Business English idioms improve and enrich professional communications with "tried and true" expressions that "pack a big punch." This alphabetical business English idioms list is Chapter 2 in our idiom series. It follows our previous idiom post, "20 Business English Idioms Explained, Chapter 1." If you have not already seen Chapter 1, and if you want to start at the beginning, go to "Learn 20 Business English Idioms, Chapter 1."
Let's review the topic of business English idioms. Idioms are fixed phrases (collocations) used to communicate in a nonliteral way. Idiomatic phrases are often visual, sometimes funny, and usually create little “word pictures” in the mind of the listener. English idioms are challenging for those who speak English as a second language because the words cannot be translated literally, and the idioms must be spoken correctly, "word for word." Any word reordering or substitutions may cause communication failure. Or laughter. Or both!
1. Down and out ?
Poor; without hope.
Example: Although my friend’s company looked pretty down and out last year, this year it’s making a comeback.
2. Down for the count ☹️
Unlikely to recover.
Example: I was so sick when I had Covid that I really thought I was down for the count, but thank God, I’m feeling fine now.
3. Down on my luck ?
Having had bad experiences; feeling that the prospects are not good; feeling like a loser: feeling unlucky.
Example: I was feeling really down on my luck after I was rejected for five positions.
4. Down to the wire ?
Unsettled or incomplete until the very last moment or deadline. To the very end; finishing with no time to spare.
Example: Suzanna worked right down to the wire on the grant proposal. She barely finished in time.
5. Fallout ?
Negative consequences; bad results after an event, change or decision.
Example: The fallout from the merger was terrible; hundreds of people were laid off.
6. Fast track a project ⏩
Make something a priority; to speed up the delivery/completion date.
Example: My boss said that we needed to fast track the reports.
7. Filthy rich ??
Extremely rich. Having a ridiculously large amount of wealth. Like the people in the header image on this page.
Example: The owner of that fast food franchise started with nothing, and now he is filthy rich.
8. Full plate ?
A lot of work to do or problems to deal with.
Example: The accountant certainly had a full plate completing our income tax forms by the deadline.
9. Get off to a flying start ✈️
To begin an activity very smoothly and successfully.
Example: The new marketing campaign got off to a flying start; sales immediately increased.
10. Get off my back! ?
To ask someone to stop over managing, pressuring or criticizing you.
Example: I had to tell my new colleague to get off my back. She was always telling me how to do my job. (Note: Watch out, this is quite strong and could offend someone.)
11. Give someone a big hand ??
To give a round of applause; to show appreciation.
Example: The managers gave the sales team a big hand when they closed the million euro deal.
12. Glass ceiling ?
An unofficially acknowledged, invisible barrier to advancement in a profession, especially affecting women and members of minorities.
Example: It seemed impossible to break the glass ceiling until several women made it to the C-suite.
13. Golden handshake ?
A nice severance package, often arranged in advance.
Example: Don't worry about Phyllis. She got a nice golden handshake when they let her go.
14. Get off on the wrong foot with someone ?
To begin a relationship in a way that is awkward, uncomfortable and likely to fail.
Example: Sheila, the new hire, got off on the wrong foot with her colleagues, and now they are all mad at her.
15. Go for it ?
To do something with passion, even when you think you will fail. Often used to encourage someone.
Example: I did not think I had any chance to get that management job, but my partner said, “Just go for it!”, and I did. I got the job!
16. Have a gut feeling ?
To feel something intuitively.
Example: The HR department manager had a gut feeling that the job candidate would not fit on the team.
17. Heads will roll ?
People will get penalized or fired.
Example: OMG, the last project was a fiasco. We lost a lot of money and now, heads will roll!
18. Head something off at the pass ?
To stop something from happening.
Example: The president of the company anticipated a lawsuit, so he headed it off at the pass by offering a big cash settlement to the unhappy client.
19. Her bark is worse than her bite ?
Someone sounds meaner than they really are.
Example: Don’t worry about her. She sounds tough, but her bark is worse than her bite.
20. In the doghouse ?
When people are mad at you; to be in disfavor or disgrace, as though you are being punished.
Example: I think I am in the doghouse because of some things I said in the meeting. I guess I offended some people.
OK! That was the first half of the business English idioms chapter 2 list. Now let's carry on and "keep this show on the road." (= keep the action going; keep everything moving)
21. It’s a gold mine ?
Very valuable and capable of producing ongoing wealth.
Example: Wow! That new stock has turned out to be a gold mine.
22. It’s a rip-off ?
Something intended to exploit others for money; a product or service that is deliberately overpriced or of poor quality.
Example: They bought some new software that was really expensive, but I think it was just a big rip-off.
23. It’s a steal ?
Something that is very under-priced; a real bargain; great value for the money.
Example: The department store is offering 50% off on all designer brand winter coats. That’s a real steal!
24. Keep everyone on their toes ?
Keep people alert; energetic, attentive, motivated, productive.
Example: The owner of that IT company is famous for keeping the sales team on their toes with great incentives.
25. Keep everything on track ?️
Work according to a schedule or project plan.
Example: Your role as project officer is to ensure that you keep everything on track.
26. Keep our heads above water ??
To manage to survive, especially financially; to keep up with one’s work.
Example: In Covid times, the restaurant owner was able to keep his head above water by adding home delivery.
27. Money to burn ?
To have a lot of money to spend on things that are not necessary.
Example: The CEO had money to burn, so he totally redecorated his office with expensive antiques.
28. My gut tells me ?
To have a strong, intuitive feeling about something.
Example: My gut tells me that we should not expand our product line right now.
29. No BS ?
BS means bullshit. No BS is the opposite of BS. This is casual English and should be used with care as any reference to the word “shit” can be seen by some people as rude, crude or offensive.
Example: There is no BS with my boss; she is very direct and always “tells it like it is.”
30. On top of trends ?
To be aware of and responding to changes, direction of changes and their prevalence as it relates to your business.
Example: We hired someone to keep on top of trends so our company could be more competitive.
31. Out of line with ?
Not consistent with expectations; different than the norm.
Example: If your pay is out of line with your peers' pay, it's time to make an appointment with the boss.
32. Pay through the nose ??
To pay too much for something.
Example: We are always paying through the nose for paper that can be found cheaper somewhere else.
33. Pay top dollar ?
To pay a lot of money for something.
Example: The customer paid top dollar for the new car with all the gadgets.
34. Pick your brains ?
Obtain information by questioning someone who is better informed about a subject than oneself.
Example: I picked her brains about the company I am interviewing with, so now I think I have a good idea how to pitch myself in the interview.
35. Play it by ear ??
To do something by feel and instinct rather than with a plan, to improvise.
Example: The meeting will be held sometime next week, but we can’t decide on a day and time yet. We’ll just have to play it by ear.
36. Price skyrocketed ?
Increase quickly to a very high level or amount.
Example: The real estate prices skyrocketed last year. Now I can’t afford a house in the city center.
37. Pull the wool over someone’s eyes ??
To deceive someone.
Example: Working there is not at all what I expected! I think the interviewer really pulled the wool over my eyes when she described the friendly working environment.
38. Put your money where your mouth is??
To support something that you believe in, especially by giving/spending money on it.
Example: They keep promising an office refurbishment, but they never get around to it. It’s time they put their money where their mouth is!
39. Put in a good word ?️
Say something positive about someone; often to a person with greater power.
Hey, can you put in a good word about me with the HR department? I really think I am ready for a promotion.
OK... that's it for this Chapter 2 idiom list. We hope you enjoy using these business English idioms. And if you would like to further develop your business English, we have some suggestions for you. Please keep reading and take the free test.
Go to Chapter 1 of our Business English Idiom series.
Go to Chapter 3 of our Business English Idioms series.
Take our free business English idiom test online now and discover how well you understand the expressions (=uitdrukkingen) used in everyday professional English.
If English is the corporate language where you work, there may be some employees who need to speak and write at a more professional level. Visit our in-company training page to learn more about our approach and services.
Vocabulary – words, phrases, idioms, collocations, phrasal verbs – no matter how you describe it, you need these language building blocks. And whatever your level, beginner to advanced, you need to keep adding and refreshing your vocabulary. Maybe you have forgotten some old words, or maybe you need to add new words that relate to your job….? You can build your vocabulary with a private customized course that focuses on the language that is the most important for you! Would you like to speak with a native speaker teacher in a free consultation appointment?
Would you enjoy a business English group course? Group courses are available at intermediate and advanced levels. Private training and in-company training is customized and available for all levels.
With a private business English course, you can focus on the words and phrases that are most important for you and your job.
Would you like to take a free English level test? You can do it online now.
In 2020 and 2021, we are seeing most of our clients online via Zoom, Google Meet, etc.
Call +31 20 823 0569. We are happy to speak with you in English or Dutch!
Contributors: Brenda de Jong-Pauley, Kerry Finlayson and Marike Duizendstra-Wolters
August 2021
Business English idioms are fixed phrases (collocations) used to communicate something in a nonliteral way. Idiomatic phrases are often visual, sometimes funny, and usually create little “word pictures” in the mind of the listener. English idioms are challenging for those who speak English as a second language because the words cannot be translated literally.
English idioms are the delicious little phrases that “pack a punch” (= have a lot of power) and give you “a lot of bang for your buck” (= value for your investment of money or effort). Idioms are meaning-dense messages that natives love and non-native speakers can only guess about. If you often feel confused when listening to native speakers, one reason is the common presence of idioms. But don't worry! This alphabetized (ABC) list of 20 idioms will give you a place to begin learning these fun and powerful elements of business English communication.
1. Angel investor
No, this is not about religion. An angel investor is a person or company who provides financial backing for small start-ups or entrepreneurs.
Example: Mr. Jones pitched his new business to lots of angel investors. Finally, one them decided to invest.
2. At arm’s length
A social distance that discourages personal contact or familiarity.
Example: I am not too friendly at work. I like to keep my colleagues at arm’s length.
3. Bad egg
An untrustworthy person.
Example: The new sales person was a bad egg who lied to customers and mistreated his colleagues.
4. Bang for the buck
Value for money; performance for cost.
Example: My cable company gives customers a good bang for the buck with bundled prices for TV, high speed internet, streaming entertainment and phone services.
5. Belt and suspenders
Being very careful. Minimizing risk and having multiple ways to prevent failure.
Example: I saved the report to Drive and emailed it to myself. You know, belt and suspenders!
6. Business before pleasure
You should do your work before you have fun
Example: Yes I know that the party starts soon, but I have to finish this report; you know how it is, business before pleasure!
7. Belt tightening
To generally reduce expenses, investment and spending.
Example: If demand for oil decreases, then I guess oil companies will just have to tighten their belts.
8. Big wig
An important person with high status.
Example: Don’t even try to get an appointment with her. She’s quite a big wig now.
9. Bitter pill to swallow
Bad news; something unpleasant that must be accepted.
Example: Getting fired after having worked so hard was a bitter pill to swallow.
10. Blank check
Complete freedom of action or control.
Example: The millionaire CEO funded the product research with a blank check. There was no ceiling on the budget!
Congratulations. You are halfway there!
Let's learn ten more business English idioms...
11. Bounce back
To return to a good condition; to recover from a blow or defeat.
Example: The restaurant business will hopefully bounce back in the new year.
12. Breadwinner
The person whose income is the primary source of support for their family.
Example: Maria was the main breadwinner in her family. She took a job she didn’t like because it paid very well.
13. Caught red-handed / caught in the act
Seen / observed doing something illegal or immoral; “caught in the act.”
Example: The manager was caught red-handed stealing from petty cash.
14. Can’t quite put my fingers on it
Something that one feels or knows intuitively but cannot quite articulate, explain or defend.
Example: I have the feeling that there’s something wrong with the new guy in accounting. I think he’s a little shady, but I’m not sure why. I can't quite put my finger on it.
15. Come to think of it
To suddenly remember something; to suddenly understand something. To make a mental connection or have a sudden insight about.
Example: Come to think of it, he used to work for the competition. Could he be a corporate spy?
16. Compare apples and oranges
Comparing two things that are not suitable for comparison.
Example: You can’t compare our little startup with a multinational company. That’s comparing apples and oranges.
17. Climb the corporate ladder
Moving up to a higher position in a corporation.
Example: Although Leslie just graduated from college a few years ago, she has already climbed several rungs on the corporate ladder.
18. Corporate raider
A financier who makes a practice of making hostile takeover bids for companies, either to control their policies or to resell them for a profit.
Example: Our company stock was undervalued and that’s what attracted some corporate raiders.
19. Cost a pretty penny
To be very expensive; to cost a lot of money.
Example: The addition of the onsite health club, child care center and parking garage cost the company a pretty penny.
20. Crunch some numbers
To calculate various figures.
Example: The management said they had to crunch some more numbers before deciding about employee raises this year.
OK... that's it for this list. We hope you enjoy using these business English idioms. And if you would like to further develop your business English, we have some suggestions for you. Please keep reading and take the free test.
No problem. We've got you covered with 4 free idiom lessons. You are currently in Chapter 1 of our Business English Idiom Series
Go to Chapter 2 of our Business English Idiom Series
Go to Chapter 3 of our Business English Idiom Series
Go to Chapter 4 of our Business English Idiom Series
Take our free business English idiom test online now and discover how well you understand the expressions (=uitdrukkingen) used in everyday professional English.
If English is the corporate language where you work, there may be some employees who need to speak and write at a more professional level. Visit our in-company training page to learn more about our approach and services.
Vocabulary – words, phrases, idioms, collocations, phrasal verbs – no matter how you describe it, you need these language building blocks. And whatever your level, beginner to advanced, you need to keep adding and refreshing your vocabulary. Maybe you have forgotten some old words, or maybe you need to add new words that relate to your job….? You can build your vocabulary with a private customized course that focuses on the language that is the most important for you! Would you like to speak with a native speaker teacher in a free consultation appointment?
Would you enjoy a business English group course? Group courses are available at intermediate and advanced levels. Private training and in-company training is customized and available for all levels.
With a private business English course, you can focus on the words and phrases that are most important for you and your job.
Would you like to take a free English level test? You can do it online now.
In 2020 and 2021, we are seeing most of our clients online via Zoom, Google Meet, etc.
Call +31 20 823 0569. We are happy to speak with you in English or Dutch!
Contributors: Brenda de Jong-Pauley, Kerry Finlayson and Marike Duizendstra-Wolters
August 2021
Would you like to take a free business English test?
Would you like a free online consultation appointment with a Business English teacher?
Brenda de Jong-Pauley M.A., June 2021
The question of which is better – online virtual business english training or in-person business english training – has just gotten hot. After one year of virtual training as the only option in a locked-down Netherlands, spring 2021 brings us new freedom about where and how to study. But not everyone wants to go back to the classroom and the office. Virtual learning is definitely here to stay. But what's best?
• zero travel time
• lower price point
• no babysitter!
• no need to get “dressed up”
• no worries about bad weather
• no hassles with parking spaces or train schedules
• the same quality and personalization as in-person lessons
• great native-speaker trainers from our Amsterdam based team
If this sounds good to you, we encourage you to "try us out" in a free online consultation appointment with a teacher.
While some people may still imagine that online English training means listening to a boring grammar lecture, that is definitely not our style.
The English Center’s Live Online approach means that a lesson on Zoom is just like a private English lesson in Amsterdam or Den Haag, but without the travel time. One-to-one private English lessons online bring a top native-speaker English teacher from our Amsterdam-based team to you, wherever you are!
In the lesson, you will talk a lot and get lots of corrections. The content and activities will be the things that are then most useful for you and your career. Whether you are in sales or IT, the law or the arts, we’ve got you covered. Want to focus more on writing, or is it speaking English that makes you sweat? Your training will suit you, your level and your needs.
With distance learning for business English, you can work with a great teacher, no matter where you are. OK, it helps if you are in or close to a CET time zone, but with more clients online, we are now proud to work with individuals and companies as far away as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Palestine and Russia.
While the words “in-company” definitely suggest on-location/at your office, the Covid lockdown has opened new possibilities for quality online, small group, virtual courses in business English. Your team can work with our top native-speaker trainers and follow a customized course built just for your company. And you have lots of options! Weekly training, one-off workshops, intensives and more.
Do you prefer in-person, onsite business English training? We can do that. Please keep reading.
Read more about in-company training and request a proposal.
YES you CAN!
We get it. You are "sick and tired" of Zoom meetings and fed up with computer screens. You are dying to go somewhere and see some new faces and places. If you live in or around Amsterdam, Haarlem, Den Haag or Amstelveen, we’ve got you covered. The English Center has great locations in the aforementioned cities. With charming English teachers in charming classrooms, you know you are going to enjoy your business English course! And after each appointment, you can explore beautiful Amsterdam, hit a cafe or maybe visit a museum. Yes, the city is truly open again!
YES you CAN!
Read more about in-company training and request a proposal.
We plan to return to our beautiful classrooms on the Binnenkant in Amsterdam – right by Amsterdam Centraal Station – in January 2022. Visit our website for more details about:
• Intermediate Business English
• Advanced Business English for Fluency
• Business English Breakfast Intensive
If you are not close by, you will of course choose online training. Intensives are typically 20 hours and can be taken over one or two weeks. But if you are here in the Netherlands, you may want to meet with us in-person and thankfully, that is now possible! In-person training is “gezellig” and we are all ready to be more social, eh? Plus we have some really delightful locations in the heart of Amsterdam and Den Haag. These great classrooms make your learning experience even more special.
What skills do you most need to improve? Presentation skills? Diplomatic English? Pronunciation? Writing? Grammar? Or “all of the above?” You can be sure that your training will be 100% customized to help you achieve your goals.
All courses – on Zoom and in-person – are taught by our carefully selected team of native- speaker English teachers from the UK, Canada, the US, South Africa and Australia. Your satisfaction and success means everything to us!
Let’s start the ball rolling (= get started) with a free consultation appointment. Call +31 20 823 0569.
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Would you like a free online consultation appointment with a Business English teacher?
Would you like to take a free level test?
Would you like to take a free business English test?
Would you like to see our in-company English page?
Would you like to request a language proficiency profile for some of your colleagues?
Call us at +31 20 823 0569. We are happy to speak with you in English or Dutch.
Questions about business English courses? Call +31 20 823 0569. We are happy to speak with you in English or Dutch.
50 Business English vocabulary words you already know. You can use these English words NOW because they are the same – or almost the same – in English and Dutch.
1. Advertisement (advertentie)
The advertisements in this campaign are really young and fresh. I think they are going to work well for us.
2. Aggressive (agressief)
It is hard to handle angry, aggressive customers, but I have learned to stay calm and really listen to what they are upset about. Then I can find a solution.
3. Atmosphere (sfeer)
You will love working at our office. The atmosphere is casual and friendly.
4. Boss (baas)
I would never want to be a boss. It’s way too much stress!
5. Brilliant (briljant)
Steve Jobs was a very difficult guy, but you have to admit, he was brilliant.
6. Capacity (capaciteit)
The warehouse is full. It’s at capacity. We can’t order any new product right now, we just don’t have the room.
7. Client (cliënt)
Many of our foreign clients find us on the internet. And because of video conferencing, we can meet with those potential clients without ever leaving our office!
8. Colleague (collega)
My new colleague is a little slow. I hope he catches on soon!
9. Collegial (collegiaal)
We value workers with a collegial approach. At our company, you really have to know how to work well on a team.
10. Commercial (commerciël)
This is not a recreational club. This is a business, a commercial enterprise, and we are here to make money.
11. Communication (communicatie)
Good communication is essential for a successful company.
12. Communicative (communicatief)
My intern is not very communicative. I think she is so quiet because she is a bit overwhelmed by all her new tasks.
13. Costs (kosten)
We have got to do a better job of controlling costs.
14. Creative (creatief)
Being creative is important. Sometimes you just have to think “out of the box” and create something really different.
15. Crisis (crisis)
The terrible financial crisis of 2007–2009 came to be known as “the great recession.”
16. Dynamic (dynamisch)
Your presentation was very dynamic. You got the whole team excited.
17. Effective (effectief)
She is a highly effective communicator. She really knows how to get her point across quickly and concisely.
18. Energetic (energiek)
I always feel really energetic on Mondays but by Friday I am exhausted.
19. Energy (energie)
I always have lots of energy for new projects, but sometimes I get tired later on when I have to handle the details.
20. Enthusiastic, enthusiasm (enthousiast, enthousiasme)
The new director is so enthusiastic that he has got everyone really fired up. At my company, enthusiasm is sometimes as important as skill.
21. Essence (essentie)
The essence of the report is the story of the comeback after the crisis.
22. Essential (essentieel)
He brings some essential skills to the team.
23. Expressive (expressief)
She is very expressive and that is one reason she is such a good leader and motivator.
24. Focused (gefocust)
You really have to be focused when you are in important meetings. It’s no good to be checking your phone and looking out the window.
25. Good character (goed karakter)
Our organization is an NGO (not for profit) and good character is something we really look for in new hires.
26. Good leader (goede leider)
He is a great colleague but a bad leader. I don't think he will be promoted to management.
27. Hard working (hardwerkend)
Only hard-working people are welcome at our company. The owners really expect a lot from the team.
28. Loyal (loyaal)
My company has been good to me for many years, so I feel very loyal.
29. Inclusive (inclusief)
The conference center’s quote is inclusive of rooms, food, beverages, misc., and taxes.
30. Innovation (innovatie)
Without innovation, companies cannot survive for long. You have to change with the times.
31. Integral (integraal)
Research and development (R&D) is an integral activity at our company.
32. Integration (integratie)
The integration team is finding it tough to get all the platforms working together.
33. Last minute (laatste minuut)
My boss is always asking for “one more thing” at the last minute. It makes me crazy!
34. Leadership (leiderschap)
Leadership is a broad set of skills and while you can teach it, I think some people are just born with it.
35. Location (locatie)
These days, it is super quick and easy to find the location of a company; just Google them.
36. Motivation (motivatie)
Motivation is key. They say that to be successful in sales, you have to be motivated by money.
37. Microphone (microfoon)
Is your microphone on or off? I think you are muted.
38. Partner (partner)
My best friend and I started a business together. Now my best friend is also my business partner. I sure hope it works out.
39. Passion (passie)
HR is looking for designers with passion for our creative team.
40. Passive (passief)
Being passive in the workplace is not helpful. Employees need to speak up, contribute and share their opinions.
41. Plus (plus)
While my colleague was sick last week, I had to do his work plus mine. Wow, that was too much.
42. Presentation (presentatie)
Your presentation to the board was outstanding. It was the best one of the day. Well done!
43. Product management (product management)
Product management means many things, including new product development, planning, forecasting, pricing, product launch, and marketing.
44. Project management (project management)
Good project management practices help companies achieve goals and do it on time.
45. Telephone (telefoon)
Hey, I know you like to text and email, but you do remember how to use a telephone, right?
46. Shocking (schokkend)
The news of the merger was extremely shocking. We had no idea!
47. Success, successful (succes, succesvol)
To achieve great success, you have to want it really badly. Successful people are almost always highly motivated.
48. Team leader (teamleider)
The team leader will set a good example and make sure that everyone is working well as a team.
49. Team player (teamspeler)
Lots of companies hire many specialists, but the individual employees still have to get along, communicate well, and be real team players.
50. Workplace (werkplek)
Because of Covid, my workplace is no longer a chic office at the World trade Center. Now it’s my dining room, or my living room… and sometimes my bedroom!
If you are Dutch, this should be "a piece of cake" (= easy). If you would like to further develop your business English vocabulary, review grammar, improve business English writing or perfect your pronunciation, we have some suggestions for you. Please keep reading!
Post: Brenda de Jong-Pauley, May 2021
If English is the corporate language where you work, there may be some employees who need to speak and write at a more professional level. Visit our in-company training page to learn more about our approach and services.
Do you need better English communication skills for your work? For more information about our business English courses online or at your office in Amsterdam, Amstelveen, Den Haag and the Randstad, please call us +31 20 823 0569 or complete our form.
[contact-form-7 id="11117" title="Incompany courses 2022"]
Vocabulary – words, phrases, idioms, collocations, phrasal verbs – no matter how you describe it, you need these language building blocks. And whatever your level, beginner to advanced, you need to keep adding and refreshing your vocabulary. Maybe you have forgotten some old words, or maybe you need to add new words that relate to your job….? You can build your vocabulary with a private customized course that focuses on the language that is the most important for you! Would you like to speak with a native speaker teacher in a free consultation appointment?
Take our free business English idiom test online now and discover how well you understand the expressions (=uitdrukkingen) used in everyday professional English.
Would you enjoy a business English group course? Courses are available at 3 levels: pre-intermediate, intermediate and advanced.
With a private business English course, you can focus on the words and phrases that are most important for you and your job.
Would you like to take a free English level test? You can do it online now.
In 2020 and 2021, we are seeing most of our clients online via Zoom, Google Meet, etc.
Call +31 20 823 0569. We are happy to speak with you in English or Dutch!
Photo credit: Sunset over Zuidas, the commercial and business zone of Amsterdam, by Nordwand
Brenda de Jong-Pauley, April 2021
Feeling words are important. We use them to express love, sympathy, kindness and affection. Feeling words help us bond with one another. Without them, we are emotionally mute.
So how are you feeling today? Are you serene? Delighted? Zen? Today, let’s load up on positive emotion words with some advanced adjectives and phrases associated with happiness.
Tip! Be sure you read to the bottom to enjoy some musical happiness.
To find something funny and/or pleasantly interesting and engaging.
His stories really amused her. She could listen for hours!
To feel blissed out is to be utterly and completely happy.
When she was reunited with her sweetheart, she entered a state of absolute bliss. She was so happy, it was like she was “walking on air” and her "head was in the clouds.”
Happy and satisfied with what you have.
After years of dating, she finally found happiness with her new love. Now she is truly contented.
Very pleased or happy with something or someone.
I would be absolutely delighted if my best friend would come visit me this summer. In fact, I would be “tickled pink!”
Extremely happy, in rapture.
He was ecstatic when his girlfriend said “yes” to his proposal of marriage.
When someone is enchanted with something or someone, that person is so pleased that we think there might be some magic involved ;-).
Their afternoon in Paris was perfect, and Tom was so enchanted by the city that he resolved to live there one day.
Extremely pleased; completely engaged and transfixed.
He was so enraptured by the soloist’s performance that he could hardly breathe.
Eager, positive, interested in and having energy for something
I am super enthusiastic about this job interview. I really hope I get hired!
To be extremely happy. Also associated with being high on drugs.
When she won the lottery, she was euphoric for weeks.
To be full of joy and unrestrained, energetic happiness that is easily observed.
He is so exuberant about his new job that he can speak of nothing else.
To be in a good space is like being in a good state of mind. Positive, relaxed, optimistic.
Since the divorce, he is in a good space and enjoying his life again.
Full of excitement and enthusiasm.
The week before the premiere of the play, she was so jazzed she could hardly eat or sleep.
Full of high spirits and laughter, socially warm, friendly and positive; convivial.
Santa Claus is often described as a jolly fellow.
Very, very happy.
The birth of a child is often described as a joyous occasion.
A feeling of great happiness, especially after a big success.
After the very successful launch of the new line, the company owners were absolutely jubilant.
Literally so happy that one cannot (or nearly cannot) stand still and wants to jumps up and down.
When the author found out his book would be published, he was so happy that he was nearly jumping for joy.
While “mad” and “crazy” can have other meanings (such as angry and insane), if the context is positive, then these phrases mean “in love” with something or someone, so much that it is not sane!
She is so crazy about chocolate that she could eat it for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
I'm mad about my new boyfriend; I think he’s the one!
So happy that one is almost floating or feels as though they are in heaven.
The kids are over the moon with the new puppy. They spend every waking moment playing with that dog!
Peacefully calm and happy. With no worries.
The queen looked absolutely serene as she sat on her throne.
Happy and excited, often in response to something that just happened or some recently received news.
We got the house we bid on? OMG! I am tickled pink!
Mellow, happy and relaxed but in quiet, calm way. Having no worries about things that cannot be changed. Zen is a philosophical state of mind.
She is so zen about her life – I wish I could be more like her! Even when bad things happen, she just stays calm and centered and goes with the flow.
We hope that you found this list of words to describe happiness both fun and useful. Vocabulary – words, phrases, idioms, collocations, phrasal verbs – no matter how you describe it, you need these language building blocks. ou can build your vocabulary with a private customized course that focuses on the language that is the most important for you! If you would like to know more about an Intensive English Course with The English Center, just click through to the course page. All our courses are private (except for in company training) and tailored to your professional goals and your schedule. Let’s talk!
Brenda de Jong-Pauley MA is the director of The English Center. Trained as a teacher and psychologist in the US, she loves combining practical English language with the soft skills that make people great business English speakers.
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Easter is a nationally recognized holiday in many countries. And even if you are not religious, you may enjoy a special dinner with family on Easter Sunday. Or a day off on Good Friday.
If you are in the Netherlands, you know Easter as Pasen and, if you're a child, you wait for the Paashaas. (the Easter Bunny)
Many people are not clear about the origins and traditions of Easter. Where does the word Easter come from? Did the holiday start with Christianity, or is it older? And why is the Friday before Easter “good?” Why is Easter on a different date every year? And why in the world is there a rabbit that brings colored eggs and candy to children? Let’s find out!
While not everyone agrees, many scholars believe that the word Easter comes from the name of a pre-Christian European goddess, Eostre, who represented spring and fertility. The only early reference to this goddess comes from the writings of the Venerable Bede, a British monk who lived in the late seventh and early eighth century.
Bede wrote that the month of April, when English Christians were celebrating the resurrection (=rising from the dead) of Jesus had formerly been called Eosturmonath in Old English, and that it referred to a goddess named Eostre. And even though Christians claimed the holiday as their own, they continued to use the name of the old pagan goddess.
This makes sense. Historians agree that Christians worked hard to win the hearts and minds of the pagans, and one way they did that was by absorbing and blending holidays from the “old religion” into the new religion – Christianity.
Thus, a holiday celebrating a Goddess of fertility, springtime and new life morphed into (=changed into) a holiday celebrating a return to life (=the resurrection) of Jesus.
The Council of Nicaea, a big gathering of Christians, decided in the year 325 that Easter should be observed on the first Sunday following the first full moon after the spring equinox.
Simply stated, the spring and fall equinox are the times of the year when day and night – light and dark – are in balance. The hours of light vs. dark are equal (=exactly the same). The word equinox comes from two Latin words meaning "equal" and "night."
Scientifically speaking, an equinox is the time when the plane of Earth's equator passes through the geometric center of the Sun's disk. This occurs twice each year, around 20 March and 23 September. In other words, it is the moment at which the center of the visible Sun is directly above the equator.
Good Friday is a Christian holiday commemorating Jesus’s crucifixion (=death by hanging on a cross). It is always the Friday before Easter. Members of many Christian denominations, observe Good Friday with fasting and church services. For many non-religious people, however, Good Friday is just a nice day off from work.
Still, why is the day of Jesus’s death called “Good Friday?” Why not “Bad Friday” or "Sad Friday?" Some Christian traditions do take this approach; for example, in German, this day is called Karfreitag, or “Sorrowful Friday.” In any case, for Christians, this day is good because it marks the day that they believe God saved his people. It is also worth noting that the older name of this day might have been "God's Day" and somehow, through the centuries, it changed to Good Friday.
No one can be sure about the story of the Easter bunny, but here is one version:
In the early folk lore of South Germany, there was a bird that became a rabbit. Rabbits were associated with fertility. The ancient goddess of spring, Ostara (a name related to Eostre), cleverly transformed a winged creature (a bird) into a fertile little 4-legged animal – a rabbit! Because of that, the Easter rabbit had the magical power to lay beautifully colored Easter eggs for the spring festival. And because eggs have always been a symbol of life, the egg was also a great symbol for the resurrection of Jesus at Easter.
...who brought with them their tradition of an egg-laying rabbit (=hare) called the Osterhase. As the story goes, the rabbit would lay colorful eggs as gifts for children who were good. (Funny how this is similar to the rules of Santa Claus and Sinterklaas about toys for just the “good boys and girls,” eh?) It seems like parents through the ages have used holidays to motivate good behavior in children!
While Easter gifts started with colored eggs, through the years the gifts expanded to include bunny shaped chocolates, stuffed animals (especially chicks and bunnies) and toys. The Easter basket originated with the idea that the bunny would need a nest (like a bird, eh?) in which to safely lay its colored eggs.
Coloring eggs is a very popular Easter activity. Children may also go on "Easter egg hunts" looking for colored eggs hidden in the garden or even the living room if it's too rainy outside. Some lucky children may receive a pretty Easter basket with chocolates and candy, colored eggs and stuffed toys.
I hope the Easter Bunny brings you something nice, too!
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Business English is a category of English communication that includes the language skills used at work. These language skill categories include – but are not limited to – speaking, listening, reading, writing reports & emails, presentations, negotiations, meetings, small talk, networking, socializing & conversation, selling, persuasion, leadership.
Business English emphasizes effective communication among international colleagues. Business English is not about being perfect, but it does require a moderate to high level of proficiency.
English Center courses are offered face-to-face at great locations in Amsterdam, Den Haag, and Amstelveen, as well as online. Always with a native speaker trainer.
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Good business English communication means that you can, in general, do the following things well and with relative ease.
So how do you think you measure up? Ready for a course? Find the perfect Business English training for you.
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There are many general English tests available, from fairly expensive tests – such as Cambridge, IELTS and TOEIC – to the modestly priced Oxford Online Placement Test: a great test at a low cost.
We have two free tests: our Quick Business English Test (25 questions) and our English Level Test (50 questions). Take them now and get instant results and feedback.
HR departments use CEFR (Common European Frame of Reference) scores to describe employee and job applicant English levels. Below, you will find descriptions of B and C levels on the CEFR scale.
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You are B1 lower intermediate if you can speak and understand a moderate amount of English. You can do pretty well when the topics are familiar and not too abstract. At this stage, you still sometimes need clarification from the people that you are speaking with, but you understand a lot of what you hear and you can usually keep talking, even though you make mistakes.
You notice that other speakers are willing to talk to you and your confidence starts to grow. Your vocabulary has many words, but you still need many more. You cannot understand many common idioms and this sometimes leaves you unable to follow conversations.
It tires you to speak English and you get stuck sometimes. You have to ask for people to repeat or explain. When you write, you may still be translating from your native language. You are uncertain about many grammar points. At this level, you will not qualify for many jobs.
You are B2 upper intermediate if you can interact with a certain degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular English interactions with English speakers not too difficult. You can be very active in conversations, and sometimes, you even take the lead! Your vocabulary is pretty big, and you understand and can use quite a few idioms.
Your sentence structure has fewer mistakes, and you can speak about and understand reasonably complex subjects. You do not need much help in conversations, but you still tire if you have to speak too long. You are still learning idioms. Writing is easier because you are thinking more in English. Your grammar is improving but you still make mistakes. At this level, you will qualify for many jobs, but you may still be asked to improve.
You are C1 Advanced if you can express yourself fluently without much searching for words. You can use English flexibly and effectively in professional situations. Your writing is quite good with just occasional errors. You can express your ideas and opinions in a precise way and you rarely need assistance from the people you are speaking with.
You are an independent user. You make some errors of idiom but they do not interfere with others understanding what you are saying. You still get a little tired if you have to speak a lot, but you feel (and sound) quite competent. You will qualify for most jobs with C1 English.
You are C2 Near Native when you can speak in a flowing, precise and natural way that is appropriate to the situation. Your written English rarely has errors and people do not notice that you are not a native English writer. You speak very much like a native speaker with a rich vocabulary and full access to idioms.
You can easily lead sophisticated conversations on complex subjects. If your pronunciation sounds native, some people will not even notice that English is not your first language! Your errors are minor and very infrequent. It is easy for you to use the language and it costs you little or no extra effort. Congratulations! Your English is great and sufficient for any job in any sector!
You can’t fake business English like you faked grammar in high school, studying the night before the test and passing with a 6 or a 7 ;-)! At work, your communication skills are on full display with colleagues and clients every day – every time you open your mouth or write an email. There’s no question; good business English communication is essential for your career success. But how good is good enough? That depends on the job, the sector and the company.
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From customer service to the executive suite, almost all positions require some English. But the level required depends on the job and the company. Good enough to get hired at “Company A” may not even get you a first interview at “Company B.” Some companies want C level speakers, and some companies are fine with B level.
We offer a variety of fully customized learning packages, ranging from short courses to weekly and intensive courses. Would you like to start with a free "get-to know-you" appointment? In that appointment with a native-speaker trainer from our Amsterdam-based team, we'll learn about you, your career and your goals. And of course, we'll answer your questions about our approach, resources, scheduing, our English Center locations, etc.
3 Popular courses
If you are not sure which course might be good for you, it can be helpful to know which courses are the most popular. Here are our top three :-).
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Author: Brenda de Jong-Pauley, MA. Brenda is an American living in the Netherlands. She studied psychology and education in the US and is the director of The English Center. This article was first published at The English Center website in 2021 and updated in 2025.
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Intro: We recorded Robert Frost's award winning poem, "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening," deep in December, deep in the Covid lockdown of 2020. The mood is gentle and quiet, like the snowy forest described in the poem. This podcast is appropriate for anyone who loves poetry and, of course, for English as a Second Language (ESL) speakers.
Audio and music by Ian de Jong, narration and script by Brenda de Jong-Pauley.
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Frost wrote this poem in 1922 at his home in New England in the United States. He tells a simple story with simple words, and yet we are instantly there with him and his horse, on a snowy, silent night, passing by a beautiful forest.
Please listen for meaning (of course), but also for pronunciation. The rhyme scheme -- the rhyme pattern -- is easy and repetitive and only changes in the last stanza, where the author repeats a line. This is called a refrain, like in a song. I hope that you will read and listen and then read the poem aloud. Can you copy the patterns and pronunciation? Please try it and let us know.
Before you read the poem, repeat these words, making sure that the vowels rhyme--
Know, though, snow
Here, queer, near, year
Lake, shake, mistake, flake
Sweep, deep, keep, sleep
Click the blue button below to listen to the podcast at SoundCloud (4:31)[vc_row][vc_column][kleo_button title="Listen to the podcast" href="https://soundcloud.com/brenda-de-jong-122018850/stopping-by-woods-on-a-snowy-evening-by-robert-frost?fbclid=IwAR1QNvCmkadGVT3zbYb3P5InCKzWQLH36a1aDCkufdEebBpFpk-NoTXxxGs" style="primary" position="left" size="xl" icon="0"][vc_column_text]
Whose woods these are I think I know.
His house is in the village though;
He will not see me stopping here
To watch his woods fill up with snow.
My little horse must think it queer
To stop without a farmhouse near
Between the woods and frozen lake
The darkest evening of the year.
He gives his harness bells a shake
To ask if there is some mistake.
The only other sound’s the sweep
Of easy wind and downy flake.
The woods are lovely, dark and deep,
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep.
Questions: What is Frost referring to in the last two lines of the last stanza? What is your "takeaway" from this poem?
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Photo credit: Getty Images
Brenda de Jong-Pauley
Amsterdam, 29 December 2020
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Learn English with Netflix (and popcorn) – 10 Series We Love
Everyone loves watching movies and series. and in these long days of lockdown, entertainment is a lifeline – an escape from the boredom of being at home almost 24/7. Fortunately, many of us have Netflix, which makes it easy to escape with a film.
But sometimes it's hard to find the right thing to watch, especially if you are looking for something in your second language, English. That's why we have created a recommendation list of 10 "Netflix Picks." These are quality series that we think you will enjoy. Plus these series make very entertaining English lessons, right? They make it easy to study every day.
Now, pop the corn, grab a glass of wine, and "learn English with Netflix."
A smart, intense and unique story following a young chess prodigy’s rise from an orphanage to the world stage. But her genius comes with a cost. A riveting adaptation of Walter Tevis’ groundbreaking novel opened on Netflix in October 2020. The acclaimed series stars Anya Taylor-Joy as a girl in a man's world.
A beautiful, elegant series that lets you go royal and get behind the scenes with the British royal family. You say you want to speak posh English? Then this is the series for you, and there are already 4 seasons! The story opens when Britain was recovering from war and the empire was in decline. A young woman (Elizabeth) takes the throne as a matter of duty, not desire. Prepare for a royal world full of intrigue and revelations in The Crown.
If you are longing for a vacation in Ibiza, this is the next best thing. In this thrilling, fast-paced series from the creator of Money Heist, the body of a legendary Manchester DJ is discovered twenty years after his mysterious disappearance from Ibiza. When his sister returns to the beautiful Spanish island to find out what happened, her investigation leads her through a thrilling world of dance clubs, lies and cover-ups, forcing her to confront the darker sides of her own character in a place where people live life on the edge.
This top notch binge-worthy series is an "oldy but a goody," from 2010. Set in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Breaking Bad follows Walter White, a meek high school chemistry teacher who transforms into a ruthless player in the local methamphetamine drug trade, driven by a desire to provide for his family after being diagnosed with terminal lung cancer.
A "dramedy" – a story with elements of both humor and drama – this quirky series follows the transformation of James "Jimmy" McGill (Bob Odenkirk), a former con artist who is trying to become a respectable lawyer, into the personality of the flamboyant criminal lawyer Saul Goodman (a play on the phrase "it's all good, man!"). Jimmy has a good heart, but he is always creating trouble for himself and his girlfriend, also a lawyer. Set in New Mexico.
A light and quirky comedy series from the co-creator of Friends, Netflix original comedy Grace and Frankie stars Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin as two mature women who form an unlikely bond after their husbands suddenly reveal they are gay and leave them for each other.
A dark family drama about a city family in the deep woods of the Ozarks (Missouri, USA). The Byrdes, husband and wife Marty (Jason Bateman) and Wendy (Laura Linney), their teenage kids Charlotte (Sofia Hublitz) and Jonah (Skylar Gaertner) -- are for all intents and purposes an ordinary family. They are totally ordinary except for Marty’s job... the top money launderer for the second largest drug cartel in Mexico.
8. Jeffrey Epstein: Filthy Rich
This sex crime doc series is dark and compelling. The four-part documentary features interviews with several of Epstein's survivors including Virginia Giuffre and Maria Farmer, along with former staff members and former police chief Michael Reiter, a key individual from the first criminal case against Epstein.
I always feel that watching Trump is like watching a car crash in slow motion. You know someone is going to get hurt, but you cannot look away. If you read the book, "Too Much and Never Enough" by Trump's cousin, psychologist Mary Trump, this will fill in some of the visuals. Trump: An American Dream is a four-part British television documentary series, exploring the journey of Donald Trump through five decades, his public persona and career path leading up to his presidential run.
Suits is set at a fictional New York City law firm and follows talented college dropout Mike Ross (Patrick J. Adams), who starts working as a law associate for Harvey Specter (Gabriel Macht) despite never having attended law school. The show focuses on Harvey and Mike closing cases, while maintaining Mike's secret. This show is famous for featuring Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex and the wife of Prince Harry of Sussex. She is an actor by profession and a celebrity philanthropist.
A note about Suits– Several of us worked together on this list, but our colleague Rudmer Veenstra insisted on Suits as the last of our 10 recommended series. He says he watched Suits to improve his English level, commenting that a lot of the English in the series is quite hard, and that made it a perfect lesson for him.
A note about subtitles: If your level is high, you can turn subtitles on or off. But I would suggest that if you can leave them on but only look when you need them, that is ideal. And use the pause and "back" function when you miss something. In that case, watch, listen and read the subtitle and then try to repeat the line yourself. Use Google translate if and when you need it.
Cut! That's a wrap. (That's movie talk for, "we're finished.")
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A little holiday gift ––Would you like to test your English level free online? Or would you prefer our unique, free online test of business English idiom?
SPECIAL OFFER: Shall we exchange (trade) gifts? Follow us this month on Instagram and get a private mini English course: 3 hours for the price of 2! This special offer ends on January 5, 2021. To get your gift, follow us at Instagram. When you request your gift, use the code: "InstagramChristmas." Just call or email us to claim the gift. Use the contact form at the bottom of this page or call +31 20 823 0569.
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We hope you enjoyed our "Learn English with Netflix" article. Of course there are many more great series, we have only just "scratched the surface" (=made a beginning). In 2021 we expect to write more "Learn English with Netflix" posts, so please "stay tuned" (=keep paying attention).
Happy holidays, good health and good viewing to you, all year round!
Brenda and the English Center team, Amsterdam December 2020
PS Looking for Christmas movies?
Christmas Eve, December 24, 2020
Read this poem aloud to someone you love on Christmas Eve. Merry Christmas!
Scroll to the bottom for your presents.
Or enjoy the video reading with Prince Charles & many other famous folks!
'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse;
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there;
The children were nestled all snug in their beds;
While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads;
And mamma in her 'kerchief, and I in my cap,
Had just settled our brains for a long winter's nap,
When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from my bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.
The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow,
Gave a luster of midday to objects below,
When what to my wondering eyes did appear,
But a miniature sleigh and eight tiny rein-deer,
With a little old driver so lively and quick,
I knew in a moment he must be St. Nick.
More rapid than eagles his coursers they came,
And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name:
"Now, Dasher! now, Dancer! now Prancer and Vixen!
On, Comet! on, Cupid! on, Donner and Blitzen!
To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall!
Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!"
As leaves that before the wild hurricane fly,
When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky;
So up to the housetop the coursers they flew
With the sleigh full of toys, and St. Nicholas too—
And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof
The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.
As I drew in my head, and was turning around,
Down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound.
He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot,
And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot;
A bundle of toys he had flung on his back,
And he looked like a peddler just opening his pack.
His eyes—how they twinkled! his dimples, how merry!
His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!
His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,
And the beard on his chin was as white as the snow;
The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth,
And the smoke, it encircled his head like a wreath;
He had a broad face and a little round belly
That shook when he laughed, like a bowl full of jelly.
He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf,
And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself;
A wink of his eye and a twist of his head
Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread;
He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,
And filled all the stockings; then turned with a jerk,
And laying his finger aside of his nose,
And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose;
He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle,
And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.
But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight—
“Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!”
****************
About the author:
Clement Clarke Moore was a writer and American Professor of Oriental and Greek Literature, as well as Divinity and Biblical Learning, at the General Theological Seminary of the Protestant Episcopal Church, in New York City. He was born in New York in 1779.
He wrote "A Visit from St. Nicholas" for his own children and recited it to them on Christmas Eve in 1822. It is the most famous and beloved English text on the subject of Christmas!
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Movies based on the poem include:
The Night Before Christmas: A Mouse Tale
Twas the Night Before Christmas
Brenda de Jong-Pauley, MA
The English Center
••••••••••••••••••••
A little Christmas gift ––Would you like to test your English level free online? Or would you prefer our unique, free online test of business English idiom?
Shall we exchange (trade) gifts? Follow us this month on Instagram and get a private mini English course: 3 hours for the price of 2! This special offer ends on December 31. To get your gift, follow us at Instagram. When you request your gift, use the code: "InstagramChristmas." Just call or email us to claim the gift. Use the contact form at the bottom of this page or call +31 20 823 0569.
Would you like a FREE first appointment? We will do our best to answer your questions and help you select an optimal English study plan.
Call +31 20 823 0569 to discuss English language training for you or for someone you love! Give the gift of education this year!
Merry Christmas, happy holidays and good health to you, all year round!
Brenda and the English Center team, Amsterdam, Christmas 2020
