IDIOMS
A book that is so exciting or gripping you can’t stop reading it.
A page-turner
Literature and cinema have long ______ regarded as powerful mediums for shaping cultural identity
BEEN
The film was so interesting that I didn’t look at my phone once. (absorbed)
I was ____________ that I did't look at my phone once.
so absorbed in the film
The documentary was not only informative but deeply __________, leaving a lasting impression on its viewers.
(MOVE)
MOVING
Making assumptions based on appearance rather than content (used literally and metaphorically)
Judging a book by it's cover.
Said of a book that’s extremely engaging or addictive.
That one can't/couldn't put it down.
(more informal) unputdownable
What distinguishes these enduring stories is not merely their plot, but their capacity to resonate ______ audiences across different generations
WITH
I enjoy books that make me imagine what the characters look like. (picture)
I enjoy books that let me ______________ my head.
picture the characters in
Although the film was visually stunning, the plot was rather __________ and failed to surprise the audience.
(PREDICT)
PREDICTABLE
To become completely immersed in a story.
To lose oneself in a book.
To understand a hidden or implied meaning in something written or said.
To read between the lines.
Writers and directors often face the challenge ______ balancing artistic integrity with audience expectations
OF
Although the reviews were excellent, I wasn’t impressed by the film’s storyline. (despite)
I wasn’t impressed by the storyline ______________ glowing reviews.
despite the film’s
The leading actor delivered a __________ performance that was both subtle and emotionally resonant.
(POWER)
POWERFUL
To read a book very quickly and eagerly.
To devour a book.
To attract the most attention or praise in a film or performance.
To steal the show.
Those who prioritise commercial success ______ the risk of compromising depth and originality,
RUN
That novel introduced me to a subject I had never studied before. (exposed)
That novel ______________ I was unfamiliar with.
exposed me to something
The critical backlash centred on the film's perceived moral __________, particularly in its depiction of violence.
(AMBIGUOUS)
AMBIGUITY
To watch several episodes (or even an entire season) in one sitting.
Binge-watch
Writing that strongly evokes images, feelings, or memories.
(very formal, essay-like)
Evocative prose
In the end, it is the works that provoke thought, stir emotion, and invite reinterpretation that continue to find relevance long ______ the initial excitement has faded.
AFTER
Even though the cast was amazing, the film’s plot didn’t work at all. (fell)
The film’s plot completely ______________ an outstanding cast.
fell flat despite having
Despite its ambitious scope, the novel received a largely __________ reception from reviewers, many of whom felt it fell short of its potential.
(FAVOUR)
UNFAVOURABLE
High quality in terms of writing, themes, and technique.
(very formal)
Rich in literary merit