Expressions with TOUCH are common idioms and phrases in English that contain the word “touch” and are used to describe making contact, influencing, or communicating with someone or something. Here are some common expressions with TOUCH along with their meanings and example sentences.
Making Contact
Touch Base
Meaning: Make contact to receive an update on recent events or developments.
Example: I’d like you to touch base with the sales staff and see how we’re doing.
Touch Down
Meaning: To land or make contact with the ground, for example a plane.
Example: Flight AB235 is due to touch down at 9.55 am.
Get in Touch
Meaning: Make contact with someone.
Example: I’ll get in touch with Jack and see if we can arrange to meet.
Keep/Stay in Touch
Meaning: Continue to have contact with someone (even if you don’t see them often).
Example: Mark has always tried to keep/stay in touch with his college friends.
Influencing
Touch of a Button
Meaning: Do something very easily – usually because of new technology.
Example: The gates can be opened and closed at the touch of a button.
Easy Touch
Meaning: Someone who is easy to control or influence.
Example: Jimmy is an easy touch – we can persuade him to help us with the project.
Soft Touch
Meaning: Easily persuaded, especially to lend or give money.
Example: You should ask Charlie to contribute something. He’s a soft touch.
Communicating
Touch and Go
Meaning: A risky situation where you are uncertain of what will happen.
Example: Laura has been badly injured. It’s touch and go whether she will survive the operation.
Touch a Sore Point
Meaning: Be a sensitive matter
Example: If you ask him about his son you’ll be touching a sore point.
Out of Touch
Meaning: Have not kept in contact or are unaware of recent events.
Example: Since leaving the company I’m out of touch with the latest developments.
Ability
Lose One’s Touch
Meaning: Lose the ability or talent you once had.
Example: Dad used to be good at gardening. He seems to have lost his touch.
Magic Touch
Meaning: Have a special ability to do something very well.
Example: Jenny has a magic touch with children. They always agree to join in any activity she suggests.
Completing
Finishing Touch
Meaning: The final detail that completes or perfects something.
Example: A red knot put a finishing touch to the package.
Conclusion
Expressions with TOUCH are very common in English and convey meanings related to contacting, influencing, communicating, abilities, and completing. By learning these idioms and phrases with “touch”, you can speak English more naturally and fluently. The next time you want to describe making contact, persuading someone, having a talent, or putting the final details on something, consider using one of these useful expressions with TOUCH.