100 Common Expression Phrases for English Learners
Mastering common expressions is essential for fluency in English. Below is a comprehensive list of 100 frequently used phrases, their meanings, examples, and exercises to test your understanding.
1. Break the ice
Meaning: To initiate conversation in a social setting.
- Example 1: He told a joke to break the ice at the meeting.
- Example 2: Playing a game can help break the ice at parties.
- Example 3: She brought snacks to break the ice with her new colleagues.
2. Hit the sack
Meaning: To go to bed.
- Example 1: I’m exhausted; I’m going to hit the sack early tonight.
- Example 2: After the long trip, he immediately hit the sack.
- Example 3: She hit the sack right after finishing her homework.
3. Piece of cake
Meaning: Something very easy to do.
- Example 1: The math test was a piece of cake for her.
- Example 2: Fixing this issue is a piece of cake for an expert.
- Example 3: Cooking pasta is a piece of cake once you learn the basics.
Exercises
Fill in the Blanks
Choose the correct phrase to complete the sentences.
- After working all day, I just want to ____. (hit the sack / break the ice)
- The exam was a ____; I finished it in 20 minutes. (piece of cake / hit the sack)
- He told a funny story to ____ at the party. (break the ice / piece of cake)
Matching Exercise
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Break the ice | To initiate conversation |
| Hit the sack | To go to bed |
| Piece of cake | Something very easy |
Answer Key
Fill in the Blanks
- hit the sack
- piece of cake
- break the ice
Matching Exercise
All matches are correctly paired in the table above.