Бесплатный фрагмент - Фразовые и устойчивые выражения в английском

Введение

Владение устойчивыми выражениями английского языка является важной частью эффективного общения как в письменной, так и в устной форме. Устойчивые выражения позволяют передавать мысли точно, избегать двусмысленности и делать речь более естественной. Они часто используются носителями языка в повседневной коммуникации, деловой среде, учебе и профессиональной деятельности.

Цель данной книги — систематически представить широкий спектр устойчивых выражений, разделенных по тематическим ситуациям, с объяснением значений, примерами использования и упражнениями для закрепления материала. Каждая глава сосредоточена на конкретной теме, что позволяет изучающему постепенно расширять словарный запас и улучшать навыки употребления выражений в соответствующем контексте.

Представленный материал ориентирован на студентов, специалистов и всех, кто стремится к совершенствованию английского языка в практическом применении. Особое внимание уделено не только пониманию значений выражений, но и их активному использованию в речи и письме.

Использование этой книги предполагает последовательное изучение выражений, анализ примеров и выполнение упражнений, что способствует формированию устойчивой базы знаний и навыков.

Желаю успехов!

A Busy Morning Routine

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Emma is not a morning person, but she has learned to get up early the hard way. Every weekday, her alarm goes off at 6:30 a.m., and she has to drag herself out of bed. She usually hits the snooze button at least twice before she finally wakes up. By the time she gets out of bed, she already feels like she is running late.

The first thing Emma does is head straight to the bathroom to freshen up. She takes a quick shower, brushes her teeth, and tries to wake herself up. Some mornings, she feels full of energy, but most of the time she is still half asleep. To get going, she makes herself a strong cup of coffee.

While the coffee is brewing, Emma checks her phone. She scrolls through messages and emails to see if anything urgent has come up. Sometimes this is a bad idea because it puts her in a bad mood before the day has even started. Still, she finds it hard to break the habit.

After that, she gets dressed for work. Picking an outfit can be stressful when she is in a hurry. On good days, she lays out her clothes the night before, but she doesn’t always stick to this plan. When she can’t decide what to wear, she ends up wasting precious time.

Breakfast is another challenge. Emma knows it is important not to skip breakfast, but she often doesn’t have enough time. When she is really busy, she grabs something quick, like a banana or a piece of toast, and eats it on the go. On better mornings, she manages to sit down and enjoy a proper meal.

Before leaving the apartment, Emma makes a quick mental checklist: keys, phone, wallet. She has learned this the hard way after locking herself out more than once. Even so, there are days when she forgets something and has to go back home.

Commuting to work can be unpredictable. If she leaves early, she can beat the traffic and get to the office on time. But if she is late, she gets stuck in traffic and starts to stress out. Sometimes, everything seems to go wrong at once.

By the time Emma arrives at work, she often feels like she has already had a full day. Still, she tries to pull herself together, take a deep breath, and focus on her tasks. No matter how chaotic her morning is, she knows she has to get on with her day.

Vocabulary: Useful Expressions

not a morning person — не жаворонок

Example: I’m not a morning person, so I need coffee to function.

get up early the hard way — приучиться рано вставать через трудности

Example: He got up early the hard way after starting his new job.

alarm goes off — будильник звонит

Example: My alarm went off at 7 a.m.

drag oneself out of bed — с трудом вылезти из кровати

Example: She dragged herself out of bed after a sleepless night.

hit the snooze button — нажать «отложить» на будильнике

Example: He hit the snooze button three times.

run late — опаздывать

Example: Sorry, I’m running late.

head straight to — направиться сразу куда-то

Example: She headed straight to the kitchen.

freshen up — освежиться

Example: I need a minute to freshen up.

half asleep — полусонный

Example: I was still half asleep during the meeting.

get going — раскачаться, начать действовать

Example: It takes me a while to get going in the morning.

come up — возникнуть (о проблеме/ситуации)

Example: Something urgent came up at work.

be in a bad mood — быть в плохом настроении

Example: He was in a bad mood all day.

break the habit — избавиться от привычки

Example: It’s hard to break the habit of checking my phone.

be in a hurry — спешить

Example: I can’t talk, I’m in a hurry.

stick to the plan — придерживаться плана

Example: Try to stick to the plan.

waste time — тратить время впустую

Example: Don’t waste time on unimportant things.

skip breakfast — пропускать завтрак

Example: You shouldn’t skip breakfast.

on the go — на ходу

Example: I had lunch on the go.

make a checklist — составить список

Example: She made a checklist before leaving.

lock oneself out — захлопнуть дверь, оставшись снаружи

Example: I locked myself out of my apartment.

beat the traffic — избежать пробок

Example: Leave early to beat the traffic.

get stuck in traffic — застрять в пробке

Example: We got stuck in traffic for an hour.

stress out — сильно нервничать

Example: Don’t stress out over small things.

pull oneself together — взять себя в руки

Example: He took a moment to pull himself together.

get on with — продолжать (дело)

Example: Let’s get on with the work.

Exercise: Fill in the Gaps

Fill in the gaps using the expressions from the list.

I’m sorry I’m late — I __________.

She __________ and went to the kitchen.

He always __________ before an important meeting.

I had no time for breakfast, so I ate __________.

My alarm __________ at 6 a.m.

I __________ this morning and had to call a locksmith.

Try not to __________ — everything will be fine.

It’s hard to __________ when you check your phone every five minutes.

If we leave now, we can __________.

He was so tired that he had to __________ just to stand up.

Getting Ready for Work

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For many people, getting ready for work is a routine they don’t think much about. However, for Daniel, it is a process that requires careful planning and a lot of discipline. He believes that how you start your morning can set the tone for the rest of the day.

Daniel wakes up at 6:00 a.m. every day. Unlike some of his friends, he doesn’t hit the snooze button. Instead, he gets out of bed right away and makes his bed. He thinks this small habit helps him feel more in control and ready to take on the day.

After that, Daniel goes to the kitchen to prepare breakfast. He prefers something simple but healthy, like oatmeal or eggs. While he is eating, he goes over his schedule for the day. This helps him stay on track and avoid surprises later.

Once breakfast is over, Daniel moves on to getting dressed. He works in an office where appearance matters, so he always tries to look neat and professional. To save time, he plans his outfits in advance. This way, he doesn’t have to think on his feet in the morning.

Even with a plan, things don’t always go smoothly. Sometimes he spills coffee on his shirt or realizes that something doesn’t fit as well as he thought. When that happens, he has to change quickly and make up for lost time.

Before leaving the house, Daniel takes a few minutes to double-check everything. He makes sure he has all the documents he needs, as well as his laptop and charger. He used to forget things often, but now he tries to stay organized.

Another important part of Daniel’s routine is mental preparation. He takes a moment to think about his priorities and remind himself of his goals. This helps him stay focused and not get distracted by minor problems during the day.

On his way to work, Daniel listens to podcasts or music. He believes this is a good way to make the most of his time. Instead of worrying about traffic or delays, he uses this time to learn something new or simply relax.

Despite all his efforts, there are days when everything goes wrong. He might wake up late, lose track of time, or run into unexpected problems. When that happens, Daniel tries not to panic. He knows that staying calm is the best way to deal with difficult situations.

By the time he arrives at the office, Daniel feels prepared and confident. His routine may seem simple, but it helps him stay productive and positive throughout the day. For him, getting ready for work is not just about physical preparation — it is also about getting into the right mindset.

Vocabulary: Useful Expressions

set the tone — задать тон

Example: This meeting will set the tone for the whole project.

right away — сразу, немедленно

Example: I’ll do it right away.

be in control — контролировать ситуацию

Example: She likes to feel in control of her schedule.

take on the day — принять вызов дня

Example: He felt ready to take on the day.

go over (a plan/schedule) — просматривать, повторять

Example: Let’s go over the plan again.

stay on track — придерживаться курса

Example: We need to stay on track to finish on time.

move on to — перейти к следующему

Example: Let’s move on to the next task.

in advance — заранее

Example: Book your tickets in advance.

think on one’s feet — быстро соображать

Example: You need to think on your feet in this job.

go smoothly — проходить гладко

Example: The event went smoothly.

make up for (lost time) — наверстать (упущенное время)

Example: He worked late to make up for lost time.

double-check — перепроверить

Example: Always double-check your work.

stay organized — оставаться организованным

Example: She uses apps to stay organized.

a few minutes — несколько минут

Example: Give me a few minutes.

stay focused — оставаться сосредоточенным

Example: Try to stay focused on your goals.

get distracted — отвлекаться

Example: I get distracted easily.

make the most of — использовать по максимуму

Example: Make the most of your free time.

run into (a problem) — столкнуться с проблемой

Example: We ran into a problem.

lose track of time — потерять счет времени

Example: I lost track of time while working.

deal with — справляться с

Example: He knows how to deal with stress.

stay calm — сохранять спокойствие

Example: Stay calm in difficult situations.

by the time — к тому времени как

Example: By the time I arrived, they had left.

feel prepared — чувствовать себя готовым

Example: She felt prepared for the exam.

throughout the day — в течение дня

Example: He checked his email throughout the day.

get into the right mindset — настроиться правильно

Example: Meditation helps me get into the right mindset.

Exercise: Fill in the Gaps

Fill in the gaps using the expressions from the list.

This speech will __________ for the entire conference.

I’ll call you back __________.

We need to __________ the plan before the meeting.

Try to __________ and not get distracted.

She prepared everything __________ to save time.

The project didn’t __________ because of unexpected issues.

He had to work late to __________.

Always __________ your emails before sending them.

I completely __________ while watching that movie.

It’s important to __________ and not panic in stressful situations.

A Trip to the Supermarket

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For many people, going to the supermarket is a simple task, but for Laura, it is something that requires planning and attention. She prefers to shop once a week to stock up on everything she needs, rather than make multiple trips.

Before leaving home, Laura always makes a shopping list. She has learned the hard way that going to the supermarket without a plan often leads to buying things she doesn’t need. A list helps her stick to what is important and avoid unnecessary expenses.

When she arrives at the supermarket, the first thing she notices is how crowded it can be, especially in the evenings. She tries to get there early to avoid long lines and busy aisles. Still, it doesn’t always work out that way.

Laura usually starts with the fresh produce section. She takes her time to pick out fruits and vegetables, making sure they are fresh and of good quality. Sometimes it’s hard to decide, especially when everything looks good. She often compares prices and checks for discounts to get the best deal.

After that, she moves on to other sections of the store. She walks up and down the aisles, looking for items on her list. Occasionally, she comes across products that catch her eye, even if they are not on the list. This is where she has to be careful not to give in to impulse buying.

One of the most challenging parts of grocery shopping for Laura is staying within her budget. Prices can add up quickly, and it’s easy to spend more than planned. She keeps an eye on the total cost as she puts items into her cart, trying not to go over her limit.

Another thing that can slow her down is not being able to find certain products. Sometimes items are out of stock, or they have been moved to a different aisle. When that happens, Laura has to ask a store assistant for help, which can take extra time.

Once she has everything she needs, Laura heads to the checkout. If she is lucky, the line is short, but often she has to wait. While standing in line, she sometimes picks up small items like chocolate or gum, even though she didn’t plan to buy them.

After paying for her groceries, Laura packs her bags and leaves the store. Carrying heavy bags home can be tiring, but she feels satisfied knowing that she has everything she needs for the week.

Although a trip to the supermarket may seem like a routine activity, it involves many small decisions. For Laura, staying organized and disciplined helps make the process easier and more efficient.

Vocabulary: Useful Expressions

stock up on — запасаться

Example: We need to stock up on food for the weekend.

make a shopping list — составить список покупок

Example: Always make a shopping list before you go.

learn the hard way — научиться на собственных ошибках

Example: He learned the hard way not to be late.

stick to (a plan/list) — придерживаться

Example: Try to stick to your list.

work out (as planned) — получаться, как планировалось

Example: Things didn’t work out as planned.

pick out — выбирать

Example: She picked out some fresh apples.

take one’s time — не спешить

Example: Take your time when choosing.

of good quality — хорошего качества

Example: This product is of good quality.

compare prices — сравнивать цены

Example: It’s smart to compare prices.

get a good deal — выгодно купить

Example: I got a good deal on these shoes.

move on to — перейти к следующему

Example: Let’s move on to the next section.

walk up and down (aisles) — ходить туда-сюда

Example: He walked up and down the aisle.

catch one’s eye — привлечь внимание

Example: That dress caught my eye.

give in to — поддаться

Example: Don’t give in to temptation.

impulse buying — импульсивные покупки

Example: Stores encourage impulse buying.

stay within a budget — укладываться в бюджет

Example: Try to stay within your budget.

add up — накапливаться (о сумме)

Example: Small costs add up quickly.

keep an eye on — следить за

Example: Keep an eye on your spending.

go over (a limit) — превысить

Example: Don’t go over your limit.

out of stock — нет в наличии

Example: This item is out of stock.

ask for help — попросить помощи

Example: Don’t hesitate to ask for help.

head to — направиться

Example: She headed to the checkout.

stand in line — стоять в очереди

Example: We had to stand in line for 20 minutes.

pick up (items) — взять, купить по пути

Example: I picked up some snacks.

carry heavy bags — нести тяжелые сумки

Example: He helped her carry heavy bags.

Exercise: Fill in the Gaps

Fill in the gaps using the expressions from the list.

We need to __________ milk and bread.

She always __________ before going shopping.

Try not to __________ unnecessary things.

These small expenses can __________ over time.

I like to __________ when choosing fruit.

He found a cheaper option after he __________.

The product I wanted was __________.

Don’t forget to __________ your spending.

She tried not to __________ and stayed within her budget.

I had to __________ for almost 30 minutes at the store.

Cooking Dinner at Home

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For many people, cooking dinner at home is either a relaxing activity or a daily challenge. For Mark, it is a bit of both. After a long day at work, he often feels tired, but he still prefers to cook rather than order takeout.

Before he starts, Mark usually checks what ingredients he has in the fridge. If he is missing something, he has to figure out how to work around it or come up with a different plan. Over time, he has learned how to make simple meals with whatever he has on hand.

One of the first things Mark does is put on some music to help him unwind. Cooking becomes much more enjoyable when he is in a good mood. Then he washes his hands, gets out the necessary ingredients, and begins to prepare everything.

Chopping vegetables is the part he finds most relaxing. He takes his time to cut everything properly, even though he knows he could do it faster. He believes that good preparation makes a big difference in the final result.

Once everything is ready, Mark turns on the stove and starts cooking. He follows the recipe most of the time, but he is not afraid to experiment. Sometimes he adds extra spices or changes a few steps to suit his taste.

Of course, things don’t always go as planned. There are moments when he overcooks the meat or forgets to set a timer. When that happens, he tries not to get upset and instead learns from his mistakes.

Another challenge is cleaning as he goes. Mark used to leave everything until the end, which made the kitchen a mess. Now he tries to wash dishes and wipe surfaces while the food is cooking. This habit saves him a lot of time later.

While dinner is on the stove, Mark often sets the table and gets everything ready. By the time the meal is done, he wants to be able to sit down and enjoy it right away.

Cooking at home also allows him to eat healthier and save money. He knows exactly what goes into his food, and he can control the portion sizes. This makes a big difference in how he feels.

In the end, even if the meal is not perfect, Mark feels satisfied. Cooking dinner at home is not just about food — it is also a way to relax, be creative, and take care of himself.

Vocabulary: Useful Expressions

order takeout — заказывать еду на вынос

Example: We decided to order takeout tonight.

check what one has — проверить, что есть

Example: Check what you have before shopping.

figure out — разобраться, найти решение

Example: I need to figure out what to cook.

work around (a problem) — обойти проблему

Example: We worked around the issue.

come up with (a plan/idea) — придумать

Example: She came up with a great idea.

have on hand — иметь под рукой

Example: Use whatever ingredients you have on hand.

put on (music, etc.) — включить

Example: He put on some music.

unwind — расслабиться

Example: I watch TV to unwind.

get out (ingredients/tools) — достать

Example: She got out all the ingredients.

prepare everything — подготовить всё

Example: Prepare everything before cooking.

take one’s time — не спешить

Example: Take your time when cooking.

make a difference — иметь значение

Example: Small details make a difference.

turn on (the stove) — включить (плиту)

Example: Turn on the stove.

follow a recipe — следовать рецепту

Example: He followed the recipe carefully.

be afraid to (do something) — бояться

Example: Don’t be afraid to try.

go as planned — идти по плану

Example: Everything went as planned.

overcook — пережарить / переварить

Example: Don’t overcook the meat.

set a timer — поставить таймер

Example: Set a timer for 10 minutes.

get upset — расстраиваться

Example: Don’t get upset over mistakes.

clean as you go — убирать по ходу дела

Example: Try to clean as you go.

leave something until the end — оставлять на потом

Example: Don’t leave everything until the end.

be a mess — быть в беспорядке

Example: The kitchen was a mess.

wipe surfaces — протирать поверхности

Example: Wipe the surfaces after cooking.

set the table — накрывать на стол

Example: She set the table.

sit down and enjoy — сесть и насладиться

Example: Let’s sit down and enjoy the meal.

Exercise: Fill in the Gaps

Fill in the gaps using the expressions from the list.

We were too tired, so we decided to __________.

I need to __________ what ingredients I have.

He had to __________ a solution quickly.

She used what she __________ and made a great dish.

Cooking helps me __________ after a long day.

Make sure you __________ before you start cooking.

He forgot to __________ and burned the food.

Try not to __________ if something goes wrong.

The kitchen was __________ because he didn’t clean.

Let’s __________ and enjoy this dinner together.

Cleaning and Household Chores

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For many people, cleaning and household chores are things they tend to put off for as long as possible. However, for Sarah, keeping her home clean and organized is an important part of her daily routine. She believes that a tidy space helps her feel calm and focused.

Sarah usually starts her day by making her bed and putting things back in their place. She has noticed that small habits like these help her stay on top of bigger tasks. Instead of letting chores pile up, she prefers to deal with them right away.

During the week, Sarah doesn’t have much time for deep cleaning, so she focuses on quick tasks. She wipes down surfaces, does the dishes, and takes out the trash. These simple actions don’t take long, but they make a big difference in how her home looks and feels.

One of the things Sarah has learned is that it is easier to keep a place clean than to clean it from scratch. When things get out of hand, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to start. That’s why she tries to stick to a routine and not let things get too messy.

On weekends, Sarah sets aside more time for household chores. She vacuums the floors, mops the kitchen, and does the laundry. Sometimes it feels like there is always something to do, but she has found ways to make the process more enjoyable.

For example, she often puts on music or a podcast while cleaning. This helps her pass the time and makes the tasks feel less boring. She also breaks big tasks into smaller ones, so they don’t seem so difficult to handle.

Another challenge is staying motivated. There are days when Sarah doesn’t feel like doing any chores at all. On those days, she reminds herself that even a little effort is better than nothing. She might start with just one task, and once she gets going, it becomes easier to continue.

Sarah also tries to involve other members of her household. She believes that everyone should do their part to keep the home clean. Sharing responsibilities not only reduces the workload but also makes the process faster and more efficient.

Of course, things don’t always go perfectly. There are times when she gets distracted or runs out of energy. When that happens, she doesn’t blame herself. Instead, she simply picks up where she left off and continues later.

In the end, Sarah knows that cleaning and household chores are a part of everyday life. By staying organized and consistent, she manages to keep her home in good condition without too much stress.

Vocabulary: Useful Expressions

put off — откладывать

Example: Don’t put off cleaning your room.

keep something clean — поддерживать чистоту

Example: It’s important to keep your space clean.

tidy space — аккуратное пространство

Example: A tidy space helps you concentrate.

put things back in their place — убирать вещи на место

Example: Always put things back in their place.

stay on top of — держать под контролем

Example: Try to stay on top of your tasks.

pile up — накапливаться

Example: The dishes started to pile up.

deal with — справляться с

Example: Deal with problems early.

right away — сразу

Example: I’ll do it right away.

wipe down — протирать

Example: Wipe down the table.

take out the trash — выносить мусор

Example: Don’t forget to take out the trash.

make a difference — иметь значение

Example: Small efforts make a difference.

from scratch — с нуля

Example: Cleaning from scratch takes time.

get out of hand — выйти из-под контроля

Example: The mess got out of hand.

figure out where to start — понять, с чего начать

Example: I couldn’t figure out where to start.

set aside (time) — выделить (время)

Example: Set aside time for cleaning.

pass the time — скоротать время

Example: Music helps pass the time.

break into smaller tasks — разбить на мелкие задачи

Example: Break the work into smaller tasks.

feel like (doing something) — хотеть

Example: I don’t feel like cleaning today.

get going — начать действовать

Example: Once you get going, it’s easier.

do one’s part — выполнять свою часть

Example: Everyone should do their part.

reduce the workload — уменьшить нагрузку

Example: Sharing tasks reduces the workload.

run out of energy — выдохнуться

Example: I ran out of energy by evening.

blame oneself — винить себя

Example: Don’t blame yourself for small mistakes.

pick up where one left off — продолжить с того же места

Example: Let’s pick up where we left off.

keep something in good condition — поддерживать в хорошем состоянии

Example: He keeps his car in good condition.

Exercise: Fill in the Gaps

Fill in the gaps using the expressions from the list.

Don’t __________ your chores until the weekend.

Try to __________ your room clean every day.

The work started to __________ because we ignored it.

She decided to __________ the problem immediately.

Don’t let things __________ — clean regularly.

I couldn’t __________, so I just started anywhere.

She __________ some time on Saturday for cleaning.

Listening to music helps __________ while doing chores.

I didn’t __________ cleaning, but I did it anyway.

After a break, he __________ and finished the job.

A Lazy Weekend

Text

After a long and exhausting week at work, Jake always looks forward to the weekend. Unlike some of his friends who prefer to stay busy, Jake enjoys taking it easy and doing as little as possible. For him, a lazy weekend is the perfect way to recharge and get his energy back.

On Saturday morning, Jake doesn’t set an alarm. He wakes up naturally, often much later than usual. Instead of jumping out of bed, he lies there for a while, scrolling through his phone and slowly waking up. He believes it’s important to give himself time to relax and ease into the day.

Eventually, he gets up and heads to the kitchen to make breakfast. There is no rush, so he takes his time preparing something he really enjoys, like pancakes or eggs with toast. While eating, he might watch a TV show or listen to music.

After breakfast, Jake usually lounges around the apartment. He might sit on the couch, watch a movie, or read a book. Sometimes he plans to do something productive, but more often than not, he ends up putting it off until later.

In the afternoon, Jake may decide to go out for a short walk, especially if the weather is nice. Fresh air helps him clear his mind and feel a bit more active. However, he doesn’t like to overdo it — a simple прогулка is enough for him.

One of Jake’s favorite weekend activities is ordering food instead of cooking. He enjoys trying different cuisines and not having to worry about washing dishes afterward. It feels like a small reward after a busy week.

On Sunday, Jake sometimes starts to feel a bit guilty for not being productive. He thinks about all the things he could have done but didn’t. Still, he reminds himself that rest is important and that he needs time to recharge.

To make himself feel better, he might do a few small tasks, like cleaning up his apartment or preparing for the upcoming week. This helps him feel more in control and ready to get back to work.

By Sunday evening, Jake tries to wind down and get ready for Monday. He might take a shower, prepare his clothes, and go to bed a bit earlier than usual. Although the weekend went by quickly, he feels more relaxed and refreshed.

For Jake, a lazy weekend is not about wasting time. It is about slowing down, enjoying simple things, and taking a break from daily responsibilities. In the end, this balance helps him stay productive during the week.

Vocabulary: Useful Expressions

look forward to — с нетерпением ждать

Example: I look forward to the weekend.

take it easy — расслабиться, не напрягаться

Example: Just take it easy today.

do as little as possible — делать как можно меньше

Example: I just want to do as little as possible.

recharge (one’s energy) — восстановить силы

Example: I need the weekend to recharge.

wake up naturally — просыпаться без будильника

Example: I woke up naturally this morning.

lie in (bed) — валяться в постели

Example: She stayed in bed and lay in all morning.

scroll through — листать

Example: He scrolled through his messages.

ease into (the day) — плавно войти в день

Example: I like to ease into the day.

there is no rush — спешки нет

Example: Take your time, there is no rush.

take one’s time — не спешить

Example: She took her time getting ready.

lounge around — бездельничать

Example: He spent the day lounging around.

more often than not — чаще всего

Example: More often than not, I stay home.

put off — откладывать

Example: Don’t put off your work.

go out for a walk — выйти на прогулку

Example: Let’s go out for a walk.

clear one’s mind — проветрить голову

Example: A walk helps clear your mind.

overdo it — переусердствовать

Example: Don’t overdo it at the gym.

order food — заказывать еду

Example: Let’s order food tonight.

feel guilty — чувствовать вину

Example: I feel guilty for not studying.

get back to — вернуться к

Example: I need to get back to work.

clean up — прибраться

Example: I need to clean up my room.

prepare for (something) — готовиться к

Example: Prepare for the week ahead.

wind down — расслабляться перед сном

Example: I watch TV to wind down.

go by quickly — быстро проходить

Example: The weekend went by quickly.

slow down — замедлиться

Example: You need to slow down sometimes.

take a break — сделать перерыв

Example: Take a break and relax.

Exercise: Fill in the Gaps

Fill in the gaps using the expressions from the list.

I really __________ the weekend after a busy week.

You should __________ and not worry so much.

I stayed in bed and __________ for hours.

He was just __________ his phone all morning.

Don’t worry, __________ — we have plenty of time.

She spent the whole day __________ and watching TV.

I keep __________ my tasks until Sunday evening.

A short walk helps me __________.

Try not to __________ — you don’t need to do everything.

The holidays always __________.

Running Errands Around Town

Text

For many people, running errands is an unavoidable part of everyday life. For Lisa, it is something she tries to plan carefully so that she can get everything done efficiently. Instead of going out multiple times a week, she prefers to set aside one day to take care of all her tasks.

Lisa usually starts by making a list of things she needs to do. This may include going to the bank, picking up a package, buying groceries, and dropping off some clothes at the dry cleaner’s. Having a clear plan helps her stay organized and avoid wasting time.

Before heading out, Lisa checks the opening hours of the places she needs to visit. She has learned that showing up at the wrong time can completely throw off her schedule. To make things easier, she tries to group tasks that are close to each other.

Once she leaves the house, Lisa begins to work through her list step by step. Her first stop is often the bank, where she takes care of any financial matters. If there is a long line, she tries to stay patient and not let it slow her down too much.

Next, she might stop by the post office to pick up a package. Sometimes there are delays, and she has to come back later, which can be frustrating. Still, she tries to make the most of her time and move on to the next task.

While running errands, Lisa often runs into small problems. For example, a store might be closed, or an item she needs might not be available. When that happens, she has to think on her feet and come up with an alternative solution.

Transportation is another important factor. If everything is within walking distance, Lisa prefers to go on foot. Otherwise, she may take public transport or drive. Traffic and delays can sometimes get in the way, but she does her best to stay on schedule.

One thing Lisa has learned over time is not to take on too much in one day. In the past, she tried to do everything at once and ended up feeling exhausted. Now she knows it’s better to spread tasks out if necessary.

After completing all her errands, Lisa heads back home feeling productive. Even though running errands can be tiring, she enjoys the sense of accomplishment that comes with finishing everything on her list.

In the end, running errands is all about staying organized, being flexible, and managing your time well. With the right approach, what seems like a long list of tasks can be handled without too much stress.

Vocabulary: Useful Expressions

run errands — выполнять мелкие дела

Example: I need to run some errands today.

be an unavoidable part of — быть неизбежной частью

Example: Stress is an unavoidable part of life.

set aside (time/day) — выделить

Example: She set aside a day for errands.

take care of (tasks) — разобраться с делами

Example: I need to take care of a few things.

make a list — составить список

Example: Make a list before you go out.

pick up (a package) — забрать

Example: I need to pick up a package.

drop off — отнести, оставить

Example: She dropped off the clothes.

stay organized — оставаться организованным

Example: Try to stay organized.

waste time — тратить время

Example: Don’t waste time.

head out — отправиться

Example: Let’s head out.

throw off (a schedule) — сбить план

Example: This delay threw off my schedule.

group tasks — объединять задачи

Example: Group tasks to save time.

work through (a list) — проходить по списку

Example: She worked through her list.

first stop — первая остановка

Example: The bank was my first stop.

slow someone down — замедлять

Example: Traffic slowed us down.

stop by — заскочить

Example: I’ll stop by the store.

come back later — вернуться позже

Example: Come back later, please.

make the most of — использовать по максимуму

Example: Make the most of your time.

run into (problems) — столкнуться с проблемами

Example: We ran into some issues.

think on one’s feet — быстро соображать

Example: You need to think on your feet.

come up with (a solution) — придумать решение

Example: He came up with a plan.

get in the way — мешать

Example: Don’t let fear get in the way.

take on too much — брать на себя слишком много

Example: Don’t take on too much.

at once — сразу

Example: I did everything at once.

spread out (tasks) — распределить

Example: Spread out your tasks.

Exercise: Fill in the Gaps

Fill in the gaps using the expressions from the list.

I need to __________ before the weekend.

She __________ some time to finish her tasks.

Don’t forget to __________ your package.

This delay might __________ our plans.

Try to __________ to save time.

He started to __________ and completed everything.

I’ll __________ your place on my way home.

We __________ some unexpected problems.

You need to __________ and react quickly.

Don’t __________ — you’ll get too tired.

Dealing with Bad Weather

Text

Bad weather is something everyone has to deal with from time to time. For Olivia, it is more than just an inconvenience — it can affect her mood, plans, and daily routine. Still, she has learned how to adapt and make the best of difficult conditions.

One morning, Olivia woke up to the sound of heavy rain hitting the windows. She had planned to go out early, but the weather made her reconsider. Instead of rushing out, she decided to check the forecast and see if the situation would improve later in the day.

As she looked outside, she noticed that the streets were already flooded in some areas. This meant that getting around could be more difficult than usual. Public transport might be delayed, and driving could take much longer. Situations like this often throw off her schedule.

Despite the bad weather, Olivia knew she still had responsibilities to take care of. She couldn’t just stay at home and wait for the rain to stop. So she got dressed, grabbed her umbrella, and headed out, hoping for the best.

Walking in the rain is never pleasant. Within minutes, her shoes were wet, and the wind made it hard to keep her umbrella steady. At one point, a strong gust nearly turned it inside out. Moments like these made her want to give up and go back home.

However, Olivia tried to stay positive. She reminded herself that bad weather doesn’t last forever. To make things easier, she focused on what she could control. She walked carefully, avoided large puddles, and gave herself extra time to reach her destination.

While on her way, Olivia noticed that many people seemed stressed and in a hurry. Traffic was moving slowly, and buses were running behind schedule. It was clear that the weather was affecting everyone, not just her.

After finishing her tasks, Olivia decided to reward herself. She stopped by a small café to warm up and dry off. Sitting inside with a hot drink, she began to feel much better. Taking a short break helped her recharge and improve her mood.

By the time she left the café, the rain had started to ease up. The sky was still gray, but things were slowly getting back to normal. Olivia realized that the day had not been as bad as she had expected.

In the end, dealing with bad weather is all about attitude and preparation. Even when conditions are far from ideal, staying calm and flexible can make a big difference.

Vocabulary: Useful Expressions

deal with — справляться с

Example: We all have to deal with problems.

from time to time — время от времени

Example: I travel from time to time.

make the best of — извлечь максимум

Example: Try to make the best of the situation.

wake up to (something) — проснуться и обнаружить

Example: She woke up to heavy snow.

reconsider — пересмотреть решение

Example: He reconsidered his plans.

check the forecast — проверить прогноз

Example: Always check the forecast.

get around — передвигаться

Example: It’s hard to get around in bad weather.

throw off (a schedule) — сбить план

Example: The delay threw off my schedule.

take care of (responsibilities) — заняться делами

Example: I need to take care of my tasks.

head out — выйти, отправиться

Example: She headed out despite the rain.

hope for the best — надеяться на лучшее

Example: Let’s hope for the best.

give up — сдаваться

Example: Don’t give up easily.

stay positive — сохранять позитивный настрой

Example: Try to stay positive.

doesn’t last forever — не длится вечно

Example: Bad times don’t last forever.

focus on — сосредоточиться на

Example: Focus on your goals.

avoid (something) — избегать

Example: Avoid dangerous situations.

in a hurry — спешить

Example: Everyone was in a hurry.

run behind schedule — отставать от расписания

Example: The train is running behind schedule.

warm up — согреться

Example: Let’s go inside to warm up.

dry off — высохнуть

Example: He dried off with a towel.

take a break — сделать перерыв

Example: Take a break when you’re tired.

ease up — ослабевать

Example: The rain started to ease up.

get back to normal — вернуться к норме

Example: Things are getting back to normal.

not as bad as expected — не так плохо, как ожидалось

Example: The test was not as bad as expected.

far from ideal — далеко от идеального

Example: The conditions were far from ideal.

Exercise: Fill in the Gaps

Fill in the gaps using the expressions from the list.

We all have to __________ difficult situations.

Try to __________ even when things go wrong.

She decided to __________ her plans because of the weather.

Don’t forget to __________ before going out.

The delay __________ our entire schedule.

He didn’t want to __________, even though it was hard.

Let’s __________ and see what happens.

The bus is __________ because of traffic.

We went inside to __________ and have a drink.

The situation was __________, but we managed.

Staying Healthy

Text

For many people, staying healthy is a goal they think about but don’t always act on. For Alex, however, it has become a priority. After experiencing several health issues in the past, he decided to make some changes and take better care of himself.

Alex understands that staying healthy is not about making one big change, but about building good habits over time. He started by looking at his daily routine and figuring out what needed to be improved. At first, it felt overwhelming, but he chose to focus on small, manageable steps.

One of the first things Alex worked on was his diet. He used to eat a lot of fast food and often skipped meals. Now, he tries to eat balanced meals and include more fruits and vegetables. He also makes an effort to drink enough water throughout the day.

Exercise is another important part of his routine. Alex doesn’t go to the gym every day, but he tries to stay active. He goes for walks, does simple workouts at home, and occasionally joins friends for sports activities. The key for him is to keep moving and not become too sedentary.

Getting enough sleep has also made a big difference. In the past, Alex would stay up late and wake up feeling tired. Now, he tries to go to bed at the same time every night and get at least seven to eight hours of sleep. This helps him feel more energetic and focused during the day.

Of course, staying healthy is not always easy. There are days when Alex feels too tired to exercise or tempted to eat unhealthy food. When that happens, he tries not to be too hard on himself. Instead of giving up, he reminds himself why he started and gets back on track.

Stress is another factor that can affect health. Alex has learned to deal with stress in healthier ways. He takes breaks when needed, spends time with friends, and practices simple relaxation techniques. These habits help him stay calm and avoid burnout.

Another important aspect of staying healthy is regular check-ups. Alex makes sure to visit the doctor from time to time, even when he feels fine. He believes that prevention is better than cure.

Over time, these small changes have started to add up. Alex feels stronger, more energetic, and more confident. He knows that staying healthy is a long-term commitment, not a quick fix.

In the end, staying healthy is about balance. It’s not necessary to be perfect, but it is important to be consistent. By taking small steps and staying committed, anyone can improve their health and quality of life.

Vocabulary: Useful Expressions

stay healthy — оставаться здоровым

Example: It’s important to stay healthy.

make changes — вносить изменения

Example: He decided to make some changes.

take care of oneself — заботиться о себе

Example: You need to take care of yourself.

over time — со временем

Example: You will improve over time.

figure out — разобраться

Example: I need to figure out what to do.

feel overwhelming — казаться подавляющим

Example: The task felt overwhelming.

focus on — сосредоточиться на

Example: Focus on your goals.

small steps — маленькие шаги

Example: Start with small steps.

work on (something) — работать над

Example: He is working on his habits.

skip meals — пропускать приемы пищи

Example: Don’t skip meals.

make an effort — прилагать усилия

Example: She made an effort to improve.

throughout the day — в течение дня

Example: Drink water throughout the day.

stay active — оставаться активным

Example: Try to stay active.

go for a walk — пойти на прогулку

Example: Let’s go for a walk.

keep moving — продолжать двигаться

Example: Keep moving to stay fit.

get enough sleep — высыпаться

Example: It’s important to get enough sleep.

stay up late — поздно ложиться

Example: Don’t stay up late.

make a difference — иметь значение

Example: Sleep makes a difference.

be too hard on oneself — быть слишком строгим к себе

Example: Don’t be too hard on yourself.

give up — сдаваться

Example: Don’t give up.

get back on track — вернуться к плану

Example: Try to get back on track.

deal with stress — справляться со стрессом

Example: Learn to deal with stress.

avoid burnout — избегать выгорания

Example: Take breaks to avoid burnout.

from time to time — время от времени

Example: Visit the doctor from time to time.

add up — накапливаться

Example: Small changes add up.

Exercise: Fill in the Gaps

Fill in the gaps using the expressions from the list.

He decided to __________ and improve his lifestyle.

You should __________ and not ignore your health.

Progress happens __________, not overnight.

Try to __________ what works best for you.

Start with __________ instead of big changes.

Don’t __________ — eat regularly.

She tries to __________ every day.

It’s important to __________ if you want more energy.

Don’t __________ if you miss a workout.

After a break, it’s good to __________.

The First Day at a New Job

Text

Starting a new job can be exciting, but it can also be stressful. For Emma, her first day at a new office was a mixture of anticipation and nervousness. She wanted to make a good impression while figuring out the company’s routines and expectations.

Emma arrived early, giving herself plenty of time to get settled. She knew that being punctual was important, especially on the first day. After signing in at the reception, she was introduced to her supervisor and her new colleagues. Everyone seemed friendly, but it took her a while to remember all the names.

One of the first tasks Emma faced was setting up her workspace. She organized her desk, arranged her stationery, and made sure her computer and email were working properly. She wanted everything to be ready before starting her assignments.

Throughout the day, Emma attended several meetings. At first, it was a bit overwhelming to follow all the new procedures and terminology. She tried to take notes and ask questions when necessary, knowing that it was better to clarify things early than make mistakes later.

Lunch was another challenge. Emma wasn’t sure where to go or who to sit with, but she decided to join a few colleagues in the cafeteria. This turned out to be a good choice, as she got to know people in a more relaxed setting.

In the afternoon, she began working on her first assignment. Emma felt a bit anxious, but she reminded herself to take one step at a time and not rush. She double-checked her work and asked for feedback when needed, which helped her feel more confident.

During the day, Emma realized that small gestures can make a big difference. Smiling, greeting colleagues, and being polite helped her build rapport. She also tried to observe the company culture — how people communicated, what the norms were, and what was considered acceptable behavior.

By the end of the day, Emma felt exhausted but accomplished. She had survived her first day, learned a lot, and made a few friends. While there were moments of uncertainty, she knew that things would get easier with time.

In the end, starting a new job is a learning experience. Being prepared, staying positive, and taking small steps can help anyone adapt to a new environment successfully. Emma looked forward to the next day with a sense of optimism and confidence.

Vocabulary: Useful Expressions

start a new job — начать новую работу

Example: She started a new job last week.

exciting but stressful — волнительно, но стрессово

Example: The first day was exciting but stressful.

make a good impression — произвести хорошее впечатление

Example: She wanted to make a good impression.

figure out (routines/procedures) — разобраться

Example: It took her time to figure out the system.

arrive early — прийти заранее

Example: Always try to arrive early.

be punctual — быть пунктуальным

Example: Being punctual is important.

sign in — зарегистрироваться

Example: Sign in at the reception.

be introduced to — быть представленным

Example: She was introduced to her colleagues.

set up (workspace) — организовать рабочее место

Example: Set up your desk before starting.

organize (desk/stationery) — привести в порядок

Example: Organize your desk and supplies.

make sure — убедиться

Example: Make sure everything works.

attend meetings — посещать совещания

Example: She attended several meetings.

take notes — делать заметки

Example: Take notes during the presentation.

ask questions — задавать вопросы

Example: Don’t hesitate to ask questions.

clarify things — прояснить

Example: Clarify things early to avoid mistakes.

join colleagues — присоединиться к коллегам

Example: She joined her colleagues for lunch.

take one step at a time — идти шаг за шагом

Example: Take one step at a time.

double-check — перепроверить

Example: Double-check your work before submitting.

ask for feedback — попросить обратную связь

Example: Ask for feedback from your supervisor.

build rapport — наладить хорошие отношения

Example: Small gestures help build rapport.

observe (company culture) — наблюдать

Example: Observe how people communicate.

acceptable behavior — приемлемое поведение

Example: Learn what is considered acceptable behavior.

feel accomplished — чувствовать удовлетворение

Example: She felt accomplished after finishing her tasks.

adapt to a new environment — адаптироваться

Example: It takes time to adapt to a new environment.

look forward to — с нетерпением ждать

Example: She looked forward to the next day.

Exercise: Fill in the Gaps

Fill in the gaps using the expressions from the list.

Starting a new job can be exciting but __________.

She wanted to __________ with her supervisor and colleagues.

It took her time to __________ the company procedures.

Always try to __________ to make a good impression.

Don’t forget to __________ at the reception.

She was __________ her new colleagues.

Take one __________ and don’t rush.

Always __________ your work before submitting.

Small gestures help to __________ with coworkers.

She is excited and __________ tomorrow.

Working Under Pressure

Text

Working under pressure is a situation most people face at some point in their careers. For Daniel, learning how to handle stress and tight deadlines has been essential. He knows that staying calm and organized can make a big difference in performance and results.

Daniel often finds himself juggling multiple tasks at the same time. When a project deadline approaches, he feels the pressure to finish everything on time. At first, it can be overwhelming, but he has developed strategies to manage stress effectively.

One of the first things he does is prioritize his tasks. Daniel makes a list of what needs to be done and identifies the most urgent items. This helps him focus on what matters most instead of wasting time on less important tasks.

Time management is another key factor. He sets specific time blocks for each task and tries to stick to the schedule. Although unexpected problems sometimes arise, having a plan gives him a sense of control and direction.

During high-pressure situations, Daniel also pays attention to his mental and physical state. He takes short breaks to stretch, drinks water, and practices deep breathing exercises. These small actions help him maintain concentration and avoid burnout.

Communication is crucial when working under pressure. Daniel keeps his team informed about his progress and any obstacles he encounters. Asking for help when necessary ensures that tasks are completed efficiently and reduces the feeling of being overwhelmed.

Another strategy Daniel uses is breaking big tasks into smaller, manageable steps. By tackling one step at a time, he avoids feeling paralyzed by the size of the project. This approach also allows him to celebrate small achievements along the way, which keeps motivation high.

Sometimes, Daniel faces tasks that seem impossible to complete on time. In these cases, he reminds himself to stay positive and focus on what can be done. Worrying excessively does not help; instead, he channels his energy into solutions.

After completing a high-pressure project, Daniel takes time to review what went well and what could be improved. Reflecting on experiences helps him handle similar situations more efficiently in the future. Over time, he has learned that working under pressure is not only about managing tasks but also about managing oneself.

In the end, working under pressure requires a combination of organization, focus, and self-care. By using strategies like prioritizing, breaking tasks into smaller steps, and staying calm, anyone can handle stressful situations more effectively and achieve better results.

Vocabulary: Useful Expressions

work under pressure — работать под давлением

Example: She learned to work under pressure.

tight deadlines — жесткие сроки

Example: Tight deadlines can be stressful.

stay calm — сохранять спокойствие

Example: Stay calm during stressful situations.

make a difference — иметь значение

Example: Staying organized makes a difference.

juggle multiple tasks — совмещать несколько задач

Example: He often juggles multiple tasks.

approach a deadline — приближаться к сроку

Example: The deadline is approaching quickly.

overwhelming — подавляющий

Example: The amount of work was overwhelming.

prioritize tasks — расставлять приоритеты

Example: Prioritize your tasks carefully.

time management — управление временем

Example: Good time management is essential.

stick to a schedule — придерживаться графика

Example: He tries to stick to a schedule.

unexpected problems — неожиданные проблемы

Example: Unexpected problems can arise.

maintain concentration — сохранять концентрацию

Example: Take breaks to maintain concentration.

avoid burnout — избегать выгорания

Example: Short breaks help avoid burnout.

keep someone informed — держать в курсе

Example: Keep your manager informed about progress.

ask for help — просить о помощи

Example: Don’t hesitate to ask for help.

break into smaller steps — разбить на маленькие шаги

Example: Break big tasks into smaller steps.

manageable tasks — управляемые задачи

Example: Focus on manageable tasks first.

celebrate small achievements — радоваться маленьким победам

Example: Celebrate small achievements to stay motivated.

stay positive — сохранять позитив

Example: Stay positive when things go wrong.

channel energy into solutions — направлять энергию на решения

Example: Channel your energy into solutions.

review what went well — анализировать успехи

Example: Review what went well after a project.

handle similar situations — справляться с похожими ситуациями

Example: Experience helps handle similar situations.

manage oneself — управлять собой

Example: Managing oneself is key under pressure.

focus on what matters — сосредоточиться на главном

Example: Focus on what matters most.

achieve better results — достичь лучших результатов

Example: Proper planning helps achieve better results.

Exercise: Fill in the Gaps

Fill in the gaps using the expressions from the list.

Learning to __________ is important in every job.

Tight deadlines can feel very __________.

Try to __________ even when stressed.

He often __________ to meet project goals.

As the project deadline was __________, he felt nervous.

Always __________ to make sure important tasks are done first.

Good __________ helps avoid last-minute problems.

Take breaks to __________ and stay focused.

Don’t hesitate to __________ when needed.

Break big tasks into __________ to make them manageable.

Office Communication

Text

Effective office communication is essential for a productive work environment. For Sarah, learning how to communicate clearly with her colleagues and supervisors has improved her performance and reduced misunderstandings.

Sarah starts her day by checking her emails and messages. She prioritizes urgent requests and responds promptly. This helps her stay on top of tasks and prevents issues from escalating. She also makes sure to write clear and concise messages, avoiding unnecessary details.

Meetings are another important aspect of office communication. Sarah prepares in advance, notes the key points she wants to discuss, and listens carefully to others. During meetings, she asks questions when something is unclear and takes notes to remember important information.

Face-to-face conversations are equally important. Sarah knows that tone and body language can convey as much as words. She tries to be polite, attentive, and professional when interacting with colleagues. Small gestures, like smiling or making eye contact, help build positive relationships.

Sometimes, misunderstandings occur. When that happens, Sarah addresses them immediately rather than letting them linger. She clarifies her intentions, listens to others’ perspectives, and seeks a solution. Handling conflicts calmly helps maintain a respectful and collaborative atmosphere.

Communication in the office isn’t limited to verbal interaction. Written communication, such as emails, reports, and memos, is just as important. Sarah makes sure her writing is clear, structured, and free of mistakes. Proofreading her messages prevents confusion and ensures professionalism.

Another key to successful office communication is active listening. Sarah focuses on what colleagues say, asks follow-up questions, and confirms her understanding. This not only shows respect but also reduces errors and improves teamwork.

When giving feedback, Sarah follows a constructive approach. She points out strengths first, then offers suggestions for improvement. This method encourages growth and helps colleagues feel supported rather than criticized.

Technology plays a big role in modern office communication. Sarah uses messaging apps, video calls, and collaborative tools to stay connected. She adapts her communication style depending on the platform, making sure her message is understood.

By practicing these habits consistently, Sarah has noticed that her relationships with colleagues have strengthened. Clear communication reduces stress, increases efficiency, and fosters a positive office culture.

In the end, office communication is about clarity, respect, and adaptability. Whether speaking, writing, or listening, being mindful of how we communicate can make a significant difference in workplace success.

Vocabulary: Useful Expressions

office communication — общение в офисе

Example: Good office communication improves teamwork.

productive work environment — продуктивная рабочая атмосфера

Example: Clear communication creates a productive work environment.

stay on top of (tasks) — держать под контролем

Example: She stays on top of her tasks.

escalate (problems) — усугубляться

Example: Address issues early to prevent them from escalating.

write clear and concise messages — писать ясные и краткие сообщения

Example: Always write clear and concise messages.

key points — ключевые моменты

Example: Note the key points before the meeting.

ask questions — задавать вопросы

Example: Don’t hesitate to ask questions.

face-to-face conversation — личный разговор

Example: Face-to-face conversations are very effective.

tone and body language — тон и язык тела

Example: Pay attention to tone and body language.

be attentive — быть внимательным

Example: Be attentive during meetings.

build positive relationships — строить хорошие отношения

Example: Smiling helps build positive relationships.

misunderstanding — недоразумение

Example: Clarify any misunderstanding immediately.

clarify intentions — прояснить намерения