Vocabulary practice · Episode 196

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
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Vocabulary from the episode

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Expression 1

under the weather

Feeling slightly ill or not quite well.

Nuance: Informal and mild; it usually suggests a short, non-serious illness rather than a diagnosis.

I am feeling a bit under the weather today.

She stayed home because she was under the weather.

Expression 2

back on your feet

Recovered enough to return to your usual activities.

Nuance: Used after illness, injury or a difficult setback; it does not claim that every problem has disappeared.

After a week of rest, I was back on my feet.

The team helped the shop get back on its feet.

Expression 3

fit as a fiddle

Very healthy and in good physical condition.

Nuance: Cheerful and slightly old-fashioned; it often sounds playful when used about oneself.

My grandfather is eighty and still fit as a fiddle.

After that walk, I feel fit as a fiddle.

Expression 4

run down

Tired and low in energy, often after too much effort or too little rest.

Nuance: Often used with feel or look; it describes a general state and is not a medical diagnosis.

I have been feeling run down this week.

She looked run down after several late nights.

Expression 5

recharge your batteries

To rest and do something that helps you regain energy.

Nuance: A familiar metaphor for recovery; it suggests taking a real break, not receiving medical treatment.

A quiet weekend helped me recharge my batteries.

I need a short walk to recharge my batteries before the meeting.

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