Vocabulary practice · Episode 218

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–B2IdiomsAbout 5 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

the tip of the iceberg

The small visible part of a much larger situation or problem.

Nuance: Suggests that more is hidden; it does not imply that every hidden detail is disastrous.

The question about one table is only the tip of the iceberg.

The reported errors may be the tip of the iceberg if more are discovered.

Expression 2

go with the flow

To accept what happens and adapt instead of insisting on a fixed plan.

Nuance: Describes flexibility, not necessarily ignoring a problem.

If the music starts late, we can go with the flow and begin with food.

On holiday, I prefer to go with the flow instead of planning every hour.

Expression 3

a drop in the ocean

A very small amount compared with what is needed or with the whole.

Nuance: The phrase compares scale; it does not mean a small contribution has no value.

Five pounds is a drop in the ocean compared with a goal of ten thousand pounds.

One meal may be a drop in the ocean, but many contributions can add up.

Expression 4

someone's neck of the woods

An informal expression for the area where someone lives or knows well.

Nuance: It does not require an actual forest; use your, my or another possessive.

What is the weather like in your neck of the woods?

I will be in your neck of the woods next week.

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 218 →