A ‣ Words
word | example | meaning |
actually | People say bad things about her, but she’s actually very nice. | in reality |
really | The book is really good. | very |
else | Do you want to buy anything else? Or go somewhere else? | in addition or different |
around | I’ll meet you at around 6 o’clock. | about or approximately |
anyway | I’ll drive you home. I’m going that way anyway.1 Anyway, as I said, I woke up very late today.2 |
1 to give a reason for doing something 2 to return to an earlier subject |
Common mistakes
Actually is a false friend in some languages – in English it means ‘in reality’ NOT ‘now’
A: Why don’t we go to the cinema this evening? (used to make a suggestion)
B: Good idea. Let’s go and see a film and then have a meal. (used to make a suggestion)
A: OK! Which film do you want to see?
B: I don’t mind. [It’s all the same to me.] It’s up to you. [You can decide.]
A: How about / What about the new Angelina Jolie film? (used to make a suggestion)
Common mistakes
Why don’t we go … [NOT Why don’t we going] or Let’s go … [NOT Let’s going].
How about going … [NOT How about go] or What about going … [NOT What about go].
A: I was late for work today.
B: Oh dear! Was your boss angry? (used when you are surprised or disappointed)
A: I forgot to bring your book!
B: Oh, it doesn’t matter. I don’t need it. [it’s not important]
A: I’m sorry, but I can’t come to your party.
B: What a pity! (used when you are disappointed)
A: I passed my exam.
B: Well done!
A: Hurry up! The taxi’s here. [be quick]
A: Look out! / Be careful! There’s a car coming.
A: We need to buy Marta’s birthday present.
B: Absolutely! What about getting her a scarf? (used when you agree strongly)
A: I agree. Let’s go shopping this afternoon.
Common mistakes
I agree or I don’t agree [NOT I am agree or I’m not agree].