Introduction
You know what ‘change’ means – it’s when something becomes different or altered in some way. But did you know there are some English phrases with the word ‘change’? Learn some of them here with Beth and practise using the quiz.
Phrases with ‘change’
change tack
try a different way of dealing with something
- He doesn’t seem to be answering his phone. Let’s change tack and knock on his door.
change your tune
completely change your opinion on something, often when making a decision
- You’re going to buy a diesel car? You’ve changed your tune. I thought you said they caused too much pollution.
a change of heart
a change in opinion, often about something personal
- I was going to take a year out after school to go travelling, but I’ve had a change of heart – I want to go to university as soon as possible.
for a change
different to normal, in a refreshing or interesting way
- You’re up early for a change! It’s nice to see you before I go to work.
TRANSCRIPT
Note: This is not a word-for-word transcript.
Beth
Let’s learn some phrases with ‘change’.
If you change tack, you try a different way of dealing with a problem.
I tried emailing, but she didn’t reply. I’m going to change tack. Maybe I’ll try and talk to her in person instead.
If you change your tune, you completely change your opinion on something, often when making a decision.
You’re getting a cat? You’ve changed your tune. I thought you said you’d never get a pet.
Having a change of heart is similar. It means you change your opinion or the way you feel about something specific and often personal.
I thought about moving to the city, but I’ve had a change of heart. I love the countryside too much to leave.
And we say for a change to mean something is different to usual in a positive or interesting way.
It’s great to see him smiling for a change. He’s been so sad since the break-up.
Now, can you use these phrases when speaking?