English collocations and idioms: understand the phrase, use the meaning

A collocation is a combination of words that commonly go together, such as make a decision or pay attention. An idiom has a meaning that is not always obvious from its individual words: butter someone up means to flatter someone, often because you want a favour.

Try a quick English challenge

Choose the natural phrase: make / do a decision; pay / spend attention. Answers: make a decision and pay attention. Now use one phrase in a sentence about your day.

Who is this book for?

English learners who want more than isolated vocabulary lists, and teachers looking for expressions to turn into conversations. The A2–C2 sections organise the progression: start with the language that suits you, then explore more nuanced usage as you progress.

How to practise

Read an example, explain the situation, say a reply aloud, then change the situation and use the phrase again. Notice both meaning and register: an informal expression may fit a conversation with a friend but sound out of place in a formal email.

Build your vocabulary collection

Want more precise descriptions? Explore Adjectives in Action. For B2–C2 nouns, verbs and their word partners, discover Nouns + Verbs in Action.