Common English expressions with CATCH
- catch a cold / catch the flu = get sick
Don’t get too close to me – you don’t want to catch a cold. - catch the last bus/train
We got to the station just in time to catch the last train. - catch someone’s eye = attract someone’s attention
That gorgeous blue necklace caught my eye. - catch a thief/criminal
Police have not yet been able to catch the bank robbers. - catch fire = start to burn
The curtains above the stove caught fire. - catch a fish
We spent all morning on the riverbank, and only caught three fish. - catch a glimpse = get a quick look
You can catch a glimpse of the ocean between the trees.
Common English expressions with KEEP
- keep a secret = not tell anyone about the secret
I’ll tell you what I think, but only if you can keep a secret. - keep away / keep your distance = stay far away from something
The tiger cubs are cute, but they’re still dangerous – you should keep your distance. - keep in touch = stay in contact with someone (also “stay in touch”)
Have you kept in touch with any of your old teachers? - keep track of / keep tabs on = monitor, stay informed about
I have so many projects I can’t even keep track of them all. - keep in mind = remember
When making plans for the trip, keep in mind that we’ll have the kids with us. - keep it up / keep up the good work = continue doing something
You’re making great progress. Keep it up!
Common English expressions with HOLD
- hold a meeting/event
The conference will be held in Atlanta. - hold your tongue = decide NOT to say something
I had some criticisms of the manager’s ideas, but I held my tongue. - hold your nose = pinch your nostrils together with your fingers, so that you can avoid smelling something bad
We held our noses as we walked past the garbage cans. - be on hold = in a state of pause (especially on the telephone)
I called the bank and they put me on hold for ten minutes. - hold someone responsible = consider that person responsible
Since you’re the team leader, the boss will hold you responsible. - hold your ground = refuse to change your opinion/behavior (also “stand your ground”)
I tried to talk him out of leaving his job, but he held his ground. - hold on tight = secure something firmly with your hands
I held on tight to my purse as I pushed through the crowded street.
