Speak Mango - Daily English Conversation

Today's Expressions

Learn useful English expressions easily and fun.

strike a balance

find a middle ground · achieve equilibrium

What's the situation?

This expression is perfect when you need to weigh two opposing factors or goals and find a way for them to coexist harmoniously. ⚖️ It's super useful in business when you're trying to satisfy different stakeholders or optimize conflicting objectives without fully sacrificing either one. Think budget vs. quality, or speed vs. thoroughness! ✨

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to be a happy medium

a satisfactory compromise · a good balance between two extremes

What's the situation?

Imagine you're trying to pick out a new laptop. You don't want the cheapest one that'll crash next week, but you also don't need the super expensive, top-of-the-line model for a pro gamer. When you find one that has decent specs at a reasonable price, that's when you've found a happy medium! 🤩 It's all about finding that sweet spot where everyone wins.

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to make do with something

to manage with what's available · to use what you have even if it's not ideal

What's the situation?

Ever been shopping when your dream item is *sold out* or just too expensive? 😩 This phrase is your go-to when you have to settle for a decent alternative! It means to manage with what you have, even if it's not exactly what you wanted. Think of it as being resourceful when things don't go perfectly! ✨

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find common ground

find mutual agreement · identify shared interests

What's the situation?

This expression is a lifesaver when you and a colleague or team have different ideas or approaches, but you absolutely need to collaborate and make progress. It's about skillfully navigating disagreements to achieve a shared goal!

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to settle for something

to accept something less ideal · to choose a less preferred option

What's the situation?

Ever gone shopping with a very specific item in mind, only to find it's sold out or doesn't exist? 😅 This expression is perfect for those moments when you have to pick something that isn't exactly what you wanted, but it'll 'do the job'. Maybe the exact color isn't there, or the size you prefer, but you still need *something*! ✨

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meet someone halfway

compromise · find a middle ground · make concessions

What's the situation?

This expression is your secret weapon when you and someone else have different ideas or expectations, and you both need to bend a little to reach an agreement! 🤝 It's all about finding a solution where everyone gives a little to get a little, ensuring a smoother collaboration. Think of it like a negotiation dance where both partners take a few steps towards each other! 💃🕺