Everyday Spoken English

Common Expressions for Conversational English

01Make a point of (doing something)
To deliberately ensure that something gets done, treating it as a personal priority or conscious habit.
I always make a point of reading the contract before I sign anything. It just saves trouble later.
02Take something personally
To interpret a remark or action as a direct, intended criticism of oneself, even when it may not be meant that way.
A: I said the report needed more work — I wasn't targeting anyone. B: I know. I shouldn't take it personally, but it's hard not to sometimes.
03Keep something in perspective
To maintain a realistic, balanced sense of how important or serious something actually is, rather than exaggerating it.
Losing one client is disappointing, but we need to keep it in perspective — the business is still doing well overall.