We all experience difficult times and sometimes need a supportive shoulder to lean on. This article is especially valuable for those moments because, every now and then, we find ourselves needing to uplift and encourage someone special in our lives, don’t we? So, read on for a collection of useful phrases that can be helpful in such situations. Remember, whatever phrase you choose to use, the key is to genuinely care for your friend or significant other. Still, language plays a crucial role in expressing heartfelt sentiments. So, let’s get started…
| Phrase | Example |
| Chin up. | A: I’m feeling really discouraged about my job search. B: Chin up. You’ve got great skills and determination. Something will come up soon, I’m sure. |
| Keep your head held high. | A: I made a mistake at work, and now I’m worried about my performance review. B: Keep your head held high. Everyone makes mistakes. |
| Hang in there. | A: I’m so overwhelmed with everything going on right now. B: Hang in there. You’re stronger than you think. You’ll get through this. |
| Look on the bright side. | A: I didn’t get the promotion I was hoping for. I’m really disappointed. B: Look on the bright side. This gives you more time to gain additional skills and experience. When the next opportunity comes around, you’ll be even more prepared to nail it! |
| You’ve got this. | A: I have a big presentation tomorrow, and I’m really nervous. B: You’ve got this. You’ve prepared well, and you know your stuff. You’re going to knock it out of the park! (= You’re going to excel brilliantly!) |
| I’m here for you. | A: I’m struggling with personal issues, and it’s hard to talk about it. B: I’m here for you. Whenever you’re ready to talk or need support, I’ll be right here. |
| Take it one step at a time. | A: I feel like I’m not making any progress with my goals. B: Take it one step at a time. Progress might be slow, but as long as you’re moving forward, you’re on the right path. |
| Tomorrow is a new day. | A: Today has been so difficult; I can’t wait for it to be over. B: Tomorrow is a new day. It’s a chance to start fresh and turn things around. |
| Keep the faith. | A: I’m starting to lose hope that things will get better. B: Keep the faith. Tough times don’t last forever. I believe in you, and I know you’ll find your way through this. |
| I know you’ll weather the storm. | A: This situation feels never-ending; I don’t know how much more I can take. B: I know you’ll weather the storm. You’ve faced challenges before and come out stronger. |
| Everything will work out in the end. | A: I’m really stressed about my job interview tomorrow. B: Everything will work out in the end. You’ve prepared well. |
| There’s light at the end of the tunnel. | A: This semester has been so tough; I don’t know if I can keep going. B: There’s light at the end of the tunnel. Remember why you started. You’re almost there. |
| When life gives you lemons, make lemonade. | A: I can’t believe I didn’t get into my first-choice college. B: When life gives you lemons, make lemonade. Maybe there’s another path that’s even better for you. |
| Every cloud has a silver lining. | A: It feels like nothing is going right lately. B: Every cloud has a silver lining. This tough time will pass, and you’ll come out stronger. |
| This too shall pass. | A: I’m overwhelmed with all the responsibilities I have right now. B: This too shall pass. You’ll manage everything. |
Practice
To help you memorize the phrases highlighted above, let us offer you a few exercises.
Exercise 1. Click the link here and match the parts of the phrases.
Exercise 2. Click the link here and choose the right word to complete the phrases.
Exercise 3. Complete the text with the right words. The answer key is given below.
Sarah: Hey Kate, you seem a bit down today. Is everything okay?
Kate: Hi Sarah. Well, actually, I didn’t get the promotion I was hoping for. I feel like I’ve hit a wall in my career.
Sarah: I’m sorry to hear that, Kate. It’s tough when things don’t go as planned. But remember, every cloud has a ___ (1) lining. Maybe this setback is a chance for something even better to come along.
Kate: I hope so, but it’s hard to stay positive right now.
Sarah: I understand, Kate. It’s OK to feel disappointed. Just know that I’m ___ (2) for you. We can get ___ (3) this together.
Kate: Thanks, Sarah. I appreciate your support. I just thought I was on the right track, you know?
Sarah: You absolutely are on the right track. This setback doesn’t define your journey. It’s just a temporary hurdle. You’ve got so much potential, Kate. I believe in you.
Kate: That means a lot, Sarah. I guess I just need to ___ (4) my head held high and keep pushing forward.
Sarah: Exactly! ___ (5) it one step at a time. You’ve overcome challenges before, and you can do it again. Tomorrow is a ___ (6) day, and who knows what opportunities it might bring?
Kate: You’re right. I’ll try to focus on what I can learn from this experience and how it can make me stronger.
Sarah: That’s the spirit, Kate! This setback is just a stepping stone to something greater. Keep your ___ (7) up, and things will work ___ (8) in the end.
Kate: Thank you, Sarah. I’m really glad we had this talk. I already feel better knowing I have your support.
Sarah: Anytime, Kate. Remember, I’m here ___ (9) you no matter what. We’ll weather this ___ (10) together.
Answer key 🔑
- silver
- here
- through
- keep
- Take
- new
- chin
- out
- for
- storm
Did you enjoy the article? Which phrases were new to you? Which ones would you like to try out next time you have the chance? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below, so please feel free to reach out. Until then, goodbye!
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