Decode Common English Expressions That Confuse You 🤔

Intermediate Level | November 30, 2025

Read the article aloud on your own or repeat each paragraph after your tutor.

Even experienced English learners run into expressions that feel confusing or unclear. You hear a phrase in a meeting, or someone says something casually over coffee, and suddenly the conversation feels like a puzzle. Today’s article will help you decode common expressions so you can communicate more confidently and naturally in your daily work.

Many professionals know grammar well but struggle with expressions that don’t translate directly. These expressions often carry specific meanings based on context, tone, or culture. Understanding them makes your English sound smoother, more natural, and more professional.

Why Common English Expressions Can Be Confusing

English expressions often have hidden meanings. Sometimes the words don’t match the real intention. Other times, the expression has multiple meanings depending on the situation. For example, when a coworker says, “Let’s circle back,” they aren’t talking about walking in a circle — they mean “Let’s talk about this again later.”

Once you start recognizing these patterns, these expressions become tools instead of obstacles.

Expression 1: “I’ll keep you posted”

This expression comes from the idea of posting information publicly, like on bulletin boards in the early 1900s. It means someone will update you regularly. In business English, this phrase shows responsibility and communication. For example, “I’ll keep you posted on the client feedback.”

Expression 2: “It’s up to you”

Although the exact origin isn’t completely clear, it follows an older pattern where “up” can mean “ready to be decided,” like in the question, “What’s up for discussion?” In modern English, when someone says, “It’s up to you,” they’re telling you the decision is yours, and they’ll go along with your choice.

Expression 3: “Let’s play it by ear”

This phrase comes from the world of music. Musicians who can play a song “by ear” don’t need sheet music—they listen and adjust as they go. So the expression means to make decisions as the situation develops, without a fixed plan. It’s helpful when dealing with unpredictable meetings or projects.

Expression 4: “That works for me”

This expression developed from the idea of something “working,” meaning it fits or functions well. It’s a friendly way to say, “I agree,” “That’s okay,” or “Let’s do it that way.” It shows flexibility without sounding too formal.

Expression 5: “I’m not sure off the top of my head”

This comes from the idea that your immediate thoughts are sitting “on top” of your mind, ready to come out. If you can’t answer “off the top of your head,” it means you can’t remember right away. It’s a polite way to avoid giving incorrect information.

Vocabulary List

Decode (verb) — To understand or interpret something confusing.
Example: Once you decode an expression, it becomes easy to use.
Context (noun) — The situation in which something is said.
Example: The context helped her understand the meaning of the phrase.
Flexible (adjective) — Able to change or adapt easily.
Example: She is flexible with meeting times.
Interpret (verb) — To explain or understand the meaning of something.
Example: He interpreted the phrase incorrectly at first.
Polite (adjective) — Showing good manners.
Example: “I’m not sure off the top of my head” is a polite response.
Unpredictable (adjective) — Not able to be planned or known in advance.
Example: The schedule was unpredictable today.
Delegation (noun) — Giving responsibility or tasks to others.
Example: Good delegation helps teams work faster.
Clarify (verb) — To make something easier to understand.
Example: She asked a question to clarify the instructions.
Nuance (noun) — A subtle or slight difference in meaning.
Example: English expressions often have hidden nuances.
Professionalism (noun) — The quality of behaving in a professional way.
Example: Understanding expressions improves your professionalism.

5 Questions About the Article

Why are some English expressions confusing for learners?
What does “I’ll keep you posted” mean in a business context?
When would you use “Let’s play it by ear”?
How is “That works for me” different from saying “Yes”?
What does “off the top of my head” tell the listener?

5 Open-Ended Discussion Questions

What English expressions confuse you most often?
Which expression from this article will be most useful in your job?
How do you normally ask someone for clarification?
Do you prefer clear instructions or flexible plans? Why?
What expressions in your own language are hard to translate into English?

📢 Want more tips like this? 👉 Sign up for the All About English Mastery Newsletter! Click here to join us!

Want to finally Master English but don’t have the time? Mastering English for Busy Professionals is the course for you! Check it out now!

Follow our YouTube Channel @All_About_English for more great insights and tips.