Phrase of the day

Discover a new phrase each day to use in your English! These are special phrases and sayings that English speakers use all the time, but you don't often see these phrases in English course books or other study material. Visit daily to learn some popular English phrases on a regular basis.
23rd September 2024

Give or take

We use this expression to give an approximate number.
Usage
Written: 
Yes
Spoken: 
Yes
Formal: 
No
Informal: 
Yes
Example 1
How much money have you got on you?
About £20, give or take a quid.
Example 2
How many people were at the conference?
500, I'd say. Give or take a few.

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