Vocabulary practice · Episode 176

Review the useful expressions from the episode

Study the episode’s central expressions with English definitions, nuance and examples, plus reviewed support-language versions where available.

B1–B2Everyday EnglishAbout 4 min + dynamic ads5 PDF versions available
FREE TRANSLATED PDF PACKSStudy this episode with support in your language EspañolDeutschFrançaisفارسی Open the PDF library →

A short study session

Read here, or listen on the episode page

This reader does not play audio. The link above opens the episode with this support selected; press Play or Resume when you are ready.

  1. Choose one expression. Read its definition, nuance and examples.
  2. Make it yours. Write one true sentence from your own life.
  3. Return to the episode. Listen for the expression in its original context.

Readable web version

Vocabulary from the episode

English only. Choose one support language if you need it.

Your reading position will be saved on this browser.

Expression 1

play with fire

Do something risky that could cause serious trouble.

Nuance: Usually a warning, not praise for being brave; the fire is figurative. Use be playing with fire or play with fire.

You are playing with fire by sharing your password.

Ignoring the safety checks is playing with fire.

Expression 2

put all your eggs in one basket

Rely on just one plan, option or source of success.

Nuance: The image is of losing every egg if one basket falls. It applies to work, study and opportunities, not only money; often used as advice with do not.

Do not put all your eggs in one basket by applying to only one course.

Depending on one customer means putting all our eggs in one basket.

Expression 3

stick your neck out

Expose yourself to risk or criticism by doing or saying something.

Nuance: Often used for supporting someone or making a bold prediction. Stick your neck out for someone highlights whom you are supporting; it does not describe a physical movement.

Julia stuck her neck out for my unusual proposal.

I will stick my neck out and predict that the new café will succeed.

Expression 4

take a leap of faith

Act despite uncertainty because you choose to trust or believe.

Nuance: Emphasises trust when success is uncertain; it does not require ignoring evidence or preparation. Take the plunge instead emphasises finally deciding after hesitation.

Joining the new team was a leap of faith.

We checked the plan carefully before taking a leap of faith.

Print or study offline

Choose a PDF version

Each button names the available language, format and file size. No email or account is required.

If a PDF does not open, use the complete web reader above and try the download again later. The episode audio remains available on its own page.

Put it back into context

Now listen for what you studied

The resource is support; the listening is the lesson. Return to the same episode and continue from your saved position.

Open episode 176 →