Page 84 - Speak English Like an American

feel free — g0 ahead and do something; don't hesitate (to do
something)
Examp.e 1: “Feel free to interrupt me and ask questions during my lec-
ture,” said the professor to his students.
ExamPLe 2: If you need legal advice, feel free to call my cousin Fred.
He’s a lawyer.

(to) get out of the way — to move out of the way; to stop
interfering with someone’s plans or activities
Examp.e |: If you’re not planning on helping us prepare dinner, please
get out of the way. The kitchen is crowded.
EXAMPLE 2: Get out of the way! That truck is backing up and it might
run you over.

(to be) in good hands — in good, competent care
Examp_e |: Don’t worry — your dog will be in good hands while
you’re on vacation. We’ll take her to the New York Dog Spa & Hotel.
ExampLe 2: You’re in good hands with Tony. He’s an excellent driver.

(to) know one’s stuff — to have an expertise in a field
Exampte 1: Steve has been an auto mechanic for 25 years. He really
knows his stuff.
Exampte 2: When it comes to cooking, Kristen knows her stuff. She
spent two years studying at the Culinary Institute of America.

(to) lend a hand — to help
EXAmpLe 1: When Amber saw Susan washing the cookie sheets, she of-
fered to lend a hand.
EXAMPLE 2: Would you mind lending a hand in the garden? We need to
finish planting these flowers before it starts raining.

(to) lose one’s touch — to no longer be able to do something well
ExampLe 2: I used to play tennis every day, but I haven’t played in years.
Examp_e 1: I used to make delicious pies, but this one tastes terrible. I
think I’ve lost my touch.
EXAMPLE 2: Dr. Stewart used to be a very good doctor, but recently sev-
eral of his patients have died. He seems to have lost his touch!

(to be) out of practice — no longer good at doing something
Examp.e 1: Susan studied French in high school, but she hasn’t spoken it
since: She’s really out of practice.

| Pm out of practice.

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