30 advanced English phrases for going out on the town

“Let’s go out. You need to blow off some steam.”

Let’s go out. You need to blow off some steam.” If you’re an ESL learner, hearing a phrase like this might spark curiosity—or even confusion. What does it mean to “blow off steam,” and why is it tied to going out? Learning jargon or specialized phrases related to going out offers you as an ESL learner several key benefits. It will primarily center around improving your communicative competence and cultural understanding. Basically, learning this type of vocabulary helps you bridge the gap between formal language instruction and the realities of everyday communication.

• Understanding of context
  • Jargon is heavily reliant on context. Understanding the jargon, helps you to better understand the context of the conversation.
• Real-world communication
  • Textbook English often differs from everyday spoken language. Jargon and slang are integral to casual conversations, especially in social settings.
  • Understanding these expressions allows you to participate more effectively in social interactions, reducing the risk of miscommunication or feeling excluded.
• Improved fluency
  • Using appropriate jargon can make you sound more natural and fluent.
  • It can also boost your confidence in social situations, encouraging you to engage in conversations more actively.
• Enhanced listening comprehension
  • Native speakers frequently use informal language, idioms, and slang in their daily conversations.
  • Familiarity with “going out” jargon improves your ability to understand spoken English in real-life situations, such as conversations in bars, restaurants, or social gatherings.
• Cultural immersion
  • Language is deeply intertwined with culture. Phrases related to social activities reflect the customs and attitudes of native speakers.
  • Learning these expressions provides insights into the social dynamics and cultural nuances of English-speaking communities.

Key vocabulary and phrases

1. A vibe – A cool, enjoyable atmosphere.
   • Example: “That café has such a chill vibe.”
2. Bar-hop – To move from one bar to another in a single night.
   • Example: “We bar-hopped downtown until midnight—it was a blast!”
3. Blow off some steam – To go out and have fun as a way to release stress or tension.
   • Example: “After a tough week, I need to blow off some steam at the club.”
4. Call it a night – To decide to end the outing and go home.
   • Example: “It’s getting late—let’s call it a night after this drink.”
5. Catch some live music – To go out and listen to a band or musician performing in person.
   • Example: “There’s a great band playing tonight—want to catch some live music?”
6. Epic – To share enthusiasm for the experience.
   • Example: “That was such an epic night out—we should do it again soon!”
7. Happening place  – A very active place.
   • Example: “It’s a happening place.”
8. Hidden gem – A great place not widely known.
   • Example: “We’re hoping to discover some hidden gems in the city.”
9. Hit the town – Go out to enjoy the nightlife (restaurants, bars, clubs, etc.).
   • Example: “Let’s hit the town and celebrate your promotion!”
10. Hit up – To visit; to ask for something
    • Examples: “How about we hit up some trendy spots tonight?” / “We should hit her up for a donation.”
11. I’m sold – Convinced or excited about the idea.
    • Example: “Add live music, and I’m sold!”
12. Incline to seek out – Suggests a preference.
    • Example: “I’m inclined to seek out a live music venue.”
13. It’s been ages – It’s been a long time.
    • Example: “It’s been ages since I last danced!”
14. Kick things off – Start the event or evening.
    • Example: “Let’s kick things off with some cocktails.”
15. Killing it – Someone doing something very well.
    • Example: “The DJ is absolutely killing it tonight.” / “The comedian is really killing it with those one liners.”
16. Let loose – To relax and have fun without worrying about responsibilities.
    • Example: “She’s been working hard all week, so she’s ready to let loose this weekend.”
17. Live it up – To enjoy life to the fullest, often with a sense of luxury or excitement.
    • Example: “He got a promotion, so he’s living it up this weekend.”
18. Lively / buzzing – Describing a very active and lively venue.
    • Example: “It’s so lively, it feels like the place is buzzing!”
19. Make a night of it – To turn a simple outing into a longer event.
    • Example: “We started with dinner, then decided to make a night of it and went dancing.”
20. Nightcap – Suggest having one last drink. Note: Some cultures have a nightcap before bed as well.
    • Example: “Shall we grab a nightcap before we head out?”
21. Of the mind – An older phrase that implies a decision
    • Example: “I’m of a mind to have a few drinks.”
22. Paint the town red – To go out and enjoy yourself in a lively, extravagant way.
    • Example: “After finishing exams, we decided to paint the town red!”
23. Play it by ear – Decide spontaneously, without a fixed plan.
    • Example: “No reservations? Let’s just play it by ear.”
24. Refined evening out – Suggests a sophisticated and elegant experience.
    • Example: “I’m in the mood for a refined evening out.”
25. Step up our game – Improve our effort or appearance.
    • Example: “We need to step up our game if we’re going clubbing.” / “The Chicago Cubs better step up their game this season.”
26. Swing by – To go by some place and stop (Used of people and things)
    • Examples: “I’ll swing by to pick you up on the way.” / “Let’s swing by the store and get some drinks for tonight.”
27. Sync up – Coordinate a meeting time.
    • Example: “Let’s sync up around 8 PM and grab a bite before heading out.”
28. The more, the merrier – Adding more people makes it more fun.
    • Example: “Invite your cousin— the more, the merrier!”
29. The night is young – It’s still early, and there’s plenty of time to enjoy yourself.
    • Example: “Come on, it’s only 10 p.m.—the night is young!”
30. Tourist trap – Places where tourists are commonly found (usually in larger numbers).
    • Example: “Let’s avoid the tourist traps and find authentic experiences.”

Conclusion

From “hitting the town” to “calling it a night,” jargon related to going out offers a vibrant window into everyday English and the cultures that shape it. By learning these phrases, you’re not just improving your fluency or listening skills—you’re stepping into a world of confidence and connection. Whether you’re bar-hopping with friends or seeking out a hidden gem, this vocabulary empowers you to engage fully in the moment. So, next time someone says, “Let’s paint the town red,” you’ll be ready to join in—and maybe even suggest a nightcap to keep the fun going!