Native English Expressions | Ep.4
Do you feel lost when listening to native speakers? It’s likely because textbook English isn’t enough. Welcome to Native Expressions Ep.4.
Real conversations are full of idioms, phrasal verbs, and cultural nuances. This series curates authentic expressions directly from podcasts and YouTube videos to help you sound more natural and confident.
To see these idioms in action, check out the 0:00 – 1:33 mark of this video, where today’s expressions were originally used: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K7muA1KCCUc
Native Expressions Ep.4 | 1 – 5
out of it
the result, benefit, or outcome you want to get from a situation or action
She explained that before networking, you should know exactly what you want out of it so your efforts have a clear direction.
turn something into an opportunity
to make a good or useful situation out of something that seems difficult or uncomfortable
She turned her nervous first day at work into an opportunity to meet new people.
personal investment
time, effort, or emotion that someone puts into something they care about
He had a strong personal investment in the project because it could shape his career.
use someone
to take advantage of someone for your own benefit without caring about their feelings or needs
She realized her coworker was using her to get closer to their manager.
wouldn’t appreciate it
a polite way to say you would not like or approve of something
I wouldn’t appreciate it if someone interrupted me while I’m giving a presentation.
Native Expressions Ep.4 | 6 – 10
come at someone
to approach or confront someone in a particular way, often emotionally or with an attitude
Don’t come at your boss with complaints; try offering a solution instead.
bring value
to contribute something helpful, useful, or meaningful to a situation or relationship
She always tries to bring value to every meeting by sharing practical ideas.
be genuine
to be real, honest, and sincere, not fake or pretending
People trust you more when you are genuine and speak from the heart.
get to know someone
to gradually learn more about a person through conversation or shared experiences
He spent the evening getting to know his new coworkers over dinner.
conference
a large formal meeting where people discuss a particular topic or share ideas
She met many professionals at a marketing conference last year.
Native Expressions Ep.4 | 11 – 15
on top of that
used to add another point, especially one that makes a situation worse or more difficult
She was tired, and on top of that, it started to rain during her walk home.
introvert
a person who tends to feel more comfortable being alone or in quiet settings rather than in large social groups
As an introvert, she enjoys spending weekends reading instead of going to parties.
networking event
a social or professional gathering where people meet to share information and make connections
She reminded him that going to a networking event is easier when you focus on helping others, not just yourself.
connect someone to someone else
to introduce one person to another so they can help or benefit each other
He realized networking felt more natural when he tried to connect someone to someone else who might be useful for their goals.
have something to give
to possess knowledge, skills, or resources that can help others
She told him that he didn’t need to be an expert; even beginners have something to give when meeting new people.
Native Expressions Ep.4 | 16 – 20
serve others
to support or help people in a meaningful way
He entered the event with the mindset that he was there to serve others, not just to ask for favors.
inclined to
likely or willing to do something; having a tendency toward a certain behavior or attitude
People are more inclined to trust someone who listens carefully and shows genuine interest.
open up to someone
to begin talking more honestly or freely about personal thoughts or feelings
After a few minutes, he started to open up to her about his career struggles.
prep work
preparation or research done before an event or task
She did some prep work before the meeting by reading the client’s website.
do your research
to gather information carefully before making a decision or taking action
Before buying a car, it’s smart to do your research on prices and reviews.
Native Expressions Ep.4 | 21 – 21
snoop on
to secretly or casually look into someone’s personal information, often online
He snooped on his classmates’ profiles to see who might attend the event.