Performing arts
jump/leap/bounds
idioms
phrasal verbs
100

an actor who learns a part in a play so that they can act the part if the usual actor is ill

understudy

100

to form an opinion about something before you have all the facts 


There may be a simple explanation. Let’s not....

jump to conclusions

100

to do everything you possibly can to make something happen and succeed

pull out all the stops 

100

to get money or something you want by asking other people for it rather than by paying for it yourself

a group of children scrounging for food 



scrounge for

200

without any excitement, strong opinions, or special character  syn dull


a few.... comments

her performance was rather....


bland

200

to suddenly speak angrily to someone

jump down somebody’s throat

200

 to start to do something with a lot of energy and determination


I can’t wait to..... the new course.  

get your teeth into something


200

to produce or bring about especially by long or repeated effort 


  •  we finally ...a niche for the sport in the school's athletic program
  • .... time for something
  • ...a reputation

carve out

300

A very fortunate or beneficial chance, a stroke of luck





lucky break

300

to accept an opportunity very eagerly 

I ....(V2) of studying abroad

leap at the opportinity

300

to learn how to do something very easily 


She .... dancing like a .... 

take to something like a duck to water

300

to remember and talk about things that happened in the past 


It’s useless to continually.... to the past. 

hark back

400

strong praise for a new play, book etc, especially in a newspaper or magazine


win/receive/earn....

 The performance earned them... from critics.

rave reviews

400

if something increases, develops, grows etc ....., it does it very quickly

 Lifeboat technology has advanced...

by/in leaps and bounds

400

to talk a lot about your own achievements

blow your own trumpet

400

to become successful or happy in a particular situation, especially one that other people would not enjoy
Some couples ______ __ conflict.

thrive on

500

the final practice of a play, opera etc, using all the clothes, objects etc that will be used for the actual performance

dress rehearsal

500

A chance that one takes despite being uncertain of the consequences or outcome.


I don't usually go on blind dates, but I ....(V2)and agreed to meet Sarah's friend for dinner.

take a leap in the dark

500

if someone’s words are ...., they make you very happy or pleased

be music to your ears

500

accompany someone, especially if they haven't specifically invited you

tag along