

Teasers and trailers are short video ads for movies. Usually, teasers are shorter and are released first. They generally show very little of the film; instead, their purpose is to get people excited to see more, which is one of the basic meanings of the verb "tease."

The teaser for the new film has created a lot of buzz on social media.

Trailers are released after teasers. They're longer and show many more scenes from the film — and if you don't like spoilers, they might show too much!

The trailer was released this afternoon, but it's already gotten millions of views on YouTube.

Cameo

Cameos are short appearances by someone in a film. Because they usually aren't announced or advertised, cameos by famous people are often fun surprises for audiences.

Because he only made a brief cameo in the film, the actor didn't ask for any money.

Twist

As a verb, "twist" means "to turn or bend something," often changing its shape. As a noun, however, a twist is a sudden or surprising change in a story.

The movie became famous for the shocking twist at the end.

Cliffhanger

A cliffhanger is a sudden ending to a film that doesn't complete the story. Instead, the audience can only wonder about what happens next.

Cliffhangers are often very dramatic and are designed to make viewers excited for the sequel.

The movie ends on a cliffhanger, so we'll have to wait for part two to see how the story ends.

There's also a Hollywood movie from 1993 called Cliffhanger. Here, however, the meaning is more literal: It's about a climber who has many dangerous experiences on cliffs, or very steep rock surfaces.

Stinger

Stingers are very short scenes that appear at the end of a movie, usually after the end credits. 

While most people leave the theater when the credits begin, fans of certain types of movies know they may see something extra if they wait.

Stingers are sometimes called "post-credit scenes."

Movies in the MCU are famous for stingers that give hints about what — or who — may be coming in a future movie.

Everyone in the theater stayed until the end of the credits, hoping to see a stinger.

Easter eggs

Many children enjoy decorating eggs to celebrate the Easter season. But some also have Easter egg hunts, in which they have to find eggs that have been hidden in different locations.

How does this relate to movies?

Well, movies based on things like comic books or video games will often have small hints that refer to characters or events that don't appear in the movies directly.

Most people won't notice these hints, but just like real Easter eggs in a hunt, big fans enjoy finding these small details.

The director likes putting Easter eggs into his films and seeing if fans can discover them.

Tentpole

A tentpole is a very long pole that holds up and supports a tent, like you can see on camping grounds or even at the circus.

In the movie industry, however, tentpoles are films that are expected to be very popular and successful. These films are usually in the action, science-fiction and adventure genres.

"Tentpole" can be used as an adjective or a noun for the film itself.

Tentpole films are usually released in the summertime or shortly before it.

Just because tentpoles get a lot of promotion doesn't mean they'll be successful.

Sleeper hit

Unlike tentpoles, which often have big stars and lots of marketing, other films may not have famous actors or much money for promotion. These films often don't get as much attention, but sometimes they surprise everyone by becoming very popular. These films are called "sleeper hits." 

The positive word-of-mouth helped the small, independent movie become the sleeper hit of the year.

Bomb

In the film industry, "bombs" are unsuccessful movies.

While any movie can be a bomb, this word is often used for big films that cost a lot of money to produce.

Many movies that were bombs when they were originally released are now considered classics by movie fans.

You can also use “bomb” as a verb.

Many movies that bombed when they were originally released are now considered classics by movie fans.

Tearjerker

As a verb, “jerk” means "to pull quickly." So we call movies that make you want to cry “tearjerkers” since they pull the tears from your eyes!

That movie is a real tearjerker. Make sure you have some tissues handy when you watch it!

Rotten Tomatoes 

Rotten Tomatoes is the name of a famous website for movie reviews. It launched in 1998 and has become very influential in the film industry. 

On the site, movies are given a rating between 0 and 100%. Films with a rating between 75 and 100% are “Certified Fresh.” "Fresh" movies get a special tomato icon that's often used in advertisements to encourage people to watch it.

On the other hand, movies with a rating of 59% or lower are considered “Rotten,” which obviously isn't good for the movie's reputation.

The site’s name likely comes from the fact that in the early entertainment industry, people would throw rotten fruit and vegetables at poor performers to make them leave the stage!

Wrap-up

If you want to improve your English while chatting about your favorite films, book a lesson on Engoo!

Find a tutor who also enjoys films by typing "movies" or the title of your favorite film in the search bar. Just remember to use some of the vocabulary we've introduced here in your lesson! 🍿

The post How to Talk About Movies in English (The Sequel!) appeared first on Engoo Blog.

This time, we'll introduce some useful English vocabulary and phrases for bargaining. Study more to spend less!

Asking About Prices

Before you can negotiate for a lower price, first you need to know the original price. 

If you don't see a price tag on an item, try one of these phrases:

• "Excuse me, but there are no prices on these."
• "These items don't seem to have prices on them."
• "Can you tell me how much this is?"
• "Have these been priced yet?"

Asking for a Discount

Now that you know the price, try these phrases to see if the seller is willing to bargain.

"Is there room for negotiation?"

This phrase is simple and straightforward. If they say yes, getting a lower price is possible. If not, you'll either have to pay the original price or shop somewhere else.

"Is there any wiggle room (on the price)?"

"Wiggling" is moving slightly from side to side. When looking for discounts, "wiggle room" means the possibility of a price changing (by going down!).

"Can I get a discount if I buy (#)?"

A good way to get a lower price is to buy more than one item. So if you need multiples, ask if the seller can drop the price for you.

"Do you price match?"

Many sellers have a price-match guarantee; if their competitor is selling the same item at a lower price, they will match it. If you're not sure if a store offers this service, it doesn't hurt to ask!

"What can you do for me?"

This is a very informal phrase you can use to ask if lower prices are possible. For example:

I'm interested in this refrigerator, but is there anything you can do for me on the price?

"Can you do anything for me?" is another common phrase with the same meaning.

I'd like to buy these sweaters, but the prices are a bit high. Can you do anything for me?

"Shop around"

If you're not sure if a seller is offering the best price, you may decide to "shop around," or research prices from other sellers.

If you tell a seller you want to shop around before buying, they may offer you a discount.

Hmm, I think I'll shop around before making a decision.

Negotiating Prices

In order for both you and the seller to be happy, you'll have to compromise on a final price. Use these phrases to help you reach an agreement.

"Will you accept __?"

This simple phrase asks if a price is acceptable to the seller.

Will you accept $25 for these three books?

"Can you do __?"

When bargaining, people often use "do" as a casual alternative to "accept."

$200 is a bit too much for me. Can you do $175?

"Can you meet me in the middle?"

Imagine that you offer to pay $100 for an item and the seller counteroffers with $130.

From here, you can suggest "meeting in the middle" — cutting the price difference in half. So in this case, meeting in the middle would mean the final price is $115 (100 + 30 - 15 = 115).

Another way to express this idea is "meet halfway."

Buyer

The listing says $80, but that's too high. Will you accept $60?

Seller

Let's meet halfway and say $70.

Other Useful English Vocabulary for Bargaining 

Ask

If a seller is "asking" for a particular price, it means they're willing to accept less, if necessary.

I'm asking $25 for both shirts.

Firm

When discussing prices, "firm" means that a price cannot be changed.

All prices are firm — no discounts.

Obo

"Obo" is short for "or best offer." 

If a seller receives multiple offers to buy their item, they will accept the offer that is the highest or closest to their original price.

The item is in great condition and includes the original box. $85 obo.

Only use "obo" when writing; if you're speaking, say each word, not the letters. 

The price is $100, or best offer.

Haggle

Buyers and sellers "haggle" when they negotiate prices. 

None of the prices in this market are firm; you can haggle at all of the shops.

I haggled at the car dealership and was able to save a few thousand dollars on my new car.

Bargain

As a verb, "bargain" is a synonym for "haggle." 

I asked my friend to do the bargaining for me since he's much better at it than I am.

Budge

If something "budges," it moves a very small distance.

When bargaining, this refers to a change in price. "Budge" is often used in questions and in negative sentences.

That's more than I'd like to spend. Can you budge on the price?

I'm sorry, I can't budge; the price is firm.

In the examples above, notice that "budge" refers to the seller, not the price.

Throw in

This casual phrasal verb means adding something as a free extra. 

If you buy five stickers, I'll throw in another for free.

I'll buy all the games for $200 if you throw in a controller too.

Related article: New to Phrasal Verbs? Start Here!

Make someone an offer

If an item has no price, some sellers may ask you to "make an offer." This means you pick a price you want to pay; the seller may accept that price or make a counteroffer of a different amount.

You might hear this phrase (or the similar "shoot me an offer") in places like flea markets or when asking to buy something that was not originally for sale. 

Buyer

Excuse me, can you tell me how much this jacket is?

Seller

Make me an offer.

Buyer

How about $45?

Seller

Sixty.

Buyer

Will you accept $50?

Seller

Sure. We've got a deal.

Wrap-up

If you're going shopping in markets, bazaars or even online, knowing the right bargaining phrases and vocabulary can help you get more bang for your buck!

Before you negotiate for real, we recommend practicing with an Engoo tutor. Engoo has thousands of friendly and professional tutors ready to help you 24 hours a day. 

Finally, check out this post for more useful English related to money.

The post How to Bargain in English - Phrases and Vocabulary appeared first on Engoo Blog.

However, even though we all enjoy sunny days, it's more common for people to complain about weather that isn't so great — and cold winter days are the perfect example.

This time, we'll introduce some common words and expressions you can use in small talk or chats with friends when it's cold outside. Give them a try!

English Adjectives for Cold Weather

Chilly

"Chilly" is a great word to use when the weather is cold but not too cold.

The forecast says it will be chilly later in the week.

Nippy

This is an informal adjective that's similar to "chilly."

Although yesterday was nice, it's surprisingly nippy out today.

Note that it's common in American English to simply say "out" instead of "outside."

Brisk

"Brisk" refers to cool air that feels refreshing. This is one of the few vocabulary words we'll introduce that has a positive nuance!

Going for a jog in the brisk morning air is a nice way to start the day.

Freezing

This is a common term people use when it's very cold, either indoors or outdoors.

You should put on a cap — it's freezing outside.

"Freezing" isn't just for the weather; you can also use it to talk about how you feel.

I'm freezing. Can you turn on the heat, please?

Frigid

This adjective describes weather that is extremely cold.

Notice how this word is similar to "fridge," the shorter version of "refrigerator," a machine used to keep foods cold.

I visited Toronto in February, and it was absolutely frigid outside.

Frigid can also describe a person with a very unfriendly attitude or facial expression.

I asked John for help, but he was totally frigid.

Bitterly cold

When it's "bittery cold," the temperature is extremely low and it's very unpleasant to be outside. 

Chicago is a great city in many ways, but the winters there can be bitterly cold.

English Cold Weather Expressions

Bundle up​​

This is a phrasal verb that means wearing many layers of heavy clothes to protect against cold weather.

Make sure to bundle up if you're going outside.

It's time to go, kids. Bundle up!

It's (really) coming down.

This phrase is a casual way of saying it's snowing (or raining) very heavily.

It's really coming down outside. All of the roads are closed.

Snowed in

Snowfall can sometimes be so heavy that it becomes difficult for people to leave their homes. In those cases, we use the expression "snowed in."

Most of the town was snowed in after the big winter storm.

Related article: Vocabulary and Expressions Related to Natural Disasters

Snow day

Children in areas with lots of snow always get excited by the possibility of a "snow day." These are days in which there is so much snow that schools close so students can stay safe at home.

I spent the snow day playing video games and reading comics in my pajamas.

Shiver

"Shiver" is a verb that describes the way people's bodies shake when they're cold.

We shivered on the corner while we waited for the bus to arrive.

I can't feel my face.

Very cold weather can sometimes make us lose feeling in different parts of our bodies.

I couldn't feel my face after spending a few minutes outside.

Brrr!

This short, simple expression helps people communicate how cold they feel. If you're wondering how to pronounce it, just think of "fur," but make the sound a little longer.

Brrr! It's freezing today! I should've worn a heavier coat!

Wrap-up

Don't forget that adjectives for weather are often used together with adverbs like "quite," "pretty," "totally" and even "super." For example:

• super cold
• a bit chilly
• quite nippy
• absolutely freezing

Be sure to learn them all so you'll be prepared no matter what combination you hear when talking about the weather with friends or tutors. 

Stay warm and study hard! 🧣

The post Brrr! English Vocabulary for Winter Weather 🥶 appeared first on Engoo Blog.

What Does "Softening" Mean?

You "soften" your language when you speak less directly and avoid blaming or judging others. Instead, your communication is more neutral and open.

For example, calling someone "overweight" sounds much different than saying they're "fat." In a similar way, telling a coworker, "I'm not sure I agree" isn't quite the same as "No, that's a bad idea."

Softening is useful for sharing opinions, giving feedback and making requests politely. That means it's a helpful tool in many situations. Let's look at some different ways to make our language softer.

Softening Feedback

Think about these situations:

• Your partner asks how their cooking tastes.
• A new employee wants to know what you think of her report.
• Your artist friend wants your opinion of his new painting.

When we're asked for feedback and we only have positive things to say, we can usually speak freely. But when you think something could be better, you'll want to be careful when giving your opinion.

Most of the time, critical feedback should be given in a way that mentions where someone can improve without discouraging them from trying again.

Adding a positive statement

A great way to soften your feedback is to add a positive statement to lessen the impact of the criticism. Look at the following pairs of examples:

• This cake is too dry.
• I really like the icing, but I think the cake needs more milk.

• The conclusion needs to be improved.
• The introduction and body are great, but the conclusion could be stronger.

The first sentences are a little too direct. The second sentences are softer because they include good points alongside the criticism.

Responding to incorrect answers

No one enjoys being told they're wrong, especially in a direct way. So "no," "incorrect," "wrong," etc. are poor choices to express this. Even adding a simple "Sorry, but ~" will soften your language a lot.

However, there are also other options you can use:

• Good guess! But the correct answer is ~
• That's close! Actually ~
• Not quite. The answer is ~
• Well, not exactly. It's actually ~

Of course, with very close friends, you don't have to be so careful. But for other times, a softened correction will help to keep the communication friendly and positive.

Using qualifiers

Terms like "a bit" and "a little" are simple, effective ways to soften language. Let's look at how to use them when expressing your opinion.

• Your music is too loud.
• Excuse me, but your music is a bit too loud.

Both statements say the same thing, but the sentence with "a bit" doesn't sound as aggressive or judgmental.

You can replace "a bit" with "a little" or "slightly" to get the same effect.

This sauce is a little too spicy. / This sauce is slightly too spicy.

The opposite of this is "not quite ~~ enough."

This sauce isn't quite spicy enough. Add some more seasoning!

Softening Requests

Just like feedback and opinions, questions and requests can be softened with the right words and phrases.

While adding a simple "please" to your request is nice, try some other options for a stronger softening effect.

Asking about ability

One soft way of making a request is to ask if someone is able to do something for you.

• Please take out the garbage.
• Can you take out the garbage for me, please?

• Please pass the salt.
• Could you pass the salt, please?

These requests are basically all the same, but the second examples are much more polite.

Using "we" instead of "you"

Try using "we" and "let's" to encourage a feeling of teamwork and shared responsibility. This is especially useful if you don't agree with someone's idea or method.

A

I want to make this whole section red.

A

How about we make just this area red and try black for the other part?

A

Should I do it all now?

B

Let's focus on the first part for now. We'll do the rest later.

Wrap-up

There are times when using direct, straightforward language is the best choice. But generally, softening what you say will create a friendlier feeling that can help your relationships to stay healthy.

The suggestions we've introduced here may seem small, but their effects can be large. If you'd like to practice using them in a real conversation, give them a try in a lesson with an Engoo tutor!

The post How to "Soften" Your English appeared first on Engoo Blog.

To help you make the right choice for your situation, this article will introduce phrases separated into five categories.

So whether you're texting, writing a Valentine's Day card or telling someone in person, you'll find something to help you express your feelings to the special person in your life. 

1. Tell them you love them

There's nothing wrong with saying "I love you." It's short and sweet. But if you want something different, here are some ideas:

“I fall in love with you again every day.”

This means that your feelings of love are new and refreshed each day you're with your partner. Here are some similar expressions: 

“I fall more deeply in love with you every day.”

“I fall in love with you every single day.”

You'll find this classic expression of love in many songs, from Frank Sinatra to Ed Sheeran.

“I adore you.”

"Adore" means to love deeply. Some people think this phrase is sweeter and more special than simply "I love you."

“I heart you.”

The popularity of texting and emojis ("I ❤️ You") helped to create this cute alternative to “I love you.” It's a good way to express love in a less serious way.

You can find this expression in pop songs like this one.

2. Tell them how much they mean to you

Here are some simple and effective ways to tell someone how much they mean to you. 

“You mean the world to me.”

The world is a big place, so if someone "means the world" to you, it means they are very important in your life. Here are some similar alternatives:

"You mean everything to me."

"You're my everything."

“When you’re with me, I have everything that I need.”

“I’m so lucky to have you in my life.”

It's natural to feel lucky when you meet someone truly special, and it’s nice to tell them that. If you want more options, you can use "thankful" or "grateful" instead of "lucky." For example:

"I'm so thankful you came into my life."

"You don’t know how grateful I am to have you in my life."

"You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me."

3. Tell them why you love them

A nice way to express your love is by telling your partner what you love about them. 

“I love your eyes.”

You can replace "eyes" with basically anything you love about your partner: their smile, their sense of humor, etc.

You can also be creative and use phrases like these:

"I love the sound of your laughter.”

"I love the way you look at me."

"I love the gentle way you hold my hand."

“I love how you are so caring.”

There's probably a lot of things you like about your partner's personality. Tell them about these things with the structures "I love how you are so ..." or "I love how ... you are." For example:

"I love how you are always so cheerful, even on bad days."

"I love how beautiful you look even when you’re doing the simplest things."

"I love how supportive you are."

4. Tell them how they make you feel

When you're with someone you love, life in general seems better, doesn’t it? Here’s how you can express those feelings to your partner.

“I love being with you.”

You most likely enjoy spending time with your partner. Here are some ways to say that.

"I love being with you."

"I love spending time with you."

"I enjoy every moment we're together."

“You always make me feel special.”

You can tell your partner how they make you feel with phrases like this. For variety, here are some more examples: 

"You make me feel alive."

"You make me feel warm and fuzzy inside."*

"I feel loved when I'm with you."

"When I'm with you, I feel safe."

"I've never felt so comfortable with anyone."

*"Warm and fuzzy" is a very casual expression describing a very positive and comfortable feeling.

“You make me feel like a million bucks.”

You can add color to your words with some comparisons. For example, "feeling like a million bucks" means feeling great.

Here are some other examples:

"When I'm with you, I feel like I'm in a dream."

"When I'm with you, I feel like I'm floating on clouds."

"When I'm with you, I feel like I could do anything."

5. Show appreciation

When you're with the right person, they usually have a positive effect on you. So here are some phrases to help you express your thanks!

“My life is so much better with you by my side.”

Phrases like this tell your partner how much they’ve made your life better. Here are some other possibilities:

“Everything’s better with you by my side.”

“You have brought so much joy to my life.”

“You make me a better person.”

If you feel like your partner has helped you grow into a better person, this is the phrase for you. Here are some related phrases:

“You bring out my better side.”

“You really know how to bring out the best in me.”

“I love the way I am when I’m with you.”

“Thanks for always being there for me.”

Finally, don't forget about saying a simple "thanks" for all the little things your partner does for you.

"Thanks for making me laugh when I'm down."

"Thanks for always listening to me rant."

Bonus: Be funny

Remember that you can always use humor to lighten up your message if you think your partner might like that. Here are some ideas to get you started.

“Thanks for being my partner-in-crime.”

Two people are "partners in crime" when they break the law together. However, this term is more often used in humorous ways.

So even if you don't actually commit a crime with the special person in your life, you can lovingly refer to them this way.

“You’re just like bacon — you make everything better!”

You can switch out “bacon” for something else that you like, like in the examples below.

"You're like hot chocolate — sweet and always warming me up."

"You're just like my favorite song — I can listen to you all day."

“You’re the peanut butter to my jelly.”

This is a fun way to say that the two of you are a perfect match. There are many versions of this saying:

"You're the butter to my bread."

"You're the maple syrup to my pancakes."

Some people also use this with famous characters in movies and TV shows. For example, “You’re the Ross to my Rachel” is a reference to the TV show, Friends.

Related article: More Than 'Friends': Recommended TV for English Learners 

Sample Messages

Here are some sample messages using the phrases above. Remember, if you ever need anyone to check your writing, Engoo tutors are available to help you 24/7!

Text messages

#1

Thanks for making me feel loved and special, today and every day. Can't wait to see you tonight! xoxo

#2

Morning, gorgeous! Just wanted to remind you that you're like hot chocolate — always warming me up and making me feel like home.

Card messages

#1

#2

Related article: 7 Alternatives for "Love" to Use on Valentine's Day 

The post Other Ways to Say "I Love You" in English appeared first on Engoo Blog.

This time, we'll introduce 16 music-related expressions that are useful in casual chats with friends and even in formal business settings. Let's begin! 🎵

English Music Idioms

Good note / Bad note

The very beginning and end of an interaction can have a big influence on our overall feelings. In English, fluent speakers often compare these moments to the first and last notes of a song.

Jesse wanted to start her new job on a good note, so she brought doughnuts for her co-workers.

The meeting ended on a bad note when the negotiations failed.

March to the beat of one's own drum

Some people choose to do things differently than others. Their uniqueness may come from their attitude, their fashion or their way of thinking. 

We can describe people like this by saying they "march to the beat of their own drum."

I admire Jane for marching to the beat of her own drum. She's very confident and doesn't mind standing out.

Sing a different tune

This expression is used when someone changes their mind about something — as if they're switching from one song (or tune) to a different one.

This is often said sarcastically or as a warning. 

You're not bringing a jacket? It's warm now, but you'll be singing a different tune when the sun goes down.

Get into the rhythm

Musicians often struggle to play a song they've never played before. In a similar way, when trying a new activity, you may not understand how to do it correctly at first.

If you keep trying, however, you'll eventually "get into the rhythm," when you're doing it comfortably and naturally.

It took me a little while to get into the rhythm at my new job, but now I feel quite comfortable.

It's also common to say "get into a rhythm."

Once my teammates and I got into a rhythm, we were able to work very quickly.

Music to one's ears

If you hear some news that makes you very happy, you can compare it to the feeling of hearing music that you enjoy.

Hearing that I didn't have to go to the office tomorrow was like music to my ears!

Tone-deaf

Someone who's tone-deaf is unable to clearly understand small differences between musical notes. That results in music that's not so nice to listen to!

But outside of music, you can describe people and their actions as "tone-deaf" if they're not sensitive or appropriate for a situation.

Johnson's joking during the important business meeting was very tone-deaf.

To the tune of ~

This idiom is a creative way to emphasize a specific number or amount.

Our charity campaign received donations to the tune of $50,000. We can use that money to help a lot of people!

Related article: "Pay" vs. "Spend" vs. "Cost": What's the Difference?

One-man band

Bands consist of various members who each play different instruments or have specific roles.

But in general conversations, a "one-man band" is someone who can do many tasks without help from others — just like a musician who can play every instrument on their own. 

Daisuke is a one-man band; he programmed the game, made all of the art, and even wrote the music himself. Amazing!

Without skipping a beat

If someone can keep doing an activity smoothly even if there's a problem or distraction, it's just like a musician who can maintain the rhythm of a song regardless of what's happening around them.

The Covid pandemic had a negative effect on many businesses, but we were able to continue without skipping a beat.

One-hit wonder

A "one-hit wonder" is an artist who has one very popular song — but only one. 

In a similar way, an organization or individual with just one successful product or service can be described with the same term.

Steve showed everyone that he wasn't a one-hit wonder when he continued to release successful products throughout his career.

Face the music

When you "face the music," you accept criticism or punishment for a mistake or poor performance. 

The students were forced to face the music when the teachers discovered they were cheating.

Play something by ear

Many musicians play by reading musical notes that have been written down. However, some people can play songs just by listening to them. We say that those musicians can "play by ear."

In daily conversations, "playing something by ear" means doing an activity without a plan or preparation.

I don't know what I'm doing this weekend; I'm just going to play it by ear.

Toot one's own horn

"Toot" is a casual verb that describes making a short sound on an instrument like a trumpet or saxophone. But in casual conversations, "tooting your own horn" means bragging or talking about yourself with too much confidence. 

Carl loves to toot his own horn about how much money he makes.

This idiom is often used before someone makes a positive comment about themself in order to reduce the feeling of overconfidence.

I don't mean to toot my own horn, but this pasta I made is delicious!

Play second fiddle

Fiddles are violins, and in an orchestra, the second fiddle supports the first, or main, violin.

Outside of music, this idiom suggests that one person is less important than someone else. Notice that you need "to" to refer to another person.

Jake was tired of playing second fiddle to Max, so he left to start his own group.

Sound like a broken record

If a vinyl record is damaged, it may repeat the same part of a song over and over until the needle is moved to a different section.

In the same way, we say that someone "sounds like a broken record" if they say the same thing often. 

A

You need a haircut.

B

You've told me three times already. You sound like a broken record!

Related article: English Vocabulary for Vinyl Collectors

Strike a chord

If something "strikes a chord" with you, you understand and feel it very deeply.

I didn't expect to like this book, but it really struck a chord with me.

Wrap-up

If this article has struck a chord with you, book a lesson with Engoo to learn more! 

Friendly and professional Engoo tutors are ready to help you improve your English in one-on-one lessons 24 hours a day. Practice using these music idioms or study anything you like. Give it a try!

The post 'Get Into the Rhythm' With English Music Idioms appeared first on Engoo Blog.