Relationships
The everyday English you actually use around relationships — from meeting someone new and getting closer, to staying in touch, supporting a friend, and sorting out a falling-out.
That first spark — finding things in common and maybe asking them out.
When a connection turns into something real and you start dating.
Checking in on someone who's struggling and having their back.
When things go wrong — an argument, a let-down, and trying to patch it up.
Sorting out when to meet up, have a proper natter and stay in the loop with your mates.
Talking about who you take after, who brought you up and the family you look up to.
From taking a shine to someone and going out, to the awkward bit where it all splits up.
When someone's getting picked on or left out, and you've got to stand up for them.
Talking someone round, keeping a secret and actually keeping your word.
When dating turns into sharing a flat and a sock drawer.
Telling people it's over, without the gory details.
That awkward-lovely moment outside the shop with an old face.
Being the new face when everyone else already knows each other.
Keeping an eye on a mate who's been having a rough time.
Babysitting the nieces and nephews when they're playing up.
Wearing down a stubborn mate until they finally cave.
Browse all 140 relationships phrases by level →
Multiple-meaning phrases in relationships
Same phrase, different jobs — compare the meanings before you use them.