We can search for various lengths of fixed expressions with the Claws7 tagset. In this post, we look at the most common phrases made up of 4 words in the iWeb corpus with the query:
_*41 _*42 _*43 _*44
1 FROM TIME TO TIME 178222 (complex adverbial phrase)
Maybe it would’ve done you some good to have some questions from time to time.
2 FOR THE MOST PART 154857 (complex adverbial phrase)
But for the most part, they live in complete isolation quite unaware there are other people in the world.
3 ON THE PART OF 74232 (complex prepositional phrase)
We feel it‘s a publicity stunt on the part of Malcolm X.
Also note:
There was concern on the ROTC‘s part
that if the interpreter were to get injured during the training,
it would be a liability issue.
4 ALL OF A SUDDEN 63626 (complex adverbial phrase)
All of a sudden, I‘m the bad guy in this.
5 FOR THE TIME BEING 36916 (complex adverbial time phrase)
You may have saved yourself for the time being, Mr Mitchell,
but we still have a matter of four hundred and fifty dollars to discuss.
6 THAT IS TO SAY 31752 (complex adverbial phrase for introducing appositional constructions)
That is to say, do you feel this could be your calling?
7 ONCE AND FOR ALL 30214 (complex adverbial phrase)
Then let us be rid of it once and for all.
8 IN THE LIGHT OF 27959
In the light of these facts, our course is clear.
9 WITH A VIEW TO 25534
See, we‘re looking for attractive women with a view to marriage.
10 IN SO FAR AS 11485
11 OUT OF TOUCH WITH 7185 C2
that I‘m too out of touch with my feelings,
12 IN AS MUCH AS 4667
13 THROUGH THICK AND THIN 3204
14 UP TO THE MINUTE 2603
15 OUT OF LINE WITH 1981
16 BY FAR AND AWAY 1626
17 IN THE ORDER OF 1567
18 JE NE SAIS QUOI 1300
19 CREME DE LA CREME 944