Advanced Collocations & Phrasal Expressions
Vocabulary source reference study sheet: image_d32686.png
Exercise 1: Meaning & Function Matching
How to play: Drag each phrasal expression from the left column and drop it into its matching definition or conceptual usage slot on the right.
Born and raised
Raise a family
Incredibly affordable
Settle down
Absolutely love the energy
Coming online
Starting to skyrocket
Lacking in some areas
Used to specify the exact location where you were both given birth to and brought up through childhood.
Drop matching term here
A collocation referring to bringing up children in a secure, supportive environment.
Drop matching term here
An advanced description that premium upgrades the basic, low-level descriptor word “cheap”.
Drop matching term here
Meaning: to adopt a more permanent, stable lifestyle in one place.
Drop matching term here
An expressive phrase indicating extreme enjoyment of a massive metropolis’s dynamic atmosphere.
Drop matching term here
An excellent infrastructure idiom meaning to become operational or available for use.
Drop matching term here
Meaning: increasing rapidly to a very high level (often used for prices).
Drop matching term here
A polite, sophisticated way to say something is missing key features or needs improvement.
Drop matching term here
Exercise 2: Contextual Application
How to play: Read through the conversations and pick the most appropriate phrase from the dropdown menus to complete the sentences.
1. “I was
in Hanoi, so I’ve witnessed the city transform dramatically over the past two decades.”
2. “With its safe streets and top-tier local schools, it really is a wonderful place to
if you want a wholesome environment for kids.”
3. “The cost of living here isn’t just reasonable; it’s actually
compared to other highly developed financial hubs.”
4. “After years of backpacking around the globe, I feel like it’s finally time to buy an apartment and
into a stable lifestyle.”
5. “I just
of big metropolises—the bright neon billboards, 24-hour diners, and constant activity.”
6. “Public transit commuters are highly anticipating the new sky train system
next month, as it will vastly cut travel times.”
7. “Ever since the tech companies set up their headquarters downtown, local property prices are
at an unprecedented rate.”
8. “The neighborhood has gorgeous architecture, but it’s definitely
when it comes to grocery stores and recreational parks.”
