Speak Mango - Daily English Conversation

Today's Expressions

Learn useful English expressions easily and fun.

to forgive and forget

let go of resentment · move past a conflict

What's the situation?

This expression is perfect for those times when someone has upset you, but you decide it's better for your peace of mind (and perhaps the relationship!) to let go of the anger and move on. 🌱 It's all about choosing not to hold a grudge.

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to harbor ill feelings

to hold onto negative emotions or resentment towards someone · to carry a grudge

What's the situation?

This expression is perfect when someone just can't let go of a past grievance or argument. 😥 It implies a lingering sense of anger, resentment, or bitterness that sticks around, sometimes for a long time. It’s like their heart has a little storage unit just for 'bad vibes' about someone! 📦💔

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to get someone's back up

to annoy or irritate someone · to make someone defensive or angry

What's the situation?

Ever said something completely innocent, but it just rubbed someone the wrong way? Or maybe someone's just being plain annoying? 😤 This expression is perfect for those moments when you accidentally (or intentionally 😉) make someone feel irritated, defensive, or even a little angry. It’s like their emotional fur stands on end!

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to be at odds with someone/something

to disagree strongly · to be in conflict with

What's the situation?

This expression is perfect for those moments when you and someone else have clashing opinions, or when a situation just isn't jiving with your expectations. 🤔 It implies a deeper, more persistent disagreement than just a simple difference of opinion. Think of two magnets repelling each other! 🧲💥

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to make a scene

to create a public disturbance with an emotional outburst · to get overly dramatic or emotional, especially in front of others

What's the situation?

This expression is perfect when someone is being overtly emotional, dramatic, or causing a public fuss. 🎭 It's not just about being sad or angry, but expressing those emotions in a very visible, attention-grabbing way that might make others uncomfortable. Think 'over-the-top reaction'! 😲

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to cool off

to calm down · to relax after being angry or upset

What's the situation?

Ever feel like your emotions are running a marathon and you just need a timeout? 🏃‍♀️💨 This is your go-to phrase when someone (or you!) needs to chill after getting heated. It's perfect for when things get a bit too intense and you just need to step back and breathe. 🧘‍♂️🔥

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to give someone the cold shoulder

to ignore someone · to be unfriendly towards someone (due to annoyance/upset)

What's the situation?

Ever had a friend who's clearly upset with you but won't talk about it? 🤔 They might be giving you the cold shoulder! This expression is perfect for when someone is intentionally ignoring or being distant towards you, usually because they're annoyed or hurt. It's like a silent protest! 🤫

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talk it out

resolve an issue by discussing it · discuss a problem to find a solution

What's the situation?

This expression is a total lifesaver when there's a misunderstanding or a conflict brewing, and you want to tackle it head-on! 🤝 It's all about encouraging open and honest communication to find a resolution, instead of letting things get awkward or worse. It's like saying, "Let's put our heads together and fix this!" 💡

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have a chip on your shoulder

to be resentful · to hold a grudge · easily offended

What's the situation?

Ever met someone who always seems to be looking for a fight or ready to argue, often because they feel wronged or overlooked? That's when they 'have a chip on their shoulder'! 😠 It describes someone who carries a grudge or resentment, making them easily offended and often defensive.

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to be torn

to be undecided · to have conflicting feelings or options

What's the situation?

Imagine you're trying to choose between two amazing job offers or two delicious desserts! 😫 When you can't quite pick one because both seem equally good (or equally challenging!), that's when you're 'torn'. It perfectly captures that internal struggle of indecision or conflicting emotions. 🤔✨

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Don't take it personally

don't be offended · don't feel it's about you

What's the situation?

Imagine your boss says, 'Overall, team productivity needs a boost.' You might instantly think, 'Oh no, are they talking about ME?' 😱 But often, these comments are general observations! This phrase is like a friendly shield 🛡️, reminding you (or someone else) not to internalize every general critique or negative comment as a personal attack. It's about seeing the bigger picture and not letting external negativity weigh you down. ✨